7.1 Preparation of Wall for Dry Process
7.1.1 Verify the structural integrity of the building surface that is to accept the cladding support structure. Ensure that this surface structure is sound and suitable to receive the fixings of the Granite cladding supports.
7.1.2 Check for any penetrations or services that need to be bought through
7.1.3 Verify the wall substrate to check whether the surface is straight, square and plumb.
7.2 Granite Dry Wall Support System
7.2.1 Check and measure the layout of the Granite to ensure that the bond pattern of the granite can be aligned.
7.2.2 Commence the support system by establishing corner, top and bottom profiles to suit the thickness of the fixing frame and suspension clips as required (support members)
7.2.3 Install the support frame to the substrate ensuring that the support profiles and clips are spaced and located to accept the concealed edge fixing locations of the Granite tiles. Each support member must be aligned to ensure straight square and plumb installation of the granite tiles. This is done by packing the back of the support members out from the substrate.
7.2.4 The bracket that fixes to the tile should be adjusted as required, so that the pin or tongue of the bracket sits properly in the tile location penetration.
7.3 Installing the Granite Tiles
7.3.1 Commence installing tiles from the bottom of the wall. Ensure that the bond matches previous bond course levels. Make sure that the tiles are fixed true and straight before doing the next granite tile by using straight edges or string lines.
7.3.2 Ensure that all cut tiles at the end of each layer of tiles are cut close to the wall junction so that the cut end of the tile is not visible.
7.3.3 When fixing of each granite tile, ensure that the tile is not being forced under stress to fit the support structure as this will cause surface granite surface to warp and not remain flat and straight.
7.3.4 When installing the granite tiles, constantly check the space between the tiles by the use of spacers. Maintain a joint width.
7.3.5 Measure and cut any penetrations required for services and other obstructions using an electric power saw fitted with a diamond tipped blade.
Figure 2 Typical Bracket system
7.3.6 Ensure that tile sits properly on the support bracket and make sure that the pin or fixing leg is seated properly to secure the tile firmly to the support framing.
7.4 Grouting and Sealing
7.4.1 Once the granite tiles are laid clean the surface and remove grit from the joints
7.4.2 Fill the joints with grout and allow 48 hours to dry. Care must be taken to ensure that all voids are filled. It is important that the colour remains constant throughout the process by batching the grout correctly.
7.4.3 Once the grout has dried sufficiently clean the residue grout from the granite surface.