Ceramic - Frequently Asked Questions



Where can I purchase Armstrong ceramic tile?
Click here to Find a Store near you.

Where can I get a copy of the warranty for my Armstrong ceramic tile?
Click here for ceramic tile warranties.

Is my Armstrong warranty transferable?
No, the warranty is good only for the original purchaser.

Can I use ceramic floor tiles on my walls?
Yes, ceramic floor tile can be installed on walls using proper ceramic tile installation methods

Can Armstrong wall tile be used on the floor?
No, they are lighter weight for better adherence and simpler installation and they cannot withstand foot traffic.

Can Armstrong wall tile be used on the floor?
No, they are lighter weight for better adherence and simpler installation and they cannot withstand foot traffic.

What type of tile can be used around my fireplace?
Any tile can be used on the face of a fireplace. Putting the tile directly in the firebox is not recommended.

Can I use high gloss tile on my kitchen countertops?
It is not recommended. Structurally it will work, but the high gloss will eventually show scratching.

Can ceramic tile be used outdoors?
To be used outdoors, we recommend the tile must be frost proof and unglazed for floor use. Make sure the absorption rate is 0.5% or less. Since our ceramic tiles are glazed, they are not suitable for outdoor installation.

What is the difference between glazed and unglazed tiles?
Glazed tiles are coated with a liquid glass, which is then baked into the surface of the clay. The glaze provides an unlimited array of colors and designs. The glaze also protects the tile from staining. Unglazed tiles are very similar to glazed tile, except that their surface is not coated. Unglazed ceramic tiles do not show wear because their color extends throughout the tile, making them ideal for commercial applications.

If I drop something on my kitchen floor, is it going to crack the ceramic tile?
It depends. With proper installation, ceramic tile is very durable. If you drop a glass or dish, the glass or dish will most likely break, while the tile may chip or crack.

How can I drill a hole through ceramic tile?
Use a diamond drill bit.

I'd like to buy ceramic tile for my great room, but won't it be cold?
Not necessarily. Porcelain tile is no different in temperature than anything else in the room; it's just that we tend to equate smooth with cold. (Of course, cool is good in warm weather climates!) Still, it's easy to warm things up with an area rug or two.

Why does porcelain tile cost more than ordinary ceramic tile?
Because you are getting a superior product. Porcelain tile requires the finest natural ingredients and a rigidly controlled manufacturing process that utilizes the most advanced processes and technology.

If my question is not listed here, how can I get an answer?
Click here to Contact Armstrong Ceramic, or call 1 800 233-3823.


CERAMIC TILE INSTALLATION

When installing tile over my newly poured concrete, how long should I wait before installing ceramic tile?
Industry standard is 28 days between concrete pouring and ceramic tile installation.

Can ceramic tile be installed over my existing particleboard?
No, we do not recommend laying floor tile over particleboard. The particleboard should be replaced with a suitable substrate before installing tileceramic tile installation.

Can I use mastic to install my floor tile?
It is preferred to use a thin set mortar for floors, but in residential use, you can use mastic with tile up to 6x6 on floors.

Can I install ceramic tile over lightweight concrete or gypcrete?
No, tile installation is not recommended over gypsum products. The moisture in the setting materials has a tendency to deteriorate the gypsum cement.

I have an old farmhouse and am concerned about whether I can install ceramic tile in my downstairs. What is the maximum spacing for floor joists under a tile installation?
On standard wood frame construction, joists should be spaced a maximum of 16" on center.

Can cement board be installed directly to the floor joists?
No, cement backer board is not a structural member. It must be installed over an exterior plywood subfloor, 5/8" minimum thickness.

Why is it necessary to tape the joints on cement board?
On walls it is definitely necessary. Fiberglass tape and thin set mortar are used to put the tape in place. On floors, it is not normally necessary, but sometimes is recommended depending on the application. Refer to manufacturers and proven industry standard instructions.

When laying tile on my bathroom floor, is it necessary to remove the toilet?
Yes, it gives a much nicer look. If you tile around the toilet instead of removing it, when the toilet needs to be replaced, it will be difficult to find a toilet that will fit in the same space as the old one.



CERAMIC TILE GROUT


When will my ceramic tile installation be ready to receive grout?
Most standard thin-set mortars will reach initial cure within 24 hours; however certain job conditions could affect the final cure time required. Always refer to and comply with the manufacturer’s instructions listed on the thin-set bag.

What is the difference between sanded and unsanded tile grout?
Unsanded tile grout is used on ceramic tile that has been installed with a grout joint width of less than 1/8 of an inch wide and should always be used on polished natural stone products. Sanded tile grout is used on tile with a grout joint width equal to or greater than 1/8 of an inch.

How should tile/grout joints be sealed?
Tile grout joints can be sealed with a penetrating/impregnating type grout sealer. Sealing grout with these products will not change the appearance or color of the grout, and they are designed to prevent moisture from absorbing into the grout where it would otherwise leave a stain. However, sealers do not stop topical dirt buildup, which can be removed easily with a mild neutral cleaner if the grout has been sealed.

How can you tell if the grout joints need to be resealed?
If you put a few drops of water on the grout and they bead up, the sealer is OK. If the water absorbs into the grout, it is time to reseal.


CERAMIC TILE CARE AND MAINTENANCE

What should I use for cleaning ceramic tile?
Armstrong Once‘n Done® Floor Cleaner works well, then you should rinse with water. See our Maintenance and Care for detailed instructions.

Where can I buy Armstrong Once’n Done® Floor Cleaner for my ceramic tile?
Click to Find a Store near you.

Should a sealer be used on ceramic tile?
A glazed tile is already stain proof, so there is no purpose to putting on a sealer. You may put a penetrating sealer on your unglazed tile or your grout joints. The penetrating sealer is an invisible, stain resistant shield that is absorbed into the surface.

Should ceramic tile be waxed?
Glazed tile should never be waxed. The purpose of the glaze is to give you a maintenance-free floor. If you wax the glaze, you will create more work for yourself. To keep your tile looking new, use a small amount of vinegar in warm water, plus a clean rinse.

What is used to remove grout haze from tile?
Most grouts today are polymer modified, which means they have a latex in them. Use a latex grout film remover for cleaning grout haze from tile surfaces. Do not use muriatic acid.

Can I vacuum ceramic floor tile?
Yes, but don’t use a beater bar, often considered part of the rug attachment, because it can damage the floor tile.