Install Glass Tile and Mosaics with Integra All-in-One

• Integra is both a thinset and a grout and is used to install glass tile and mosaics.
• Integra All-in-One Grout and Thinset is a Do-It-Yourself-er’s “Dream Come True” because it totally simplifies the process.
• Ideal for both glass tile and mosaics as it ends the concern about thinset “bleeding through”. The thinset and grout are both the same color and actually one in the same.

How does it work you NOW ask?

• For the already savvy Do-It-Yourself-er, you understand the concept of the thinset and grout being one. Thus, the same color simplifies the install process with less clean-out of oozing thinset up through the grout joints.
• For the novice Do-It-Yourself-er, read on for complete instructions and information on this cool product.

What are some of the features of “Integra” All-in-One Thin Set and Grout for Glass Tile and Mosaics?

• It is a Thinset and Grout rolled into one product
• It can be used on floors and walls
• It makes installing mosaic and glass tile fast and easy
• It is a nonabrasive product
• Can be used on residential and commercial projects
• Comes in a powder form, all you have to do is add water to get started
• Each bag contains 25 lb.s of product
• You can choose from 8 different standard colors
• Integra All-in-One has the thinset coverage and grout coverage right on the bag

How to install glass tile and mosaics with Integra All-in-One Thin Set and Grout

First you must consider Surface Preparation

• First the proper temperature must be obtained which is between 40°F to 95°F
• Surface must be structurally sound
• Surface must not exceed 1/360 deflection
• The area must clean and dry
• You want to make sure there is no grease, paint, oil, sealers, old adhesives or curing compounds on the surface
• Anything on the surface that would inhibit bond must be removed to get proper adhesion
• It’s important that the surface is smooth and plumb, not to exceed 1/4″ in 10′
• Before installation, if required, all leveling or patching should be done using Mer-Krete’s Underlayments
• Keep in mind that everything expands and contracts so expansion joints should be provided, especially for large area
• Always consider the glass tile manufacturers recommendations for installation and follow them

Second, and very Importantly, Cement Sub-surfaces should be cured for 28 days

• Smooth steel troweled floors should be roughed up by scraping, shot blasting or by the use of mechanical chipping tool
• Always dampen dry and porous concrete prior to installing the glass or mosaic tile, however, do not leave standing water or puddles.
• For floors with cement backer board as the sub-surface be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application of any flooring materials

Now for Mixing the Integra All-in-One Thin Set and Grout

• Using a clean container, you will add approximately 4 pints of clean water (cool not hot) to a 25 lb. bag of Integra
• Mix thoroughly at a slow speed with a mixing arm, or by hand, until smooth leaving it thick and in a trowelable consistency
• Always let the mixture set for about 15 mins and then mix again to give it a creamy smooth consistency
• When remixing don’t add any more powder or water
• You want to achieve a thick, creamy consistency similar to Brownie Mix (But by all means please don’t eat it )
• When applied to the sub-surface using a notched trial you want the ridges to remain firm and not slump or flow to flat
• As you work along, be sure to remix occasionally but don’t add water
• Also, DO NOT add any latex liquid or add mix to the Integra mortar

Time for Application of Integra All-in-One and … My Favorite part … Apply the Glass Tile or Mosaic Tile    … Now the Pretty Begins

• First, using the flat side of the trowel, apply the mortar to the substrate using enough pressure to work the product evening onto the surface
• Second, using the appropriate notched trowel, apply a heavier coat of mortar immediately to the back side of the tile to provide 100% of coverage
• During installation of tile make certain that your mortar hasn’t acquired a “skin” that will prevent bonding.
• Good rule of thumb, don’t apply more mortar than you can tile over in over 20 minutes
• Don’t attempt to adjust any of the tiles once it has set in the mortar 15 minutes or more

It’s now Time to Grout

• Clean away any loose debris from the tile surface
• Choose whether to use a sanded or non-sanded product following the manufacturer’s recommendations for the glass or mosaic tile you are working with
• Use caution so that you don’t scratch the surface of your beautiful new tile, glass tile, marble or stone
• Merkrete offers their Versatile XF non-sanded product for those delicate glass tile, marble and stone products

Grouting 101…Applying the Grout

• You will need a rubber float, sponge, and bucket of water
• Using the rubber float, hold it at a 45° angle, spread the grout into the joints making sure they are completely filled
• Be sure to remove any excess grout with the edge of the rubber float held at a 90° angle
• Wait till the grout has set up a bit (5-15 minutes depending on temperature) then begin cleaning using a wet sponge
• Be sure to use as little water as possible so that you don’t wipe the grout back out of the joints
• If you use too much water you can cause discoloration and shrinkage as well as cracks
• Use a circular motion rather than side to side to help prevent removal of the grout
• Changing your water frequently will produce much better results and leave less grout on the tile surface
• When dry, wipe down the tile with a clean, soft lint-free cloth
• Allow the grout to cure for 72 hours minimum before use.  It will become completely cured in approximately 28 days

Integra All-in-One Grout and Thinset

• Designed for Mosaics and Glass tile
• You can purchase Integra All-in-One Grout and Thinset locally at Emser Tile as well as Versatile and Stone
• For more information, you can visit www.merkrete.com

 

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