BREEZE BLOCK INSTALLATION

  • Handle cases of tile with care and keep all boxes upright.
  • Do not drop or mishandle cases of tile.
  • Prior to installation, store material in a dry area.
  • Throughout the installation process and handling of the tile, be careful not to damage the finished surface, edges and corners of the tiles.
  • If any tiles have cracks or pops, set them aside and do not install or use them for cuts
  • Adhesive
  • Flexible grout
    • Mapei Ultracolor Plus FA or Saltillo grout
  • Grout sponges
  • Grout
  • Shims
  • Construction level

RECOMMENDED MATERIALS

CARE AND HANDLING

  • Inspect your order carefully.
  • You have the responsibility of assessing the suitability of the product before installing it.
  • Clay Imports will not be responsible for material that has been cut or installed.
  • After installation, we cannot accept claims regarding any variations in color and size.
  • If any blocks have imperfections on the sides, they can be installed and will not affect the integrity of the installation.

INSPECTION

  • Tape measure
  • Pencil
  • Safety glasses
  • Gloves
  • Buckets
  • Rags

Quality installation is essential to the stability and beauty of every breeze block project. There are several
factors to consider for your installation. Installation techniques will vary from project to project, depending on
your specific application. For detailed information on reinforcement, stability, examples and maintenance,
please reference our Ultimate Breeze Block Guide.


Breeze Blocks tiles are a fragile product, made of natural clay. Minor variations in size, shade, irregular edges
and the appearance of fine cracks or chips are inherent to this product and can vary from piece to piece. As
well as variances in the body flatness, meaning some may require special attention when installing. This is
common and will be part of your tiles variation. Details that are visible up close, will be appear subtle upon full
installation. If properly installed, Organic terracotta tiles will result in a beautiful, durable, easy to maintain
surface that can be enjoyed for many years.


To ensure that your installation lasts a long time, we highly recommend having a professional handle the
installation. Their expertise and experience will ensure that the breeze blocks are installed correctly and will
maintain its quality over time. More complex installs such as a free-standing breeze block wall may require
more comprehensive project-specific installation methods. For such installs, we recommend to connect with
an architect, structural engineer or qualified mason to ensure the integrity of your installation will be ideal for
use.

BREEZE BLOCK INSTALLATION

PREPARATION

  • Arrange tiles in desired pattern to determine cuts needed and spacing for grout.
  • Prepare your grid. Based on your specific installation, determine how to best design your layout and draw a grid on the installation surface.
  • Confirm adequate tile amount, including extras for unforeseen circumstances.
  • If you require additional pieces, please make sure to have them before starting the installation process. Please note that any additional pieces may differ in color from your original order.
  • Breeze Block, as a product of clay and natural materials, is subjected to minor color and shade variations.
  • As a clay-based product, there may be clay residue on the surface. Clean all blocks with a cloth to remove any clay residue, dust or debris before installation.
  • Please be sure to read products usage instructions on all materials used for your installation.
  • For safety purposes, we recommend that you wear safety gear when installing tile. Gloves, safety glasses and close toed shoes can prevent injury.
  • Ensure that your blocks tiles are completely dry.
  • Do not wet your blocks prior to sealer application.
  • Preparing your design, foundation, structural supports and materials is the basis for a successful installation. Consider your environment and what type of installation method your project requires.
  • Ensure that the surface is well-prepared. Avoid installing over oily or polished concrete or unsecured surfaces.


SETTING


  • The substrate and setting materials should be chosen based on your specific situation. Consult with your installer, contractor, or architect to determine the right options for you.
  • Be cautious not to apply materials in areas that are larger than what can be set within a few minutes.
  • Protect your installation area. Cover all areas that are susceptible to damage with a durable, protective construction covering.
  • It is recommended to include additional masonry joint reinforcement such as ladder wire or wall ties. These reinforcement options also provide an additional connection to your structural support. *Vertical 3/8" rebar can be inserted into the footing between the vertical joints of the breeze block for maximum structural support. Otherwise, it can also be placed horizontally, depending on the block design. *Keep in mind, additional structural support may be required.


GROUT


  • It is always recommended to apply a grout test on a loose piece of tile prior to full grout application.
  • Dark colored grouts that contain pigments can penetrate the surface of tile and result in permanent staining. We advise against using dark colored grouts.
  • To prevent grout from sticking during installations or for dark grout, use a grout release. Test it in a hidden area before applying to ensure desired results.
  • We recommend referring grout manufacturer guidelines.
  • If the grout line is too tight the blocks could chip at stress points while the grout dries.
  • Using wider grout joints can help with tile placement and maintaining straight lines.
  • Grout will adhere as a permanent fixture to the surface texture. Consider the above when selecting your grout color.


Grout Bag Method

    • First, mix your grout according to the manufacturer's instructions and fill the grout bag with the mixed grout.
    • Hold the bag at a 45-degree angle and apply pressure to force the grout out of the bag and into the joints between the tiles.
    • Be sure to fill the joints completely, and use a grout float to smooth out the surface of the grout.
    • Wipe away any excess grout with a damp sponge.
    • Buff the tiles with a clean cloth to remove any remaining haze.
    • Allow the grout to set for the recommended amount of time.