existing language, (Astrachan) noted the further explanation this year of substrate flatness require- ments, which (he) calls “essential but too-often ignored.” • 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 thin- ner studs are used. Stephanie Samulski, Handbook Committee Secretary and Technical Content Manager, noted that “the specific design criteria that are ultimately needed will likely get hashed out in ANS.” • Other noteworthy changes that 2017 Handbook users will see include significantly more infor- mation 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 exte- rior deck or balcony over unoc- cupied space (tile and stone versions). What makes the Handbook unique? The Handbook comes to life each year thanks to the Handbook Committee that includes represen- tatives from the entire tile industry and all those touched by the tile industry – backer board, mortar, grout, membrane, tile and more manufacturers, industry asso- ciations, standards groups, con- struction specification groups and regional groups. It’s a balanced assembly of stakeholder voters that comes together to prioritize and address topics of concern. The TCNA Handbook Committee determines Handbook content through significant group discussion and consensus efforts, and through meetings in person biennially and more frequently in workgroups. As Astrachan explained, “The Handbook is a vehicle for provid- ing industry consensus, but it's not a standard and therefore not set up like one, enabling the commit- tee to provide information in non- mandatory language when needed. It's a particularly useful means of addressing conflicting recommen- dations 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.” Proposals for changes, often referred to as “submissions,” are welcome from any individual or organization. Would you like to become involved in the TCNA Handbook? All Handbook meetings are open to non-members, who are encour- aged to participate in the discus- sions. If you would like to become involved, you can find meeting dates and locations posted on TCNAtile.com. TECH TALK –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 66 TileLetter | January 2018