Circles® Black and White Cement Tile with Brass Inlay

Cement Tile Installation & Maintenance Guide

Please read this guide thoroughly with your installer before beginning installation.

A. Installation Instructions

Surface Preparation

✔ Ensure the installation surface is level, clean, and completely dry.
✔ Moisture in the subfloor can cause efflorescence (white deposits) on the tile surface.

Tile Characteristics

✔ Cement tiles naturally vary in tone and texture.
✔ Colors with high pigment concentration, as well as plain tiles, may exhibit variations from tile to tile.
✔ To achieve a balanced, organic look, open multiple boxes and mix tiles during installation.

Adhesive Application

✔ Apply adhesive evenly on the substrate using a large-toothed comb trowel.
✔ Additionally, spread adhesive on the back of each tile for a strong bond.

Laying the Tiles

✔ Position tiles manually—do not use a hammer.
✔ Leave a small gap (1/8") for joints. For underfloor heating systems or outdoor installations, maintain a minimum gap of 1/8".

Cutting the Tiles

✔ Use a wet saw with a diamond blade for precise and clean cuts.

Initial Cleaning After Installation

✔ Once the adhesive is fully dry, clean the tile surface by scrubbing with water.
✔ This step removes any residual pigmented dust from the tiles.

B. Grouting Guidelines

Grout Selection

✔ Use only white or light grey grout to prevent staining.
✔ Avoid dyed or dark grout, as pigments will permanently stain the tiles.

Grouting Process

✔ Dampen the tile surface with a moist sponge before applying grout.
✔ Use a filling knife to apply grout, ensuring it remains within the joints and does not spread across the tile surface.
✔ Remove excess grout immediately with a wet cloth or sponge.

Important Precautions

✔ Never use acid-based cleaners (such as cement dissolvers) to remove excess grout, as they can damage the tile surface.

C. Sealing Protection

Sealing the Tiles

✔ Apply FILA FOB - Xtreme Sealer (Solvent base) or Stain-Proof Original Premium Impregnating Sealer (Water base) after installation, once the floor is clean and dry.
✔ This sealer reduces porosity, limits water and oil penetration, and preserves the tile's natural matte finish.

Sealer Application

✔ Use a brush or roller for application.
✔ Apply 2-3 coats until the tile is fully saturated.
✔ Wipe with a soft cloth for even distribution.
✔ Avoid overapplication—excess sealer can cause shiny streaks or visible brush marks.
✔ Test on a loose tile first to gauge absorption before applying to the entire floor.

D. Maintenance Cleaning

Regular Cleaning Care

✔ Use FILA Clean All - Neutral All Surface Cleaner and water for routine cleaning.
✔ Avoid harsh detergents, acidic, or alkaline cleaners.
✔ Enhance color and patina with periodic Stain Proof Intensifia Color Enhancing Sealer.

Deep Cleaning Restoration

✔ To remove construction residue, excess sealer, or dull patches, clean with a floor buffing machine and fiber discs using water only.
✔ Avoid abrasives that could damage the tile surface.

E. Special Considerations

High-Traffic Areas (Bars, Shops, Restaurants, etc.)

✔ Floors in commercial spaces require additional protection and maintenance.
✔ Consult a professional for specialized sealing and treatment solutions.

Cutting Cement Tiles

✔ Cement tiles and plinths can be cut easily using a diamond disc machine, either for straight cuts or 45-degree beveled edges.

Note: Cement tiles have slight color variation, mixing the tiles before installing is recommended.

The guideline above are for directional use only. Each customer is responsible for hiring a skilled contractor for installation. Cemento Collection can not be held responsible for any installation error.

All types of surfaces where Cemento Collection products are installed must be fully cured, stable, and free from any removable components, dust, oils, greases, waxes, or paints. Prior to installation, it is essential to conduct a thorough inspection of the artifacts, verifying measurements, thicknesses, cleanliness, finishes, and any damaged parts, etc. Cemento Collection disclaims all liability if defective pieces are installed.