Resin-Based Terrazzo Tiles Installation Guide

Looking to install resin-based terrazzo tiles? This comprehensive guide provides all the information you need for a successful installation. From essential tools and surface preparation to adhesive selection, grouting techniques, and tips for underfloor heating, we cover every step in detail. Our FAQs answer key questions, ensuring you have the expert advice necessary to achieve a flawless, long-lasting result. Discover the best practices for using the right adhesives, grouts, and sealants to create a durable and stunning finish.
Installation Guide
Resin-Based Terrazzo Tiles
How do I prepare the surface for installing resin-based terrazzo tiles? 

The surface must be structurally sound, level, clean, and free of dust, grease, oil, paint, or any substances that may reduce adhesion. Sanding or scarifying may be necessary to remove any previous coatings or surface debris. Moisture content should not exceed 5%, and the substrate must be completely dry to avoid bonding issues

What adhesive should I use for resin-based terrazzo tiles? 

Use Kerakoll H40 Advanced or other flexible, high-performance adhesives suitable for resin-based materials. These adhesives offer excellent flexibility, rapid setting, and are ideal for environments that may experience slight movement or temperature fluctuations.

For larger formats, or in installations subject additional moisture or thermal considerations, we recommend the use of a 2 part adhesive, such as H40 Extreme. 

How do I install resin-based terrazzo tiles? 

Follow these steps for proper installation: 

  • Adhesive Application: Apply adhesive to both the substrate and the back of the tile using a notched trowel. Ensure a full bed of adhesive is applied to prevent voids under the tile. 
  • Tile Placement: Press the tile firmly into the adhesive, ensuring full contact with the substrate. Use spacers to maintain even grout lines and check each tile with a level to ensure proper alignment. 
  • Curing Time: Allow the adhesive to cure according to the manufacturer's recommendations before proceeding with grouting. Curing time is typically 24 hours for standard adhesives​. 
What grout should I use for resin-based terrazzo tiles? 

Use a suitable resin grout such as KerakollFugaliteColour or FugabellaColour for resin-based terrazzo tiles. These grouts offer excellent chemical resistance, are water-repellent, and prevent mold and bacterial growth. They are ideal for high-moisture environments and provide colour uniformity and durability​.

How do I grout resin-based terrazzo tiles?
  • Grout Application: Apply grout to the joints using a rubber float. Ensure that the grout is pressed firmly into the joints, leaving no voids. 
  • Cleaning: Clean excess grout from the tile surface using a damp sponge before it dries. Be careful not to drag grout out of the joints during cleaning. 
  • Curing: Allow the grout to cure according to the manufacturer's instructions before exposing the tiles to moisture. 
Do I need to seal resin-based terrazzo tiles? 

Resin-based terrazzo tiles typically do not require sealing, as the resin component provides a non-porous, stain-resistant surface. However, some installations may benefit from the application of a protective sealer like Fila MP90 Eco Extreme, especially in areas exposed to heavy use or moisture​.

Can resin-based terrazzo tiles be used in wet areas? 

Yes, resin-based terrazzo tiles are highly suitable for wet areas such as bathrooms and kitchens. Their non-porous nature and resistance to water and stains make them an ideal choice for these environments. Ensure proper waterproofing of the substrate and use a waterproof grout for additional protection.

What are the best practices for installing resin-based terrazzo on floors with underfloor heating? 

Ensure the substrate has cured fully and the heating system is gradually heated before installation to avoid thermal shock. Flexible adhesives, such as Kerakoll H40 Advanced, are recommended to accommodate any movement caused by thermal expansion. Allow the system to cool down before beginning the installation​

Installation Guide
Preparation
What is the best way to prepare the surface for tile installation? 

Before installing any tiles, the surface must be level, clean, dry, and free from dust or debris. The substrate must be strong enough to support the weight of the tiles, especially for heavier materials like cement-based terrazzo. Any cracks or imperfections in the surface should be repaired beforehand. For wet areas, waterproofing is essential to protect against moisture infiltration, and screeds or levelling compounds may be required for uneven surfaces​.

Do I need to waterproof surfaces in wet areas before installation? 

Yes, waterproofing is essential in areas that will be exposed to water, such as wet rooms, bathrooms, and kitchens. Use a waterproofing membrane or liquid sealant to ensure that water does not penetrate the substrate, which can lead to long-term damage or mould growth.​

How should I store my tiles before installation? 

Terrazzo and Natural Stone tiles should be stored vertically in a well-ventilated area to allow any moisture from transport to evaporate. Avoid stacking pallets or exposing the tiles to direct sunlight, high temperatures, or wet conditions. It's important to let the tiles "season" in the environment where they will be installed to prevent issues with moisture uptake.

What should I do if the surface is uneven? 

For uneven surfaces, use a levelling compound to create a smooth, flat substrate before installing the tiles. This is especially important for larger tiles or heavy materials like terrazzo, which require a solid, stable base to prevent cracking or lifting over time.

Are movement joints required for tile installation? 

Yes, movement joints are essential to accommodate structural movement and prevent cracking in tiled floors. These joints should be included in areas where tiles meet other materials, around the perimeter of the room, and over structural joints in the substrate. The spacing of the movement joints will depend on the size of the tiled area and the type of material being installed​. 

Installation Guide
Maintenance and Care
How do I clean resin-based terrazzo tiles on a daily basis? 

For regular cleaning of resin-based terrazzo tiles, use a neutral detergent like Fila Cleaner Pro diluted in water. A dilution of 1:200 works well for daily maintenance, removing dust and dirt without leaving residues. Avoid using abrasive cleaners that could damage the resin surface. A soft mop or cloth is recommended for general upkeep.

How do I maintain resin-based terrazzo tiles in the long term? 

Long-term maintenance of resin-based terrazzo tiles requires regular cleaning and resealing: 

  • Sealing: Resin-based terrazzo tiles generally do not require sealing due to their non-porous nature. However, if the surface shows signs of wear or staining, you can use a product like Fila MP90 Eco Extreme to offer additional protection against heavy traffic or moisture . 
  • Deep Cleaning: For more intensive cleaning, use Fila PS87 Pro to remove stubborn dirt and stains. Dilute the cleaner to 1:5 for deep cleaning sessions, followed by rinsing thoroughly with water​. 
What should I avoid when cleaning resin-based terrazzo tiles?

Avoid the use of: 

  • Abrasive Scrubbers: These can scratch the resin surface. 
  • Acidic or Alkaline Cleaners: Products like bleach or vinegar can degrade the resin surface over time​.
How do I handle stains on resin-based terrazzo tiles? 

For different types of stains: 

  • Oil and Grease: Use Fila SR95 to lift oil or grease stains without damaging the resin. 
  • Food or Organic Stains: For wine or coffee stains, a solution like Fila PS87 Pro is effective. Apply it directly to the stain, scrub gently, and rinse​.
How do I protect resin-based terrazzo tiles from scratches and damage? 
  • Use Protective Pads: Place felt pads under furniture legs to avoid scratching the tiles. 
  • Rugs and Mats: Use rugs or mats in high-traffic areas to minimize wear. 
  • Avoid Dragging Heavy Objects: Lifting furniture rather than dragging it will prevent damage. 

 

How often should I reseal resin-based terrazzo tiles? 

Typically, resin-based terrazzo tiles do not require regular sealing because of their non-porous composition. However, if you notice surface dulling or wear, applying a light layer of Fila MP90 Eco Extreme may help restore the sheen and protect the surface.​

Can resin-based terrazzo tiles be used outdoors? How do I maintain them in exterior applications? 

Resin-based terrazzo tiles are generally not recommended for outdoor use, as they are more sensitive to UV light and temperature fluctuations. If used outdoors in a covered area, regular cleaning and protection from direct sunlight are key to maintaining their appearance . 

 

Installation Guide
Tools and Materials
What tools do I need for tile installation?

For a successful tile installation, you will need the following basic tools: 

  • Notched Trowel: Used to apply adhesive evenly to the substrate and tile back. 
  • Tile Spacers: Essential for ensuring uniform grout lines between tiles. 
  • Tile Cutter or Wet Saw: For cutting tiles to size, especially for intricate layouts. 
  • Rubber Mallet: Helps gently tap tiles into place without damaging the surface. 
  • Level: Ensures that the tiles are installed evenly across the surface. 
  • Grout Float: Used to apply grout into the joints between tiles. 
  • Sponge: For cleaning off excess grout during and after installation 
What adhesives should I use for different tile types? 

The type of adhesive will depend on the tile material and installation environment. Kerakoll H40 Advanced adhesive is highly recommended for various tile types due to its superior flexibility, rapid setting, and structural bonding capabilities: 

  • Cement-Based Terrazzo: Use Kerakoll H40 Advanced, a flexible, multipurpose gel adhesive suitable for heavy tiles and large formats. It provides structural support, prevents vertical slip, and works well with substrates like concrete, screeds, and plywood​. 
  • Resin-Based Terrazzo: H40 Extreme is ideal for resin-based terrazzo because it accommodates slight substrate movement while ensuring strong adhesion – it also reduces the amount of water in the installation – thereby avoiding moisture-related issues.  
  • Porcelain and Ceramic Tiles: Kerakoll H40 Advanced also performs excellently with porcelain and ceramic tiles, offering great flexibility, ensuring full bed adhesion, and preventing tile movement during installation​ 
What grouts should I use for different tile applications?

We offer two main types of decorative grouts that are suitable for various applications: 

  • Fugabella Colour: A resin-cement grout ideal for grouting ceramic tiles, mosaics, and natural stones. It offers: 
  • High water repellency and very low water absorption. 
  • Superior flexibility and high surface hardness, preventing mold and bacteria growth. 
  • Suitable for both internal and external use with excellent color uniformity, available in 50 shades​(Brochure_Color_Fill_psw…)​(H40 Advanced - Data She…). 
  • Fugalite Colour: A waterproof resin grout that provides stain-proof, chemical, and mechanical resistance. It is ideal for high-traffic and moisture-prone areas such as kitchens and bathrooms. It is also HACCP/EC certified for food hygiene applications and available in 50 colours​. 
Do I need to use a primer or membrane on the substrate?

Yes, priming or waterproofing the substrate is often required: 

  • Waterproofing Membrane: In areas like wet rooms, bathrooms, or external environments, use Kerakoll Aquastop Nanoflex to protect the substrate from water damage. 
  • Primer: For absorbent substrates, apply Kerakoll Primer A Eco to improve adhesion and bonding between the tiles and substrate​ 
What sealants should I use for terrazzo and natural stone tiles?

For terrazzo and natural stone, sealing is essential to protect the tiles from moisture and stains: 

  • Pre-Grouting Sealer: Apply a pre-grouting sealer like Fila PRW200 to prevent grout from staining the tile surface. 
  • Finishing Sealer: After grouting, use a finishing sealer such as Fila MP90 Eco Extreme to ensure long-lasting protection against stains, moisture, and wear 

 

Installation Guide
Troubleshooting
Why is my grout cracking? 

Grout cracking is usually caused by one of two main issues: 

  1. Movement in the Substrate: If the substrate underneath the tiles is not stable or has movement, it can cause stress on the grout, leading to cracks. 
  2. Incorrect Grout Mixing: If the grout is mixed with too much water, it can become porous, which weakens the grout and makes it prone to cracking. Ensure proper grout consistency and use a flexible grout in areas that may experience movement. 
Why are my tiles cracking? 

Cracking in tiles is often related to substrate movement or improper adhesive application: 

  • Movement in the Substrate: If the substrate is unstable or there is movement (e.g., in wooden subfloors), this movement transfers to the tiles, causing them to crack. 
  • Improper Adhesive Application: If the wrong adhesive was used or applied unevenly, it can result in voids underneath the tiles, making them susceptible to cracking. Always use a suitable adhesive like Kerakoll H40 Advanced and ensure full adhesive coverage under each tile​. 
Why do my newly installed tiles appear hazy? 

A haze on newly installed tiles is usually caused by grout residue left on the surface: 

  • Grout Residue: Grout haze is common after installation. To remove it, use a cleaner specifically designed for grout residue removal. 
  • Sealed Tiles: If the tiles were sealed before cleaning, the sealer may need to be stripped to properly clean off the grout. Allow the tiles to dry completely before resealing​. 
What causes loose tiles? 

Loose tiles can occur when they are not properly adhered to the substrate. This may be due to:

Existing Loose Tiling: If the existing tiles were loose or the substrate was not prepared correctly, new tiles placed over them may not bond properly. It’s essential to ensure that the substrate is solid and free of loose debris​.

Improper Adhesive Coverage: Ensure that adhesive is applied evenly across the entire back of the tile (back-buttering) to prevent voids that lead to loose tiles​.

Why is my grout discoloured?

Grout discoloration is usually caused by improper mixing or cleaning: 

  • Incorrect Water-to-Grout Ratio: Adding too much water to grout can weaken its structure, making it prone to discoloration. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended water-to-grout ratio. 
  • Uneven Grout Batches: If different batches of grout are used for the same installation, there may be slight variations in colour. For consistency, mix all the grout needed for a project at once. 
Why do my tiles sound hollow when tapped? 

A hollow sound under tiles usually indicates poor bonding with the substrate: 

  • Incomplete Adhesive Coverage: If the adhesive wasn’t spread evenly, voids may form under the tiles, causing them to sound hollow. 
Why is the tile surface uneven? 

An uneven surface is often due to improper levelling of the substrate or inconsistent tile placement: 

  • Uneven Substrate: If the substrate is not level, it can lead to tiles being placed unevenly. Always level the substrate using a levelling compound before starting the installation​. 
  • Improper Tile Spacing: If spacers are not used or tiles are not aligned carefully, the surface may be uneven. Adjust tiles carefully during installation and check frequently with a level​.