How to Lay Big Tile
When large tiles break, the substrate usually gets the blame. But often the real culprit is using the wrong technique to trowel the mortar. Sal Alfano | December 07, 2020
By andranik123 | Adobe Stock
By now we can all agree that the condition of the substrate is a critical factor in the durability of a tile installation. Deflection, delamination, and expansion and contraction in structural members and subflooring can cause cracking in even the most durable tile and stone flooring materials. But even when these deficiencies are absent, improper installation can still lead to cracking and breakage. One surprising culprit is improper troweling technique, as explained in a video at ProTradeCraft.com produced by the National Tile Contractor’s Association (NTCA) called “Trowel and Error.”