Expert Answers in failures

ANSWER - You indicated you installed a 1/2" thick limestone over CMU (concrete block) and have not grouted it yet.  Apparently there are dark stains on the surface of the limestone showing that have not gone…

ANSWER - In theory hydrostatic pressure can cause a tile to debond if the hydrostatic pressure is greater than the tensile strength of the adhesive bonding the tile to the substrate.  If a tile is poorly…

ANSWER - We do have inspectors in Florida.  We can perform an inspection and investigation to determine what caused the failure, to determine if the installation and tile meets industry standards and the standard of care…

ANSWER - If the black spots on the creama marfil tiles were installed in that condition and appear to be a mineral component of that stone then it would be assumed that is characteristic of…

ANSWER - If the marble tiles were installed correctly they should not be buckling/bulging from the walls even if it is installed in an interior pool and bath application. The humidity and moisture is likely contributing…

ANSWER - If the brick is consistent in sizing the grout joints should be very consistent too in width.  Even if the brick wasn't very consistent in sizing, going from 1/2" to 1-1/2" wide grout joints…

ANSWER - Granite counter tops, or any other type of stone counter top, are not suppose to break/crack before or after it is installed, as long as the counter top has not been abused such as…

ANSWER - Cementitious grout when installed correctly should be hard and last the life of the tile installation.  It should not crumble or powder, which is referred to as punky grout.  Generally when grout is soft…

ANSWER - If it is polishing wheel marks from fabrication per the Marble Institute of America Dimension Stone Design Manual (MIA) it is unacceptable to have polishing wheel marks or other scratches caused during fabrication on honed or polsihed…

ANSWER - I am assuming you have a glazed tile floor.  Your description sounds like the glaze is wearing off, which isn't normal.  If it is a good residential glazed floor tile the glaze should…