Pearl shell tiles are made from mother of pearl material obtained from the inner lining of mollusk shells, such as mussels, abalone and oysters. It is considered a "green" product as they are made from renewable, natural material that is sustainable and biodegradable. It is important to understand that mother of pearl shell tiles are best suited for interior applications.
When considering pearl shell tile, it is important to consider the material's durability and resistance to moisture. South Seas Pearl Shell Tile is best suited for interior applications and should be used in areas where they will not be exposed to excessive moisture, extreme temperatures or constant, direct sunlight as these factors may cause discoloration over time.
These tiles are flexible and very durable, and can be installed similar to the way that glass tiles are installed. Mother of pearl tiles are naturally 2 millimeters thick, but some tiles can be 8 millimeters thick if they have a backing made of other materials. 8mm pearl shell tiles are also more expensive as they have a ceramic backing, however, the actual mother of pearl content is the same as the 2 millimeter tiles.
SUBSTRATES TO BE APPLIED TO
All substrates should be firmly fixed, flat, clean, dry and free of contaminants such as dust, oil, paint, sealers etc. to ensure proper adhesion. Painted surfaces must be scuffed or sanded for the product and adhesive to bond correctly. Wet areas need special attention and require appropriate substrates, e.g. concrete, cement boards (compressed sheet), and/or treated plywood. The use of reinforced waterproof membranes is suggested.
WATERPROOF MEMBRANES
Waterproof membranes prevent leakage of water through to habitable spaces below or behind areas. Particular attention must be paid to: carrying the membrane up the wall, outside shower boxes, installation of bond breakers, and sealing around penetrations. It is strongly recommended that membrane systems be used in all wet areas.
USE ON CURVED SURFACES
Pearl tiles can be installed around gently curved surfaces, however some alterations of the tile itself may be required to create uniformity. CUTTING OF SHELL TILE
Cuts may not be necessary during installation, due to the freeform pattern and nature of the product. When approaching the edge of a surface, if a straight line is desired, the shell tile can easily be cut with a curved splitting clamp or a glass cutter. The mesh back or plastic fronts can be easily cut with a utility knife.
TYPES OF ADHESIVES
Pearlshell tile is translucent in nature so be sure to use a white adhesive. Suggested adhesives include but are not limited to:
Laticrete: 254 Platinum Multipurpose Thin-Set Mortar. No admixture is necessary.
Custom Building Products: MegaFlex Ultimate Thin-Set Mortar (white). No admixture is necessary.
Mapei: Adesilex P10 (bright white) non-sag mortar for glass tile. Mix with water or Keraply.
Mapei: Kerabond Premium Dry-Set Mortar (Ker 102) mixed with Keralistic Mortar Admix (Ker 310).
Hydroment: ReFlex Ultra-Premium Latex-Modified Thin-Set Mortar. No admixture is necessary.
Clean excess adhesive before it completely dries on the tiles with a damp cloth, sponge, or brush.
GROUTING
When the tile is firmly set, we recommend using a non-sanded grout. Depending on the application, an epoxy grout may be desired. Excess grout needs to be cleaned before it hardens.
SEALANTS
Pearl shell tiles typically do not have to be sealed but we strongly recommend sealing the grout after installation to help prevent it from absorbing stains. This will help keep your installation looking clean.
CARE & CLEANING
Pearl shell tiles must be regularly cleaned and maintained to extend the life and beauty of the tile. The tiles can be cleaned with a neutral mild detergent. Keep surfaces clean from abrasive dirt and do not use abrasive cleaners, scouring pads, steel wool or abrasive powders. Never let soap, bleach or other cleaning solutions set on the surface. Shell tile consists primarily of Calcium Carbonate. They will react with acid including vinegar, acidic foods and carbonated beverages.