Expert Answers in Exterior

ANSWER – Exterior decks are very problematic if they are not installed correctly, particularly if there is occupied space underneath it.

There are several steps necessary to make sure your tile deck will perform as intended. …

ANSWER – Tiles whether ceramic tiles or natural stone or cement tiles should not fall off of the building.  There are tile exterior facades (veneers) that go back 1000 of years and are still performing well…

ANSWER – Tiles whether ceramic tiles or natural stone or cement tiles should perform well on an exterior deck if installed correctly.  There tends to be a lot of failures with exterior decks because they are…

ANSWER – Generally speaking surface sealers, that give you a wet look, that don’t breath (allow air to pass) will trap in moisture that can cause a cloudy discoloration. Penetrating type sealers are normally breathable sealers,…

ANSWER – Normally brownish stains on tile in an exterior area are organic based caused by leaves or other plant materials that have deteriorated.  The fact that it is near a grout joint may be because…

ANSWER – I’m not sure where you are starting on this project if the interior plywood is already installed, but I will give you some key steps and options.

First the structure needs to be…

ANSWER – First of all you need to be sure that the ceramic tile or stone tile that you want to use exterior is freeze thaw stable. The tile should not have more than…

ANSWER – Stone that is freeze thaw stable can be used under the freezing conditions you mention. Normally that means the absorption rate of the stone should be 1% or less such as some granites,…

ANSWER – First of all you should not be installing the clay tiles to plywood if it is going to be used outdoors.  Plywood is moisture sensitive and will expand and contract leading to warpage…

ANSWER – For grout in flagstone with varying thick and width joints you need to have a grout with a greater ratio of sand to cement. If you want a specific color and more consistency…