ANSWER A properly specified and con- structed ceramic and porcelain tile installation is extremely durable, even after it has been flooded. Generally speaking, flooding would not necessarily be a likely cause of the damage to the tile as described in your client’s home. After it dries out, it should be good to go. Do you know any specifics of the tile installation? Is the substrate concrete or wood? Was there an underlayment in place? Was the bond coat coverage adequate to support the installation? Proper installation includes: • Proper mortar selection for the type and size of tile • Proper mixing of the mortar per manufacturer’s instructions • Proper notch trowel selection (size and shape) • Proper troweling techniques used to apply the mortar / bond coat • Correct bond coat thickness • Recommended bond coat cover- age and support of 80% in a dry area and 95% in a wet area • Subfloor/Substrate condition and flatness • Proper underlayment installation and condition I hope this helps! – Mark Heinlein, NTCA Training Director ASK THE EXPERTS –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– KeedeRoll™ Entangled Net Uncoupling Mats Flooring Experts since 1951 floorprep.com 26 TileLetter | April 2018