a standard and therefore not set up like one, enabling the committee to provide information in non- mandatory language when need- ed. It’s a particularly useful means of addressing conflicting recom- mendations or specifications, as can easily occur when a producer or another trade makes a major shift in product or practice in a way that impacts tile installations. A prime example is the new Handbook section to address the newer type of steel studs com- monly referred to as “equivalent gauge” or “EQ” studs. The new Handbook language helps peo- ple understand the most impor- tant considerations for avoiding tile problems when these thinner studs are used. Samulski noted that “the specific design criteria that are ultimately needed will likely get hashed out in ANSI.” Other noteworthy changes that 2017 Handbook users will see include significantly more information on how to avoid the undesirable effects of wall-wash lighting on tile installations, new “Visual Inspection of Tilework” and “Design Considerations When Specifying Tile” sections, significant changes to the EJ171 movement joint guidelines, and a new method for tiling an exterior deck or balcony over unoccupied space (tile and stone versions). To purchase the 2017 TCNA Handbook, visit www.TCNAtile.com. BY THE BOOK –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– www.noblecompany.com CONGRATULATIONS SUPPLIER OF THE YEAR Ceramic Tile Distributors Association’s We would like to congratulate Florida Tile on receiving the CTDA “Supplier of the Year” award for a second time! We would also like to thank Florida Tile for being a quality supplier of Noble Company products for 23 years and counting. 76 TileLetter | May 2017