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One of the keys to installation is making sure the surface on which the tile is applied is level and ready for installation. An adhesive, such as thin-set or mastic is then applied to the substrate with a trowel and the tile is laid on it. After the area dries, the tile is then grouted. Some tiles can benefit from being sealed before grouting to prevent grout film from adhering to the tile.

Although opinions are varied in the industry about sealing ceramic tile, ANN SACKS recommends that a sealer be used on all tile installations. It is strongly recommended that a small sample of a tile be tested with the sealer before an entire installation is sealed. Installations of crackle glazes should be resealed after 90 days of installation, and then again after one year. Crackle glazes by nature continue to crackle for several months. As this occurs, each new crackle line becomes unsealed and will allow water into the tile body.

When installing stone, dry laying and blending are important and often critical. Grout guard or grout release can be used to protect textured surfaces. Sealing is strongly suggested and a sealant and cleaner should be part of every order. Please note that sealing is not fail-safe; some degradation may still occur. The following products are offered by The Miracle Sealants Company. Their use when installing stone is highly recommended.

The original penetrating sealer designed for the protection of all medium to dense porous surfaces. 511 Impregnator forms an invisible barrier that is resistant to moisture and stains while allowing vapor to escape. 511 Impregnator is not a surface coating and will not alter the natural look. All surfaces treated are harder and less slippery.

A penetrating sealer designed for the protection of most porous surfaces. 511 Porous Plus forms an invisible barrier that is resistant to moisture and stains while allowing vapor to escape. 511 Porous Plus is not a surface coating and will not alter the natural look. All surfaces treated are harder and less slippery.

A unique product designed to enhance the natural color of all flamed, sandblasted, split faced, tumbled, and textured surfaces. When used with one of our penetrating sealers, Mira Matte seals and protects while leaving a beautiful, low maintenance, color enhanced satin sheen.

Non-acid cleaner designed for the removal of epoxy grout film from tile, concrete, and stone surfaces.