the tile is highly polished, it will likely require mechanical abra- sion to allow the bond coat to adhere. I suggest doing a simple bond test by mixing and placing (including keying in) the mortar that will be used for the project onto the surface of the existing tile. Do this in several representa- tive locations. Allow the mortar to cure for several days then remove it to determine how well it was able to bond to the substrate. You can select the trowel you will use for the job, comb the mortar and place a tile on top of the bond coat as a means of checking your coverage and inspecting the overall performance of the bond coat at the same time. Document everything about this test in writ- ing and with photographs. Repeat the test with other materials and tools if needed. Depending on the results of the bond test, it may be advisable to apply a primer that will facilitate bonding. Some setting-material manufacturers have specific prim- ers designed for this purpose. They can recommend their best products (including mortar) for this application. I suggest using a system approach from one manu- facturer that includes any prim- ers, membranes, mortars, grouts, sealants, sealers, etc. I advise you to contact the technical repre- sentative of your preferred manu- facturer about this job. They will be happy to assist you in writ- LATICRETE® STONETECH® surface care products are reli- able, high-performing and thor- oughly tested, giving today’s savvy stone and tile profes- sionals a competitive edge. Depending on the surface, natural stone, tile, grout, and masonry can vary in porosity. PROTECT with a select range of STONETECH natural-look sealers in water-based or sol- vent-based solutions made for a range of porosity and sur- face types. CLEAN with spe- cialized daily and heavy-duty cleaning solutions designed for various tile and stone chal- lenges. TRANSFORM with all- in-one enhancing sealers that protect and darken, or add shine, and restoration products that restore scratched or stained surfaces to a desired finish. www.laticrete.com/stonetech ASK THE EXPERTS –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 22 TileLetter | August 2017