FAQ

Product Specifications

How thick is each Tile Easy tile?

9.75mm - 16mm

Depending on selection of tile.

What sizes are available?

600x1200mm

600x600mm

600x300mm

How thick are the grout joints

3mm

Installation

Do I need a tradesperson to install the Tile Easy System?

No, the Tile Easy flooring system is really easy to install yourself. One of the best features of the Tile Easy flooring system is that it is a true DIY system. A professional look is achieved simply by following our intuitive instructions.

What tools and materials are needed to install Tile Easy flooring system?

The following items are recommended to install Tile Easy flooring system, Safety goggles, ear protection, rubber mallet, tapping block, pull bar, tape measure, speed square,straight edge, wet saw, undercut saw, utility knife, gloves, hard rubber-edged grout float.

How do I assemble Tile Easy flooring system?

Tile Easy flooring system can be installed using a white-headed rubber mallet and tapping block. Be sure to place the tapping block (block of pine timber) squarely against the tile, never against the plastic tray.

What if I have trouble snapping two tiles together?

If the Tile Easy flooring system tiles are difficult to snap together, mix water and dish soap in a spray bottle, and moisten tabs.

Should an expansion gap be left along the perimeter of the installation?

Yes. A 3 - 5mm expansion gap should be left to leave room for expansion and contraction. In higher moisture environments, a quality silicone grout should be used to fill this perimeter gap.

Is there an easy way to remove the tabs of the Tile Easy flooring system tile if installing along the perimeter?

Yes. The tabs can be removed by carefully using snips. However, most of the time, tiles used around the perimeter will be cut, and tabs will already be removed.

How long do I have to stay off the tile before I can grout?

You can start grouting immediately.

One area of my Tile Easy flooring system floor requires very small cuts (about 25mm). Will I be able to connect the tabs?

A minimum of two tabs per side is needed to interlock any two Tile Easy flooring system tile pieces together. However, if the layout of the floor requires a smaller piece be used, use a construction adhesive under the small pieces to make sure they remain secured.

Do I have to install each tile in the same direction?

No. The tabs of a Tile Easy flooring system tile will interlock with another tile from any side.

What if an interlocking tab is damaged?

The Tile Easy flooring system locking mechanism is engineered to lock and function properly with as few as 4 connected tabs. If 4 or more tabs are damaged, use this piece as a cut tile along the perimeter.

How do I connect Tile Easy flooring system along the perimeter?

Leaving a 5mm gap along the perimeter, a coated pull bar should be used to gently apply pressure until tabs interlock completely.

Floor Preparation

Does Tile Easy flooring system require an acclimation period before installation?

The Tile Easy flooring system is a very stable, and does not require acclimation if installed under normal climate conditions. If, however, the temperature variance is greater than 20 degrees Celsius from storage to jobsite, a 24 hour acclimation period is recommended.

How thick must the timber sub-floor be in order to install the Tile Easy flooring system?

19mm installed over 600mm spacing floor joist.

How flat does a sub-floor need to be in order to install Tile Easy flooring system?

Within a tolerance of 5.00 mm over 3.0m or 2.5 mm over 1.5m. High and low spots off the sub-floor can be identified using a straight edge. High spots should be sanded, and low spots should be filled using a suitable levelling compound.

Over what type of sub-floors can Tile Easy flooring system tiles be installed?

Tile Easy flooring system can be installed on flat, solid surfaces. This includes vinyl, plywood, particle board, concrete, and ceramic. Avoid non-solid, uneven surfaces.

What do I do if there is a dip in the middle of the sub-floor?

Use a straight edge to determine the depth of the low spot. If it’s more than 6.5mm over 3.0m or 3.0mm over 1.8m, then it will need to be filled. Suitable patching compounds works best. Avoid gypsum patching compounds in wet areas since they may support mould growth.

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What do I do if there is a high spot in the middle of my floor?

If the high spot is over 5.00 mm in 3.0m or 2.5mm mm in 1.8m. it could be a problem. In manycases, the high spot will need to be removed. First, determine how much of thehigh spot needs to be removed. Once this is done, there are a few options.

Less severe high spots (2-5mm) can be sanded with a belt sander or edger or by using an electric planer. Remember: never sand existing resilient floor covering as it may contain asbestos.
More severe high spots may require inspection from a carpenter to ensure the floor remains structurally sound.

Can Tile Easy flooring system be installed over a crack in the sub-floor?

Yes. Unlike traditionally installed ceramic tiles the Tile Easy flooring system can be installed over cracks and expansion joints in concrete as long as the crack does not cause a height difference in the floor.

My floor squeaks.Should I fix it before I install Tile Easy flooring system?

If the floor squeaks now, it will squeak after Tile Easy flooring system is installed. Many squeaks can be repaired by simply placing a few nails or screws in the joists that are making the noise.If the squeaking persists, a carpenter should be consulted.

My previous floor left an adhesive residue on the sub-floor. Can I install Tile Easy flooring system directly over this surface?

If the old adhesive residue is completely dry, then yes. However, if the residue is sticky, it is recommended to apply a thin self-levelling compound over the top. This will provide a smooth non sticky surface for installing your floor.

Is there an alternative to levelling the floor with a patching compound?

Yes. Using 5mm Masonite / or fibro flooring sheet is an alternative to levelling the floor with patching compound. It may be a little more expensive, but could be a good option if you do not have experience patching floors.

Do I need to remove my vinyl floor before installing Tile Easy flooring system?

No. Tile Easy flooring system can be installed directly over your existing vinyl floor. Any holes or edges lifting should be repaired to make level

I have quarter round on my walls. Should I remove them before installing Tile Easy flooring system

Yes. The quarter round should be removed, and then reinstalled to cover the expansion gaps along the perimeter. It is not necessary to remove the skirting.

Do I need to remove my old flooring before I install Tile Easy flooring system?

Not all the existing floors need to be removed. Tile Easy flooring system can be installed over most clean, dry,structurally sound level floors such as vinyl, wood, concrete, or ceramic. It should not be installed over any type of carpets.

My old vinyl tile floor is missing a few pieces. Do I have to remove the whole floor to install Tile Easy flooring system?

No. If the vinyl tile is well bonded to its sub-floor and only a few pieces are missing, just use a suitable patching compound to fill the missing areas. Then, once the floor is flat, Tile Easy flooring system can be installed. Use caution when removing loose tile as some vinyl tiles may contain asbestos.

Do I need to remove paint or other epoxy flooring from the concrete floor before installing?

My 2nd floor apartment has lightweight concrete, and I’m told that primers and sealers need to be applied before my tile floor can be installed. Is this necessary with Tile Easy flooring system?

No, as long as the floor is within a tolerance of 5.00 mm in 3.0m or 2.5 mm in 1.8 m.

Are there any deflection requirements for Tile Easy flooring system?

Thef loor must not have defection greater than 0.9mm of the span when measured under a 136Kg concentrated load (See ASTM C 627).

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Do I need to undercut the door jambs?

If there are only a few door jambs to cut, it is easiest to use a sharp hand saw. A scrap piece of Tile Easy flooring system tile can be used as a guide to ensure the casing is cut at the exact height needed. If there are a large number of door jambs, a power jamb saw is recommended.

Application

Can the Tile Easy flooring system be installed over radiant heat?

Yes. The Tile Easy flooring system is approved for installation above radiant heat. It works best with a heated underlayment designed specifically for floating floors. Please Note: Tile Easy flooring system should not be installed above heating systems that could expose the grid to temperatures above 42 degrees celcius.

Can the Tile Easy flooring system be installed over an engineered joist systemwith joists that are 600mm on centre with 19mm thick?

Yes, as long as the floor is within tolerance 5mm in 3.0m, 2.5 mm in 1.8m

If I install Tile Easy flooring system over my hardwood floor, will the hardwood be damaged if I ever choose to remove my Kaolin – easy tiling system?

No, the Tile Easy flooring system shouldn’t damage your wood floor.

I changed my mind from traditional tile to Tile Easy flooring system, but I already have cement board installed. CanI install Tile Easy flooring system over the cement board?

Yes

Can Tile Easy flooring system be installed over particle board?

Yes

Can Tile Easy flooring system be installed over ceramic tile?

Can Tile Easy flooring system be installed as a countertop?

Tile Easy flooring system is not recommended for installation on countertops.

Can Tile Easy flooring system tiles be installed in a bathroom?

Yes providing there is no fall to drain holes in the floor substrate. The floor must be level.

Tile Easy flooring system should not, however be installed in higher moisture areas such as shower pans and saunas.

Can Tile Easy flooring system be installed outdoors?

Tile Easy flooring system can be installed in semi enclosed back verandas/ sunroom / alfresco areas. Sealing around the edges in these areas is paramount.

Can Tile Easy flooring system be installed in an environment reaching belowfreezing temperatures?

Can Tile Easy flooring system be installed on stairs?

Yes, but it must be fully adhered using a high quality construction adhesive. Additionally, a stair nose should be used at the edge.

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Can I install Tile Easy flooring system under a wood or gas burning stove?

No not without correct 20mm thick fibro cement sheeting being use directly under the stove to protect the floor system from the heat penetrating downwards.

Can Tile Easy flooring system be installed in a large area flowing through my kitchen, laundry room and bathroom?

Yes. The bathroom floor must have no fall in it. It must be level.

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Can Tile Easy flooring system be installed on the wall?

No. It is recommended you purchase the tile system for wall applications without interlocking cradles. Speak to your retailer, they can order the tiles without the cradles

Layouts/Patterns

Where in the room should I start my Tile Easy flooring system installation?

It is typically best to start in the centre of the room or at a perimeter. It is important to determine where your cuts will be in order to avoid using small pieces along the edge.

What pattern options do I have?

Tile Easy flooring system can easily be installed using straight,staggered, or diagonal patterns. Additionally, 600mm x 600mm, 300mm x 600mm and 150mm x 600 mm tiles can be installed together to create an almost unlimited number of options.

Does installing a diagonal pattern require more work than a straight pattern?

Yes. Installing a diagonal pattern does require a little extra work to plan the layout and make additional cuts. Also, due to the additional cuts, there will be a slightly higher amount of wasted tile.

Marking/Cutting

My wet saw is designed for cutting regular ceramic tile. Can I use this to cut Tile Easy flooring system porcelain tiles?

Most tile saws designed for cutting ceramic tile will work well with Tile Easy flooring system. However, because Tile Easy flooring system is a high quality porcelain tile, it is important to use a diamond-tipped blade designed for cutting porcelain.

I have a curved wall.Can I make curved cuts with Tile Easy flooring system?

Yes. Curved cuts can easily be made using a 100mm angle grinder with a diamond blade.

My wet saw is designed for cutting regular ceramic tile. Can I use this to cut Tile Easy flooring system porcelain tiles?

The water pump gets clogged on my saw. Is there anything I can do to prevent this?

The shavings from the tray will clog the pump on a wet saw if the water isn’t changed frequently. The best way to combat this is by changing the water in the saw when tray shavings accumulate, approximately every 30-40 cuts. The shavings from the tray will float so you can easily see them.

What type of wet saw works best for cutting Tile Easy flooring system?

Any good quality tile saws work very well when cutting. Be sure to use a blade designed to cut Porcelain tile.

What is the best way to cut around a vent?

If more than one tile is involved, you should be able to measure and mark your tiles easily, cutting with a wet saw. If, however, the required cut falls inside a tile and you can’t cut from the edges, you must make a “plunge-cut” in the middle of the tile.

Grouting

Can I use any type of grout?

No, only use Tile Easy K- grout systems.

Does Tile Easy flooring system K-Easy Grout require mixing like traditional cement-based grouts?

Yes, but this is done in the caulking tube.

How long does Tile Easy flooring system K-Grout need to cure before we can walk on it?

The dry grout can be walked on immediately, while the epoxy grout needs an hour to cure before walking on it.

Do I have to use K-Easy Grout when installing the Tile Easy flooring system?

Yes. Tile Easy flooring system K-Grout is specially formulated for use with Tile Easy flooring system tiles.

What is the shelf life of Tile Easy flooring system K-Grout Epoxy?

K-Grout has a shelf life of 1 year. See instructions on the tube

Will the colour of Tile Easy flooring system K-Easy Grout vary from batch to batch?

No not normally but, it always pays to check .

How do I correct imperfections in the grout?

Repair any low spots by adding additional grout. Tile Easy flooring system K-Grout adheres to itself.

Trims/Transitions

How do I finish the edge of Tile Easy flooring system at the top of the stairs?

An overlapping stair nose made of vinyl, metal or a flush wood may be used.

Is a trim piece needed at the edge of Tile Easy flooring system where it meets carpet?

No. The carpet can be tucked between the carpet smooth edge and the edge of the Tile Easy flooring system tile. Or, if necessary, shimming may be used to transition from one surface to the next.

Tile Easy flooring system floor is butting up to my wood floor. What is the best way to transition between the two floors?

If the floors are similar in height, a T-molding can easily be used. See trim profiles on web site

Do I have to use K-Easy Grout when installing the Tile Easy flooring system?

Yes. Tile Easy flooring system K-Grout is specially formulated for use with Tile Easy flooring system tiles.

What do I use to transition from Tile Easy flooring system to a floor of a different height?

Use a bevelled hard surface reducer, see trim profiles on web site

After leaving a 3-5mm gap along the perimeter, what can be used to fill this space?

This 3- 5mm space along a perimeter can be filled in using a flexible colour caulk or covered using quarter round. In areas exposed to moisture, it is strongly recommended that a quality silicon sealant is used to fill in the gap along the perimeter.

I have vinyl on the toe kicks of my cabinets. Can I install Tile Easy flooring system in its place?

Yes. Tile Easy flooring system tile can be fastened to a toe kick using a quality construction adhesive.

Can I use Tile Easy flooring system tile as a skirting?

Yes. Simply cut the tile to the desired height and install it after the floor installation is complete. The tray will be exposed on the top cut edge, and will need to be covered using grout, caulk or a moulding.

Can I butt my Tile Easy flooring system system floor directly against my wood floor of equal height?

Yes. If your wood floor is the same height as Tile Easy flooring system, butting directly to the two floors will work well. Tile Easy flooring system and wood flooring expand and contract at different rates, so a bead of flexible caulk should be placed in the space between the two floors. If the wood floor is a different height, then a reducer moulding will need to be installed to transition the two floors.

Can Tile Easy flooring system K-Epoxy Grout be installed in the 3-5mm gaps along the perimeter or at a threshold?

No, use silicone colour caulk.

Care and Maintenance

Do I need to seal my Tile Easy flooring system tile or grout?

How do I clean my Tile Easy flooring system floor?

Regular sweeping or vacuuming of the floor and promptly cleaning up spills will ensure your Tile Easy flooring system floor looks its best. For deep cleaning, a mild detergent cleaner designed for cleaning porcelain tile should be used.

Should Tile Easy flooring system be cleaned using an enzyme cleaner?

No. In certain situations (primarily when coming into contact with edible oils or animal fats), enzyme cleaners can breakdown Tile Easy flooring system Grout.

Can Tile Easy flooring system be cleaned using vinegar cleaner?

Yes

When applying grout in vet offices, or areas where urine will “stand” for a period of time before cleaning, should grout be sealed?

We only recommend the Tile Easy K-Epoxy grout for an installation like this which wont need to be sealed

What type of cleaner can be used for cleaning stubborn stains (tomato paste, wine, mustard,etc) on Tile Easy flooring system K-Grout?

We recommend using a product with bleach cleanser additive and a soft, bristled brush. It is important to clean these substances as quickly as possible after spill occurs.Always best to check a small area first.

Moisture

My basement has a moisture problem. Can I install Tile Easy flooring system in this area?

While moisture should not affect the Tile Easy flooring system tile and grout, it is recommended that you address your moisture problem before installing any floor in this area.

Can I install Tile Easy flooring system over a sub-floor that has experienced water damage?

Yes. However, it is important to repair or replace any water damaged boards, and ensure the floor is dry and structurally sound before installing Tile Easy flooring system.

Can I install Tile Easy flooring system over my plywood floor if it’s wet?

No, the subfloor must be completely dry before installation. Identify and correct the source of moisture before installation.

Can I install Tile Easy flooring system over mould?

Not until a few things are done. First find out the source of the moisture and correct it.Next, check to see if the moisture has caused structural damage to the floor(if unsure consult a carpenter). Repair if needed. If the floor is structurally sound, clean with a 1:9 bleach and water solution and rinse. Be sure the floor is completely dry before installing Tile Easy flooring system.

Bathrooms/Toilets

Can I install Tile Easy flooring system in wet areas such as bathrooms, toilet, laundry rooms?

Yes but only if there is no fall in the substrate to the water outlet in the floor. All floors must be level.

How do I cut Tile Easy flooring system around the toilet flange?

When cutting around the toilet flange, use a 100mm angle grinder with a diamond blade designed for cutting porcelain tile. Be sure to follow all safety rules.

Do I need to remove the toilet or can I cut around it?

You can do both with the Tile Easy flooring system. It is important to leave an expansion and fill the area around the flange with sealant before resetting the toilet, the same applies if you decide to cut around the toilet bowl.

Do I need to fill in the gap along the edge of the bathtub?

Yes. This should be filled with a quality silicon sealant to guard against water getting under the floor.

I’m installing Tile Easy flooring system in my bathroom. Do I need to fill in the 6mm gap along the perimeter?

Yes. Since a bathroom is a higher moisture area, the perimeter should be filled with a quality silicon sealant to guard against water getting under the floor.

Furniture and Appliances

I want to install Tile Easy flooring system in my game room. Will my slate top pool table be too heavy for Tile Easy flooring system?

When installed properly, Tile Easy flooring system will perform well when installed under heavy objects such as a pool table.

Can I install Tile Easy flooring system before the cabinets are installed?

No. All permanently installed cabinets should be in place prior to installation of Tile Easy flooring system.

Do I need felt protectors on my chairs like my old vinyl floor?

It is always a good idea with any hard surface floor to have protective glides on the bottom of the chairs. Tile Easy flooring system is very durable; however, marks may occur from unprotected metal chair legs.

Do I need to remove my dish washer before I install my Tile Easy flooring system floor?

No, just remove the bottom panel on your dishwasher and make sure there is enough adjustability in the treaded levelling legs for Tile Easy flooring system. to slide under.

I’m installing Tile Easy flooring system in a basement utility room. Is it okay to install Tile Easy flooring system next to my furnace?

It is usually safe to install Tile Easy flooring system next to gas and electric furnaces. However, it is a good idea to check with your heating and cooling technician to ensure the floor will not be exposed to temperatures of over 42 degrees Celsius.

Can I move my refrigerator back into place immediately after grouting my floor?

You can move the appliance back into place when the K-Easy grout is dry though you might need to touch-up the grout if the wheels disrupt the grout line. The key is you do not want continuous traffic/movement on the floor for the first 24 hours.

Repair and Replacement

Can I reinstall my Tile Easy flooring system floor in another location?

Yes. Tile Easy flooring system can be disassembled and reinstalled in another location. Before reinstalling, if epoxy grout was used, the old grout will need to be removed using a utility knife.

I dropped a cast ironpan on my Tile Easy flooring system floor, and a tile chipped. How do I replace it?

Tile Easy flooring system tile that becomes damaged can be replaced using the following easy steps:

1: Remove grout from perimeter of broken tile

2: Cut the tabs at 3 of the 4 surrounding sides of the broken tile 3: Remove broken tile

4: Cut the upward tabs of the new tile on 3 of 4 sides

5: Apply a layer of premium construction adhesive to the back of the new tile

6: Place the new tile into position, interlocking the side with remaining tabs

7: Apply pressure to ensure full adhesion

8: Once adhesive cures, apply flexible grout

Frequently Asked Questions