Properties and types of marble
Conditionally given material is classified into white, gray and color. The latter in turn is divided into red, green marble and others. This "color division" is due to the way of processing the stone, as well as the scope of its application. For example, white marble is suitable only for interior decoration of premises. It can be seen small gray veins and patterns.
The more foreign matter, the lower the commercial value of this material. For external cladding, white marble is not suitable, as it may darken with time. In particular, a room with white and black marble( staggered, for example) looks good. Also, lamps, statues, vases and other interior details are made from it.
Gray marble, unlike white, can be used both inside and outside the premises. He is not susceptible to all kinds of weather phenomena and has an original, layered pattern( characteristic only for this species).The color of the tile contains not only a gray tint: there may be white, yellow, pink veins and specks.
Color is divided into a huge number of shades: green, pink, blue, blue-blue, red marble. Marble tiles consist of a large number of inclusions, which are formed from the accumulation of organic substances. Usually it is used to create various panels, beautiful mosaic.
Among the main properties of this material are: water resistance, frost resistance, ease of processing( including polishing), ecological cleanness, heat resistance, high decorative characteristics, durability, versatility. From it, both floor coverings and interior elements( columns, stairs) are made. All this makes it possible to use this material for finishing almost any premises.
Marble laying
Marble laying technology includes 2 ways of applying it: using mortar and glue mixture.
But before this, the surface is necessarily prepared. It should be strong, smooth, free from cracks and any contaminants. If a seamless cement base was made, it "ripens" about 28 days. After it is completely dry, proceed to the application of the tile.
The method of "laying on a solution" was the most popular. Today, many experts do not recommend using it, as there may be spots on the coating, streaks and other unpleasant phenomena. For this method, it is important to choose a dense tile with a low water absorption level.
Plus you need to make an underlayer of the prepared mixture( from 1m3 of river sand, 100 grams of hydrated lime, 100 grams of Portland cement and water).On this underlying layer, cement is applied, it is moistened abundantly, and tiles are laid on top. At the final stage, eliminate the solution that appears in the joints and make the traditional grouting of joints, using for this purpose special compounds( available in stores).
The second method involves tiling with adhesive. Is the most popular method to date, as it allows eliminating many side effects that appear due to improperly selected mixtures. In this case, a sealing glue is used - one-component or two-component( PVA glue will not work).
Apply the composition to the surface with a notched trowel. Then they also cover the back of the marble tiles. To control the quality of the clutch, the material is gently lifted by the trowel. After complete hardening of the composition, the seams are sealed with silicone sealant.
Causes of deterioration in the appearance of marble floors
Often during the operation of the marble coating, side effects occur: the appearance of streaks and stains, discoloration, peeling and much more. Some builders associated these "unpleasant" phenomena with the stone itself. However, experience with this material shows that the reason for the appearance of such "surprises" is:
- poor waterproofing of joints and seams;
- use of a low-quality solution;
- poor-quality coating installation;
- violation of the rules of care for the marble floor.
The first 3 items can easily be avoided, just follow the installation instructions for the plates. The fourth item is also feasible. It is important to constantly monitor the cleanliness and timely process the floor with mastics. Fulfillment of these rules will lead to a durable use of the coating.
