(TTIAA). “This is a small associa- tion set up to benefit the industry here, in an environment where tile is not particularly well sup- ported as far as up-to-date train- ing or establishment of relevant guidelines,” he explained. “I am actively supporting the update of our Australian Standard for tiling, as it is very outdated. Indeed, our standard was written when the iPhone wasn’t even in existence.” In a quest for better training, standards and guidelines for his company and his country, Modern Aspect Tiling & Stone became a member of the NTCA. “It is evident to me that the USA is probably the most active region for ongoing support of the tile industry across all areas,” Christopher said. “The develop- ment in the area of setting tile is second to none. The Gauged Porcelain Tile Standards are an example of this. The guidelines in the USA are established with relevant input from all concerned to produce practical standards. I believe this approach would be of benefit to us here in Australia.” Currently Christopher is under- taking some consultancy work for tribunals. “There is a certain failure rate of tile installations in Australia as in the USA,” he said. “I hope to help educate our industry through the knowledge I have gained by continuing to be a member of the NTCA.” Designed to deliver attractive, high-quality tile surfaces while preventing call-backs, Custom® Building Products’ Prism® Ultimate Performance Cement Grout is the proven, go-to option for a wide variety of installation proj- ects. A high-per- formance cement grout meeting ANSI A118.7, it’s formulated for higher strength, more resistance to cracking and less water absorp- tion to reduce the likelihood of staining. Prism Ultimate Performance Cement Grout can be used in joints from 1/16” to 1/2”. It will not mottle or shade regardless of tile type, temperature or humidity, and does not contribute to efflorescence. The density provides stain resis- tance while its rapid-setting formula expedites projects. Prism Ultimate Performance Cement Grout is light- weight, giving installers unmatched handling and workability while contributing to LEED certification. Available in 17-pound boxes, Prism Ultimate Performance Cement Grout covers the same area as a 25-pound bag of standard grout. www.custombuildingproducts.com. NTCA MEMBER SPOTLIGHT –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 60 TileLetter | June 2019