Terracotta Flooring and Paving
Terracotta Flooring And PavingFlooring And Paving•Technical/commercial classification
•Classification according to UNI EN standards
UNI EN 87
UNI EN 187 product requirements
Test methods
Laying The Tiles•Functional layers
•Compatibility between tiles and subgrade
Expansion joints
Drainage and removal of water
•Bedding layer
Laying techniques using mortar or adhesives
Terracotta outdoors
•Sealing the joints
Treatment•Cleaning
•Protection
•Finishing and maintenance
•Treatment diagrams
Troubleshooting
Specific notes about our flooring and paving
Conclusions and discussion
Flooring And Paving
Introduction: Flooring and Paving
Ceramic tiles – Technical/commercial classification
In Italy there are technical/commercial classification standards - currently employed
by manufacturers and users of ceramic tiles alike - based on various technical and
technological characteristics.
These classification standards list the different types of tile according to:
Surface layer
(glazed or not glazed)
Water absorption
(linked to porosity)
Moulding method
(pressing or extrusion)
Main destination
(floor or wall coverage, interior or exterior)
Introduction: Flooring And Paving
Ceramic tiles – Technical/commercial classification
Type Water
absorption (%)
Moulding
method
Main use
•Glazed surface
Majolica
Earthenware
White body single-fired
tiles
Red single-fired tiles
Klinker
15-25
7-15
0-6
0-15
0-6
Pressing
Pressing
Pressing
Pressing
Extrusion
Indoor coverage
Indoor flooring
Outdoor paving/Indoor flooring
Outdoor paving/ Indoor flooring
Outdoor paving/Outdoor
coverage/Indoor flooring
•Unglazed surface
Terracotta
Red stoneware
Fully vitrified stoneware
Klinker
3-15
0-4
0-0.5
0-6
Extrusion
Pressing
Pressing
Extrusion
Indoor flooring/Outdoor paving
Outdoor paving/Indoor flooring
Out. paving/Ind.floor./ Out.cover.
Out. pav./Ind. floor./Out.cover.
It should be pointed out, however, that following technological and system
developments occurring in the ceramic tile industry over the last few years, the
classification shown here has begun to reveal a few limitations in terms of its
representativeness, above all with regard to single-fired tiles, which now include
several specific products that are the results of new technology.
Introduction: Flooring And Paving
Classification according to EN standards
As well as technical-commercial classifications, there is a further and no less
important means of classification. It is the classification for ceramic tiles as laid
down in the European Norms, published in Italy with the UNI EN mark.
The UNI EN 87 standard is the basic norm containing the classification, definitions
and characteristics for ceramic tiles.
It is an extremely simple, schematic classification, since it is based on just two
parameters, which are:
Water absorption
Moulding method
The European norms being completed with the publication and implementation of
the EN standards in the single states, it then became necessary to establish
standards to be applied at world level (ISO standards), to overcome, for example,
the differences existing between the EN European standards and American ANSI
standards.
The fundamental framework of ISO standards was developed starting with the
current European standards and it includes several variations in test methods as
well as stricter parameters in some cases.
Introduction: Flooring And Paving
Classification according to EN standards
Forming method Water absorption, WA (%)
I
WA ≤ 3
IIa
3 < WA ≤ 6
IIb
6 < WA ≤ 10
III
WA > 10
Extruded tiles
Pressed tiles
AI
UNI EN 121
AIIa
UNI EN 186
AIIb
UNI EN 187
AIII
UNI EN 188
BI
UNI EN 176
BIIa
UNI EN 177
BIIb
UNI EN 178
BIII
UNI EN 159
A
B
The tiles in the A groups are extruded, while those in the B groups are
pressed.
I groups are those with the lowest level of porosity, while III groups have a
higher level of porosity.
The standard also establishes 8 product standards, indicating different
requirements that must be met by the tiles in that group.
Introduction: Flooring And Paving
Classification according to EN standards
Ge
nera
l
Standard Subject
EN 87
EN 163
Definitions, classification, characteristics and markings
Sampling and acceptance criteria
Pro
du
ct
Req
uire
me
nts
EN 121
EN 159
EN 176
EN 177
EN 178
EN 186
EN 187
EN 188
Extruded ceramic tiles with low water absorption…
Dry pressed ceramic tiles with high water absorption…
Dry pressed ceramic tiles with low water absorption…
Dry pressed ceramic tiles with water absorption…
Dry pressed ceramic tiles with water absorption…
Extruded tiles with water absorption…
Extruded tiles with water absorption (6%<WA≤10%)
Extruded tiles with high water absorption…
Te
st M
eth
od
EN 98
EN 99
EN 100
EN 101
EN 102
EN 103
EN 104
EN 105
EN 106
EN 122
EN 154
EN 155
EN 202
Dimensional and appearance characteristics
Water absorption
Bending strength
Surface hardness according to MOHS scale
Deep abrasion resistance for unglazed tiles
Linear thermal expansion
Thermal shock resistance
Crazing resistance
Chemical resistance – unglazed tiles
Chemical resistance – glazed tiles
Surface abrasion resistance for glazed tiles (PEI)
Moisture expansion using boiling water
Frost resistance
… 13 test methods have also been defined.
Laying The Tiles
Laying The Tiles: Functional Layers
Tiles form the surface finish of a more complex building system: the floor.
This system is formed by different layers, each of which is usually comprised of
a different material.
For this reason, before laying the tiles, it is advisable to look at greater depth at
the surfaces on which they are to be installed.
Laying The Tiles: Functional Layers
Covering layer
Bedding layer
Levelling layer
Reinforcement or
load-bearing layer
Separation or floating
layer
Thermal insulation layer
Damp-proofing layer
Load-bearing layer
List and graphic symbols of the functional layers that form a floor.
Laying The Tiles: Functional Layers
Covering layer
This is formed by tiles and, as already
mentioned, its function is to provide a
surface finish.
This layer must be designed and installed
so as to guarantee conformity with the
following requirements:
Regularity
Completeness and durability
Safety
Bedding layer
The function of this layer is to connect the
tiles to one another and to make them
adhere to their supporting surface.
It may be formed using cement mortar,
adhesive or aggregate.
Laying The Tiles: Functional Layers
Levelling layer
This layer serves to absorb errors in
support surface flatness and to eliminate
any surface unevenness or irregularities.
It is also used to house piping, if any.
It is generally made using cement-based
binders.
Reinforcement or load-bearing layer
If there are other compressible layers, this
one serves to prevent any break-up in the
covering layer caused by the compressible
nature or in other words, pliability, of these
layers.
Most of the time, it is formed by a
foundation in concrete, reinforced by
electrically welded mesh.
Laying The Tiles: Functional Layers
Separation or floating layer
The purpose of this layer is to chemically,
physically or mechanically separate one
layer from another.
Generally, polyethylene film is used.
Thermal insulation layer
This layer serves to check the flow of heat
through the flooring in order to limit energy
consumption.
It is possible to use thermal insulation
materials, which are available in sheets
(cork, polyurethane foam or polystyrene),
or blocks in lightweight concrete (made
with expanded clay, vermiculite or
pearlite).
Laying The Tiles: Functional Layers
Damp-proofing layer
This serves to prevent the passage of
water to the underlying layers and areas.
Polyethylene film is generally used for
damp proofing.
Load-bearing layer
This is the structure to be clad and its
function is to transfer its loads and the
load to which the floor is subjected to the
vertical static load structures.
These structures are generally floors in
concrete and masonry or in reinforced
concrete cast in situ, etc.
For exteriors, it is natural earth.
Laying The Tiles: Compatibility Between Tiles And Subgrade
Expansion joints
>From a size point of view, tiles have a rather fine thickness (approximately 15 -
16 mm for terracotta tiles).
From a mechanical viewpoint, they are rigid, or in other words, they cannot
deform to any great degree and, if subjected to mechanical stress, they will break
once their elastic deformation range has been exceeded.
This fact gives rise to several requirements:
In the first place, it means that the covering layer formed by the tiles needs the
solidarity and mechanical collaboration of another layer of sufficient size (thickness)
to which it must be stably connected in such a way as not to place the covering in a
condition to suffer breakage on account of pressing or deflection.
Secondly, the conditions bonding the covering layer to the underlying layers must
be such that they prevent negative interference from any differential movements
among the layers themselves, caused by thermal or hygrometric expansion or by
the dimensional contraction of the cement layers due to the shrinkage that
accompanies setting.
Laying The Tiles:
Expansion joints
Every material has its own thermal expansion coefficient and therefore, it
responds to a given change in temperature with a different variation in its
dimensions.
It must be taken into account that the layers of which the system is comprised are
not free to move, since they are joined to one another in different ways; they are
bound and therefore, any change in temperature invariably leads to tension.
All types of structures have joints between adjacent sections to allow relative
movements, although these may be limited, between one part and another.
It is important to know the location, extension and size of these joints, since
they must also be inserted in the bedding and covering layers.
Example of an expansion joint.
www.folotec.com
Compatibility Between Tiles And Subgrade
Laying The Tiles:
Expansion joints
The form of the surfaces to be covered and the variable given by indoor
flooring or outdoor paving, have a determining influence on the choice of where
and how to install the expansion joints. These joints can in turn influence the
choice of tile format, layout and choice of laying technique.
Indoor flooring:
For small-sized rooms, it is sufficient to insert a joint on the outer perimeter of the
room; for larger areas, it is advisable to insert a joint approximately every 7 metres,
both lengthways and crossways.
Moreover, to reduce tension, it is advisable to insert a floating layer between two
layers (bedding layer and load-bearing layer).
Low-density polyethylene film is usually used for interiors.
Compatibility Between Tiles And Subgrade
floating layerPerimeter joint
Laying The Tiles:
Expansion joints
Outdoor paving:
Insert expansion joints, with good-quality rubber profiles, approximately every 4 – 5
metres, both lengthways and crossways, above all for paving over large areas or
laid in areas with a high degree of thermal movement.
Firstly, it is necessary to check for the presence of structural joints (foundation); if
not present, it will be necessary to isolate the reinforcement layer and load-bearing
layer from the bedding layer by inserting a floating layer.
Geotextiles are normally used out of doors. As well as reducing the tension
between the two layers, these geotextiles will not limit the drainage action of the
subgrade.
If the foundation already has expansion joints, they
must also be installed in the bedding and covering layers.
If there are no structural joints in the foundation,
it is necessary to insert a floating layer (geotextile)
beneath the bedding layer.
Compatibility Between Tiles And Subgrade
Geotextile layer
Laying The Tiles:
Drainage and removal of water
Each layer is required to fill an exact function and it is most important to be
aware of the way in which they interact with the surface. In fact, terracotta
belongs to the category of so-called “pure” materials that will sooner or later
show any problems that might originate from long before the tiles were laid.
Out of doors, most of these problems are linked to standing water or
damp in the subgrade.
For this reason, it is necessary to install drainage systems to allow water
dispersion and sloped floating surfaces to keep water away.
Compatibility Between Tiles And Subgrade
First of all, it is necessary for the screed to be even;
highly uneven screeds are extremely damaging
because they make it impossible to create a laying bed
with a constant thickness. This leads to the build up of
damp, which then causes the formation of
efflorescence and marked differences in expansion
coefficients.
These conditions can lead to tile breakage and
crumbling.
Example of a non-flat laying bed.
Laying The Tiles: Compatibility Between Tiles And Subgrade
Drainage and removal of water
Outdoor paving subject to pedestrian traffic
Laying terracotta blocks using the “dry” or “semidry” method
Terracotta blocks
0.3 sand
Bedding layer- 3-6 mm grit
Geotextile
(20 –25 mm stabilised
Levelling foundation with a slope of 1.5 - 5% -
concrete dosed for 1 quintal of cement
Load-bearing layer – Natural earth
Laying The Tiles: Compatibility Between Tiles And Subgrade
Drainage and removal of water
Terracotta blocks
0.3 sand
Bedding layer - 3-6 mm grit
“Filter – drainage – protection “ system
Geotextile + Drainage cuspidate membrane
Reinforcement and load-bearing layer with a
slope of 1.5 – 5% _ Foundation in concrete
dosed for 3 quintals of cement + electrically
welded mesh Ø6 / 8mm.
Loose stone foundation
Load-bearing layer – Natural earth
Outdoor paving subject to vehicle traffic
Laying terracotta blocks using the “dry” or “semidry” method
Laying The Tiles: Compatibility Between Tiles And Subgrade
Drainage and removal of water
“Filter – drainage – protection” system _ Composite TENAX DP 1
The composite is formed by two
distinct, integral structures,
heat-welded together.
a) An extruded protective,
drainage membrane in high-
density polyethylene (HDPE),
with a high degree of
compressive strength and
impenetrable at the roots,
characterised by a flat face
which must be placed in contact
with the screed or damp
proofing, and by a cuspate face.
b) An unwoven filtering geotextile
in polypropylene (PP), joined to
the mesh level with the tips of
the cusps.
Laying The Tiles: Compatibility Between Tiles And Subgrade
Drainage and removal of water
Outdoor paving subject to pedestrian and/or vehicle traffic
Laying terracotta tiles with the “mortar” or “adhesive” technique
Terracotta paving, slope 1.5 – 2%
Sand and cement grout or ready-mixed seal
Bedding layer _ 6-8 cm foundation
using 1.5 quintals of cement and 0.3
sand (alternatively, adhesive)
Reinforcement and load-bearing layer with 1.5 – 5%
slope _ Foundation in concrete dosed for 3 quintals
of cement + electrically welded mesh Ø6-8mm
Foundation in loose stone/Lean concrete dosed for
1 quintal of cement
Load-bearing layer _ Natural earth
Separation or floating layer - geotextile
Laying The Tiles: Compatibility Between Tiles And Subgrade
Drainage and removal of water
Terracotta paving, slope 1.5 – 2%
Foundation, slope 1.5 – 5%
Waterproof sheath
Load-bearing layer – Floor in reinforced concrete
Grout in sand and cement or ready-mixed
seal
Bedding layer_Adhesive
Levelling layer_foundation, slope 1.5 – 2%
Correct damp proofing for a balcony _ 1
Laying The Tiles: Compatibility Between Tiles And Subgrade
Drainage and removal of water
Terracotta paving, slope 1.5 – 2%
Double layer of waterproof mortar, reinforced
with fibreglass mesh
Foundation, slope 1.5 – 2%
Waterproof sheath
Load-bearing layer – Floor in reinforced concrete
Grout in sand and cement or ready-mixed
seal
Bedding layer_Adhesive
Correct damp proofing for a balcony _ 2
Laying The Tiles: Compatibility Between Tiles And Subgrade
Drainage and removal of water
Elastic cement-based bicomponent mortar to damp proof
concrete foundations _ MAPELASTIC
This is a cement-based
bicomponent mortar containing
selected, fine-grain aggregates
and synthetic polymers.
(powder + liquid).
The mortar is laid with a flat
trowel to a maximum thickness
of 2 mm per layer.
Before laying the second layer –
approximately 4-5 hours from
the first application – it is
advisable to insert low-weight
fibreglass mesh between the
two to prevent any microscopic
cracks and to distribute loads
evenly.
Laying The Tiles: Compatibility Between Tiles And Subgrade
Drainage and removal of water
Flooring in underground rooms
Grout in sand and cement or ready-mixed
seal
Bedding layer_Adhesive
Thermal insulating subgrade _Foundation
in lightweight concrete using expanded clay
Foundation in loose stone/Lean concrete dosed
for 1 quintal of cement
Load-bearing layer _ Natural earth
Terracotta flooring
Waterproof sheath
Floating layer_polyethylene film
Levelling layer_foundation
Laying The Tiles: Bedding Layer
“Mortar” laying technique
1. Clean the laying bed, removing any dust, debris and oily residues.
2. Spread an even layer of mortar, also known as the “foundation”, no less than 5 cm thick.
3. Sprinkle the surface with a fine covering of cement powder.
4. Begin to lay the tiles on this surface, taking care to maintain the direction of the dod
(the cut side of each tile should always correspond to the same side of the adjacent tile).
5. Leave a space between tiles. The width of this space, known as the ”grouth width” or
“joint”, is to be agreed with the Director of Works and in any case, it should be no less
than 3 mm or more than 10 mm.
6. The flooring should have expansion joints that can compensate for dimensional variations
caused by thermal movements. In the case of small areas, it is sufficient to insert a joint
along the outer perimeter of the room. For larger areas, it is advisable to insert a joint
approximately every 7 metres, both the lengthways and crossways.
7. Tamp the floor evenly to ensure better tile adherence to the mortar bed.
Laying The Tiles: Bedding Layer
“Adhesive” laying technique
Laying with adhesives is not substantially different from laying with mortar, although it does
have the advantage of significantly reducing the waiting times required for the floor to dry
perfectly, which is an indispensable condition for passing on to the following stages.
1. Make sure that the structural floor is perfectly level.
2. Using a suitable trowel, spread an even layer of adhesive over the surface.
3. Lay the tiles before a film begins to form on the surface of the adhesive due to contact
with the air (which means that the drying process has begun).
4. Leave a space of at least 3 mm and no more than 10 mm between the tiles.
5. Ensure that the flooring has the necessary expansion joints to compensate for dimensional
variations caused by thermal movements. Follow the same precautions used for laying with
mortar.
It is now possible to buy specific adhesives for high-thickness cotto tiles, while normal
adhesives can be used for cotto tiles of lower thickness.
However, it is preferable to use adhesives containing hydraulic binders over those
containing synthetic resins only. Fast-setting adhesives should be avoided
(especially on floorings that have been pre-waterproofed).
Laying The Tiles: Bedding Layer
Adhesives with hydraulic binders
Recommended for use with:
Cotto Rustico Indoors Outdoors (with added ISOLASTIC)
Cotto Linea Casato Indoors
Cement-based, adhesive powder for
ceramic tiles (adhesive thickness
up to 5 mm).
Technical Data (at +23°C and 50% R.H.):
POT LIFE: more than 8 hours.
OPEN TIME: approx. 20 minutes.
ADJUSTMENT TIME: approx. 45 minutes.
PRACTICABLE: after 24 hours.
READY FOR USE: 14 days.
GROUTING: walls 4-8 hours, floors 24 hours.
FLEXIBLE: no.
AVAILABLE COLOURS: grey and white.
COVERAGE: 2-5 kg per sq. m.
APPLICATION: notched trowel (no. 4, 5, or 6
according to use).
PACKAGING: 25 kg bags, 4x5 kg boxes.
Applications:
Adhesive for indoor and outdoor fixing
of ceramic tiles and mosaics of all types
on walls, floors and ceilings on traditional
supports (cement renders and screeds,
brick and block walls, etc.) as long as they
are solid, stable and clean.
It can be mixed with ISOLASTIC to obtain
an elastic adhesive.
Laying The Tiles: Bedding Layer
Adhesives with hydraulic binders
Recommended for use with:
Cotto Pratico/Protetto Indoors Outdoors (with added ISOLASTIC)
Cotto ProntoZoni Indoors Outdoors (with added ISOLASTIC)
Cotto Fatto a Mano Indoors Outdoors (with added ISOLASTIC)
(Handmade Cotto)
Cement-based, adhesive powder for
ceramic tiles (adhesive thickness
up to 15 mm).
Technical Data (at +23°C and 50% R.H.):
POT LIFE: more than 8 hours.
OPEN TIME: approx. 20-30 minutes.
ADJUSTMENT TIME: approx. 45 minutes.
PRACTICABLE: after 24-36 hours.
READY FOR USE: 14 days.
GROUTING: walls 6-8 hours, floors 24-36 hours.
FLEXIBLE: no.
AVAILABLE COLOURS: grey and white.
COVERAGE: 4-10 kg per sq. m.
APPLICATION: notched trowel (no. 6 or 10, or
trowel for KERAFLOOR according to use).
PACKAGING: 25 kg bags.
Applications:
Adhesive for indoor and outdoor bonding
of ceramic tiles and strip tiles with deep
recessed, profiled undersides, large formats,
cotto toscano, and natural stone, to walls,
floors and ceilings on traditional supports
(cement screeds), as long as they are
solid, stable and clean. It can be mixed
with ISOLASTIC to obtain an elastic adhesive.
It can be used to fix tiles to irregular substrates
with beds up to a thickness of 15 mm,
without prior levelling.
For large formats with deep profiles and
recesses, back-buttering is required.
Laying The Tiles: Bedding Layer
Adhesives with hydraulic binders
Recommended for use with:
Cotto Rustico Outdoors
Cotto Pratico/Protetto Outdoors
Cotto ProntoZoni Outdoors
Outdoor Pavings and Décor Outdoors
Applications:
Adhesive for indoor and outdoor bonding of
ceramic tiles of all types (earthenware,
single-fired, vitrified stoneware, etc.)
to walls and floors on:
-Traditional supports (cement renders
and screeds, brick and block
walls, etc.).
-Old floors and coverings (ceramic, stone,
paving tiles, cement) as long as they are solid
and clean.
- Cast concrete, prefabricated concrete
panels, as long as sufficiently cured (6 months),
heating panels, cement-fibre panels, plasterboard,
wood or sufficiently bonded derivatives, and tiles
no larger than 300 sq. cm.
Technical Data (at +23°C and 50% R.H.):
POT LIFE: approx. 8 hours.
OPEN TIME: approx. 30 minutes.
ADJUSTMENT TIME:: approx. 60 minutes.
PRACTICABLE: after 24 hours.
READY FOR USE: 14 days.
GROUTING: walls 24 hours, floors 48 hours.
FLEXIBLE: good level.
AVAILABLE COLOURS: grey and white.
COVERAGE: 2.5 -4 kg per sq. m.
APPLICATION: notched trowel (no. 4. 5 or 6).
PACKAGING: 25 kg bags.
Medium-elasticity, adhesive powder for
ceramic tiles (adhesive thickness
up to 5 mm).
Laying The Tiles: Bedding Layer
Terracotta outdoors
Cotto paving is able to withstand freezing and thermal movements. However, it is advisable
to adopt a few additional precautions to prevent any problems that could occur in extreme
conditions to alter the perfect finished look of the paving.
Laying the tiles
1. Tiles should be laid in mild weather, with temperatures ranging between 10 and 25 degrees.
2. Wet the tiles before laying, whether using the “mortar” or “adhesive” technique.
3. Make sure that the tiles adhere perfectly to the substrate and that there are no cavities in the
mortar bed or layer of adhesive. Any air pockets could lead to an accumulation of moisture
and, at extremely low temperatures, cause the tiles to come unstuck from their foundation.
4. Avoid laying the paving on structures (screeds) that have not settled definitively. Mechanical
stress caused by settling can cause serious cracking in the paving.
5. Insert expansion joints, with good-quality rubber profiles, every 4-5 metres, both lengthways
and crossways, especially in the case of large areas of paving or areas with a great deal of
thermal movement.
Laying The Tiles: Bedding Layer
Terracotta outdoors
6. Prevent damp and salts from rising from the adjacent or underlying ground by:
• avoiding direct contact between the terracotta and soil or grassy surfaces, laying the tiles a
few centimetres higher than any adjacent lawn
• ensuring that the screed floor has the proper drainage
• insulating the paving from areas of standing water, such as swimming pools, gutters, etc. with
waterproof sheaths
• taking care to fill the joints evenly and without cracks.
7. Prevent moisture from collecting on the paved surface by:
• giving the paving a suitable slope (at least 1.5%) for the perfect run-off of rainwater
• ensuring that the paving is perfectly flat (no dips)
• making sure that the paving is perfectly aired all year round (be careful with the nylon
sheeting used to cover swimming pools during the winter; place some strips of wood, or a
thick-fibre material such as sacking between the tiles and the sheet to guarantee air
circulation).
8. Prevent moisture from collecting beneath the paved surface. If using sheathing (terraces,
porches, etc.) this should allow water to run off, creating a sufficient slope on the screed (at
least 2%) and using materials that allow drainage.
Laying The Tiles: Sealing The Joints
Introduction
The shape and width of joints, the composition of the grout and the colour used for
the joints themselves are areas which, if neglected, can adversely affect
installation and final treatment.
As the width of the joints increases, this means that the composition of the sand
and cement mortar needs to be changed to include more sand. Therefore, a grout
width of more than 5 mm will always be rougher and grainier, but above all, it will
also be:
More absorbent and absorb in a less even manner
The main vehicle for infiltration and rising damp
An area where dirt is trapped therefore, making cleaning more difficult
Less receptive to treatment and finishing products
( since they are developed for the cotto itself and are therefore less suited to grouting).
As a result, finished appearance and personal tastes aside, technically, the most
functional joint is below 7 mm in width.
Laying The Tiles: Sealing The Joints
Traditional grout
Joints less than 3 – 4 mm wide:
This grout is made by mixing normal 325 grey cement in water
Joints between 5 and 10 mm wide:
This grout is made by mixing 100 litres of fine, well-washed silica sand and 60 –
80 kg of 325 cement in water
It is good practice to wet the surface before spreading the grout; the setting time
will be slightly longer but the end result will be firmer and deeper.
Ready-mixed seals
It is preferable to use products that contain no synthetic resins or polymers. In
fact, these substances tend to penetrate the natural pores in the terracotta,
especially around the edges, causing stains that cannot be removed.
It is advisable to avoid using markedly coloured products (black, anthracite,
etc.). In fact, these products are quite difficult to remove once they have anchored
to the tile surface and penetrated it slightly – so much so, that in some cases, the
intervention of flooring specialists is required.
Laying The Tiles: Sealing The Joints
Ready-mixed seals
Do not use!
Modified with polymers
and synthetic resins
OK!
Fast-setting and drying cement-based
grout for joint widths from 2 to 20 mm
USE
Interior and exterior grouting on walls and floors
in all types of ceramic tiles (earthenware, single-
fired, clinker, vitrified stoneware, terracotta, etc.),
glass mosaics, natural stone, marble mosaics,
reinforced concrete and glass tiles, etc.).
Specially recommended when fast flooring use
is required.
Does not produce calcium hydroxide
efflorescence.
Technical Data (at + 23°C and 50% R.H.):
POT LIFE: 30-45 minutes.
MIXING RATIO: from 20 to 26 parts water to every
100 parts ULTRACOLOR, according to the colour.
GROUTING AFTER INSTALLATION
walls: normal adhesive 3-4 hours; fast-setting adhesive
1-2 hours; traditional application 2-3 days;
floors: normal adhesive 24 hours; fast-setting adhesive
3-4 hours; traditional installation 7-10 days.
PRACTICABLE: approx. 3 hours.
READY FOR USE: 24 hours.
COLOURS: 24.
APPLICATION: rubber trowel.
RESISTANCE TO MOISTURE: excellent.
RESISTANCE TO SOLVENTS, OILS, AND
ALKALIS: excellent.
RESISTANCE TO ACID: poor.
PACKAGING: 25, 5 and 1 kg bags.
USE
Interior and exterior grouting on walls and floors
in all types of ceramic tiles (earthenware, single
fired, clinker, vitrified stoneware, terracotta, etc.),
glass mosaics, natural stones, marble mosaics,
reinforced concrete and glass tiles, etc.).
Cement-based grout for joint widths
from 0 to 4 mm (KERACOLOR FINE) and
from 5 to 15 mm (KERACOLOR GROSSO).
Technical Data (at + 23°C and 50% R.H.):
POT LIFE: approx. 2 hours
GROUTING AFTER INSTALLATION
walls bonded with normal adhesive 4-8 hours;
walls bonded with mortar 2-3 days;
floors bonded with adhesive 24 hours;
walls bonded with mortar 7-10 days.
PRACTICABLE: 24 hours.
READY FOR USE: 5 days.
FLEXIBLE: no.
COLOURS: 8.
COVERAGE: according to tile and joint size.
APPLICATION: rubber trowel.
RESISTANCE TO MOISTURE: excellent.
RESISTANCE TO SOLVENTS, OILS, AND
ALKALI: excellent.
RESISTANCE TO ACID: poor.
PACKAGING: 25- 22 and 5 kg bags according to colour.
Laying The Tiles: Sealing The Joints
Ready-mixed seals _ KERACOLOR colour range
MANHATTAN TITANIUM CEMENT ANTHRACITE BLACK
CHAMPAGNE ANEMONE BAHAMABEIGE
BAHAMABEIGE BROWN
No! No!
Laying The Tiles: Sealing The Joints
Pre–waterproofing
For materials with a high degree of absorption or, if the stylistic choice means
opting for a markedly coloured seal, it is necessary to clean the floor surface
briefly and to apply the correct doses of absorption reducer and water-repellent
product to prevent rising moisture at least two or three days before grouting.
In all cases, above all for outdoor paving, water-based water-repellents are
preferable to solvent-based ones.
In fact, the former can be applied even if the flooring or paving is not perfectly
dry. It is advisable to apply the product with a low-pressure (airless) spray for
more even coverage.
The various excellent products on sale include:
“IPA 16” by Geal
“KEMIOSIL 116” by New Chemical
“HP/98” by Fila
Laying The Tiles: Sealing The Joints
Pre–waterproofing / The advantages
NO FORMATION
OF
EFFLORESCENCE
OR “DARK MARKS
QUICK AND
EASY WASHING
REDUCTION IN
WAITING TIMES
FOR FINISHING
REDUCTION IN
OVERALL
TREATMENT
COSTS
EASIER
FINISHING
Laying The Tiles: SYNOPTIC CHART
COTTO RUSTICO COTTO PRATICO/
PROTETTO
LINEA
CASATO
COTTO
PRONTO
OUTDOOR
PAVINGS
AND DECOR
COTTO
FATTO A MANO
(HANDMADE
COTTO)
INTENDED USE Indoors Outdoors Indoors Outdoors Indoors Indoors Outdoors Outdoors Indoors Outdoors
(Rustic-
ated)
RECOMMEN-
DED
INSTALLATION
METHOD
Mortar / Adhesive Mortar / Adhesive Adhesive Mortar / Adhesive Semi-dry
Mortar
Adhesive
Mortar / Adhesive
TYPE OF
ADHESIVEKerabond Kerabond
+ Isolastic
/Keraflex
Kerafloor Kerafloor
+Isolastic
/ Keraflex
Kerabond Kerafloor Kerafloor
+Isolastic
/ Keraflex
Keraflex Kerafloor Kerafloor
+
Isolastic
OPTIMUM
GROUT WIDTH
DIMENSIONS
5mm 5mm 5mm 5mm Touching
4mm (Bis)
6mm Rusticated
3mm Smoothed
TYPE OF SEAL Grout
Keracolor Grosso
Grout
Keracolor Grosso/Fine
Grout
Keracolor
Grosso
Grout
Keracolor Grosso/Fine
Grout
Keracolor
Grosso/Fine
Grout
Keracolor Grosso
23 – 50 – 10 - 3 – 7 23 – 50 – 10 – 3 – 7 23 – 50 - 3 23 – 50 – 10 – 3 – 7 23 – 50 – 10 23 – 50 – 3
PRE-WATER-
PROOFINGRecommended for
colour 10
NO NO NO Necessary for
colour 10
Recommended
for grout and
50
Always necessary
23_ MANHATTAN / 50_ TITANIUM / 10_ CEMENT / 3_ BAHAMABEIGE / 7_ BROWN
Treatment
Treatment:
Technical times
COTTO
RUSTICO
COTTO
PRATICO/
PROTETTO
LINEA
CASATO
COTTO
PRONTO
OUTDOOR
PAVINGS AND
DECOR
COTTO
FATTO A MANO
(HANDMADE
COTTO)
LAYING
METHOD
CLIMATE CLIMATE CLIMATE CLIMATE CLIMATE CLIMATE
Warm
Dry
Cold
Damp
Warm
Dry
Cold
Damp
Warm
Dry
Cold
Damp
Warm
Dry
Cold
Damp
Warm
Dry
Cold
Damp
Warm
Dry
Cold
Damp
MORTAR
(Days)
20 - 25 30 - 40 5 - 7 8 - 10 Not foreseen 5 - 7 8 - 10 20 - 25 30 - 40 30 - 40 45 - 60
ADHESIVE
(Days)
3 - 5 5 - 7 2 - 3 3 - 5 2 - 3 3 - 5 2 - 3 3 - 5 3 - 5 5 - 7 5 - 7 10 - 15
Cleaning
The time required to wait between installation and treatment is given by:
Curing or the release of salts from the terracotta tile
The stabilising time of the laying bed and grout width
Tile surface drying
Before washing, it is recommended to respect the times provided in this table:
NOTE: The times given in the table are purely indicative.
For subgrades in expanded clay with damp proofing, the waiting times for mortar should be doubled and the area heated where possible.
Treatment:
Technical findings _ Surface moisture
Cleaning
The surface of the cotto to be washed must have a relatively low degree of
surface moisture, less than 25%; in any case, grout widths will always have a
higher degree of moisture (up to 30-35%).
In fact, it is more difficult to clean the surface impurities and oxidation normally
present from an excessively damp tile than from a relatively dry one.
However, it is more important to keep this factor under control between washing
and finishing. It is extremely risky to finish tiles and grout widths where there is
a high degree of surface moisture.
This “pock-marked effect” problem may even occur a few
months after handover, especially when the finishing
treatment has been carried out using varnishing or film-
forming products, which should be avoided in any case.
This reduces or prevents the residual moisture present in
the substrate from being released through the tile.
Treatment:
Technical findings _ Joint configuration and colour
Cleaning
Often, one of the determining factors in achieving an excellent overall finished
appearance of treated surfaces in cotto is the way in which the joints are
treated.
At times, excellent treatment of the terracotta tiles shows up an awful
appearance in treated joints.
To obtain an even-coloured joint, it is advisable to proceed as follows:
If the joint is very grainy and absorbent, after washing with buffered acid, finish
with unpigmented and/or low-penetration treatment products (wax-resin water
emulsions)
If the joint already varies in colour, due to unevenly mixed
grout, different cement batches, or to the replacement of tiles
considered to be faulty, a medium- or dark-coloured finishing
treatment followed by colouring the joints with pigments is
recommended.
Example of mismatched joint colours following resumed work or tile replacements.
Treatment:
Washing
Cleaning
Preliminary cleaning is aimed at:
Removing unwanted substances and restoring the original colour and
appearance
Freeing the characteristic porosity so that the final protective treatment
can be absorbed deep down.
Knowledge of the origins of terracotta (formats, surface finish, installation) also
offers useful information with regard to arranging the work to be performed with
the following operational means:
CHEMICAL PRODUCTS and MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT
Treatment:
Washing _ Chemical products
Cleaning
When talking about cleaning cotto, the first and only thing that comes to mind is an
acid wash and in most cases, muriatic acid.
However, it is not always necessary just to remove the surface lime scale deposits,
it is also necessary to remove many other substances used on site or which have
deposited on the material over time (cotto used out of doors), or even products
purposefully applied to the surface itself (incorrect treatments).
This requires:
Dedicated action
which is performed according to the choice of chemical products with specific
dissolving action for the prevalent type of dirt present.
Fast action
It is necessary for the dirt residues to be easily and completely removed from the
cotto surface in the least amount of time possible and using the least amount of
water.
This factor, which is known as “emulsifying the dirt” is of fundamental importance
to successful washing.
Treatment:
Washing _ Chemical products
Cleaning
REACTIVE
DETERGENTS
TRADITIONAL
REACTIVE AGENTSNEW COTTO
INCORRECTLY
TREATED COTTO
SCALE REMOVER
LIME REMOVER
PICKLING AGENT
(water solution)
MURIATIC ACID
HYDROCHLORIC ACID
(water solution)
Cement grout and lime
scale residues; Colour
wash paint; Saline
efflorescence
Neutralises after alkaline
wash;
Emulsifies after solvent
wash;
Cleans away lime scale
soiling
STRONG DEGREASER
ALKALINE WAX REMOVER
(water solution)
CAUSTIC SODA
SODIUM HYDROXIDE
(water solution)
Dark oxidation;
Pollution stains;
Mould and algae
Dissolves natural and
fatty wax treatments
FILM REMOVER
PAINT REMOVER
STRONG WAX REMOVER
(solvent solution)
SPIRIT
NITRE THINNER
(solvent solution)
Removes synthetic
stains;
Quarzites and synthetic
paints
Wax remover that
dissolves synthetic and
polymer treatments;
Dissolves metalized
acrylics in resins,
varnishes and silicones
Traditional reactive agents, although they have a strong breakdown action on the
substances present, lead to notable re-absorption of the broken down dirt,
especially during the rinsing process, which requires copious amounts of water.
Treatment:
Washing _ Chemical products
Cleaning
During cleaning and due to the surface acting agents it contains, a good reactive
detergent maintains the broken down particles in suspension and this allows them
to be quickly and completely removed with a minimum amount of water during the
rinsing stage.
COTTO MUST BE CLEANED QUICKLY, WELL, AND USING THE SMALLEST POSSIBLE
AMOUNTS OF WATER AND REACTIVE SUBSTANCES, ESPECIALLY WHEN USING
TRADITIONAL REACTIVE PRODUCTS.
DETERDEK and FILADRASTIC ,
respectively de-scaler and lime remover;
strong degreaser and alkaline wax remover.
Treatment:
Washing _ Chemical products
Cleaning
REACTIVE
DETERGENTSLIST PRODUCTS FILA PRODUCTS GEAL PRODUCTS
DE-SCALER
LIME REMOVER
PICKLING AGENT
(water solution)
ACIDO TAMPONATODETERDEK
FILA PH ZERO
SERVICE ACIDO
ACIDO 13H3 FORTE
ESTRATTORE ACIDO
FORTE
STRONG DEGREASER
ALKALINE WAX REMOVER
(water solution)
ALCALE FILADRASTIC
SERVICE ALCALE
CB – 90
ESTRATTORE ALCALE
FORTE
FILM REMOVER
PAINT REMOVER
STRONG WAX REMOVER
(solvent solution)
/FILASOLV
SERVICE SOLVENTE
ESTRATTORE SOLVENTE
FORTE
Correspondence between list products and the brand names of some companies.
Treatment:
Washing _ Mechanical equipment
Cleaning
Single-brush polisher
Liquid vacuum cleaner
Synthetic pads and discs with
different abrasive levels.
Treatment:
Washing _ New cotto
Cleaning
CHEMICAL PRODUCTS: see previous tables.
EQUIPMENT: single-brush floor polisher (*) with hard
abrasive disc for washing (darker colours), liquid vacuum
cleaner and wiper.
HOW TO PROCEED: work on dry flooring. Pour the detergent directly onto the
surface and spread it with the wiper. Unless otherwise indicated, it is always best to
start out using an undiluted product. Brush it thoroughly with the floor polisher at
medium-low speed and a weight pressure of no less than 30 kg. Quickly vacuum up
the liquid because cotto tends to absorb washing residues and the reactive products
used deep down. For this reason, it is best to work in pairs: one to operate the floor
polisher and the other the liquid vacuum cleaner. A final rinse with clean water is
most important to eliminate any last residues of dirt or washing products; this must be
performed quickly and using the floor polisher or a broomcorn brush. After rinsing,
vacuum up the remaining liquid and thoroughly dry the surface with cloths and
sponges.
(*) Caution! For terracotta tiles from the Casato line, use broomcorn brushes or soft pads only, and dilute the
detergent so that the concentration is less aggressive.
Treatment:
Washing _ Natural actions and treatments requiring correction
Cleaning
CHEMICAL PRODUCTS: correction assumes knowledge of the products used for the
prior intervention. The choice of detergent product is extremely easy.
EQUIPMENT: single-brush polisher with hard abrasive disc for washing (darker
colours), liquid vacuum cleaner and wiper.
HOW TO PROCEED: similarly to that described in the previous section. It is
advisable to make a preliminary test on a more deteriorated area of the surface.
1 2 3
1 – cleaning oxidation marks; 2 – cleaning mould and algae; 3 – cleaning an incorrect treatment
Treatment: Protection
Primers
The protection stage requires the application of primers.
According to their action, primers are divided as follows:
WATER REPELLENTS (deep down protection)
OIL REPELLENTS (surface protection)
OIL AND WATER REPELLENTS (combined protection, deep down/surface)
TRADITIONAL OIL PRIMERS (combined protection, deep down/surface)
With reference to the solution in which they are dispersed:
SOLVENT BASED
WATER BASED
Treatment: Protection
Primers
Solvent-based primers are characterised by rather small molecules and a high
degree of chemical inertia; for this reason they operate deep down.
They are excellent from a performance viewpoint, although they should only be
used in “expert hands”. They also dry quickly and must only be applied to
perfectly dry flooring or paving.
Water-based primers on the other hand, are characterised by a slower drying
process and by rather large molecules (water). For this reason, they are
recommended for waterproofing highly absorbent flooring.
They are also easier to apply, since they can also be used on material that is still
damp.
These primers have less of an adverse effect on the environment although they do
lose their effectiveness as time passes.
Treatment: Protection
Technical times
COTTO RUSTICO COTTO PRATICO/
PROTETTO
LINEA
CASATO
COTTO
PRONTO
OUTDOOR
PAVINGS AND
DECOR
COTTO
FATTO A MANO
(HANDMADE
COTTO)
PROTECTION PROTECTION PROTECTION PROTECTION PROTECTION PROTECTION
Solvent
based
Water
based
Solvent
based
Water
based
Solvent
based
Water
based
Solvent
based
Water
based
Solvent
based
Water
based
Solvent
based
Water
based
7-15
days
4 hours 3- 4
days
/ Not foreseen Not foreseen (*) 7-15
days
4 hours 15-20
days
4 hours
(*) Unless a certain stain-proof action is required. In this case, it is possible to apply a solvent-based oil- and
water-repellent product.
This table contains the minimum times required to wait between the completion of
washing operations and the protection stage:
Treatment: Protection
Water repellents
Siloxane primers with a high degree of penetration, chemical inertia, and lasting action.
They prevent rising moisture and water absorption. They also combat the formation of
efflorescence, “dark marks”, and mould.
They leave the transpiration capacity (vapour permeability) of the material unchanged.
Especially indicated as initial primers for treating tiles laid indoors and out. They also
favour the even absorption of subsequent treatment products: wax for interiors and oil
repellents for exteriors.
EVAPORATED WATER (drying)
CHEMICAL BARRIER
RISING MOISTURE
terracotta surface
Vapour
passage area
INVISIBLE HYDROPHOBIC (dry) AREA
EVAPORATION INTERFACE
Treatment: Protection
Oil repellents
These give the material a fluoride-based, stainproof, protective surface that is
completely invisible. They do not alter the original colour of the material. They do not
film and they also do not change the vapour permeability (transpiration) of the original
material.
They are not able to receive subsequent treatment products but can be applied on top
of water repellents. Their use is practically limited to outdoor paving only.
STAINING SUBSTANCES
WATER SOLUBLE GREASE
terracotta surface
CHEMICAL BARRIER
INVISIBLE
STAINPROOF
PROTECTION
Treatment: Protection
Oil and water repellents
These are normal mixes, in solvents, of fluoridated copolymers with a stainproofing
action and siloxane primers with a deep-down water-repellent action to provide dual
oil- and water-repellent protection.
They do not create films, or substantially alter the transpiration capacities of the
material. They add a slight colour tone to the original shade.
They are moderately receptive to subsequent treatment products such as, for example,
neutral liquid wax in the case of indoor flooring.
STAINING SUBSTANCES
WATER SOLUBLE GREASE
terracotta surface
CHEMICAL BARRIER
STAINPROOF PROTECTION
WATER-REPELLENT PROTECTION
RISING MOISTURE
Treatment: Protection
Traditional oil primers
Primers with vegetable oil or natural wax bases and resins in plant-based
solvents for water-repellent and stainproof protection. Compared to the
traditional oil-based mixes, (linseed oil), they penetrate and dry with greater
ease. They add a more or less intense colour tone.
Suitable for use on flooring or paving where there is no risk of rising
moisture, indoors or in covered outdoor areas.
STAINING SUBSTANCES
POROSITY
SATURATION AREA
PHYSICAL BARRIERWATER SOLUBLE “GREASE”
terracotta surface
Treatment: Protection
Protection _ Chemical products
ES / 82 and OP / K ,
Respectively, deep-down water repellent and oil
and water repellent. Both are solvent based.
Treatment: Protection
Protection _ Chemical products
ACTION SOLUTION LIST PRODUCTS FILA PRODUCTS GEAL PRODUCTS
WATER REPELLENT
In water / HP / 98 IPA - 16
In solvent IDROREPELLENTE ES / 82 ICR - 17
WATER AND OIL
REPELLENT
In water/
FILASPRINT 2000 /
In solvent ANTIMACCHIA OP / KBARRIER 2
LI-COT / LI-COT NEREO
OIL REPELLENTIn water
/W / 68 /
In solvent/
/ BASOIL
Correspondence between list products and the brand names of some companies.
Treatment: Finishing And Maintenance
Since terracotta tiles are made from a rough material that is highly absorbent
compared to other traditional tile types, it is necessary to clean and protect them
and also to give them a tone and performance that leave them easy to care for
using modern means in the areas in which they are installed.
Finishing operations for flooring laid indoors normally take the form of applying:
SOLVENT-BASED OIL-WAX DISPERSIONS ( Wax paste)
WATER-BASED RESIN-WAX EMULSIONS ( Liquid wax )
Wax pastes (traditional treatment) “nourish” the tiles deep down, giving them a
“warm” appearance. They are available in different colours:
natural (neutral), blond (yellow), leather (brown), and aged (antique brown).
In this way, it is possible to give tone to the tiles to obtain specific colour effects.
Just applying neutral wax paste creates a slight colour effect without altering the
original shade of the flooring.
Treatment: Finishing And Maintenance
Wax paste is not diluted and it is applied after the base coat of water repellent.
It must be applied in two layers at a distance of 8 hours from one another to obtain
a more even result and to be able to correct the tone of the first application, if
necessary.
It is advisable to apply the wax with a normal synthetic bath sponge and to buff it
later with a woollen cloth or floor polisher.
Darker colours should always be applied as a second coat.
Variations in the finished appearance of original cotto, created by different finishing
treatments.
Treatment: Finishing And Maintenance
Liquid waxes are used to provide a final finishing coat.
They give the flooring:
Wearproof surface protection
Light stainproof protection
A base for subsequent maintenance
These are normally emulsions of high-quality natural wax with added polymers. It
is also possible to buy formulas that create a more wear-resistant protective layer
(synthesis waxes), which are therefore more suitable to areas subject to a great
deal of traffic (offices, restaurants, etc.).
Cotto Wax
Neutral liquid wax for terracotta
As a final finishing coat, this product is applied
over the wax paste with a cloth, mop or other
wax application means.
If the flooring is finished with liquid wax only, it is
advisable to apply it with a wide brush.
Treatment: Finishing And Maintenance
Maintenance
Maintenance is performed more or less frequently according to the
condition of the flooring and to different personal requirements.
For routine maintenance, it is sufficient to wash the flooring with a diluted
solution of liquid wax (2–3 glasses in a bucket of water); for extraordinary
maintenance, re-apply a coat of pure wax, using a brush.
Every so often, use a mild de-greasing detergent to remove any black
marks from the flooring and to prevent layers of wax from building up.
FilaCleaner and liquid wax for cotto floor maintenance.
Treatment: Finishing And Maintenance
Finishing and maintenance - Products
TYPE LIST PRODUCTS FILA PRODUCTS GEAL PRODUCTS
WAX PASTE /
CERA IN PASTA
(Neutral, Yellow, Brown,
Antique Brown)
DRESS
(Neutral, Dark Brown,
Rustic)
LIQUID WAXCERA LIQUIDA
NEUTRA
COTTOWAX
Klinwax
WOP
(Matt / Polished)
DESCALING
DETERGENT DETERGENTE FILACLEANER CB - 90
Correspondence between list products and the brand names of some companies.
Treatment: Treatment Diagrams
COTTO
RUSTICO
COTTO
PRATICO/
PROTETTO
LINEA
CASATO
COTTO
PRONTO
OUTDOOR
PAVINGS AND
DECOR
COTTO
FATTO A MANO
(HANDMADE
COTTO)
AREA AREA AREA AREA AREA AREA
Indoor Outdoor Indoor Outdoor Indoor Indoor Outdoor Outdoor Indoor Outdoor
FINISHING
DIAGRAM
(Type)A - B C D E F G H I L M
Treatment:
Indoor treatment diagram _ Traditional Cotto Rustico
Acido Tamponato
(buffered acid)
Idrorepellente
(water repellent)
Cera Liquida Neutra
(neutral liquid wax)
Wax Paste
Wax Paste
Cera Liquida Neutra Polymer Wax Emulsion
or
or
7-15 days min.
24 hours 4 hours
8 hours
8 hours
7-15 days min.
8 hours
A
Treatment:
Acido Tamponato
(buffered acid)
Idrorepellente
(water repellent)
Cera Liquida Neutra
(neutral liquid wax)
Cera Liquida Neutra
Cera Liquida Neutra Polymer Wax Emulsionor
24 hours
8 hours
8 hours
7-15 days min.
8 hours
Indoor treatment diagram _ Traditional Cotto Rustico
B
Treatment:
Outdoor treatment diagram _ Traditional Cotto Rustico
C
Acido Tamponato
(buffered acid)
Idrorepellente
(water repellent)
Antimacchia
(stainproof product)or
7-15 days min.
For water-repellent treatments For water and oil-repellent treatments
STOP
WITH CAUTION
Treatment:
Acido Tamponato
(buffered acid)
Cera Liquida Neutra
(neutral liquid wax)
Idrorepellente
(water repellent)or
8 hours2 hours
Wax Paste or
Cera Liquida Neutra Cera Liquida Neutra
Cera Liquida Neutra
2 days 2 days 3 – 4 days
24 hours
2 hours
Indoor treatment diagram _ Cotto Pratico / Protetto
D
Treatment:
Acido Tamponato
(buffered acid)
Antimacchia
(stainproof product)
Antimacchia
from 3-4 months
to 1-2 years
2 – 4 days min.
Outdoor treatment diagram _ Cotto Pratico / Protetto
E
Treatment:
Acido Tamponato
(buffered acid)
Wax supplied
2 days
Indoor treatment diagram _ Cotto Linea Casato
F
Caution!
DILUTE
APPLY WITH
A CLOTH
APPLY WITH
A CLOTH
Treatment:
Indoor treatment diagram _ Cotto ProntoZoni
G
Acido Tamponato
(buffered acid)
Cera Liquida Neutra
(neutral liquid wax)
Antimacchia
(stainproof product)or
2 days 3 - 4 days
For a secure stainproofing action
APPLY WITH
A CLOTH
Treatment:
Outdoor treatment diagram _ Cotto ProntoZoni
H
Acido Tamponato
(buffered acid)
Antimacchia
(stainproof product)
3 - 4 days
For a secure stainproofing action
STOP
Treatment:
Treatment diagram for the Outdoor Pavings and Decor Line
I
Warning!
Only if given prior waterproofing
treatment. Alternatively, 7-15 days
Acido Tamponato
(buffered acid)
Water-based water repellent
4 hours
Sealing the joints
Water-based water repellent
Antimacchia
(stainproof product)or
2 – 4 days min.
STOP
WITH CAUTION
Treatment:
Indoor treatment diagram _ Smooth Cotto Fatto a Mano / Crete
L
Acido Tamponato
(buffered acid)
Water-based water repellent
4 hours
Sealing the joints
Water-based water repellent
Idrorepellente
(water repellent)or
2 – 4 days min.
Wax paste
Polymer wax emulsion
Cera Liquida NeutraCera Liquida Neutra
(neutral liquid wax)
Cera Liquida Neutra
or or
24 hours
8 hours
24 hours
8 hours
8 hours8 hours
8 hours
Cera Liquida Neutra
Warning!
Only if given prior waterproofing
treatment. Alternatively, 20 days.
Treatment:
Outdoor treatment diagram _ Rusticated Cotto Fatto a Mano
I Borghi and Vicoli
Acido Tamponato
(buffered acid)
Water-based water repellent
4 hours
Sealing the joints
Water-based water repellent
Idrorepellente
(water repellent)or
2 – 4 days min.
M
Warning!
Only if given prior waterproofing
treatment. Alternatively, 20 days.
Troubleshooting:
Floors that have not yet been treated
Black marks on the floor
These occur in the form of dark marks in various shapes. They are most
probably caused by oxidation. An alkaline product is required (Service alcale Geal /
Filadrastic). Wash thoroughly and then repeat the operation, this time using
buffered acid (Service acido Geal / Deterdek Fila) to neutralise the alkaline solution.
Grout residues
Clean with buffered acid (Service acido Geal / Deterdek Fila). More stubborn build up
can be removed with specific products used in higher concentrations (Acido 13H3
forte Geal / Fila PH Zero).
Saline efflorescence
This appears if the washing operation was performed too early or inaccurately.
Wash the tiles again, not forgetting to respect the technical times. From laying
to acid wash: 40 days for traditional mortar laying; 15 days for adhesive laying;
2-3 months for handmade cotto laid using mortar.
(see table on slide 42)
Floors with finishing treatment
Drips of cold oil
Use kitchen paper and wash with a mild degreasing detergent (CB-90 Geal / Fila
Cleaner), such as used for normal maintenance. If cleaning is performed quickly
enough, there will be no remaining marks. If this is not the case, use a strong
film and wax remover (Service idrosolv Geal / Fila DX/83), neat and directly on the
stained tile, which must then be carefully rinsed. When the tile is dry, apply a
coat of neutral liquid wax (Wop Geal / Cottowax Fila) or the same product used in
the final coat of floor treatment.
Black heel marks
Or marks from the caps on chairs or furniture. Use a mild degreasing detergent
(CB-90 Geal / Fila Cleaner) neat, applying it with a damp abrasive sponge. Rub in,
rinse and then apply neutral liquid wax (Wop Geal / Cottowax Fila).
White heel marks
This probably means that there is too much wax on the tiles and therefore, it is
best not to use any more for a while. Wash the floor with a mild degreasing
detergent (CB-90 Geal / Fila Cleaner) such as used for normal maintenance and use
a floor polisher on a regular basis.
Troubleshooting:
Treated floors
Layers of built up wax or stubborn dirt
Wash the floor with a strong film and wax remover (Service idrosolv Geal / Fila
DX/83) and rinse. Apply a coat of neutral liquid wax (Wop Geal / Cottowax Fila).
The flooring under a pot has become lighter
This is probably due to lime scale residues caused by water. It is sufficient to
wash the affected area with a buffered acid (Service acido Geal / Deterdek Fila) and
then, if necessary, to apply neutral liquid wax (Wop Geal / Cottowax Fila). If the
problem is caused by dampness, which is particularly high underneath a plant,
use a solvent-based wax remover (Service solvente Geal / Filasolv), scrubbing with
an abrasive sponge and cleaning up any residues with kitchen paper or dry
cloths. Then apply a coat of wax paste for cotto (Dress Geal / Cera in pasta Fila) and
finish off with a coat of neutral liquid wax (Wop Geal / Cottowax Fila).
Troubleshooting:
Tiles laid outdoors
Blackened paving
Rain, dust and smog can blacken cotto tiles laid outdoors. It is sufficient to
wash the paving with a strong degreasing detergent (Service idrosolv Geal / Fila
DX/83) to remove the dirt that has accumulated over time.
Tyre marks
Wash thoroughly with a strong degreasing detergent (Service idrosolv Geal / Fila
DX/83), and a stiff brush. Rinse.
Moss and mould
Wash with an alkaline product (Service alcale Geal / Filadrastic) and a hard brush.
Then apply buffered acid (Service acido Geal / Deterdek Fila) and rinse. To prevent
this problem, apply two coats of water repellent (ICR 17 Geal / Fila ES/82) to clean,
dry paving.
Troubleshooting:
Specific Notes About Our Flooring And Paving:
Cotto Pratico / Protetto
Traditional cotto Cotto Pratico / Protetto
•Waterproofed by immersion
•Wide range of floor and special pieces
•Releases no efflorescence
•Does not form mould
•Easier to clean
•Ideal for indoor and outdoor use
Specific Notes About Our Flooring And Paving:
Cotto Pratico / Protetto
In the interests of correct information, it is best to specify:
Indoor flooring: the product requires a wax finish
Outdoor paving: do not apply any type of finish,
although a stainproofing product can be applied to areas
at risk from staining.
Warning!Do not consider this cotto to be a pre-treated or ready-to-use
product, or even a non-absorbent or stainproof cotto
Cotto Pratico has extremely fast
installation and finishing times…
Specific Notes About Our Flooring And Paving:
Cotto Linea Casato
•Waxed in a controlled environment
•Available in 3 colours
•Does not release efflorescence
•Easy to clean
•Immediate finish
This is given a “hot wax” treatment in a controlled
environment: the result is a surface with improved strength,
durability and more even colour tones.
This can easily be defined as a pre-treated cotto
Specific Notes About Our Flooring And Paving:
In the interests of correct information, it is best to specify:
This is a cotto for indoor use only
It may only be laid using adhesives
Warning!Do not define this cotto as being a stainproof product;
avoid soiling it excessively during grouting operations…
Washing operations must be performed “delicately” !
Cotto Linea Casato
It must be finished using the relevant special wax
Specific Notes About Our Flooring And Paving:
Cotto ProntoZoni
Our Research and Development laboratory has devised a
mix of fluxes, that is applied to the product while still
“dry”.
After firing, the product is waterproofed by being
immersed in a water-based water-repellent.
Specific Notes About Our Flooring And Paving:
Cotto ProntoZoni
This maintains all of the beautiful qualities of real cotto
flooring, but without any of the characteristics that have
classified it as “difficult”.It needs no treatment – not now or ever…
Resistant to wear, chemical agents and the elements.
The presence of corundum gives the product its high
degree of surface strength.
The characteristics of this mix mean that the product can
absorb and release water, but not liquids of higher
density.
The contents of this presentation
have been optimised and revised by the Technical Division of
Industriepica in collaboration with:
Geal srl _ Agliana (PT)
Fila Industria chimica spa _ S. Martino di Lupari (PD)
Mapei spa _ Milan
Tenax spa _ Italy
Sources:
“Le piastrelle di ceramica” by
A.Tenaglia, G. Timellini, C. Palmonari
In-house publication from Centro Ceramico – Bologna
“Il cotto toscano” un’antica piastrella ancora
da apprezzare pienamente by E. Giusti
Geal srl _ Agliana (PT)
All rights reserved. Reproduction, in any form,
of written or illustrated parts of this booklet
is strictly prohibited, unless expressly authorised.