
Exploding Tiles in Singapore Highlight Importance of Grout & Movement Joints
On January 19, 2018 by ARTOWe have written before about the need to always include grout and movement joints when installing tiles. These stories from Singapore highlight what can go wrong if you don’t. Singapore: Residents terror-stricken after floor tiles ‘explode’ at HDB flats Reports of tiles popping and cracking in flats across Singapore Weather may be one of several factors behind ‘popping’

The Importance of Proper Materials
On September 6, 2017 by ARTOAlthough tile is the most visible (and typically most expensive) component, it is just one part of the ultimate tile assembly. We have been making our concrete and ceramic tiles for over 50 years so we know they work pretty well. However, using the wrong mortar, grout, membrane, or other materials can result in cracking,

Grouting Where Tiles Meet Different Materials
On August 25, 2017 by ARTOMost people (hopefully) in the tile industry are familiar with the requirement to include movement joints as detailed in the TCNA Handbook (section EJ 171). However, the same section also notes that perimeter joints should be included any where tilework abuts restraining surfaces such as walls, dissimilar floors, curbs, columns, ceilings, or where backing surfaces