STONEWARE & PORCELAIN SPECIFICATIONS
Clay Bodies
Porcelain - A very fine grained, white and very plastic clay body with slight iron spotting. The tile body texture is visible under clear glazes.
Porcelain is the best choice for bright and clear colors.
Stoneware - A coarse and groggy brown clay body with iron spotting (split-outs). Best for earthy colors.
Installation
Installation procedures should conform to the Tile Council of America "Handbook for Ceramic Tile Installation" (current edition). The layout
should be evenly spaced on each surface and maximize the use of full tiles. Grout joints should align.
Avoid grouping tiles of the same hue or value. Choose stacks of tiles from several different cartons to achieve the best overall blend of color.
Grout Space
McIntyre is sized modular with a square foot space allowing a 1/4" grout throughout. A narrower grout spacing can be used including "tight",
however, additional tiles will be required to cover a given area. Close grout spaces accentuate tile irregularities.
Murals
McIntyre murals should be laid out prior to installation to verify the spacing and fit. The tiles surrounding the mural should be carefully chosen to
blend with those in the mural itself. Install murals at the same time as surrounding tiles to assure correct fit.
Colored Grouts vs. Natural Gray
The factory recommends natural gray grout for all of its glazes to minimize staining from colored grout pigments. Caution is especially
recommended with matte glazes. Test a loose piece of tile before grouting your installation. To reduce staining, use a Grout Release before
grouting (except with Copper Flash glaze). Always test before using. Do not apply any materials to your tile without fist satisfying yourself by
testing, that the result will be satisfactory.
Maintenance
Minimal maintenance is required. Mild soaps should be sufficient for most cleaning. For persistent stains, stronger cleaners (even mild acids)
may be used on the tile (except for Metallic glazes), but care must be taken to avoid contact with the grout, especially if a colored grout has
been used. Test any cleaners before general use.
Glazed Pavers
McIntyre Glaze Paver is similar to the standard 12 x 12 tile except that the edges are generously cushioned, minor surface marks are
acceptable, greater deflection is allowable for firsts tiles and the price is reduced. These are intended for use where more informality is
desired. Maximum deflection is 5/32" over span of tile. Maximum off-square of cushioned edge is 1/4" on full tile. Recommended joint size is
increased to 3/8".
High-Fired Metallic Glazes
These tiles feature metal molecules embedded on the glaze surface for a sensational metal effect. The glazes are non-toxic in both
manufacture and usage. The glaze surfaces are sensitive to oxidation and must be protected. It is pre-sealed at the factory. Periodically the
sealer must be renewed to protect the metallic quality. These glazes are NOT suitable for areas where abrasion, water and/or strong
chemicals are present. Pre-test any sealers or grout releases before general use. Some products will discolor the glaze/metal surface.
McIntyre Tile will not be responsible for discoloration to this tile from chemicals or moisture.
