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BOTTEGA tests its tiles according to UNI EN 14411 norm, which defines and provides marking terms, requirements and criteria for high quality ceramic tiles.

In addition to this, strict process control procedures are done, to guarantee the high quality of the products.

At the construction site, the tiler should check the shade, size, caliber and choice of material before laying. When laying, the tiler should always use tiles from several boxes to obtain the ideal colour mix.

The tiler should also check the product for any obvious flaws before laying, which would not be covered by the guarantee if pointed out after laying.

The tiler should use glues which are suitable for the various types of use, and follow the instructions on the packaging.

He has to check carefully the surface to be tiled, to ensure it is stable, dry and ready for tiling, and is not exces- sively hot or cold.

The glue should be applied professionally such that there are no gaps between the tile and the surface.

The tiler should be careful to not mark the material on the outer surface with pencils (graphite) or permanent markers, especially on products with smooth, glazed or polished surfaces.

The dimension of the tile joint may change depending on the size used, orthogonal or diagonal laying angles, and final use. Appropriate diamond tile cutters and special equipment should be used for the cutting and outlining operations requested by the Works Manager, especially with porcelain stoneware.

A minimum tile joint of 3 mm is recommended for non-rectified products and a minimum joint of 2 mm for rectified products.

Laying rectangular sizes in a staggered pattern requires tiles to be staggered by 6 cm, but never more than 10 cm. for sizes up to 100 cm, or a maximum of 20-25 cm for longer sizes.

In large rooms, joints must be positioned with regularity, whereas in small rooms it is enough to leave a slight gap between the tiles and perimeter walls, which are then covered with skirting.

For the covering of floors and walls with sides over 60 cm, Bottega recommends the use of levelling spacers, that easily:

Ensure that the laid surface is entirely flat.

Maintain the desired position for each tile.

Reduce laying time.

Levelling spacers for tiles permit to create level flooring in a quick and easy way.

Fillers or mortar coloured with pigments should only be used after carrying out an initial test.

For porcelain stoneware surfaces which are smooth, glazed or polished, mortar or fillers which are contrast coloured, cannot be used due to the microporosity caused by the abrasive action of the cutter during processing.

After grouting the tiles, with the use of cement surfacers with the grout still fresh, any excess grout should be removed immediately with a sponge and plenty water.

When work has been completed the tiler should wash the floors with a water and buffered acid solution, to avoid the insufficient or late removal of grout residue leaving marks which may be difficult to remove.

Bottega recommends FILA Deterdek for this operation (follow the recommendations on the container for dilution percentages closely), which is an acid descaling agent that does not give off harmful fumes and combines the descaling action with effective cleaning.

It is also important to rinse well until the wash water runs clean. Liquid extractors are useful for removing dirty wash water, which avoids moving it from one place to another.

For special areas of application, if waterproof grouting is required, epoxy mortar can be used. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the packaging exactly and respect the procedures for use.

When using these products, always consult expert, qualified tilers, as the incorrect application of epoxy mortars could irreversibly compromise the colour and appearance of the tiles.

Recenlty FILA has introduced an innovative cleaner for epoxy mortars: FILACR10.
The use of detergents (anti-corrosive products) which contain hydrofluoric acid could permanently damage the surface of any type of tile.
It is important to know that more than 90% of the problems which arise on site are due to incorrect, or even non-existent, washing after laying.
Appropriate washing after laying removes laying residue (mortar, glues, various types of dirt from the work site) and any remaining surface dirt.

To clean floors with polished surface, we recommend to daily clean with Fila Cleaner neutral cleanser (strictly follow the dilution percentages recommended on the bottle) and carry out periodic stain-resistant impregnating treatments in order to protect them from any damage caused by markers, ink, rust or other products with very high penetrability.

As for the ordinary maintenance of our tiles, we suggest the use of FILA products.

Stoneware is the right choice for the floors and walls of your home. It is therefore versatile, ideal for any type of style and architectural project, it is available in a wide range of sizes, colors and surfaces.

SAFE: Stoneware comes from the ground, so it is natural, does not contain plastic and is recyclable.

HYGIENIC: It is hypoallergenic, odorless, does not retain dirt and bacteria.

LONG LASTING: Stoneware is long lasting, while maintaining its appearance.

DOES NOT BURN: Stoneware does not burn.

STRONG: Stoneware does not warp, it is resistant to thermal shock and chemicals.

STABLE: A porcelain stoneware floor is practical, stable and easy to lay, excellent for shops, restaurants, offices and commercial spaces generally.

IT LOVES THE ENVIRONMENT: The gres porcelain is an eco-friendly material produced in compliance with all the European regulations.

PERFECT FOR EVERY TYPE OF APPLICATION: Porcelain stoneware can be used in outdoor spaces in residential, commercial and urban areas, the different surfaces within the same collection allow continuity between the interior and exterior, guaranteeing good slip resistance for the latter. It can be drive over, it can be used to cover swimming pools and solariums and it is a perfect covering for ventilated walls of large buildings. The raised floors in porcelain stoneware allow a practical and safe use for offices, commercial activities of all kinds and historic buildings, both inside and outside. A perfect solution for underfloor heating, thanks to its high thermal conductivity.
The stoneware can cover various surfaces allowing customized solutions, kitchen worktops, tops and shower trays coordinated with floors and walls.

INTERIOR FURNISHING: The ceramic is a prestigious finish that can be used for tables, coffee tables, reception desks, furnishing walls and many other applications with an innovative and contemporary design.