Limestone tile laying guidelines
Limestone tile laying guide
1. Preparation
- Ensure the substrate is clean, dry, level, and free from dust, grease, or loose material.
- For concrete or screed bases, confirm that all moisture has dried out before tiling.
- If required, apply a suitable primer compatible with your chosen adhesive.
2. Laying the tiles
- Use a flexible tile adhesive suitable for natural stone (C2-rated).
- Apply adhesive using a 10mm notched trowel, spreading enough for 2–3 tiles at a time.
- Back-butter each limestone tile with a thin layer of adhesive to ensure 100% contact coverage and avoid voids beneath the stone.
- Set tiles with a consistent joint width (commonly 3–5mm) using spacers if you’d like, this may not be applicable with tumbled or antiqued edges.
- Continuously check levels and alignment — limestone is often irregular, so tap gently into position with a rubber mallet.
- Clean off excess adhesive before it hardens.
3. Initial Sealing (Pre-Grout Seal)
- Once the limestone floor tiles are laid, allow the adhesive to cure for at least 24 hours (or as per adhesive instructions).
- Liberally apply a water-based impregnating sealer such as Go Protect with a brush or roller.
- Leave overnight to fully dry and cure before proceeding to grouting.
4. Grouting
- Use a non-abrasive grout suitable for natural stone.
- Float the grout across the joints with a rubber grout float, working diagonally to the tile lines.
- Avoid letting grout dry on the surface — clean off excess with a damp sponge as you go.
- Allow the grout to dry.
5. Final Sealing and Wax Finish
- Once grouting is dry, lightly clean the surface to remove any haze or residue.
- Apply a final coat of sealer.
- When the surface is dry, apply LTP Clear Wax using a soft cloth or applicator pad.
- Buff gently to achieve the desired sheen — the wax enhances colour and provides a subtle, protective finish.
6. Aftercare
- Clean regularly using a pH-neutral stone cleaner — avoid acids or bleach-based products.
- A string mop, warm water and a mild detergent can be used.
- Reapply LTP Clear Wax in places that feel or look worn.