Tile setter guidelines promote high standards for consumer satisfaction.
Tile Contractors Association of America provides details of technical resources for tile-setting contractors. Their organization supports masonry skills, business knowledge and education for tile setters. The association hosts a convention, scholarships and awards in the tile-setter industry. The association provides education for architects, designers, general contractors and the public. Their programs on tile craftsmanship guide tile setters through their Trowel of Excellence certification. These organizations provide a network for sharing new product innovations and technological advancements.
Materials Testing
Technical services are provided through the Tile Council of North America. Mortar, grout and epoxy must be tested prior to materials installation to ensure appropriate use. Environmentally green products are also tested by the association, for any organic emission that may be volatile, lead or cadmium extracted from glaze, and fungus or micro-organisms testing. Guidelines for materials testing is required for any construction project involving tile setting. Tile-setters unions promote consultation with a certified professional contractor prior to accepting a bid.
Standards
Tile setters generally work as an apprentice prior to registering as a licensed contractor. The International Masonry Institute regulates tile-setter standards in North America and internationally. Updates to newly approved tile products are announced through this educational organization. One example is the exterior application of porcelain tile has been approved for tiles with absorption of .5 percent or less. Gypsum-based products are not approved for substrates in wet areas. Examples of suitable substrates for ceramic-floor tile are structural concrete slabs, and slab-on-grade construction. Tile-setting substrate surfaces must be clean, dry, stable and well cured.
Sustainable Masonry
The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design checklist has specific guidelines for leadership in energy and environmental designs. Architects, contractors and home owners benefit from using the guidelines of LEED practices for healthy environments and sustainable building resources. The U.S. Green Building Council recognized the International Masonry Institute for the only sustainable masonry certification program. This certification prepares tile setters to comply with LEED building requirements. Specific program topics for sustainable masonry include site and waste management, employee communication and accountability, and maximizing LEED credits. Knowledge of green building practice is a priority for tile-setting contractors in America.
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