TECH TALK –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– H.B. Fuller Construction Products introduces TEC® Ultimate 6 Plus Polymer Modified Mortar, specifically designed for installing gauged porce- lain tile panels/slabs and large heavy tiles (LHT).TEC has developed Ultimate 6 Plus Mortar to meet the particular challenges of installing exceptionally large thin tile panels and LHT on floors or walls.The new mortar offers extreme versatility with a unique set of features that allows grouting in six hours – even when installed over the most imper- vious substrates such as uncoupling membranes. Easy-to-use Ultimate 6 Plus Mortar has an extended pot life of two to three hours and open time of 50-60 minutes, allowing installers the much-needed time to get full coverage and make adjustments. While this TEC mortar is formulated for gauged porce- lain tile panels/slabs and LHT, it also works well on traditional tile for both floor and wall applications. TEC Ultimate 6 Plus Mortar exceeds ANSI A118.4TE and A118.11. www.tecspecialty.com • Durability – Ceramic and porce- lain tile possess a high degree of durability. • Life-cycle performance – The inherent durability and long life of tile installations lower their overall environmental impact. Lifecycle assessments are the basis for EPDs. • Energy Reduction – Tile finishes can contribute to the energy effi- ciency of a building in many ways, including their thermal mass, which allows them to store and release heat, keeping interiors cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Other innovative tech- nologies, including radiant heat- ing systems, ventilated facades, and photovoltaic products, can help improve energy efficiency to lower a building’s energy footprint and reduce operational costs. • Innovation – Manufacturers of tile and installation materials contin- ue to create new products that lower energy usage, reduce mate- rial consumption, improve human health, and lower other environ- mental burdens, which can con- tribute toward innovation cred- its in LEED if approved by their respective project authorities. One of the key factors listed above is Life Cycle Performance. The chart, developed by construc- tion and consulting firm Sharf- Godfrey, details the cost of installa- tion and performance over the life of the flooring product. It’s impor- tant to note that quarry tile, glazed 52 TileLetter | August 2017