Tile Today Magazine Australian Edition, Feb 2016

TILE TODAY
88
FULLY ENDORSED BY THE AUSTRALIAN TILE COUNCIL
CERAMIC TILE
IMPORTS:
NEW RECORD
LEVELS IN 2015
TILE TRENDS
2016: MORE OF
THE SAME WITH A
SUBTLE TWIST.
HOW MANY
TILERS WILL WE
NEED IN 2025?
ADHESIVE SELECTION GUIDE 2016
Do YOU Fit The

Membership?
ive g
s
u
l
Exc Pricin
.
1
0 rial &
e
Mat
m
u
m
i
x
e
a
c
M
n
03. ependa
Ind
um
m
i
x aid
a
M
02. bates P
Re
e
v
i
s
k
s
r
a
o
M etw
.
4
0 ort N
p
p
u
S
Maximum support, rebates and benefits for independants

Were not a franchise - Were a Professional Buying Group.
Were Tile Power Limited

*For membership enquiries contact Adam on : 0430 930 921
Scan QR code for
more information
Tile Power Limited - 18 Kelso Crescent, Moorebank - NSW 2170

T : 02 9734 9200 - F : 02 9734 9211 - www.tilepower.com
Tile Power Limited is a ceramic retailers buying group.
FULLY INSTALLED WARRANTY
trade with
CONFIDENCE
growth with
PEACE OF MIND
Dynasty Warranty is an industry

first from Tile Power Limited.
No other supplier offers a full warranty against
manufacturing defects on installed tiles.
* For more information contact Tile Power Limited.
Only available to members of Tile Power

Scan QR code to
find your local store
Tile Power Limited - 18 Kelso Crescent Moorebank NSW 2170

T : 02 9734 9200 - F : 02 9734 9211 - E : info@tilepower.com
www.tilepower.com
WE KNOW OUR TRADE
88
contents
TILETODAY

ARCHITECTURE & SPECIFICATION

44 Architile Interview: Roberto Dreolini, Disegno
Australia
54 What is BIM?
58 How many tilers will we need in 2015?

MARKETSAND TRENDS
08 Ceramic tile imports: new record levels in 2015
15 Tile Trends 2016: More of the same with a subtle
twist
30 Personalising ceramic tile design
INTERVIEWS
64 Tim Parsons, CTA/Miracle Sealants
72 Ange Kokkaliaris, Aqua-Seal Stone + Tile Solutions
76 Raewyn Hughes, Ardex Australia
INSTALLATION & TECHNICAL FORUM
52 A comprehensive tiling guide: a commission by the
Australian Tile Council
70 Some considerations when using cement sheet
78 Adhesive Selection Guide 2016
90
Advertisers Index
READ ON THE GO: Scan code

to view the latest FREE digital
versions of the magazine on
our website. Simply click on
the front cover once you have
scanned the code.
4 | TILE TODAY #88 | www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au
NO TOOLS NEEDED
EASY REMOVAL
The New Tuscan SeamClip
The Tuscan SeamClip is the worlds first one-piece tool less
joint levelling system that will greatly assist in the installation of
porcelain, stone, ceramic, marble, granite and large format tiles on
floor or wall from 3mm - 13mm in thickness.
NEW!
FOR FLOORS & WALLS
Lippage Free
P
P
The interlocking design of the Tuscan SeamClip essentially P
eliminates lippage whilst simultaneously minimising the possibility P
of warping resulting in a smooth flat surface.
P
1-Piece System that virtually eliminates lippage during tile installation

No tools needed
Easy to use
Made in the USA* from recyclable material
Designed for calibrated Tiles 300mm and above
AVAILABLE IN 3 SIZES
White 3mm - 6.5mm thickness
Blue 6.5mm - 9.5mm thickness
Red 9.5mm - 13mm thickness
LIPPAGE FREE
HASSLE FREE
The Tuscan Leveling System is the way to professionally lay large tiles, fast.
Position strap and cap
Lay the tile
Attach setting tool
P The system is easy to learn and use at any skill level

P Makes installation twice as fast and more profitable
P Reduces installer fatigue and stress
Tuscan Leveling System

Setting Tool - Ergonomic 1 unit
Tension until level
Wait for glue to dry
Remove strap and cap
P Prevents tiles from moving whilst drying

P Drastically reduces the need for grinding
P For use with tiles 300mm or larger

Cap Box of 250 pcs

Strap Box of 200 or 1000 pcs
Phone 03 8552 6000 to find your nearest stockist.

For more information or a demonstration visit www.tuscanleveling.com
*Patent Pending
FOREWOR D
Under new management
MEET THE TEAM
When the industry learned in mid 2015 that Tile Today was closing its doors there
was an immediate uproar. Fortunately for everyone, the Melbourne based Elite
Publishing Co came to the rescue and this, issue 88 of Tile Today, is the first under
its new management.
Elite Publishing is a well established (32 years old) and much respected business
magazine publishing company with a number of magazines in its stable. These
include Flooring magazine and Supplier Woodworking Magazine as well as several
digital magazines for the furniture, bedding and woodworking industries.
Vicky Cammiade
Publisher
Tile Today was originally the brainchild of its previous publisher, Anthony Stock,
who arrived in Australia in the late 80s having had a strong career in the tiling
industry. His experience included working as a contracts manager for Val-Fix Ltd,
one of Londons largest tiling contractors and, at a later date, operating his own
supply and fix tiling business in NW London.
While Anthony has decided to wind back his commitment to publishing, his strong
interest and passion for the industry means he will continue his involvement with
it and, fortunately for us, that includes continuing to write for the magazine as
contributing editor.(email: anthony.stock@elitepublishing.com.au)
For Elite Publishing, this is a new and exciting venture and we are all looking
forward to a long and successful association.
Jennifer Curtis
Group Managing Editor
Jennifer Curtis,
Group Managing Editor
Elite Publishing Co Pty Ltd
Anthony Stock
Contributing Editor
Ashley Cooper
Group National Sales &
Marketing Manager
The ALLMARBLE series by

Marazzi.
ACE CERAMICS
www.aceceramics.com.au
SUBSCRIBE
FRONT COVER IMAGE
To subscribe to Tile Today magazine

email info@elitepublishing.com.au.
Online versions of Tile Today and
Discovering Stone magazines are
available to view on the Tile Today
page of the Elite Publishing website.
Go to www.elitepublishing.com.au
and click on the Tile Today tab.
Overseas
A$85 per year
Digital Magazine FREE Online at

www.elitepublishing.com.au
M AR K ETS
Ceramic tile imports:

new record levels in 2015
By Peter Halliday
Highlights
Total imports increased by 9% to 43.281 million square
metres
Only four countries now supply 90% of imports
China increases market share to over 66%
Italian and Spanish imports increase by 13%
New South Wales makes up over 37% of the Australian
market
encouraged an upturn in European
imports over the last two years.
Glazed tiles (HS Code 6908)
represented 84% of all import
volume, and 79% of the value of
imports. Unglazed tiles (HS Code
6907) represented 16% of the total,
a decline from 17% in the previous
year. Glazed ceramic tile imports
totalled 36,190,491 square metres
with a declared customs value of
AUD$367,362,457. This was an
increase of 3.29 million square
metres over the 32,899,957 square
metres with a declared customs value
of A$291,657,126 imported during
2014.
Fig. 1 Australian Dollar Exchange Rate 2013 -2015

1.1000
1.0000
0.9000
0.8000
0.7000
0.6000
-2
ar
Ja
n-
20
1
3
01
ay 3
-2
0
Ju 13
l-2
Se 013
p-
2
No 013
v-
20
Ja 13
n-
2
M 014
ar

-2
M 014
ay
-2
0
Ju 14
l-2
0
Se 14
p-
20
No 14
v-
20
Ja 14
n-
2
M 015
ar
-2
M 015
ay
-2
0
Ju 15
l-2
Se 015
p-
2
No 015
v-
20
15

0.5000
welve months ago, data

from the Australian Bureau
of Statistics (ABS) showed
that ceramic tile imports
had reached record levels during 2014.
New records in import levels have
now been set in 2015 on the back of
the building boom, which continued
throughout the year. Imports rose
by an impressive 9% during 2015
which followed on from a similarly
impressive 15% increase in 2014.
Ceramic tile imports rose from
39,635,250 square metres in 2014 to
43,281,009 square metres in 2015.
The declared customs value of tile
imports increased by 24%, which
followed a 26% increase in 2014. The
total value of ceramic tile imports in
2015 was AUD$464,476,306.
The larger percentage increases in
value compared with import volume
reflects the significant deterioration
in the value of the Australian dollar
over recent years against foreign
currencies in which ceramic tiles
are typically purchased, notably the
US dollar and the Euro. There is also
evidence of an increase in imports
of higher value, larger format tiles,
sintered slabs and panels.
Figure 1. graphically illustrates the
slide in the value of the Australian
dollar, comparing the value of one
Australian dollar against the US dollar
and Euro over the last three years.
Note the sharper decline in the US
dollar exchange rate, which in turn has
Unglazed ceramic tile imports

in 2015 totalled 7,090,518 square
metres with a declared value of
AUD$97,113,848. This was up
by 355,225 square metres on the
6,735,293 square metres with
a declared customs value of
AUD$84,122,813 imported during
2014. Figure 2. and Figure 3 show a
breakdown by the destination state
of the two HS categories in square
metres and percentage of total
imports.
The full table of total ceramic tile
imports including country of origin
and destination state can be seen
in Figure 4. Four counties supplied
almost 90% of all tile imports to
Australia. China supplied the vast
majority with 66.2% of the total
market share while the next largest
source, Malaysia, supplied 10.2
percent. Italy supplied 9% and Spain
3.7%. All four countries increased
exports above the total Australian
market growth. The growth of
this top four was at the expense of
countries whose imports declined
USD
Source: Reserve Bank of Australia
EUR
M AR K ETS
Fig.2 Ceramic Tile Imports 2015 (Square Metres) by HS Category

HS Category
New South
Wales
Northern
Territory
Queensland
South
Australia
Tasmania
Victoria
Western
Australia
Total M2
Customs
Value AUD
AV $/m2
HS6907
Unglazed
2,549,589
91,739
1,733,410
441,135
768
1,725,860
548,017
7,090,518
97,113,849
$13.70
HS6908
Glazed
13,531,064
547,333
7,131,747
1,819,411
206,899
8,412,512
4,541,524
36,190,491
367,362,457
$10.15
Grand Total
16,080,653
639,072
8,865,158
2,260,547
207,667
10,138,373
5,089,541
43,281,009
64,476,306
$10.73
Queensland
South
Australia
Tasmania
Victoria
Western
Australia
Total M2
Customs
Value AUD
Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics
Fig.3 Percentage of State Total

HS Category
New South
Wales
Northern
Territory
HS6907
Unglazed
16%
14%
20%
20%
0%
17%
11%
16%
21%
HS6908
Glazed
84%
86%
80%
80%
100%
83%
89%
84%
79%
Western
Australia
Total M2
% Total m2
Fig. 4 Total Ceramic Tile Imports 2015

Square Metres by State
Country of Origin
State of Destination
New South
Wales
Northern
Territory
Queensland
South
Australia
Tasmania
Victoria
950
1,840
5,627
0.0%
133,061
206,997
20,937
857,433
817,390
3,908,293
9.0%
93,321,531
70,557
1,307
Israel
2,837
Italy
1,554,181
38,873
412,482
Japan
8,102
903
2,329
Jordan
Korea, Republic of
45,646
100
Lithuania
Malaysia
1,383
1,074,880
54,193
1,198,774
Mexico
3,122
5,098
Morocco
1,841
220
Netherlands
1,864
New Zealand
1,840
Pakistan
215
366,791
Saudi Arabia
891
2,750
7,215
Seychelles
240
483
South Africa
3,352
Spain
705,352
Sri Lanka
81,565
Switzerland
291
Taiwan
3,226
Thailand
414,154
Tunisia
2,900
Turkey
52,752
United Arab Emirates
388,528
United Kingdom
26,704
United States of America
17,991
Viet Nam
135,690
950
188,302
36,467
6,516
1,048
1,742
236,454
122,603
6,182
27,743
60,554
8,114
35
4,896
19,255
60,848
37,340
288
2,426
960
11,894
0.0%
142,554
998
156
3,215
0.0%
248,980
13,998
0.0%
477,198
237
2,138
17,811
635
13,379
0.0%
145,204
215
0.0%
3,443
285
0.0%
6,613
131,271
0.3%
2,085,481
2,072
2,963
0.0%
31,401
1,037
1,037
0.0%
15,675
628
868
0.0%
17,899
1,841
5,231
0.0%
74,729
21,212
24,564
0.1%
270,700
65,101
12,400
433,203
219,233
1,601,318
3.7%
29,115,086
16,819
383,406
607,638
1.4%
5,719,661
740
1,031
0.0%
101,256
90
102
1,266
5,731
0.0%
173,094
1,054
201,055
177,973
10,350
10,983
454,875
0.0%
33,992,900
2,906
119,333
0.1%
1,383
10.2%
Serbia
Singapore
45,746
4,396,251
425
9,683
1,608,653
5,127
312,422
285
31,983
0.2%
0.0%
1,387,109
Poland
Portugal
83,198
2
2,082
12,134
10,242
36,926
1,875
1,200
20,996
57,021
1,060,175
2.4%
8,070,007
2,900
0.0%
58,376
279,652
0.6%
3,516,094
93,284
22,731
581,267
1.3%
4,988,609
52,438
267
90,428
0.2%
1,317,819
25,817
0.1%
340,420
33,213
290,335
0.7%
2,627,129
64,476,306
$10.73
1,729
20,334
Grand Total
16,080,653
639,072
8,865,158
,260,547
207,667
10,138,373
5,089,541
43,281,009
State Share
37%
1%
20%
5%
0%
23%
12%
100%
Customs
Value AUD
Professional Grade
High Performance
Stone & Tile Problems?

We have the solutions!
Blast HD
Industrial Strength Problem Solver
3 High Viscosity Heavy Duty Cleaner & Problem Solver

3 Helps Remove Red Soil, Smoke, Soot & Hydrocarbons
3 Effective on Rust, Bore Water Stains & Mineral Deposits
3 Helps Renew Heavily Polluted Facades & Retaining Walls
Available in: 1 litre, 4 litre
Eff-Ective
Efflorescence Cleaner & Inhibitor
3 Helps Remove Salts from Stone, Grout & Masonry

3 Treats & Inhibits Recurrence of Future Efflorescence
3 Safe, Non Acidic, New Generation AQS Technology
3 Use in Indoor, Outdoor, Domestic & Commercial Areas
Grip-It TS
Anti Slip Treatment - DIY Formulation
3 Makes Slippery Surfaces Safer & Slip Resistant

3 Creates Slip Resistant Microtexture to Treated Surface
3 Safer DIY Formulation - Non Coating, Non Yellowing
3 Ideal for Domestic Indoor and Outdoor Areas
Haze Away
Prevent & Remove Grout Haze
3 Makes Grout Clean Up Process Easy & Simple

3 Ideal for Cementitious, Latex Modified & Epoxy Grout
3 Prevent Grout Haze & Latex Film Forming on Stone & Tile
3 Helps Remove Existing Light Grout Haze & Latex Film
Sealers Cleaners Problem Solvers Grout Colourants Stone Restoration

Unit 9, 21-25 Monro Avenue (PO Box 3001)
Kirrawee NSW 2232 Australia
T +61 2 9521 4000 F +61 2 9521 5222
E info@aqua-seal.com.au www.aqua-seal.com.au
Australian Owned
A u s t r A l i A N e w Z e A l A Nd u Ni t e d K i N g d o m
M AR K ETS
Fig.5 Top 10 Source Countries 2001 - 2015
Ceramic Tile Imports 2001 -2015

50,000,000
45,000,000
40,000,000
Square Metres
35,000,000
30,000,000
25,000,000
20,000,000
15,000,000
10,000,000
5,000,000
-
China
2001
2002
Malaysia
2003
Italy
2004
Spain
2005
Thailand
2006
Sri Lanka
2007
2008
2009
United Arab Emirates
2010
Indonesia
such as Indonesia (-26%), Thailand

(-27%), Vietnam (-26%).
Imports from Italy increased by
13% in 2015. While Italy supplied 9%
of all Australian imports, it accounted
for 20% of the total import value. The
average price per square metre from
Italy rose only by 3% in 2015, one of
the smallest increases from any source
country; however, at AUD$23.88 per
square metre, the average price is the
highest of any of the top 10 source
countries. Like Italy, imports from
Spain also increased by 13% in 2015.
Spanish imports accounted for 3.7%
of total imports and 6% of the total
value. The average price per square
metre of Spanish imports rose by 22%
to AUD$18.18.
Imports from Thailand dropped
by 27% in 2015 which followed a 9%
drop in the previous year. Imports
from Sri Lanka fell by 28%; however,
imports had increased by 60% in 2014,
which catapulted Sri Lanka to sixth
largest supplying nation to Australia,
overtaking Indonesia. Imports from
Turkey increased by 10% in 2015.
Figure 5. shows historical import
volumes over the last 15 years,
highlighting the top 10 source nations.
Figure 6. shows total ceramic tile
imports by destination state since
2010 while figure 7. shows the state
percentage of national total imports
and Figure 8 shows the percentage
change on the previous year.
When analysing the 2015 import

figures, every state increased imports
over 2014 except Northern Territory.
While the overall national increase
was 9%, New South Wales again

increased imports at a rate higher
than the national average. South
Australia experienced a significant
rise in imports, increasing 13.4% over
2014, while Tasmania, Victoria and
Queensland were within one percent
of the national increase. Western
Australia was well below the national
average at 1.1% increase, reflecting,
in part, the end of the mining boom
and its associated impact on the
local economy. New South Wales
accounted for 37.2% of all imports
(up from 36.4%), Victoria 23.4%
(unchanged), Queensland 20.3%,
Western Australia 11.8%, South
Australia 5.2%, Northern Territory
1.5% and Tasmania 0.5%.
The total Australian market size
for ceramic tiles in 2014 can now
be estimated at around 49 million
square metres once local production
is included. This represents a usage
of 2.1 square metres per head of
population.
Fig. 6 Total Ceramic Tile Imports

Calendar
Year
New South
Wales*
Northern
Territory
Queensland
South
Australia
Tasmania
Victoria
Western
Australia
Total M2
2010
11,919,529
460,314
8,569,680
2,189,254
278,247
8,259,896
4,341,119
36,018,039
2011
11,777,954
365,113
7,645,293
2,288,794
197,135
9,195,169
4,346,110
35,815,567
2012
11,636,414
410,709
6,625,784
1,931,324
157,121
8,085,630
3,743,340
32,590,322
2013
12,161,585
508,742
7,000,476
1,992,126
182,316
8,502,425
4,091,458
34,439,127
2014
14,409,415
663,506
8,056,465
1,993,568
188,544
9,290,549
5,033,204
39,635,250
2015
16,080,653
639,072
8,865,158
2,260,547
207,667
10,138,373
5,089,541
43,281,009
Queensland
South
Australia
Tasmania
Victoria
Western
Australia
Total M2
Fig. 7 State Share of imports

Calendar
Year
New South
Wales*
Northern
Territory
2010
33.1%
1.3%
23.8%
6.1%
0.8%
22.9%
12.1%
100%
2011
32.9%
1.0%
21.3%
6.4%
0.6%
25.7%
12.1%
100%
2012
35.7%
1.3%
20.3%
5.9%
0.5%
24.8%
11.5%
100%
2013
35.3%
1.5%
20.3%
5.8%
0.5%
24.7%
11.9%
100%
2014
36.4%
1.7%
20.3%
5.0%
0.5%
23.4%
12.7%
100%
2015
37.2%
1.5%
20.5%
5.2%
0.5%
23.4%
11.8%
100%
Tasmania
Victoria
Western
Australia
Total M2
Fig. 8 Percentage Change on Previous Year

Calendar
Year
New South
Wales*
Northern
Territory
Queensland
South
Australia
2010
19.5%
20.4%
18.4%
0.0%
8.4%
13.6%
22.9%
17%
2011
-1.2%
-20.7%
-10.8%
4.5%
-29.2%
11.3%
0.1%
-1%
2012
-1.2%
12.5%
-13.3%
-15.6%
-20.3%
-12.1%
-13.9%
-9%
2013
4.5%
23.9%
5.7%
3.1%
16.0%
5.2%
9.3%
6%
2014
18.5%
30.4%
15.1%
0.1%
3.4%
9.3%
23.0%
15%
2015
11.6%
-3.7%
10.0%
13.4%
10.1%
9.1%
1.1%
9%
TI L E TR END S
Basaltine Magnum by Metro Tiles
(QLD) provides a perfect example
of the advances made in large format
tile production, coupled with slim
tile technology. These 1000 x 1000
x 6mm tiles highlight the capacity of
manufacturers to accurately replicate
the appearance of other popular finishes
and surfaces. The product is available in
three colourways: Crema, Gris and Moka.
(Courtesy Metro Tiles, QLD).
More of the same,

with a subtle twist
Tile trends 2016
By AnthonyStock
n Issue 35 of Ceraspana magazine

published by ASCER, the Spanish
Ceramic Tile Manufacturers
Association, a prominent editorial
featured the following sentence:
Constant innovation applied to the
ceramic tile manufacturing process,
especially the arrival of digital
printing, has led to a proliferation
of ceramic coverings that faithfully
reproduce the look of other materials
found in nature.
The truth of this statement is
qualified by the wide availability in
our market of ceramic tiles, which
effectively replicate the appearance of
natural materials like stone and wood
(Photo 1).
Any attempt to predict the
outstanding ceramic tile trends in
the Australian market in 2016 must
include porcelain products, which
look like stone or wood. However,
European and Asian manufacturers
are equally fascinated by the
challenge of faithfully imitating the
appearance of man-made materials
such as concrete.
Visitors to Cersaie 2015 in
Bologna, Italy will have noted the
development of a new trend focused
on the imitation of another manmade product, brick. (Photo 2).

Concrete and brick are not
materials to be found in nature.
They are, however, like stone and
wood, finishes and surfaces we see,
touch and traverse every day in
residential, commercial and public
spaces. As such, they are ubiquitous
products that compete with tile, and
are frequently specified by architects.
This is the prime reason why many

tile manufacturers are committed to
imitating these hard wearing, tried
and tested surface finishes.
The second reason relates to
the simple fact that well chosen,
correctly installed and maintained
ceramic replications of these
products outlast the original
products they seek to imitate. In fact,
many ceramic products can survive
Brick, stone, timber, cement and
concrete surface finishes feature
prominently in every facet of our built
environment, hence the recent emergence of
convincing ceramic replications of brick in
matt and gloss finishes. (Courtesy Colortile,
NSW).
www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au | TILE TODAY #88 | 15
T IL E T REN D S
Timber look ceramic tiles are available

in a wide range of sizes, shapes
and surface finishes. Everstone recently
introduced the attractive Recupera series.
These attractive Hexagonal glazed porcelain
Italian tiles are produced in a 240 x 277mm
format in brown and light colour tones.
(Courtesy Everstone).
The bottom line

The new Infinity collection of
300 x 600mm wall tiles comprises
12 designs in 24 colourways, including
the contemporary Geo design. (Courtesy
Southern Cross Ceramics).
with relative ease throughout the

lifespan of a building. The associated
maintenance costs are, therefore, low
in comparison to alternative surface
finishes, which are not nearly as
suitable for use in fully immersed
conditions such as swimming
pools or a myriad of other exterior
and interior settings.
Several of the Australian buyers
and industry participants at Cersaie
believed that many of the new
products on display were reappraisals

of the aforementioned surface
finishes, which reflected subtle but
nonetheless significant advances in
terms of appearance and style.
Peter Halliday of Decor8 said: The
look and feel of the product improves
every year. However, the challenge
of convincing end users that tile is a
better product than those it seeks to
imitate still remains.
If tile producers and resellers can

convince architects, designers and
homeowners that ceramic replications
of the other surfaces we constantly
encounter are harder wearing, and
easier to clean and maintain, the
market for tile will almost certainly
expand. Consequently, our ongoing
fascination with stone and other
surfaces will continue unabated,
driven constantly by advances in
digital decoration. The cost of digital
technology is falling rapidly, almost
as quickly as the improvements to
the production process are being
envisaged and brought into being.
Some
buyers
shrug
their
shoulders and walk on when they are
confronted by another replication of
Carrara marble, but shrewd industry
professionals are more inclined
to pause, evaluate and calculate
the often subtle and incremental
improvements that are capable of
convincing prospective customers
to choose tile in preference to the
alternative material.
The initial cost can, potentially,
be prohibitive but the learned and
accomplished
salesperson
can
impress upon their client that the
KIKO
Arriving March 2016

Available in White, Beige, Grey and Aqua (Pictured).
40
40
- 201
1974
For further information or to locate your nearest

Tile Retailer please contact us on +61 2 9584 4000
or email sales@aceceramics.com.au
Over forty years of distributing tile collections

beyond our customers expectations.
1974
- 201
T IL E T REN D S
State-of-the-art ink-jet printing

technologies enable the production of
Anthracite, which is part of the new Cementina
collection by RAK. (Courtesy Europe Imports).
long-term cost of maintaining a

timber floor will be much greater
than that of timber-look ceramic
tile, whilst its life expectancy will be
considerably shorter. Maintenance
costs can be significant over 15 to 20
years and the total replacement cost
will be higher and required sooner
rather than later in most instances.
(Photo 3)
Colour and decoration

Many industry participants (the
author included) imagined that the
wide availability of digital decoration
would result in a strong resurgence
of colour. Sandy Hercus of Southern
Cross Ceramics said: We supply
product to leading tile retailers in
every state and territory and, in
our experience, there is a gradual
if not overwhelming move away
from minimalism, which is typified
by broader acceptance of bolder
decorative themes that appear in a
variety of forms including geometric
designs, 3enticing textures, the solid
re-emergence of feature tiles, and
stronger elements of colour.
For example, Southern Cross
Ceramics, our leading manufacturer
of value-added product, recently
released the striking Infinity
collection. (Photo 4).
the development of 400 by 400mm

product in the early 1990s. Today, use
of 600 by 600mm floor tiles and 300
by 600mm wall tiles is considered
commonplace and there are many
larger formats that dwarf these
dimensions.
Jinbao Yang, the Managing
Director of leading NSW-based
wholesaler DW Tiles, recently added
750 by 1500mm and 600 by 1200mm
regular thickness tiles from Italy and
China to his extensive collection. He
confidently expects the large format
trend to continue in 2016 and beyond.
Some specifiers and end users
prefer large surfaces that are largely
uninterrupted by grout lines. Cheriyan
Samuel, Principal of Prestige Tiles,
the Australian distributor of RAK
Ceramics, agreed that large format
products are here to stay. Cheriyan
stated: We recently launched the
Cementina collection that combines
the durability and easy maintenance
attributes of tile with the appearance
of cement-like surfaces. (Photo 5).
At the opposite end of the size
spectrum, mosaic continues to
maintain its popularity based on
its sheer flexibility and its potential
for use in showers, on kitchen
splashbacks, on walls and floors
and the curved, convex and concave
surfaces of swimming pools (Photo
6). Ceramic tile and panel formats
range from tiny mosaic tesserae to
three metre by one metre (and larger)
Size counts
The appearance of large format wall
and floor tiles commenced with
panels of porcelain, such as the 7mmthick Exedra collection, which can

even be used on kitchen benchtops
(Photo 7), and every imaginable size
in between.
Opportunities go begging
Ironically, the emergence and
undiminished popularity of large
format tiles, coupled with a prolonged
fascination with minimalism, very
nearly wiped out the plethora of
relatively small enterprises focused
on the production of value-added
products, which consisted primarily
of screen-printed designs applied
locally to plain tiles. As sizes
increased, so too did the cost of
creating new designs and adjusting
to new technologies. The initial cost
of digital ink-jet printing prohibited
niche value-added specialists from
making the requisite changes.
Thankfully, the cost of digital inkjet printers is declining and this may
produce two welcome developments.
The large manufacturers that
appear preoccupied, at present,
with replications of stone and other
surface finishes may be encouraged
by the affordability of digital printing
to return to truly creative design,
which illustrates the full extent of
ceramic tile decoration and its ability
to capture and convey all aspects
of the world that surrounds us. The
dwindling cost of digital printing
may also facilitate the formation and
A stunning pool mosaic created using
award winning Ezarri glass mosaics.
(Courtesy Europe Imports, NSW).
the natural look

of weathered timber
THE EXPO RANGE

Glazed porcelain tiles
Suitable for internal
walls, floors and
wet areas
Mix and match sizes for a
striking wall or floor finish
2 colourways
2 sizes: 130 x 790mm and
190 x 790mm
EXPO
MULTICOLOUR
BRISTOL
RUST
EXPO MULTICOLOUR
EXPO WHITE
SMART SOLUTIONS FOR EASY LIVING

Identical weathered timber look
Easy to clean
Superior performance
No sealing
No staining
No buckling or creaking
Very low maintenance
Hard wearing
Suitable for under-floor heating
Visit a ColorTile Showroom near you
1300 265 678
www.colortile.com.au
ALEXANDRIA | BROOKVALE | MIRANDA | PADSTOW | WENTWORTHVILLE | COFFS HARBOUR | PORT MACQUARIE
The impressive new All Marble

collection by Marazzi is available
from Ace Ceramics (NSW). (Courtesy Ace
Ceramics (NSW).
participation of bold new companies

driven by the desire to be clever and
adventurous rather than safe and,
perhaps, predictable.
Any digital photograph, even a
scribbled drawing, can be presented
on the surface of a single tile, a panel
of tiles or a mosaic composition of
practically any size.
Will manufacturers, nascent or
established, develop this concept, or
will savvy designers appreciate the
opportunities that exist and push
tile-makers to respond? At this point
in time, serious opportunities are
going begging. These include unique
concepts on building facades, one-off
designs for use in public spaces and
private homes, and the hospitality
sector. The possibilities are endless.
In spite of what appears to be a
paucity of original design, we should
recognise the incredible, which has
been made in regards to production
of tiles which convincingly emulate
the appearance stone, brick, timber
and cement surfaces.
In conclusion
In my opinion, the growth of the
industry in Australia lies in the hands
of those who are responsible for
explaining the technical advances

in production and decoration, and
how these durable and aesthetically
pleasing materials can be used most
effectively in our built environment.
This requires greater awareness of
the advantageous and highly valued
life cycle of ceramic tile, and other
such attributes, which directly relate
to its unrivalled longevity and low
maintenance costs.
An ability to recognise the intrinsic
benefits of ceramic tile, combined
with an understanding of the basic
fixing materials and installation
techniques, is essential as the market
is changing on a daily basis. James
Woodyatt, the joint Managing
Director of CDK Stone, recently
advised me that sales of Neolith, its
revolutionary large slim panels and
tiles, have lately doubled. A number
of companies now specialise in the
marketing of slim products. Ten years
ago people laughed at the notion that
enormous tiles and panels would be
accepted in our market. In 2016, new
products and technologies will be
rolled out. Those who turn a blind eye
will one day wake up to discover that
some of them have become part of
the fabric of our built environment.
T IL E T REN D S
The curved
faade of
Europes second largest
building is clad in over
20,000 square metres of
Ezarri glass mosaic. (Images
courtesy Europe Imports,
NSW)
I+2
Choosing the right grout is important, good

grouting adds the final touch to a carefully
planned and executed tiling project.
Mosaic has many uses

outside of swimming pools
As we have more swimming pools per capita than any other
country in the world, it is no surprise that most of the publicity
for the use of mosaic (specifically, glass mosaic) centres on
our backyards. While we import a substantial volume of glass
mosaic, not all of it ends up in pools.
by Fred Gray, Laticrete Australia
n addition, we actually import

more ceramic mosaic than glass,
as well as increasing volumes of
natural stone mosaic, particularly
marble. A considerable proportion of
these products are destined for use in
a wide variety of environments. This
demonstrates that mosaic is flexible in
more ways than one. It can be used to

add a subtle or bold flourish of colour
to any wall or floor tiling composition,
or it can be used to clad the faade of
a building.
Mosaic predates the Classical
civilisations of ancient Greece
and Rome. It actually dates back
more than 4000 years to the use of

terracotta cones that were pressed
into a background point first to create
primitive decoration. The Greeks
mastered the art of using small stone
pebbles to fashion geometric and
floral designs approximately 2400
years ago. This art form literally
represented painting in stone.
Ultimately, the Romans refined
this practice and introduced schools
for mosaicists in many parts of their
empire. While a number of the best
preserved mosaics are located in
Pompeii (executed in some instances
by Greeks) there are many fine
Stunning use of digital technology

produced this fabulous glass mosaic
mural in Melbourne Central Food Court.
(Image courtesy Academy Tiles, NSW).
Roman mosaics elsewhere in Europe

and Africa.
Natural stone is still used for the
same reasons that the Ancients built
temples, palaces and monuments from
stone. An early Megaron catalogue
stated: Mosaic is neither a minor
form of art, nor a subaltern one, but it
remains a primary noble expression,
designated to less perishable works,
which indicate magnificence and
significance.
Creativity
Today, it is entirely possible to use
digital inkjet technology to add
any digital image to the surface of
a ceramic, glass or stone mosaic.
However, sustained interest in the
art of creating unique handcrafted
mosaics is confirmed by the presence
of mosaic schools in towns and cities
across the globe. Striking mosaics
can be created using ceramic, natural
stone, glass and metal tesserae (cubes)
or a combination of one or more of
these materials.
There are no design limitations. No
other hard surface finish compares
to mosaic in relation to its flexibility,
which means that designs can easily
flow over convex and concave
surfaces, and around curves and
pillars.
The simple removal of a single
tessera from a sheet of mosaic, and
its replacement with one of another
colour, can represent the first step in
creating an inimitable design. These
designs can be used in public spaces,
commercial buildings and hotels and
private residences. Let us look at some
examples of how and where mosaic
has been used to good effect.
Facades
A lightweight sheet of mosaic is easy
to handle and cut. When you couple
these attributes with the massive
potential for creative design, it is
hardly surprising that architects and
designers are often encouraged to
specify mosaic for use on building
facades. Photos 1 and 2 depict use of
more than 20,000 square metres of
Ezarri glass mosaic, which flows over
the curved and undulating surface
of Europes second largest building.
Architects Dominique and Phillipe
Renaud specified a cascading blend
of mosaic to decorate this landmark
structure in Paris.
Public and commercial

Photo 3 highlights sensational use
of Bisazza glass mosaics which were
designed by the Uncarved Block for
use in the Melbourne Food Court.
The designs were created in Bisazzas

studio in Italy. The product was
supplied by Academy Tiles, NSW.
Architectural design firm Ashton,
Raggatt, McDougall handled the $260
million renovation of Melbourne
Central Shopping Centre. The
mural, which is one of the largest
ever installed in Australia, features
numerous
colourful
butterflies,
rabbits, ants and a rather startling owl.
Natural stone mosaic is frequently
used in the entrance to banks,
hotels and commercial premises
in conjunction with marble and
granite. The prime decoration often
appears in the form of an emblem (or
emblemata), which can be hand drawn
by a mosaic artist, and assembled in
accordance with their instructions,
or it can be designed using CAD.
Photo 4 features an emblem in a field
of green marble installed at the Hall
Harbour Building, Hong Kong.
The bathroom
Mosaic can be used to tile all the
surfaces of a bathroom, or a single
feature wall. In many instances it is
employed as a simple, but effective
vertical stripe or horizontal band of
colour, which provides relief to fully
tiled monochrome expanses of plain
tiles. For example, Photo 5 features
25 by 50mm glazed porcelain tesserae
combined with 320 by 550mm satin
white wall tiles.
Natural stone mosaic emblems are used

to create decorative panels in public
buildings and private residences. (Image
courtesy Megaron SpA).
T IL E T REN D S
Mosaic is frequently
used as a decorative
accent. (Image courtesy
Metric Tile).
This amazing
creation emphasises
how mosaic can inspire
designers to literally think
outside the square. (Image
courtesy Bisazza Australia).
Complex, unique
designs can be
created. (Image courtesy
Bisazza Australia).
Mosaic can be used

to decorate walls
in entrances and living
space. (Image courtesy
Di Lorenzo Tiles).
GL A SS MOSA IC T IL E S
austr al i a
setting the
industry
standards
SHOULD
I FULLY
TILE MY
POOL?
Our
JointPoint
stem
backing sy
92%
available a
re
adhesion a
yes!
the answer is
AND CHOOSE EZARRI MOSAICS FOR

THE PERFECT FINISH AND LONGEVITY
Fully tiling your pool with Ezarri Glass Mosaics will not only give you an
aesthically pleasing result, it will also give you the confidence knowing
that you have chosen a quality guaranteed product that will last a lifetime.
For those reasons, Ezarri tiles are the most highly recommended tiles for
pools and spas in the market today, and preferred by master tilers.
Call 1300 EZARRI for samples

EZARRI
RANGE: IRIS
TILE: OCEAN 25mm
12
IN G
C E L E B R AyTe a rs
TileToday
Industry
Achievement
Award 2014
Pty Ltd
ATC Award
of Excellence
Pool Div
2014
Phone: 1300 EZARRI (392-774) Email: sales@europeimports.com.au

www.europeimports.com.au 28 Prince William Drive, Seven Hills NSW 2147
ATC Award
of Excellence
Pool Div
2011
T IL E T REN D S
Mosaic is frequently
used to decorate the
space between kitchen wall
and floor cabinets. (Image
courtesy Everstone).
Many sheeted mosaics feature

products, which are larger than the
conventional 10 to 50mm tesserae,
are typically regarded as mosaic.
Some sheeted mosaic pieces are as
large as 100 x 100mm.
At the other end of the scale, Photo
6 illustrates precisely why mosaic is
a truly remarkable product, which
has endless design potential. This
intriguing concept, which appeared
on The Block, features Bisazza glass
mosaic carefully cut and installed to
create an optical illusion that winds
its way up the back wall of the shower

enclosure and gradually disappears.
Note how the same material is used
to frame the mirror.
Incredibly, Photo 7 goes a step
further in terms of creativity. This
amazing concept which imitates the
curve of a crashing wave was created
by Edward Lowe of Bisazza Australia.
kitchen design. Three to five square

metres of carefully chosen mosaic or
tile can often make or break the whole
design proposal. Photo 8 depicts a
field of Everstone 25 x 25mm mosaic
pieces with 100 x 100mm glass insets.
The vivid colours of the glass contrast
with and complement the solidity of
the granite benchtop.
The kitchen
Living spaces
The small but critical space between

the floor and wall cabinets often
provides the prime focal point in
Bathrooms and kitchens in private

residences and hotels are prime
environments for use of mosaic.
Curved, convex and
concave surfaces can be
effectively tiled with mosaic. In
this instance, natural stone is
used to tile the risers, and
parts of the the adjacent walls
and floor. (Image courtesy San
Marco Ceramics, Vic).
INSTALLATION FEATURES:
AGE GREY
Available in
300 x 600 and 600 x 600
in 10mm and 20mm
Matt R9 and External R11
AGE BY KEOPE
Age evokes the appearance of
natural stone.
BEIGE
STONE
GREY
DARK
INSTALLATION FEATURES:
SOUL WALNUT
Available in
150 x 900 Matt R9
250 x 1500 Matt R9
150 x 900 External R12
SOUL BY KEOPE
Soul is a versatile material at
the service of design to lend a
refined style to residential and
commercial spaces.
GREY
PEARL
BEIGE
For further details on our range of products and information about

technical specifications please email us at tradeport@trade-port.com.au
WALNUT
BLEND
T IL E T REN D S
These curved substrates

highlight the flexibility of
mosaic, which even lines the ceiling.
(Image courtesy Tile Power).
However, the product can be used

to good effect in other locations,
including feature walls in entrances
and living rooms where use of an
appropriate design can provide a
breathtaking aesthetic (Photo 9).
Wherever curved surfaces present
a challenge, mosaic can provide a
solution by flowing seamlessly over
difficult surfaces (Photos 10 and 11).
Outdoors
We began our review by focusing
on mosaic used to clad the faade of
Europes second largest building. We
have deliberately avoided swimming
pools to emphasise that ceramic,
glass and natural stone mosaics can
be applied in myriad other external
and internal environments. Designs
can be as simple or as complex as you
like. Photo 12 illustrates use of black
and white glazed ceramic mosaic on
the exterior and top of a barbecue.
We finish by highlighting how
a large customised mosaic mural
was produced from a 10 centimetre
square computergenerated design,
which was digitally modified to
create an arresting feature in a private
residence in Dalkeith, Western
Australia (Photo 13).
While
many
ceramic
tile
manufacturers steadily increase
their focus on large format products,
interest in miniscule mosaics remains
strong, simply because the product is
an elemental building block, which
has infinite design possibilities that
can be adapted to almost any vertical
or horizontal surface.
TThis extensive mural was
created from a 10 x 10cm
digital image. (Image courtesy
Bisazza Australia).
Mosaic can be used outdoors on

a variety of surfaces including
tables and barbecues. (Image
courtesy Prestige Tiles).
NEWS
ADVICE
PRODUCTS
With over 45,000 unique visitors per month and more than 3000 members,
Infotile.com is the place to go for all the latest news, product profiles, installation
guides and advice dedicated to the ceramic tile and natural stone industries.
For more information or to discuss

advertising opportunities, contact:
Ashley Cooper
ashley.cooper@elitepublishing.com.au
Ph: 03 9890 0815
Fax: 03 9890 0087
Access our
publications archive
and read feature
articles in Tile Today,
Discovering Stone
and Tile+Stone
Showcase magazines.
T IL E T REN D S
Geometric designs like Caesar One
cement-loft encourage users to create
their own piece of abstract art.
Personalising ceramic tile designs

The inspiration for this article came from a paper presented
at Qualicer, the World Congress on Ceramic Tile Quality, by
Cristina Reig and Pascual Nebot and entitled Basic Design: A
creative tool for personalising ceramics. We review established
and contemporary methods employed to create personal and,
occasionally, unique designs.
Aparaci Moving Black 20x20 | Glam Decor 20x20 |Vanguard Mix | Mix Cf_Mix Taco 1-2 |
Lumber Dark Natural 15,7X59,2. (Courtesy Beaumont Tiles).
he
abstract
of
the
aforementioned paper states:
Unlike
the
twentiethcentury consumer, the new
users of the twenty first century require
suggestions and stimuli to enhance
their personality and nowadays the
home is, above all, a prolongation
of that personality: a place where
individuals can express themselves.
And design has a key role to play in
this.
Traditional methods employed to
create novel or unique tile designs,
usually rely on the integration of
combinations of different sizes, colours,
and textures. Prolonged interest in
minimalism tended to stifle creativity.
In spite of a resurgence of interest in
colour and design, illustrated by the
recent emergence of cement look
product (Photo 1), minimalism will
never fade away, simply because many
homeowners tend to play it safe.
However, anyone who watches
television will be aware that colour is
back in vogue in fashion, furniture
and surface finishes. Adventurous
designers and homeowners have a
plethora of products to choose from, in
terms of shapes, colours and textures.
With a little imagination, a unique
design can easily be achieved (Photo
2 and 3).
ULTIMATE CRACK & MOISTURE PROTECTION

GreenSkin Flooring is an Innovative, Self-Adhering Underlayment Membrane,
For a Primerless Installation!
GREENSKIN
FEATURES & BENEFITS
EASY APPLICATION
EFFECTIVE CRACK SUPPRESSION/ISOLATION
^ Save Time and Money with our 100% Primerless
^ Patented Elastomeric Adhesive-Membrane Design
Chemistry - Simply Sweep, Mop and Lay

GreenSkin directly onto substrate.
^ E-Z Peel Self Adhered/Peel and Stick Technology
for Silky Smooth Tear Resistant Liner Release.
MOISTURE PROTECTION
^ Premium Water Resistant, Recycled
Anti-Fracture Non-Wicking Membrane.
^ Super Hi-Strength Patented Antimicrobial
Non-Absorbent Design.
Provides Up To 12mm Crack Strength.
^ Passes (and exceeds) ANSI 118.12 for 3mm
Crack Suppression/Isolation (High Performance Rating).
^ 5 Layer Membrane Construction w/Hi-Strength Insulating
Water Tight Metallic Polyester Film Core.
GREEN TECHNOLOGY
^ EED Points Contribution: Up to 2 Points as GreenSkin
has Recycled Content of 35-40% Based on Products

Total Combined Weight.
^ Guaranteed Zero Moisture Wicking for the
^ 40% Lighter Weight Than Typical Noxious
^ Maximum Water Resistance/Protection via
^ Super-Aggressive Crystal Clear Hot Melt PSA Adhesive
Ultimate in Water Resistance/Protection.
our Patented HYDRO-SEAL Butt-Seam/Joint

Design.
Asphalt/Membrane Designs.
with ZeroSolvants or VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds

That Can be Harmful to Humans and the Environment).
^ Highly Reflective/Super Energy Efficient Insulated Core.
To become a reseller or find your nearest stockist, please call.

Melbourne 03 8552 6000 Sydney 02 9822 5155 Gold Coast 07 5537 3222 Adelaide 08 8340 2877 Perth 08 6240 2200
T IL E T REN D S
Materia by Casa Mood combines fine

porcelains fine porcelain stoneware and glass
decors to produce an intriguing surface finish.
3
Whether large formats or miniscule
mosaic tesserae are chosen to create
a specific design, or a combination
of both, the concept ultimately
relies on the users perspective of
how those finished products can be
integrated into the chosen space.
Much of the renewed interest in
use of colourful ceramic tile designs
relies heavily on the relatively

recent emergence of inkjet printing
technologies,
which
provides
specifiers and consumers with
the potential to create something
entirely new and different by adding
value to the manufactured product
in the form of fresh decoration.
Inkjet printing on ceramic tile
surfaces is forging ahead in leaps

and bounds, permitting the creation
of amazing replications of timber
and stone or one-off designs, which
are determined by the user who
submits the high resolution image
or drawing that is used to produce
the highly personalised final
graphic.
The Sable Noir 400 x400mm design

from the Deco Anton range by Tagina
presents colour, decoration and contrast in
a series that combines geometric designs
and floral motifs. (Courtesy Di Lorenzo
Tiles).
4
T IL E T REN D S
Aparaci Special Digital Printing

Format 29,75x59,55cm Sieben
Flieger Underground, Munich.
Inkjet printing is a real game

changer. Reig and Nebot wrote:
Digital
inkjet
printing
has
advantages over traditional silkscreen printing methods as it uses
a printing technique based on the
injection of ceramic inks with specific
characteristics that affect their use
and which continue to evolve. Based
on this technique, we can offer users
an application which will enable
them to not only upload the unique
images which will be transferred
to the surface of the product, but
also to create their own designs and
compositions.
This potential is already being
utilised to create inimitable tiling
designs that are used on feature walls
in private residences, hospitality
projects and on building facades
(Photo 4 and 5).
In simple terms the user can
take a good quality digital image or
obtain one from a suitable source,
submit it to the tile manufacturer
and commission them to produce
a bespoke design. The sky is the
veritable limit.
Our own major tile manufacturer
National
Ceramics
Industries
Australia possesses the technology
and the high quality inkjet printers
required to process and produce oneoff designs.
At some point in the future
manufacturers may well use software
to invite clients to upload their own
images with instructions to add
them to a particular plain tile. Inkjet
printing is designed for short or long
production runs and digital material
can easily be saved.
An example of Ceracasa Emotiles

extraordinary digital printing. The Emotile
series received Spains coveted Alfa DOro award.
Any digital image can be re-produced on the
surface of a porcelain tile. Hundreds of images are
stored in the Emotile digital library. Alternatively
bespoke designs can be created using supplied
digital images.
Ceracasa Emotile.
Truly Inspired Spaces..
As Australias leading importer of large format materials,

Metro Tiles empowers their customers to turn dreams into reality.
Minah Gris
To view over 1,000 products online, visit www.metrotiles.com.au
1500mm
3000mm
Masai Blanco
6mm Thick
Find us on
CELEBRATING 57 YEARS
(07) 3216 5800 | www.metrotiles.com.au | info@metrotiles.com.au
metrotiles
metrostyle
INTERVIEW
ADVANCED CERAMICS
RESOURCES
PROJECT
STANDARDS
REVIEW
Xtreme by Cercom Ceramiche is a ceramic

interpretation of concrete. Produced in
four neutral colours and six sizes (two colours
are also available in a 19 mm thick version),
for use in interiors and exteriors. Pictured:
Xtreme Silver and right Xtreme Mud.
High valued products

gain market share
By Anthony Stock
Each September our leading tile importers make their annual
pilgrimage to Italy to view the latest products displayed at
Cersaie the worlds premier ceramic tile expo, which is staged
in Bologna.
any local importers of

tile buy the bulk of their
products from China,
but when it comes to
getting a glimpse of new and cutting
edge offerings, Italy is the first port of
call.
Design is Italys strong point.
Much of the inspiration flows
from the partnership that exists
between leading manufacturers of
machinery and tile makers, who work
hand-in-hand to create and refine
new technologies to improve the
performance and appearance of tile.
Ceramic World Web has confirmed
that the Italian tile industry is
performing strongly, with large
export volumes and a steady increase
in selling prices as evidenced by the

findings published in the inaugural
Financial Statement Analysis of
World Ceramic Tile Manufacturers.
The report concluded that the price
increases could be attributed to a shift
towards high value products.
This fact was highlighted in Peter
Hallidays report on our tile imports
in Issue 86 of Tile Today, which
confirmed that the average price for
a square metre of Italian tile had risen
to $23.22. In spite of the escalating
cost, imports from Italy soared by
22% in 2014. These figures indicate
why there will always be a market
for truly innovative materials. Italy
leads the way in the field of Advanced
Ceramics.
The aforementioned report states

that: Two distinct business models
exist. Some producers focus on
production processes that make
intensive use of low cost labour
(predominantly in Asia and non-EU
Europe) with medium to low end
product ranges sold mainly on the
domestic market and operating in cost
leadership conditions. The second
business model, largely consisting
of Italian and some EU companies,
focuses on differentiation, a limited
workforce, large investments and
high levels of productivity, resulting
in comparable unit labour costs to
that of Asian competitors.
The term Advanced Ceramics
is a tag that is used to define those
products which are produced for a
specific structural project or purpose,
using novel technologies. For most
of us the term can be applied to the
radical shifts that occur in tile design,
decoration and surface finish: in other
words, the appearance of the finished
product and the literal wow factor.
There are anti-microbial tiles, which
literally clean the air and luminous
tiles, which can be used to light the
way for those stranded in dark or
dangerous places. Then there are the
lightweight tiles and panels, which
can be used on virtually any interior
Unika by the ABK Group features traces

of ancient stones and worn concrete
effects. The collection is available in five
colours and a host of formats. Natural and
antique surfaces are reserved for internal use,
the bush hammered finish is designed for
outdoor applications.
The Tempo collection from Eco

Ceramiac reproduces Wood. This
fashionable, contemporary product has
been enhanced with decorative effects and
inlays, including Smoke 200 x 800mm and
Cassettone 400 x 400mm accent.
A DVANCED CE R AMICS
The HEX collection from Etruria

Design. Cement tiles were the source of
inspiration for the retro appeal of this designer
floor surface. The collection comes in a wealth
of shapes and colours, making it ideal for a
design project without limits of space or time.
Pictured: Rombo 120 x 210mm.
or exterior surface. These products

can be used to create louvered, climate
control panels which can control the
temperature of a building.
Lets examine some of the
remarkable new products that have
emanated from Italy in recent times.
The Metro look

Tile manufacturers are intently
focused on faithfully replicating
the appearance of natural stone,
timber and concrete surfaces that
we constantly encounter in our built
environment.
Metropolitan or Metro look

frequently captures traces of all of
those surface finishes on the surface
of one tile. Some pieces look more
like a particular piece of stone whilst
others appear more like timber or
concrete. Careful blending of these
carefully crafted, digitally decorated
products can produce a floor finish
that is subtle but variable.
Photo 1 features Xtreme by
Cercom, a contemporary metro
interpretation of concrete, which
is produced in six sizes and four
neutral colours, two of which are
Visual Design by Ceramiche Supergres is

a white body resin inspired ceramic wall
tile, which is designed to encourage creation of
designs that exhibit a sophisticated aesthetic.
manufactured in a 19mm thickness

for internal or external use.
Unika by ABK (Photo 2) displays
traces of ancient natural stones
mingled with vague highlights of
urban concrete. The collection is
available in no less than nine formats
ranging from 200 x 200mm to 600
x 1200mm, in natural and antique
finishes for internal use and bushhammered for external applications.
The
multiplicity
of
formats
encourages the creation of modular
laying patterns that can feature several
formats.
W A R M
AT M O S P H E R E
NATURAL IDENTITY
M O D E R N I T Y
C O M F O R TA B L E
RELAXED ATTITUDE
DWELL
Hues of tremendous character, brushes
of color and opalescent reflections
bestow character to beautiful wall tiles
inspired by the world of resins.
3D
A vibrant sculptural effect covers the
walls characterized by three dimensional
reliefs with design and functionality
and becomes the protagonists of areas
dedicated to: wellness, welcoming areas,
entertainment, and dining venues.
17 Everley Road, Chester Hill, NSW 2162

phone 02 9743 8122 fax 02 9743 8133 email office@dwtiles.com.au
ETIC Pro
The marked character of original and
prestigious wood essences breathes
new life on the surface of extremely
natural and elegant porcelain tiles,
for modern, cutting edge projects.
DW TILES
Decoration, design & shape

Beyond the Metropolitan look
there are innumerable designs that
faithfully replicate the appearance
of every kind of surface finish or
material including fabrics, carpet and
metal. In addition there are the utterly
compelling imitations of stone, wood
and concrete, which are produced
in a multitude of colours, surface
finishes and formats for internal or
external use.
Tempo by Eco (Photo 3) is a
brilliant replication of timber, which
accurately marries the appearance
of wood with the durability
and low-maintenance of
tile. This enticing design
is created using
Smoke, a 200 x
800mm
inlay,
with Cassetone, a
400 x 400mm accent
tile.
The relatively recent
emergence of cement tile has
inspired the Hex series by Etruria
Design. Photo 4 depicts Rombo, a
120 x 210mm product, which is just
one of numerous colours and shapes
which encourage designers to create
compelling designs.
Photo 5 presents Visual Design
by Ceramiche Supergres, Atlas
Concorde. These stunning white
body resin inspired tiles are produced
in a number of formats and colours,
which can be combined to produce
an inspired aesthetic.
HI-Tech from Cipa Gres, an acidresistant full-body technical porcelain

tile for industrial floor applications. The HiTech series aims to meet all the requirements
of industrial floors in heavy-duty applications.
It is available in a wide range of colours. (left
is HI-Tech Graniti).
Some tiles are

tougher

than others
All of these products can be used

in residential settings and some
of them are appropriate for light
commercial and hospitality projects.
Inevitably, there are whole ranges of
tiles designed for use in the toughest
industrial environments where spills
Stark from Verde 1999 features modern,

classic, rustic, concrete or wood surface
finishes. Available in a range of sizes (including
300 x 600mm and 450 x 900mm) and
six different colours (Bianco, Beige, Grigio,
Antracite, Taupe, Tortora), this series caters for
all tastes. A product 100% made in Italy with
high-definition digital technology. Pictured:
Stark Taupe 150 x 900mm.
of acid or oil might occur and where

specification of a slip resistance
surface is a must.
Architects can turn to products
like Hi Tech by Cipa Gres. This acid
resistant, full body porcelain product
is designed for industrial floor
applications and manufactured in a
number of colours, in natural and
textured finishes. A non-slip surface
finish is available (Photo 6).
In reality there are no commercial
or residential spaces where ceramic
tile of one kind or another cannot be
used. The Stark collection by Verde
1999 S.r.l. is produced in modern,
classic, rustic, concrete and wood
finishes in numerous sizes, and six
colourways (Photo 7).
Many of the illustrated products
benefit from the application of highdefinition digital technology, which
makes it possible to render virtually
any image on the surface of a ceramic
tile. Rapid advances in this field
continue to be made and replications
of other surface finishes are becoming
increasingly authentic. Importantly,
the ceramic imitation will inevitably
outperform the material it resembles.
Close to you worldwide
!
g
n
i
v
i
l
n
a
b
r
u
n
si
The latest trend
Ash
Cool Grey
Copper
Mid Grey
Night
Off White
Sand
600x1200
600x600
300x600
300x300
RetroMulti
8patterns
RetroGrey
8patterns
300x300
TheSurfaceseriesisthelatesttrendinurbancontemporaryliving.
Thisuniquerefinedconcretelookistheidealflooringsolutiondesigned
todepictfinelivingwithsoundtechnologycreatedbyourR&Dpartners
toachieveauniqueGresPorcellanatotilesthateasilyfloorsyoursenses.
29.5x120
4Tilesizes
7Colours
8Decorativedecorsin2colours
Naturalconcretelook
Lappato,matt&rusticfinishes
Rectifiedporcelaintiles
Suitableforinternal&externalfloor&wallapplications
Suitableforcommercialandresidentialtilingapplications
PRESTIGETILES+61287179044
www.prestigetiles.com
300x300
TheSurfacecollectionhasbeentreatedwithaspecialRG0913glaze
soastoenhancethedurabilityofthetileandkeepthesurfaceprotected
againstabrasions.TheSurfaceseriesusesbasicrawmaterialswhichhave
beensourcedinternationallyfromcountriesincludingSpain,ItalyandIndonesia
whichundergostringenttestingproceduresbeforeusagetoensurethedurability
andqualityofthetile.TheentireproductionprocessoftheSurfaceCollectionis
highlycontrolledandateverystageoptimumfiringconditionsaremaintainedto
ensureasuperiorproductsuchastheSurface.
MASSAIMPORTS+61392821600
www.massaimports.com.au
HERITAGETILES+6492707970
www.tile.co.nz
Extraordinary from the Ava Ceramics collection by La Fabbrica S.p.a. is

produced in a 1600 x 3200 x 6mm giant panel of porcelain. It can be used
on walls and floors, internally and externally.
Slimline tonic
When we consider the most
remarkable advances made in the field
of ceramic tile technology, the advent
of slim tiles and panels produced in
thicknesses ranging from 3mm to
7mm for walls and floors, and 11mm
for benchtops, stands out.
A decade or so ago a couple of
Italian manufacturers pioneered
the technology introduced by
machinery manufacturer System
S.p.A which permitted production
of slim 3mm porcelain products.
The main Italian protagonist was
Cotto DEste. Today, they have been
joined by a cast of international
manufacturers, including RAK and
Kalebodur, and a growing number
of Italian producers such as Iris,

Fiandre, Ariostea, Cerdisa and
Marazzi.
Little
by
little
architects
and consumers are gaining an
appreciation of the merits of these
remarkable products. which can be
mechanically fixed to facades, laid
on benchtops, or walls and floors.
These slim, lightweight products are
easy to handle, cut and manoeuvre in
comparison to heavy slabs of stone
or regular thickness porcelain tiles.
Importantly, slim tiles can be
adhered to sound, flat existing wall
and floor tiles, which saves the time
and money and mess associated with
removal and replacement of existing
tiles.
Infinity from Ceramica Fondovalle

overcomes the limitations of natural
stone. Marbletech White captures the soul of
Calacatta marble from Carrara. Its uniqueness
lies in the creation of 11 different designs
in the large 1200 x 2400mm size with a
thickness of just 6.5 mm. Marbletech White
comes in a choice of three finishes: gloss,
matte and natural.
These large format tiles and panels

provide manufacturers with a big
canvas on which to render their
vision, while practising the arts of
digital decoration. Photo 8 illustrates
the results of this experimentation.
Ava by La Fabbrica S.p.A. is a giant
1600 x 3200 x 6mm porcelain panel
that is described as being suitable for
all spaces on walls and floors.
Last, but by no means least, Photo
9 depicts Infinity by Ceramica
Fondovalle. This particular product
consists of 11 different graphic
designs printed on 1200 x 2400 x
6.5mm-thick panels that can be
adhered to flat floors and walls
in three finishes: gloss, matte and
natural.
These striking replications of
marble share very low porosity, which
means that they will not stain or etch
when spills of cooking oil, red wine,
lemon juice or other contaminants
occur.
With high levels of sustained
investment, the Italian tile sector
leads the way in the development of
advanced ceramic products.
Elite Publishing Co Pty Ltd has been servicing specialist industries

throughout Australia with B2B publications for well over 30 years.
Specialist B2B Publisher

Supporting the industry since 1981
To discuss advertising
opportunities, contact:
Ashley Cooper
E: ashley.cooper@
elitepublishing.com.au
Ph: 03 9890 0815
Fax: 03 9890 0087
www.infotile.com
INTERVIEW
ADVANCED CERAMICS
RESOURCES
PROJECT
STANDARDS
REVIEW
I
Roberto Dreolini
Alex Njoo, Architect, in conversation with
Senior Associate, Disegno Australia.
Perhaps it is conceivable that had it not been for the fire that
devastated the American city of Chicago in 1871, and the
subsequent involvement of architects such as Dankmar Adler,
Louis Sullivan, William le Baron Jenney, et al, in much of its
rebirth, tall buildings, as we know it would not inhabit modern
cities the way they do.
Interior Resident Lounge, Prima

Pearl, Melbourne
n many ways, buildings define the

sense of place of our cities. Take
Manhattans skyline for instance.
In the case of Melbourne, the tall
buildings along South Bank provide
the city its first defined silhouette. At
256 metres, Property Development
Group (PDG) and Schiavellos vision,
Prima Tower elegantly rises among
neighbouring towers. The statistics
will tell you that it is Melbournes
second tallest residential tower and
ranks fifth in the annals of Australian
towers.
This is not just any residential
tower with a bland faade; in places
it is either convex or concave, in
concert, as it were, with its 7.1 star
energy rating. Its elegance is further
enhanced by the curved bronze
faade.
Roberto
Dreolini,
Disegno
Australia Senior Associate, who is
the designer behind Prima Towers
grand spaces and intricate details has
worked in collaboration with the joint
developers Vince Giuliano, Managing
Director of PDG and Tony Schiavello,
Governing Director of Schiavello,
since the projects inception, guiding
the project team of architects and
designers. Inevitably, the design
development of a mammoth project
like Prima Tower demands the skills
and professionalism of many, as
well as the quality of the material.
Accordingly, Dreolini mentions the
crucial role of subcontractors such
as Baron Forge who specify Mapei
products.
The Contract Administrator of
Baron Forge informed Dreolini that
their specification of the product
is based on: long standing trust in
the products. They are commercially
viable; they provide good service in
relation to consultation, detailing and
site visits. The Ultracolor Plus grout
that was used for external planters (at
Prima Tower) tiled with glass mosaics
gave us comfort in a wet environment
and left us confident in the thought
that there would be no bleeding of
black grout into white grout. And the
on-site support that Mapei provided
ARCHIT IL E IN TER VIEW
us is crucial in overcoming some

problematic construction details for
balconies and external open spaces.
But I am getting ahead of the story.
To find out what makes a building
tick, I need to know the people
behind the vision and imagination.
People like Dreolini who has guided
the project, not only with his acute
attention to detail but also, as I
discover, with his heart and passion.
Like so many young people, the
urge to travel and see the world
led Dreolini, who studied furniture
design, to leave Reana del Rojale in
Udine near Venice to Melbourne.
Dreolini recounted his arrival at
Melbourne Airport.
Ive always been an open person.
So when the custom officer (at the
airport) asked me if I had any fruit
in my bag. I answered that I love
fruit. I didnt understand that they

were asking if I had any fruit in my
possession. I spent the next two
hours with customs to explain the
misunderstanding. Thats when I
decided that I desperately needed to
improve my English.
A chance meeting with a fellow
Italian at a Vespa showroom led to
an introduction to PDG where he
was given the opportunity to work on
Prima Tower from its infancy. Projects
of this magnitude, a prestigious
residential tower, that would grace
the citys most prominent riverfront
requires the skills and expertise of
many.
It was, as Dreolini puts it,
altogether a moving design process.
There was not one person or
consultant that was solely responsible
for its design. It was a collaborative
Exterior Tower
work by many in progress.Everything

was thought through so many times
until we got it perfect.
The notion that Prima Tower
was to become a defining feature
on the Melbourne skyline means
that the shape had to be sculpted
differently; not your common or
garden tower with the ubiquitous
faade applications that are favoured
by many designers.
Were surrounded by a lot of
buildings in the precinct that are
curved, said Dreolini by way of
explaining the design process. We
wanted to create something fluid, not
just a curved faade. We opted for a
curtain wall that can be manipulated
in such a manner that it would respond
to its immediate environment.
We didnt want to create problems
with the surrounding winds that
Exterior Facade
Exterior Pearl Lobby
Height: 256m Second tallest residential tower in
Accommodations: Ground Floor separate lobbies
Melbourne. Fourth tallest building in Melbourne
for the two portions of the tower, each with 24

hour concierge, building manager and security
Levels: 72 in total: one level of lobbies, 10 levels
service; mail room & refrigerated storage
of car parking for 577 cars, two levels amenities,

57 levels of residential apartments and two levels
Level 9 facilities: 25m in ground pool, spa, sauna,
of building services.
steam room, gymnasium, change room facilities,

meeting rooms, day spa room, virtual golf range,
Developer: PDG and Schiavello
Number of apartments: 661 in total comprising
movie theatre, games room, residents lounge, din-
1, 2, 3 and 4 bedroom apartments: 369 low-rise
ing and kitchen, sun deck, barbeque terrace
Pearl apartments (levels 11 35) and 292 highArchitect: Roberto Dreolini, Senior Associate at
rise Prima apartments (levels 36 66).
steam room, sun deck, change room facilities,
Disegno Australia was the head designer of the

project from concept to completion, leading a
Level 67 facilities: swimming pool, spa, sauna,
Construction commencement date: April 2012
lounge and dining, bar.
Time on market: 18 months
Materials: 41,700 cubic metres of concrete, 41.7
team of architects and interior designers through

the conceptualisation, design development, docu-
million litres = 16 Olympic size swimming pools,
mentation and construction phases.

Completion: First quarter 2015
Building Cost: $290M
8,500 panels of high performance glazing, 3,642

tonnes of steel more than combined weight of
520 adult elephants.
Mapelastic Smart was used for

external areas for its durability and
long term performance properties.
Aquadefense was used in bathrooms
for its quick-curing properties. Mapei
adhesives were used extensively
for floor tiling applications on
concrete substrate. Keracolor FF was
generally used for floor and wall tiling
throughout the project, e.g. swimming
pools and steam rooms due to its
increased water repellent qualities.
Interior Sky Lounge Pool
generally affect square or rectangular

towers. As well the design brief
required us to create different sizes
and shapes in the apartments. Hence
the gradual transformation from
concave to convex faade; the facade
at levels 10 to 35 is concave, and it
starts to bow out 80mm at each level
from level 36 upwards.
What makes Prima Tower
distinctly different to other residential
towers?
Basically, said Dreolini, Prima
Tower should be unique, as far as
residential towers go. It shouldnt look
like another tower of apartments.
It should be like a 6-star hotel. The
interiors are meant to be timeless.
We dont want something that
follows short-lived design trends or
something that was too traditional.
People need to relate to their
immediate
living
environment.
Thats the reason for choosing an
organic material such as timber as the
dominant interior material, except in
wet areas of course.
Unlike other apartment towers
that I have visited in the past, Prima
Towers interior exudes the organic
feel of which Dreolini speaks; there
is that tactile feeling when one
touches the walls or the enormous
Interior Sky Lounge
timber-lined stainless steel sliding

panels that move silently to reveal
another space within the confines of
a curtain walled high-rise.
Beyond the realm of the economics
of the design and construction
industry, Prima Tower bears the
marks of people like Dreolini, their
passion and dedication to the craft of
building. So, I ask, whats next?
I am really proud of what we did.
Of course, Dreoline said with a slight
hint of a sigh, Im conscious of the
fact that theres always something
that can be improved with the
benefit of more time. And its not all
about money either. Weve had the
utmost support and expertise from
our subcontractors and consultants.
We have achieved a milestone in
construction. Prima Tower has been
built less than three years at the rate
of four to five days per floor. It is the
fastest built project in Australia. It has
become a benchmark for everyone to
beat.
We had visitors from Brisbane
and they are all talking about it there.
The quality and everything else have
not been compromised, but, of course,
I know that with six more months I
could have considered different
options.
If this building were to be built in

Italy, said Dreolini, remembering his
European experience with a wry smile,
it would have taken 20 years. Our
aim was to achieve an Italian design
aesthetic, German detailing precision
with the efficiency of Australia.
In the glitterati world of
architecture, it is often easy to dismiss
the towers that form the silhouette of
our cityscape. Too often the passion
and vision that emerge from the
collective minds of people like Roberto
Dreolini, Vince Giuliano (PDG) and
Tony Schiavello (Schiavello) tend to
be overlooked. But these are the very
people who have tirelessly maintained
the equilibrium that constitute a
modern city. Without them, wed live
in a precious world that is beyond the
grasp of ordinary people, inhabited
only by the pretenders of a so-called
intellectual elite.
Tile Today acknowledges the assistance
of Messers. Roberto Dreolini, PDG
and Schiavello for the preparation of
this Conversation. Stephen Flannery,
Contract Administrator Baron Forge, Paz
Group Companies generously provided
the information on the specified Mapei
product.
Interior Pool
Interior Change Room
DE SIGN
New hexagonal tiles

Johnson Tiles has launched three new collections of hexagonal tiles. These comprise 260 x 300 x 8.5 mm wall tiles in gloss white,
white wavy, mocha wavy and charcoal wavy (A); the Hickory range of 242 x 280 x 8.5 mm floor tiles available in ash, grigio and
whitecap (B); and the Pietre Necchio series produced in the same format in light grey with light and dark grey decorations (C).
JOHNSON TILES
03 9720 4041 www.johnsontiles.com.au
Back to Basics
ALLMARBLE
The new Basic series by RAK is marketed in Australia by

Prestige Tiles. This stunning collection is ideal for use on walls
and floors in commercial and residential interiors and exteriors.
The product features a variety of decorative effects, which
reflect the casual elegance of natural stone. These durable,
rectified porcelain tiles are manufactured in two large formats:
600 x 1200 mm and 295 x 1200 mm in beige, black, grey
and white.
The ALLMARBLE series by leading Italian manufacturer

Marazzi accurately imitates the natural random veining
of marble. This durable product is practically impervious,
providing designers and home owners with a low maintenance
surface finish that is highly stain resistant and easy to clean.
The featured 600 x 1200 mm replication of classic Statuario
marble faithfully mimics the original material. It is available in
natural and silk finishes.
PRESTIGE TILES
02 8717 9044 www.prestigetiles.com
ACE CERAMICS
02 9584 4000 www.aceceramics.com.au
Cordoba
The new Cordoba collection by Starstile is suitable for use
in a wide variety of commercial and residential projects. It
is available in two surface finishes: matt and lappato. It is
manufactured in three popular formats; 300 x300, 300 x 600
and 600 x 600 mm in five contemporary colourways. The
design potential of the series is enhanced by the availability of
numerous matching mosaics.
STARSTILE
info@starstile.it
www.starstile.it
Kiko
Kiko white is available from market leader Ace Ceramics,
this large format wall tile panel is manufactured in Italy. The
continued and rapid advances in production of big tiles and
panels of porcelain is matched by the constant development of
new highly tactile surface textures. Kiko effectively combines
both of these trends in a 1200 x 1800 mm format, which is
produced nine surface textures and four colourways: white,
beige, grey and aqua.
ACE CERAMICS
02 9584 4000 www.aceceramics.com.au
Striking a new vein

Leading manufacturers continue
to introduce tile in a variety of
shapes and sizes with hexagonal
formats particularly popular.
In addition to manufacturing
their own collections of award
winning tiles and glass mosaics,
Everstone imports products from
leading European manufacturers
like Tagina. The featured 390 x
340 x 10 mm gloss finish wall
tile is produced in black, white,
taupe and sky. It can be used
in commercial, hospitality and
residential projects.
EVERSTONE
02 9795 2000
www.everstone.com.au
DE SIGN
Infinity
Southern Cross Ceramics
has just released the striking
Infinity collection of wall
tiles, which are produced
in 300 x 600 mm size the
most popular contemporary
wall tile format in our
market. This comprehensive
series is available in 12
attractive designs and 24
popular colourways, which
were determined following
extensive market research.
This stimulating product can
be used in a wide variety of
residential, commercial and
public spaces.
SOUTHERN CROSS
CERAMICS
03 9561 9111
www.scceramics.com
Painted Wood
Ceramic replications of timber grow more convincing with every
passing day. In addition to the appearance of the product end
users can be assured that the timber-look tiles will never require
sanding back or re-polishing, and general maintenance will be
a breeze. Painted Wood is an Italian made 200 x 1200 mm
rectified porcelain product, which is designed for use in private
residences and light commercial applications. It is available in
white, grey and blue in an appealing matt finish.
COLORTILE
1300 265 678 www.colortile.com.au
Factory
The new Factory series of hexagonal tiles by Cinca evokes
images of old, worn cement floors and is ideal for the urban
and industrial environments. Used for both walls and floors,
the tiles come in four colours White, Concrete, Taupe and
Anthracite. They are also available in black and white in a
matt finish.
They are available in 240 by 490 mm format.
TRADE PORT
02 9757 1822
tradeport@trade-port.com.au
B USI NESS
Doing more with less

Four ways to ensure your business makes it to the next upturn.
By Sue Hirst - co-founder and Director of CFO on Call.
ere hearing many

stories of businesses
doing
it
tough.
There are various
reasons such as mining boom ending,
consumer/business confidence, digital
disruption etc. If your business is
experiencing profit and cash flow
squeeze due to any of these reasons,
heres some ideas to help you survive:
1. Review your business mode:
is it still relevant and are there new
competitors in your market who
arent saddled with old ways and costs
of doing things? This fits into the
category of digital disruption. Take
accounting firms, for example, the
switched on ones are now working
with their clients in the cloud, which
saves not only the accountant but
the client many hours on entry and
double handling of data.
The cloud enables them to closely
monitor their clients performance
and alert them quickly when things
are going off track. Those who
havent embraced this way of looking
after clients are struggling to compete
and stay relevant.
2. Understand your break-even
sales point. This is the amount of
sales you need to make to cover
costs and overheads. The first place
to look is your overheads. Its a great
opportunity to review them and ask
some questions about every line on
your profit and loss statement.
a. How can this be done differently?
b. How can it be done more cost
effectively?
c. Should we stop doing this?
When you sit down and quietly
think it through you will be surprised
what ideas come up. Technology
could be your friend here in helping

you to find more efficient and cost
effective ways to do things. For
example, bookkeeping. One person
told us of a business that saved five
hours per month by using a cloud
based accounting system.
Once you know your break-even
point you will have a target to work
towards and share with you team.
3. Cash Flow Management If
youre doing it tough managing your
cash situation, heres some ways to fix
it:
a. Put together a weekly cash
flow forecast: whether it be on a
spreadsheet or a dedicated tool,
getting it down in black and white
really helps you to clearly understand
the situation. If things are really bad
you may need to do a daily forecast
for more control.
b. Review the picture and, if the
forecast shows shortfalls, work out
ways to handle them such as reducing
stock, pushing out suppliers, bringing
forward sales, getting customers to
pay earlier, entering an arrangement
with the ATO, cutting overheads etc.
c. Constantly monitor the situation
and when it gets better dont drop it
completely, but drop to monthly or
quarterly.
4. Cutting costs is something
business owners dont like to do;
however, sometimes there isnt a
choice. Often the biggest expense
is staff, and whilst you dont want
to cut good staff, there generally is
fat in most organisations. Make
an organisational chart, setting out
all the tasks that need to be done in
the business and who is doing them
now. You will invariably find there
are overlaps and gaps. Take the

opportunity to realign roles within
the organisation. If there are roles
that need to be cut, ensure you do
role realignment to ensure critical
tasks are covered. Ensure you handle
redundancies correctly to avoid
unfair dismissal claims.
Other expenses to change/
eliminate
a. Premises: Do you need what
youve got can you manage with
less space (so long as costs of moving
dont outweigh savings)? Could you,
perhaps, sublet some of your space
temporarily?
b. Communications: What type
of phone systems do you have? Can
it be updated to save money or can
you get a getter deal with your phone
carrier.
c. Banking/loans have you
reviewed them and do you fully
understand the terms and costs.
d. technology applications to
manage mobile workforces, customer
relationship management systems,
marketing automation systems,
project management systems, stock
and job management systems, etc, can
save many hours of peoples time and
money as well as improving customer
satisfaction.
e. Advertising/marketing: Are you
doing it cost effectively? Have a look
at what return on investment youre
getting for your spend and find ways
to improve it.
f. Insurances: shop around for
better deals.
g. Power: consider ways to reduce
your bills with modern efficient
lighting, temperature controls and
work practices.
h. Travel: do you really have to
travel for meetings could you do
them via Skype?
Were absolutely certain if you
take the time to review every cost
you will find savings and they could
add up to many thousands of dollars.
Remember every dollar saved goes
straight onto your bottom line,
whereas every dollar of extra sales
may only deliver a few cents.
When things pick up again, not
only will you survive, your business
will thrive with better financial
management.
INSTA L L ATION
A COMMISSION BY THE AUSTRALIAN TILE COUNCIL
A COMPREHENSIVE
TILING GUIDE
Peter Carter, the National President of the Australian Tile
Council and Principal of Crosby Tiles, WA, in consultation
with other State presidents, recently commissioned Tile Today
Contributing Editor Anthony Stock to write and illustrate a
comprehensive Australian Tile Council Tiling Guide.
he Tiling Guide will be

divided into three broad
sections:
Part One TILE

INFORMATION will focus on:
1. Tile Selection
Benefits of tile
Benefits of buying from an ATC
member
Tile types
Tiling checklist
Selecting your tiler
2. Tile Characteristics
Standard format tiles

*Non rectified
*Rectified
Thin format tiles
Large format tiles
5. Floor Tile Installation

Substrates
* Types
* Preparation
Standard Format Tiles
* Non rectified
* Rectified
Thin Format Tiles
Large Format Tiles
Shade variation

Shade, design, and texture
variation guide
Size variation
Hardness (PEI)
Scratch resistance (MOHS)
Manufacturer tolerances
Understanding porcelain tiles
6. Tile Joints/Grouting
3. Care And Maintenance
8. Water Proofing (and water

proofing materials)
Tile cleaning
Tile maintenance
* During tiling and
before handover
* After handover
Problem solving
Part Two INSTALLATION

INFORMATION will cover:
4. Wall Tile Installation
Substrates
* Types
* Preparation
Grouting
Grout joints
Expansion joints (and expansion
joint materials)
Efflorescence
7. Lippage
9. Adhesives And Grouts

Adhesive types and usage
Grout types and usage
10. Safe Handling Practices

Part Three - SPECIFICATION
INFORMATION will address:
11. Slip Resistance In
Residential Buildings
12. Post Installation

Treatments
13. Tile Specification
Download (for builders and
specifiers)
14. Australian Tiling
Standards List
The Tiling Guide will also contain
a comprehensive glossary.
The content of the guide will be
quite fluid; additional segments can
be added during the production
phase. Revisions and additions will be
added to reflect changes in Standards
and the introduction of new materials
and installation practices.
The content of the ATC Tiling
Guide will be as simple and concise as
possible; however, every effort will be
made to provide precise information
supported by suitable images and
drawings.
Each section will be peer reviewed
by State Presidents and appointed
sub-committees, which will include
a tile merchant, an adhesive
manufacturer, a contacting company,
a representative of TAFE and, if
possible, a tile manufacturer.
Every effort will be made to
promptly process each section.
Anthony
Stock
will
contact
appropriate experts and authorities
to gather current information on
each topic.
The ATC Tiling Guide will feature
on the Australian Tile Council
website while some segments will
be published in Tile Today. Work on
section one of the guide has already
commenced.
Its easy to stay up-to-date with the best Tiling Trims, Tools & Accessories.
1. Ask your local retailer to get you a copy.

or
2. Ask us to send you a copy.
T
Cat ools
alo
2n
gu
d E
e
dit
io
n
one
two
Elec
tric
thre
fou
YH
Wet
S
aws
&S
pec
ia
ge F Manu lised M
orm al T
a
at P ile C chines
ane
u
ent
Gro
l Cu tters
utin
&S
tter
urfa
g&
s
ce P
Gro
ut C
rep
A
lean dhe arat
Up sive T ion
Equ
ools
Hole
ipm
Dia
ent
mon Cuttin
g
dP
in & Equip
Me
Dia Core ment
mon
RLS asurin
Dril
dB
- Ra g &
lad ls
imo Lay
es
ou
nd
Tile i Leve t Equip
Tile
Spa lling me
n
c
Nip
e
S
G
y
r
s&
stemt
per ener
s, S
W
a
l
e
dge
T
uct
ion ools &
s
C
E
P.U. ups & quipm
B
Bat
& P Knee ent
hro ATSEA
last
om
L
ic F Pads
Style - Silic
loat
on
BAT
s
SEA - Cerame & A
c
LCle ic Soa cessor
ane
ie
rs & pholde s
Sea rs
lers
Mix
ing
six
Lar
Equ
ipm
ADA-CUBE-3DK
ADA Instruments Line Laser

S elf Levelling
90 Square
Vertical & Horizontal Cross Lines
Up to 20m Working Range
Complete Kit Includes:
Plastic Case
Adjustable Tripod with Pivot Mount
Universal Clamp Mount
Laser Visibility Glasses
3 x AAA Alkaline Batteries

Lockable Laser to Prevent Damage to Self
Levelling Compensator while not in use.
ADA-TM5
ADA-COSMO-40
ADA Instruments Laser Distance Meter

Laser Point Measuring up to 40m
IP 54 Rated
2 x AAA Alkaline Batteries
Single & Continuous Distance Measure

Minimum / Maximum Measurment
Area Measurement
Volume Measurement
Indirect Measurements / Calculations
Tape Measure
25mm x 5m Easy Read Tape
Shock Resistant Rubber
Outer
Blade Lock
ADA-TM8
Tape Measure
25mm x 8m Easy Read Tape
Shock Resistant Rubber
Outer
Blade Lock
S PECIFICATION
Main image: Autodesk BIM

360 viewer component.
What is BIM?
BIM is an acronym for Building Information Modelling, a process
that permits the generation and management of physical and
functional characteristics of places and buildings within our built
environment.
In December 2014, the Australian Construction Industry
Forum (ACIF) reported: In a national first, government and the
building and construction industry today released a national
framework elevating project team integration and Building
Information Modelling to the national stage.
IM is used by specifiers,
businesses and government
agencies to plan, design,
construct, operate and
maintain physical infrastructures as
diverse as water, gas, communication
utilities, roads, bridges and ports, and
houses, apartments, shops, schools,
factories, offices and warehouses.
The concept has existed since the
1970s although the actual term was
coined in 1992 when it appeared in a
paper written by GA Vanderveen and
FP Tolman. The first implementation
of BIM had taken place five years
earlier under the visual building
concept.
The United States National Building

Information Model Standard Project
Committee defines BIM as A digital
representation of the physical and
functional characteristics of a facility
and a shared knowledge resource for
information about a facility forming
a reliable basis for decisions during
its lifecycle; defined as existing from
earliest conception to demolition.
One of the chief benefits of
BIM relates to protection of all the
information which passes between
the design and construction teams
engaged in delivering a project. The
system allows design and construction
professionals and building owners to
Axter (roof waterproofing systems) has created,

in partnership with RIBA, a series of Building
Information Modelling (BIM) objects enabling
design teams to include high performance,
robust roofing in their 3D models.
add, alter and reference all the

information that pertains to every
facet of a building, including its
long term maintenance.
The building owner / operator
enjoys a number of benefits. For
example, if electrical problems
occur, the owner can access and
view the wiring specifications.
If there is a problem with the
plumbing, they can locate the
valve size, model number and
supplier details of a particular
part.
When architects seek to
specify sustainable eco-labelled
products they can categorise
every nominated product. This
could play a significant part in
determining the environmental
credentials of a project and its
Green Star rating.
Designers
and
owners
seeking
information
about
ceramic tile or natural stone
(or alternative surface finishes)
can download BIM-friendly
files from an increasing number
Right: Arnold and Porter Roof Terrace,

Washington DC, which won the HOK
BIM Award, Special Project Type.
The motivation for using BIM for this
project came from the fact that the
base building and its interiors were
developed in Revit. The HOK design
team concluded that the easiest way to
coordinate the landscape architecture
of the roof terrace with other disciplines
was to develop the roof design in Revit.
They also enjoyed the general attributes
of BIM including the possibility of
working more efficiently, rapid closure
of the decision making process and
coordinating in real time with other
participants while documenting every
change.
of suppliers websites. Leading

US
manufacturer
Daltile
provides BIM files in Revit or
dwg formats for use with all
major BIM and CAD software,
including AutoCAD, Sketch-Up
and ARCHICAD. Alternatively,
interested parties can download
appropriate BIM files from
numerous resources like www.
nationalbimlibrary.com/walland-floor-tiles. Images can be
viewed and downloaded to the
project BIM.
BECOME A
RESELLER
PREMIUM RANGE OF PRODUCTS FOR CLEANING, SEALING & MAINTAINING

Lithofins KF range of cleaning, sealing, maintenance and problem
solving products have been specifically designed for use on Ceramic
and Porcelain tiles. Over the past 60 years, the Lithofin Range has
developed into a comprehensive range of products for professionals
and homeowners.
The Lithofin programme sets the standard in product quality, meeting

the professionals' expectation of effectiveness as well as the end
consumers need for ease of use. To see the full range of Stone and
Tile Care Products visit www.lithofin-australia.com
TO BECOME A RESELLER FOR AN ESTABLISHED AND DEVELOPING MARKET CALL US NOW

Melbourne 03 8552 6000 Sydney 02 9822 5155 Gold Coast 07 5537 3222 Adelaide 08 8340 2877 Perth 08 6240 2200
S PECIFICATION
A number of our leading

architectural practices use BIM to
design projects and record every
amendment or change, which
takes place before and during
construction.
Local tile and stone industry
participants need to grasp the
significance of Building Information
Modelling.
Leading
adhesive
manufacturer Laticrete realised the
importance of this technology as
far back as 2008 when it became
the first producer of adhesives for
the installation of tile and stone to
provide BIM format compatible
details for architects and designers
at www.bimworld.com.
Architects can link directly to
the BIM platform to discover all the
information Laticrete can provide
for the installation of ceramic tile
and natural stone surface finishes.
BIMWORLD
is
primarily
focused on American products and
services. Visitors can browse more
than 65,000 BIM files which are
located under six broad headings:
building, interior, mechanical,
electrical, plumbing and piping, and
site. American tile manufacturer
Crossville Ceramics has submitted
10 products for review and most
manufacturers will presumably
seek to promote product which
has particular architectural merit.
Laticrete displays over 260 products
on BIMWORLD.
BIM is in its infancy in
Australia but its importance is
underlined by the aforementioned
joint government and industry
initiative. The Australian Institute
of Architects (AIA) links to the
BIM and IPD website, where local
practitioners can receive and
exchange information about BIM
and Integrated Product Delivery
(IPD). The site features support
materials and links to related
websites. A variety of local online
resources have developed and I
have little doubt that BIM is set to
become a key element of product
specification.
Featured above are tiles and allied products from the NBS National BIM Library which contains
thousands of BIM objects from leading UK and global manufacturers. Objects range from building
fabric systems to mechanical and electrical objects. BIM objects are presented in a 3D format can be
downloaded free of charge for inclusion in project planning.
Autodesks comprehensive BIM portfolio delivers a workflow advantage for virtually any project.
ARCAT.com a building product information website, is FREE. No registration required.
Tee Clip
Cross Clip
Straight Clip
No uncomfortable guns
Patented reversible design
Infinite re-use of caps
Italian designed & made
Applies downward pressure
4 clip sizes: 1-2-3-5mm
Suitable for all tile formats:
Slimline
Tiles
Pavers
Free delivery nationwide

*conditions apply, see website for details
Contact us:
e: sales@metrotilesdirect.com.au
p: 07 3363 4909 | m: 0409 511 040
a: 192 Granite St, Geebung, QLD
S PECIFICATION
Color Tile Projects supplied thousands of

square metres of tile and stone, which were
successfully installed by NSW Tiling Services
using a variety of Mapei products at 1 Bligh
Street, Sydney. The biggest challenge the
industry faces relates to training an adequately
skilled workforce, that can lay challenging
products like the featured fish-tail mosaic.
How many tilers will

we need in 2025?
By Anthony Stock
When I arrived in Australia in the late eighties a migrant from
the Netherlands told me: It is a great country but dont expect
anything to happen quickly: they have been trying to organise
a single gauge railway track that runs through every state and
territory for the last 100 years.
n 1993 when Tile Today was first

published, the Australian Tile
Council (ATC) were calling for
licensed tilers in all states and
territories. Successive ATC Presidents
have attempted to address this
challenge.
Today, the situation in regards to
licensing and competency appears to
be as confused as ever, with different
rules and regulations in every state
and territory. In recent times the
Federal Government has investigated
the possibility of introducing a single
licence for various trades, which
will be recognised nationally like
a driving licence. Presumably this
would require tilers to be trained to
the same level on a national basis.
Other rumours have emerged

which indicate that the Council of
Australian Governments (COAG)
are considering the complete
abandonment of licensing.
Confused? Join the club.
Lets take a look at the licensing
and training situation in each state
and territory. According to www.
licensedtrades. com.au the regulations
are as follows:
New South Wales

NSW Fair Trading requires tilers to
have Wall and Floor Tiling licences.
To obtain a licence applicants must
complete Certificate 111 level training
at a Registered Training Organisation
approved by Fair Trading. Initially any
home improvement valued at $1000

(labour and materials) had to be
completed by a licensed practitioner.
In 15 January 2015 changes in the
NSW Home Building Act came into
effect, which state that small projects
(less than $5000) and large projects
(under $20,000) no longer need to be
completed by a licensed tradesperson.
In an interview published in the
Campbelltown Macarthur Advertiser,
opposition spokeswoman for Fair
Trading, Tania Mihailuk said,
Consumers need the assurance that
their home building work is being
completed by a licensed tradesperson
to a professional standard. These
backward steps are opening the door
to unqualified and unskilled people
potentially coming into consumers
homes.
State Liberal MP for Campbelltown,
Brian Doyle defended the changes:
The decision to remove the licensing
requirement under certain limits

was to reduce red tape and costs to
consumers and businesses.
Apparently, specialist work like
plumbing and electrical projects
would still have to be completed by
a licensed tradesperson regardless of
cost. Mr Doyle added: Consumers
remain protected by the Australian
Consumer Law for this type of work.
This is a concern given that more
tile and stone is installed in NSW than
any other state.
in WA must produce a national white

card issued by WorkSafe, which is
issued when they pass a WorkSafe
approved training course.
ACT
Any person working in a building
related trade requires a licence from
the Planning and Land Authority.
Tilers generally hold a class D builders
licence, which will state the tasks they
are licensed to undertake, e.g. wall and
floor tiling and waterproofing.
Victoria
Tasmania
In Victoria, Consumer Affairs

regulates the building industry and
issues trade licences. Currently, any
project which exceeds $5000 must
be completed by a professional
that is registered with the Building
Practitioners board, unless the project
calls for the services of a single trade
only. This includes wall and floor tiling
projects, so an unlicensed tiler can
complete a $10,000 or $20,000 tiling
project.
The Department of Justice regulates

building practitioner licences, which
must be renewed annually. A licence
issued to a tiler should state the
activities he is licensed to undertake.
Licences held by tilers are generally
designated as a restricted builders
licence. Accredited builders can
undertake Continuing Professional
Development courses, which are
designed to upgrade their skills.
Queensland
Tilers are not required to be

licensed; however, many buildingrelated trades self-regulate through
Contractor Accreditation Ltd (CAL).
Bonafide tilers should possess CAL
accreditation in Tiling Wall and
Floor, or Certificate III Construction
(wall & floor tiling) gained from a
registered training institute.
Any project which is valued in excess

of $3300 (labour and materials) must
be completed by a licensed builder
approved by the Queensland Building
and Construction Commission.
Endorsed tilers carry a licence with a
WFT code.
South Australia
In SA formal contracts for work
under $12,000 are not legally required.
The Consumer and Business Affairs
body is responsible for registering
trades, and issuing registration cards
which cover speciality services such
as tiling. A qualified tile fixer in SA
usually carries a scope of work card
which confirms the types of work a
tradesperson is licensed to carry out.
Western Australia
Builders trade licences are issued
by the Building Commission of the
Department of Commerce. Tilers
engaged in projects valued at more
than $20,000 require a licence. Given
that many tiling projects do not
exceed $20,000, a great deal of work is
being conducted by un-licensed tilers.
However, wall and floor tilers located
The Northern Territory
The mess is here!

The aforementioned list reminds me
of a scene from the Academy Award
winning film No Country for Old
Men, when the character Wendell says:
Its a mess, aint it sheriff, and Tommy
Lee Jones replies: If it aint, it will do
till the mess gets here.
That exchange just about sums up
the state of licensing for tile fixers in
Australia.
By all accounts some of the
financial barriers designed to
prevent unqualified operatives from
completing certain projects can
be circumnavigated by the simple
practice of issuing two invoices with
different dates.
Where doubt exists about a
tradespersons qualifications sensible
builders and consumers should ask
to see examples (images) of work

conducted by any unlicensed tiler,
with a related written testimonial.
The New South Wales division of
the Australian Tile Council (ATC)
has developed a wall and floor tilers
Continuing Professional Development
Points system, which has a great deal
of merit, but it has apparently been
rejected by the Federal body. ATC
State President Barry Bulmer, the
architect of the scheme, admitted that
holding a licence Does not guarantee
competency but it does indicate
that some formal training has been
undertaken.
Many years ago I worked as a
contracts manager for Val-Fix Ltd, one
of Londons largest tiling contractors.
At a later date I operated my own
supply and fix tiling business in NW
London, which constantly engaged
the services of a minimum of 12 tilers
every week.
Some of them were perfectly
suited to small domestic projects in
bathrooms and kitchens, others liked
to tear through a McDonalds or a
London underground tiling project.
Some fixers can never be taken out of
their safety zone, some are competent
with mosaic, some could lay tessellated
tiles, or marble, others avoid these
materials like the plague.
There are tilers and there are tilers.
We plainly need a training
system with different competencies
that provides participants with an
opportunity to gain accreditation with
specific product types. For example:
1. Residential wall and floor tiling
ceramic and mosaic;
2. Installation of large format
products, 600 x 600mm and above;
3. Installation of natural stone tiles;
4.
Installation of slim tiles and
panels;
5. Swimming pool tiling;
6.
Substrate
preparation
and
waterproofing;
Some tilers could seek competency
in every category, others might
specialise in two ot three segments.
Their licence would reflect their
status. The list above could be
enlarged or trimmed, but unless we
aim high how are we going to handle
the volume of tiles that the industry
will be challenged to install if
S PECIFICATION
consumption grows during the next

25 years at the same rate it has grown
during the last 25?
Between 1993 and 2014 our
population increased by 32.75% from
17,707,000 to 23,513,564. By contrast,
during that same time frame tile
imports climbed by approximately
191% from 13, 600,000 to 39,635,250
m2.
When we factor in the relatively
stable figure for local tile production,
per capita consumption has escalated
from 0.97 m2 in 1993 to 1.70 m2
in 2014. Growth of approximately
3.33% per annum.
If as estimated our population
continues to grow at 1.6 per cent
per annum, our population will be
27 million by 2025. If per capita
consumption of tile remains stable at
1.7 m2 we will need enough tilers to
fix 45.9 million square metres of tile.
Given that per capita consumption
has grown by almost 70% over the last
21 years it would be nave to believe
that per capita consumption levels
will remain static. The true figure in
the marketplace is likely to exceed 50
million square metres, and this takes

no account of glass mosaic or natural
stone tiles.
The Challenge
These numbers are astounding, and
unless the ATC and the industry gets
their collective act together we will
not have enough qualified tilers to
meet demand, and if that happens
specifiers and homeowners will
choose alternative surface coverings.
Any serious market study
conducted by the ATC has always
confirmed that the residential
renovation market is responsible
for more than 80% of total tile
consumption. Oliver Huss, the
principal of Ceramic Solutions
Australia, said: One of the reasons
for the prolonged absence of growth
in consumption of tile in commercial
projects is a shortage in the number
of fully qualified tilers that can handle
all the materials that are regularly
used in large contracts, like large
format porcelain tiles, glass mosaics
and various natural stone products.
If qualified tilers are not available,
failures will occur and building

owners and specifiers will turn to
other materials.
Oliver employs more than 50
subcontractors who primarily tile
public buildings, aquatic centres and
hospitality facilities. He added: A
considerable amount of tiling work
carried out in private residences
is completed by plumbers and
renovation specialists. For that
reason alone it is hard to even guess
how many people are fixing tile,
regularly or spasmodically. In my
experience the average tiler installs
and grouts eight square metres per
day. I say averages because we take
into account the various projects a
tiler works on, installing different
materials in different environments,
using a variety of techniques.
How many tilers are there?

Barry Bulmer, the ATC NSW
President, also cited the eight square
metre figure per day that Oliver
suggests tilers install.
Nevertheless it is hard to come
up with an accurate number. For
Atlas Concorde, Marvel series

(Image courtesy of DW Tiles)
Neolith Estatuario
(Image courtesy of CDK Stone)
In an ideal world a highly skilled, well trained tiler

should be familiar with all of these materials and the
techniques required to handle, cut, adhere and grout
them. Some fixers will choose to work in residential
environments, others will prefer larger projects. Either
way they will encounter these large, small, slim and
thick products. In addition other new and revolutionary
materials and installation systems will appear. As
an industry we need to train a minimum of 20,000
qualified tilers to meet anticipated demand.
Expo from Pavimenti Affini S.p.a.
Ezarri Iris Ocean glass mosaic

(Courtesy of Europe Imports)
the purposes of our calculations lets

assume that eight square metres per
day, five days per week, 48 weeks of
the year is accurate.
If we agree that the Australian
Bureau of Statistics figures for imports
are correct, we imported 39,635,250
square metres of tile supplemented
by 4,500,000 square metres produced
locally during 2014. Therefore we
have a gross market of approximately
44 million square metres.
Industry analysts like Colin Cass
and Barry Bulmer believe that there
are around 15,000 tilers in Australia,
including approximately 5000 in
NSW.
If 15,000 tilers fix and grout 8
square metres per day for 48 weeks
of the year, we have an installed

figure of 28,800,000 square metres. If
we increase that figure to 12 square
metres per head we have an installed
figure of 43,200,000 square metres.
A number which equates almost
perfectly with the volume of imported
and locally produced product.
Alternatively, if we increase the
number of tilers from 15,000 to
22,000 and maintain the figure of
eight square metres installed per day,
the total metreage exceeds 42 million,
again very close to the current market
figures.
In 1994 Davco and Ceramic
Tile Publications Pty Ltd signed a
confidentiality agreement, which
related to sharing extensive market
Population
Tile
Imports
Local
Production
Per capita
consumption (m2)
1993
17,700,000
13,600,000
3,600,000
0.97
2014
23,513,564
39,635,250
4,500,000
1.7
research that Davco carried out in

relation to the number of tile fixers
plying their trade in NSW. The
number slightly exceeded 2800. It
seems logical to assume that the
number has now grown to 5000. If we
look at Peter Hallidays report on tile
imports which featured in Tile Today
in Issue 86, the ABS figures for NSW
were 14,409,415 square metres.
If 5000 tile fixers in NSW fix and
grout eight square metres per day,
five days a week for 48 weeks of the
year, the figure is 9,600,000 square
metres. If we increase the figure to 12
square metres per day the figure rises
to 14,400,000, almost identical to the
imports figure.
While these figures might
misleadingly indicate that every
imported square metres is sold and
fixed, it should be self-evident that
this is not the case. However, we can
assume that in most instances the
residue stocks from previous years did
S PECIFICATION
sell, ensuring that the quoted figure is

reasonably accurate, if volumes sold
were replaced by similar quantities.
It appears that a tiler fixes
somewhere between eight and 12
square metres per day, so lets take 10
square metres per day as a nice round
number. Therefore if our population
rises to the projected 27 million in
2025 and per capita consumption
of tile remains at 1.7 square metres
we will need a competent workforce
of more than 19,000 tilers to install
almost 46 million square metres of
tile.
This number is based on static
per capita consumption. In reality it
may increase considerably, as it did
between 1993 and 2014. If it does we
will need more than 20,000 skilled
tile fixers.
No more bumbling along

The market has grown considerably
but that growth would have been
greater if the industry had taken
appropriate steps to encourage
greater numbers of apprentices

to join the ranks and appropriate
training was provided to upskill and
educate. As consumer law tightens
the noose around the necks of errant
merchants and tradespersons the
need to act responsibly grows.
As previously stated, NSW
President Barry Bulmer and
the ATC NSW has developed a
Tilers
Continuing
Professional
Development System for tilers and
companies which employ them. The
scheme was introduced in association
with the Department of Education,
Employment
and
Workforce
Relations (DEEWR). In essence the
scheme is designed to continually
raise the competency level of wall
and floor tilers. The content was
designed in consultation with
industry members who participated
in a survey conducted by the ATC,
NSW.
Ultimately, consumers will be
able to access the list of tilers who
are constantly striving to update
their skills. With support from the

ATC NSW, tile fixers engaged in the
process can participate in annual
training which will contribute to
their tiling skills and maintenance of
a status which exceeds the minimum
required standard qualifications.
This is exactly the type of
endeavour that is required to
equip tilers with the variable skills
required to handle and competently
install all the materials featured in
the images in this feature. Without
this kind of initiative how will the
industry meet consumer demand
and expectations? There is nothing
to be gained in hoping that interest
in large tiles or slim materials will
decline. A good tile fixer should be
able to turn their hand to almost any
task.
By 2025 we will probably need
more than 20,000 adequately trained
tile fixers. Action is needed now. We
are already struggling to keep up
with technology and new products.
Things have changed.
DIAREX ULTRA
ELECTROPLATED
CORE DRILLS
THE PROVEN PERFORMERS

Diarex ULTRA, VIPER, LEGEND & BLACK MAGIC
Thin Turbo Blades cut fast and cut clean.
Like the ULTRA & VIPER our new LEGEND & BLACK MAGIC
have been specifically developed for the tile trade.
Featuring a new generation of diamond matrix with a unique rim pattern,
the new VIPER Thin Turbo Blade last longer and produces even cleaner cuts
in porcelain, stone and glass tile.
For your nearest stockist Phone 03 8552 6000
Wet and Dry use. For Porcelain,

Ceramic, Marble and Limestone
with straight or hexagonal shank
plus removable pilot drill.
INT ERVIEW
Tim Parsons, CTA /

Miracle Sealants
Tim Parsons, National Brand Manager for CTA/Miracle Sealants
discusses the recent launch of the Miracle brand in Australia
with Tile Today.
Q: Last time we met you, Tim,
you were Johnson Tiles NSW State
Manager and, if memory serves me
well, you also filled a National Sales
Management role. The contacts you
made will be invaluable in your new
role as National Brand Manager for
Miracle Sealants products.

A: Yes, thats right, 23 years in total
at Johnson Tiles and 27 years in the
industry. This industry experience
and market knowledge will come
in very handy going forward in our
quest to make Miracle Australias

number one brand in stone and tile
care products.
Q: Miracle Sealants is a wellestablished brand in the US: are you
confident you can achieve success in
Australia?

A: Miracle has been manufacturing
stone and tile care products for over
32 years and is the USs number one
brand to the professional. Miracle
care products are distributed to over
5,100 outlets across the US, including

4,800 home depot stores.
Miracle provides all the customer
support in terms of website,
brochures, Miracle App, technical
support hotline (1800 4 miracle),
all test results, MDS and SDS are
all readily available on our website
(w w w.miraclesealants.com.au).
Miracle products are warranted up to
20 years.
All our Miracle products have
a QR code on the bottle, so when
scanned with a smart phone a 60 sec

how-to video will appear.
Our miracle products are easy
to apply and are suited for both the
professional commercial applicator
as well as the DIY customer.
Q: Provide our readers with some
background information about the
key products, which are available
locally?

A: Our new brand to the Australian
market, the number one selling
product in the US is our 511
Impregnator (penetrating sealer).
We have three main penetrating
sealers being 511 Impregnator, 511
Porous Plus and our water based
H20 +. Our top of the range sealer is
our 511 Porous Plus, with its added
polymer technology providing the

ultimate protection for stone and tile
substrates.
Another
product
worth
mentioning is our Seal and Enhance,
which, as well as offering the best
sealing protection, also enhances
stone allowing the colours in the
product to really stand out. This
product has also been a big hit
with our local applicators as it is
far easier to apply than similar
products available in our market.
This is due to the products viscosity,
allowing for easier application, saving
considerable time on labour.
Q: Gaining approval for Miracle
Sealants products from major retailer
Beaumont Tiles is an outstanding
achievement. Have you rolled the
product out nationally to their ever
expanding number of tile outlets?

A: The support the Beaumont
group has shown our Miracle brand
is fantastic. We have spent the last
three months travelling our fine land,
launching and training Beaumont
management and staff on the Miracle
product offer.
The professionalism of the
Beaumont training co-ordinators in
all states was purely magnificent and
very much appreciated.
So far we have had our Miracle

products rolled out to 56 Beaumont
outlets across all states. This leaves us
with 52 more to go, which we hope
to complete by the middle / end of
February 2016.
Q: Miracle Sealants is closely affiliated
with Construction Technologies
Australia (CTA) and Sika. Please
outline the benefits that will flow to
Miracle Sealants customers?

A: There are a number of benefits
that Miracle product enjoys under
the distribution of CTA. First and
foremost, CTA has distribution
facilities in all states with the
exception of Tasmania, which
is serviced out of our Victorian
warehouse. These state based facilities
offer our customers and the end user
the very best of service and provides
Miracle with a distinct advantage
over our competitors.
Secondly, the M i r a c l e / C T A
product offers complement each
other, as we are able to provide our
customers and specifiers with a range
of products from pre-installation
through to ongoing maintenance.
With this in mind Miracle/CTA/
Sika can provide a complete system
allowing us to warranty projects for
20 years and beyond.
Q: Does this mean that all Sika

and CTA sales representatives will
be familiar with Miracle Sealants
products?

A: As previously mentioned, we
undertook a launch and training
program covering all states in October
of this year. Involved in these sessions
were all CTA and Sika sales staff along
with key Beaumont management and
staff.
Across the CTA/Sika businesses
we have a total of 47 sales staff trained
nationally on our Miracle products.
Q: I presume that a considerable
amount of training is taking place
on a regular basis in all states and
territories?

A: Training is all important to us at
CTA/Miracle, so much so that the CEO
of Miracle products, Joe Salvo came
out to Australia in October, embarking
on a whirlwind tour, training all
CTA/Sika and key Beaumont staff.
Following Joes very informative and
entertaining sessions I have conducted
my own version going from state to
state, training Beaumonts staff and
other key distributors.
This training will be ongoing as
we believe it is very important, not
only for new Miracle customers but
also refresher sessions for existing
customers as required. With this in
mind, all our CTA sales staff will be
equipped with the training session on
a USB so sessions can be conducted
anytime and anywhere.
Q: While your prime focus is on
promotion of the companys sealers
and cleaners, Miracle Sealants also
manufactures a variety of restorative
products. Will these materials be
available locally?

A: Yes they will. Miracle is also a major
supplier to the cleaning industry in the
US. Miracle has a number of stone
and tile restorative products such as
Marble Conditioner, Tile Restore and
Granite Brite. These products are all
designed to polish and restore existing
installations and are used widely across
the US, particularly in the casino and
hotel industry.
Q: What do local applicators

like about the products you are
introducing?

A:
the initial response from
applicators has been extremely
positive. Our Miracle product range
is a far simpler range to understand
with less products covering a wider
range of applications.
We have also received positive
feedback on Miracle products being
very user friendly with particular
reference made to our Seal and
Enhance, being far more easier to
apply than similar products on the
market. Better coverage, durability
and of course price at 15 to 20%
cheaper than our previous brand has
ensured Miracles positive reaction
amongst our customer base.
Q: You seem to have a strong sales
network; however, you will need a
reliable team of applicators. Is this
your biggest challenge?

A: Yes, we are lucky to have the likes
of Beaumont Tiles on board giving us
the best exposure in the industry on
the retail front.
In terms of applicators, we were
very lucky to have two key applicators
attend our training sessions while
Joe Salvo was touring Michael
Clarke from Brighter Hard Floors
in Adelaide and Dean Stevens from
Rejuvenation Solutions in Sydney.
Both these guys are now accredited
Miracle applicators.
It is our goal to get accredited
Miracle applicators in all capital cities
and major country towns across the
nation. Full training will be provided
with excellent sales support and
technical know-how provided along
the way.
We are very much looking forward
to completing our Miracle roll out
early in 2016 and driving demand
through our quality product, price
and availability.
Our key focus for 2016 is to make
Miracle the number one stone and
tile care products brand in Australia.
I am very much looking forward to
working with our customers and my
CTA and Sika colleagues in order to
make this goal a reality.
You can now

have all the
latest information
about your
industry in your
pocket ...
Add
www.flooringmagazine.com.au
to your Home Screen in just
4 easy steps
After you have

opened the Flooring
website tap the
Share button
at
the bottom of the
Safari screen.
Tap the icon labeled

Add to Home
Screen.
Tap the Add button

in the upper right
corner.
Launch the website

from your Home
screen by tapping
its icon.
P R O JECT SPO TLIGH T

Over 80 m2 of large
format tile was
successfully installed
at a private home in
Ascot Vale, Melbourne
using Laticrete
materials.
Rising to a
big challenge
The owners of a private residence in Ascot Vale, Melbourne
contracted Nicholas Murray Architects to add a new en-suite
and powder room in their Victorian home built in 1906. The
new work had to complement the flow of the existing home.
This presented a significant challenge.
he
project
entailed
installation of large format
Italian tiles manufactured
by Refin, and supplied by
Beaumont Tiles. Tiling contractor
Chris Stenhouse successfully installed
81m2 of wall and floor tiles using a
variety of Laticrete products.
Wastage was kept to a minimum
by installing tiles in a random laying
pattern, which meant that off-cuts
could be used in separate courses of
tiling. The 750 x 1500 mm ceramic
tiles were installed using Laticretes
335 Premium Flexible Adhesive, a
high performance thin-set adhesive

which is used to install various
ceramic tiles including porcelain and
natural stone products.
The substrates were waterproofed
with Laticretes Hydro Ban, a thin,
load-bearing
waterproofing/crack
isolation membrane that does not
require the use of fabric. Hydro Ban
bonds to a wide variety of substrates.
The large format tiles were double
fixed by trowelling adhesive on to the
substrate and applying a thin coat of
adhesive to the back of the tile, using
the flat edge of the trowel.
A-1139-1115 2015 LATICRETE Pty Ltd. All trademarks shown are the intellectual properties of their respective owners.
Protect your Reputation

for Years to Come
Applicator: Chris Stenhouse Wall & Floor Tiling | Photographer: Tahnee Jade Photography
Choose Materials That Are Globally Proven

Snap for more information.
Part of a total Tile and Stone

Installation Materials System
covered by a comprehensive
System Warranty.
LATICRETE has earned a global reputation as the leading manufacturer of materials

and methods for tile and stone installations. Our technical support and complete
product systems with our continued focus on residential, commercial, retail,
industrial and swimming pool projects insures your success. Will your project be
the next LATICRETE globally proven installation?
www.laticrete.com.au
1800 331 012
INSTA L L ATION
A blue board not designed for tiling

but often seen in external situations
with tiles being installed.
Cement sheet
By Fred Gray, Laticrete
Some considerations when choosing and using cement sheet as
a tile underlayment.
here are many different

types of cement sheet
being used on projects in
Australia and, from a tiling
prospective, we should be aware that
there is a big difference between what
we can and cannot use for a tiling
installation system.
Contrary to popular belief, many
compressed cement or fibre cement
boards are not rated as tiling systems
backgrounds by their respective
manufacturers. This is particularly
so for walls and/or facades in
exterior environments, an area
more likely than others to be prone
to problems. In fact, I know of only
a few cement sheet underlayment
boards suitable for wall tiling that
are approved for external use with
tile system installations, which, by
the way, are normally load limited to

around 40-50kgs/m2. Nonetheless,
I do encounter tiling being installed
over unsuitable boards or approved
boards that are severely overloaded
or point loaded.
I am amazed at the number
of discussions I have with
building design professionals, tile
manufacturers, contractors and the
like who are well down the track of
design or construction, only to find
out from a pre-tiling specification
conversation that the chosen cement
sheet is not suitable for a tiling system
and the underlayment may already
be fixed in place.
In another case I recently heard
about a retailer was selling a thin
underlayment intended as a nonstructural element in floor work,
for use as a wall lining for tiling

where some structural qualities are
required!
These are examples of general
assumptions, made by many,
regarding the ability of any cement
sheet to carry a tiling load or so it
seems. So the following is about some
of the different types of cement sheet
and some of the things we should be
looking for regarding the variety and
suitability of these sheets for use in
tiling. A very basic understanding
of the cement sheet manufacturers
intention will go a long way to help
the tiling and design industry when
it comes to the right choices for tiling.
In line with the above, all cement
sheets are not created equally
some are pre-finished products and
just need to be fixed in place, some
are designed for painting, some are
designed for texture coats and some
are designed for tiling. They also vary
in their structural integrity, their
ability to carry a load, their resistance
to water penetration, their ability
to be bonded to, and their ability
to work in larger areas between
movement joints. There is quite a
range of manufacturers and selecting
or installing tile over the correct one

is important particularly when
bonding directly to the sheets.
Regular square edged compressed
sheets for instance (photo 1), most of
which can be directly tiled to, are often
specified as a structural floor lining in
place of timber linings over framed
construction where they provide a
greater resistance to moisture, fire
and pests. But be careful, lately some
are also coming with added moisture
protection in the way of additives
or coatings that repel water, which
may be problematic for the bonding
of waterproof membranes and low
performance adhesives.
However, one of the more
significant problems I encounter
with bonding directly to this type
of compressed board is reflected
cracking from the sheet perimeters
where movement joints are not
installed as the work progresses.
Yes, most if not all of these products
require a movement joint installed
into the tiling mirroring the
perimeter of the sheets. This includes
internal and external installations.
The installation of these movement
joints is something that is explicitly
outlined by the manufacturers but
something for which there is great
resistance in practice. Perhaps if the
opportunity exits, a change can be
made to the new type flooring sheets
that are a little less restrictive with
movement joints.
However, in
more
recent
years, to make cement sheet floor
underlayments better and easier to
install, we have seen the development
of lighter-weight versions with
tongue and groove edges (photo
2). With this type of board, greater
spans of tiling are allowed over
multiple sheets without the need
for movement joints in the tiling on
every sheet junction, creating a more
acceptable look in the finished floor.
This is a major advancement over
the square edged compressed sheet
and their mandatory sheet perimeter
joints.
This generally longer, narrower
variant of cement sheet also come
in internal and external versions
which have to be treated differently
during tile installation. For instance,
most of the external versions come

with built in moisture blockers or
coatings that generally require special
treatment prior to the application of
a waterproof membrane for under
tile use. Hydropoxies or primers are
required to ensure the hydrophobic
and bond inhibiting nature of these
moisture blockers are eliminated for
the membrane installation process.
Like floor construction there
are also newer variants of cement
sheet specifically for external wall
tiling, which was always the main
area of concern. They come in both
the typical large sheet format as well
as the newer narrower tongue and
groove type as we have seen with the
floor version. However, depending on
the tile load and how high the tiling
is to extend, the sheet manufacturers
may require support angles at
varying heights or spacings. It is also
recommended that the manufacturer
be referred to for information on the
possible use of hydropoxies and the
like primers to facilitate bond prior
to applying a waterproof membrane
due to the use of moisture blockers in
the sheets.
Cement sheet linings for internal
wall tiling have been around for a
while and installations tend to be less
problematic due to less stress being
exerted on the system. However,
it may be worth noting that as tile
format is getting larger and increasing
dead loads are being applied to these
sheets, support angles may also be

required by the manufacturers for
internal installation.
It is worth noting that the use of
moisture blockers on drywall surfaces
in general is increasing, especially for
products that would otherwise not
be suitable for wet areas, and this
is also true for some cement sheet.
Something to keep your eye on.
As usual we should be ensuring
that all normal tiling caveats apply
and construction is rigid and meets
the deflection requirements for the
type of tiling we are doing. That sheets
are fixed in accordance with the
manufacturers recommendations and
the tile fixing system is compatible.
But most of all, we are tiling over the
correct cement sheet underlay for the
relevant tile and exposure loads.
Any discussion about cement
sheet should begin with a warning:
Be careful when it comes to the use
of second hand or recycled cement
sheet due to possible asbestos risks
and associated hazards. In fact, any
fibre cement composite product
thought to have been manufactured
prior to the 1980s should be
considered to contain asbestos.
The industry considers renovation
work on homes built or previously
renovated prior to 1990 should be
considered likely to have asbestos
contamination and experts should be
consulted to confirm its presence and
carry out its removal.
Reflected cracking. This depicts

the sheet movement below has
reflected into the finished travertine
surface. A movement joint should
have been built in according to the
sheet manufacturers instructions
and good trade practice.
INT ERVIEW
The stunning surrounds of the featured pool in
Palm Beach, NSW were tiled with Travertine,
which was sealed with a penetrating sealer
produced by local manufacturer Aqua - Seal STS.
Experience is the
guiding hand
Tile Today interviews Ange Kokkaliaris, principal of Aqua-Seal
Stone + Tile Solutions.
Q: As a manufacturer of sealing,
cleaning and restoration products,
do you enjoy any advantages that
distributors do not have?

A: Of course. Aqua Seal STS is a
manufacturer and we are governed by
our customers desire for performance
products and products that fulfill
their needs. As an example, our
customers have come to us and have
asked for a quality anti-slip product so
we developed Grip-It T. Shower Tiles
and Shower Glass cleaning became
an issue so our customers came to
us with a request and we developed

suitable products to prevent soap
scum and grime like Aqua Shield GL
for all glass and Tile Shield for shower
tiles. Our customers obviously benefit
from dealing with an Australian
based manufacturer as there is an
advantage what we like to call the
Aqua Seal Advantage.

Q: Where are your products
manufactured?

AK: The majority of our products
are proudly manufactured in
Australia with the best raw materials

we can source from Australia,
USA and Germany. We have some
products that we manufacture in the
USA and thats due to availability of
raw materials and machinery for the
manufacturing process.
Q: There are numerous suppliers of
sealers in Australia, more than 40, at
the last count. How do you aim to
gain and hold market share?

AK: The assumption is that we
are a just a supplier of sealers like
many of our competitors. We prefer
to be known as a problem solving
company. The guys you go to because
you want to prevent a problem so you
need a quality sealer; the guys you
go to because you have a problem
with your tiles so you buy a quality
cleaner or problem solver; the guys
you go to because you have a problem
with your grout so you buy a quality
grout colorant. Our involvement in
New
Product
Professional Grade
High Performance
HHH
Aqua Seal Gold+
HN
TE
C6
RO
RAPID
SEAL
FLUO
OLO
Aqua Seal Gold+

Premium Natural Look Sealer
3 C6 Fluoro-Seal - NO VOC Water Based Formula

3 Rapid-Seal STS to provide stain resistance in 4 hours
3 Maximum Stain Resistance Against Oil, Food & Grime
3 Natural Look - Non Yellowing - Non Coating Non Toxic
3 Reduces Freeze/Thaw Damage, Spalling and Efflorescence
3 Inhibits Mould and Mildew - Ideal to use as a Pre-Sealer
3 For Indoor, Outdoor, Domestic & Commercial Applications.
Recommended for: Natural Stone, Porcelain Tile, Grout
and other surfaces.
Available in: 250ml, 1 litre, 4 litre, 20 litre.
Sealers Cleaners Problem Solvers Grout Colourants Stone Restoration

Unit 9, 21-25 Monro Avenue (PO Box 3001)
Kirrawee NSW 2232 Australia
T +61 2 9521 4000 F +61 2 9521 5222
E info@aqua-seal.com.au www.aqua-seal.com.au
Australian Owned
A u s t r A l i A N e w Z e A l A Nd u Ni t e d K i N g d o m
INT ERVIEW
the tile and stone industry is over

30 years and covers everything from
retail, wholesale, import, export and
manufacturing and with experience
comes knowledge.
Successful companies understand
that being a specialist in your field
makes all the difference. We are
now seeing that adhesive and tool
companies are jumping on the
bandwagon and selling a few sealers
and cleaners. In the complicated
world of tile you cannot be a master
of everything and thats why the
successful companies stick to what
they do best.
Q: Have you enjoyed any success in
export markets?

A: Yes. From Australia we are
exporting to the Pacific Islands, New
Zealand and into Asia. We have
opened an office in UK, which looks
after our UK and Europe sales. We are
currently exporting to eight countries
in Europe and demand for the brand
keeps growing.
Q: Do you provide product
application courses on a national
basis?

A: We offer two day courses for tilers,
cleaners, architects or any member of
the public looking at getting into a
new business. With our training, they
can become an Aqua-Seal trained
tile and grout, care and maintenance
technician with the tools and knowhow to specialise in trouble shooting,
sealing, cleaning and refinishing of tile
and grout surfaces for both residential
and commercial installations.
Our comprehensive classroom and

hands-on workshop is designed and
taught by professionals in the care and
maintenance business. The curriculum
includes the newest techniques and
information on the latest products
for hard surface cleaning and
maintenance. Instructors will provide
the practical step-by-step training
needed to begin a tile and grout care
business or to expand the services of
your existing business.
Q: Are your products primarily used
to seal and clean ceramic or natural
stone materials?

A: We cover all aspects of cleaning,
sealing, maintaining and restoring all
tile, stone, grout and glass surfaces. We
are the one-stop-shop.
Q: Do you regularly test products and
provide project specific information?

A: Tile, stone and grout are
continuously
evolving.
New
manufacturing tile procedures are
producing some fantastic products and
every day new stone is being sourced
and introduced into the market.
Everything has its own peculiarities
and we have wholesalers and importers
suppling us with tiles for various
testing and recommendations.
Q: Do you provide a product warranty?

A: Our warranty program is unique.
Different surfaces have different
strengths and different requirements
plus they wear differently so putting a
blanket warranty is very unrealistic.
Our comprehensive classroom and handson workshop is designed and taught by

professionals in the care and maintenance
business. The curriculum includes the newest
techniques and information on the latest
products for hard surface cleaning and
maintenance.
We consult with architects, interior

designers, builders and developers
and, after gathering all the relevant
information about the project, such
as type of tile or stone used, where
it is being used, etc, we then write
a job specific warranty that is also
backed up by a tailored maintenance
program to ensure the longevity and
the look of the project.
Q: Please tell our readers about your
latest product releases?

A: Continuing on with our focus
on providing the safest and best
products for stone, tile and grout
care, we are proud to announce
the introduction of C6 Fluoro-Seal
Technology to our range of premium
sealers. The first upgrade is to Aqua
Seal Gold - Rapid Seal. We are one of
the first manufacturers in Australia
to move to C6 fluorocarbons.
C6 Fluorocarbons are the safest
alternative for the environment whilst
delivering premium performance.
Our Aqua-Seal Gold Rapid Seal is
a premium water based sealer that
delivers premium water, oil and grime
repellency and has the added bonus
of curing in four hours therefore
drastically reducing the down time on
domestic and commercial jobs.
It has NO VOCs (volatile organic
compounds) making it ideal for
large commercial product where
environmentally green products
are required. More products will
be rolled out utilising C6 FluoroSeal Technology and will be
distinguishable with the C6 FluoroSeal logo.
Q:
Finally, what can customers
expect from Aqua Seal?
A: We will continue to give our
customers the service, product
performance and technical knowledge
that they expect and for which we are
known. We are proudly Australian
owned, Australian made with the
knowledge of Australian conditions
and customer requirements. Our
customers expect the best and thats
what we deliver.
For more information, contact ARDEX on

1300 788 780 or visit www.ardexaustralia.com.au
INT ERVIEW
Training in progress at the Ardex

Academy, Seven Hills NSW.
Ardex Australia
Tile Today discusses industry training and new products
with Raewyn Hughes, Category Manager, Tiling and Flooring
Systems, Ardex Australia
Q: In issue 79 of Tile Today we
published an interview with Fabian
Morgan, the Ardex Chief Operating
Officer in relation to the expansion
of the companys training facility
located at Seven Hills, NSW. How
has the expansion impacted on the
activities you provide?
A: Training is a key focus at Ardex
both globally and locally internally
with employees and externally with
our distributors and contractors. We
are committed to rolling out purpose
built training facilities in each
state, with construction currently
underway on another two sites. This
will allow us to continue to provide
a global standard of training with
localised practices and standards
across Australia.
With a commitment of new,
improved and better products we are
proud of our innovation and research,
but the best product in the world is
no good if you dont know how to
get the most out of it. Our training

ensures that we have the resources
and facilities to train various groups
of people retail staff, tradesmen
and apprentices. We frequently
run courses that teach common
applications such as liquid undertile
waterproofing as well as specialty
courses for upskilling such as epoxy
grouting or defect evaluation and
rectification.
Q: With more than 40 million square
metres of tile imported and produced
locally, the market is growing rapidly.
Are we keeping pace with the demand
for fully trained tile fixers?
A: The recent growth in the demand
for tiles, I believe can be partly
attributed to the development of new
looks, a broader range of affordable
modern styles and replacement of
previous used alternate surfaces such
as wood and resilient flooring. The
new wood-look tiles are a fantastic
alternative with the durability benefit

of the tile. Many of these styles
require specialty adhesives, grouts
and installation techniques, which are
tested by Ardex, and this information
is then shared with the market.
The volume of tiles imported was
not much more than was imported
in 2007. It appears to us that there are
enough available tilers but the level
of skill required has changed. Ardex
training aims to help support the
level of skill within the industry.
Q: Do you receive assistance from
the Australian Tile Council or any
other agencies?
A: As a manufacturer of building
application products we gain very
broad market knowledge through
various avenues within the business
our sales force, scientists, chemists
and our global network of R&D and
training. Ardex has a keen interest
in ensuring that we stay connected
with industry bodies to ensure we
are delivering what the industry
needs. We continue to work as
closely as possible with industry
groups such as the Tile Council to
ensure we are offering value and
welcome their feedback. We also
invite them to involve themselves
through participation in training and

development .
Q: At this point in time, we are
witnessing a dramatic increase in
the variety of ceramic materials
that fixers are challenged to install,
ranging from slim 3mm ceramic
panels and tiles to 20mm thickness
large format porcelain. Do you
cover the installation of all of these
products?
A: Ardex has a full complement of
products to ensure installation of
the latest tiles. It can be frustrating
when new technology and designs
of tiles are released to the market
and the new adhesives or application
practices are not adopted. Thorough
testing is always completed to ensure
the right recommendation is made
for the tile.
Q: Obviously you focus on correct
application of your Ardex adhesives,
grouts and waterproofing products.
Do training course attendees also
use tools selected from your range of
tiling tools?
A: Ardex uses the system Ardex
Approach to ensure complete
compatibility
throughout
the
installation process with the best
outcome. We ensure that we are
constantly testing and staying
abreast of new application tools and
understanding the most commonly
used application tools available
from around the globe. Where we
identify a gap we will endeavor to
fill this for our customers. Often
we look to the industry experts and
align our training with them. Safety
wear is a good example of this and
an important part of installation. At
Ardex we recognise this, consequently
we are now closely aligned with a
global leader in safety wear, UVEX.
A: There is frustration that tile

manufacturers do not align with
adhesive and tool manufacturers
when they are pushing the boundaries
of existing tile types and design. In
most instances it means we need
to find the solutions quickly for the
markets demands. Our technical and
R&D department use their wealth of
local and global knowledge to test
and experiment scientifically and
offer advice through our technical
services department via the phone
or digitally with technical bulletins,
white papers and specialty testing.
Q: Do you use the training academy
for other activities?
A: The Ardex academy and state
based training facilities are a fantastic
space available for our customers,
such as industry bodies and TAFE and
technical colleges, to use, often free of
charge for meetings, conferences and
training.
Internally we use this space
for employee training, meetings,
conferences and celebrations such as
employee service awards. Lately we
have used this space in our support
for the McGrath Foundation with
morning teas and lunches to support
and raise funds and awareness for the
great work the foundation does in the
community.
Q: The number of tile outlets and
tile fixers engaged in the sale and
installation of natural stone continues

to rise. Do you provide stone related
advice and training?
A: Similarly to new tiles such as
the very large format tiles, natural
stone requires special knowledge for
selection, installation and after care.
Specialty training for retail staff and
installers is important and delivered
both as specialty training or included
in tile retail and tile installation
training. Advice is also available
through Ardex technical services on
the phone or through Ardex technical
papers.
Q: Ardex is obviously endeavouring
to play its part in the development
of an adequately trained workforce;
however, some industry members
are concerned that not enough is
being done. I presume you share their
concerns?
A: The industry is responsible for
ensuring that standards are held
to the highest level and there are
various segments within the industry
that have their own opinions and
frustrations with this. We will
maintain our involvement through
formal inclusions with these groups
and informal discussions and
findings through our national and
global team on the ground. In the
meantime we will simply get on with
it and continue to deliver training and
information to willing participants.
Q: New products like large thick and

thin porcelain tiles frequently appear
in the marketplace before appropriate
tools, cutting
machines
and
installation standards are developed.
How do you cope with providing
advice on these advanced products?
adhesive selection
guide 2016
INCLUDES RECOMMENDATIONS
FOR SLIM TILE PRODUCTS
ach adhesive selection features an ISO classification e.g.C2TS2, in accordance

with ISO 13007 2, 2013. Each combination of letters and numbers provides
users with a reference to adhesive recommendations for specific tile types on
various surfaces. Below is a key to the letter/number codes used for each product.
The manufacturers listed overleaf have nominated three prime products to adhere
popular tile and stone materials to a variety of substrates in dry, wet and fully immersed
locations. Note that each of the participating companies also manufactures additional
products that can be used in similar situations. Each company provides comprehensive
technical advice. If you require additional information simply call the company in
question or visit their website.
The materials listed in the Adhesive Selection Guide are not the only products suitable for
a particular surface. If more information is required contact the manufacturer of your choice.
This guide provides users with a reference to adhesive recommendations for specific
tile types on various surfaces. Below is a key to letter/number codes used on various
products. Always ensure that a compatible waterproofing membrane is employed.
As the selection guide shows, the designation of an adhesive consists of the letter of the
type (C, D or R), followed by the number of the class and/or the letter(s) corresponding
to the characteristics (F, T, E and/or S) which it possesses.
Users of the Adhesive Selection Guide are advised that the ISO Classifications entered for each
product are supplied by the participating manufacturer. Where absolute clarification about a
products suitability for a specific project is required the reader should contact the manufacturer
for written guarantees.
The standard recognises 3 adhesive types:

C
Cementitious. In order for a cementitious adhesive to get the normal C1 classification, it must
have a tensile adhesion strength of at least 0.5 MPa, when bonding porcelain tiles to concrete,
not only in a dry condition, but also after water immersion, heat ageing and freeze-thaw cycling.
It must also have a tensile adhesion strength of at least 0.5 MPa, when placing of a porous tile is
delayed by at least 20 minutes after the adhesive has been spread.
Improved C2 class adhesives must have a tensile adhesive strength of at least 1 MPa after the
various conditioning treatments. There are also four letter designations that denote different optional
characteristics.
Dispersion.
Reaction resin.
Fast setting adhesives, where products have a tensile adhesion strength of at least 0.5 MPa
within 24 hours.
Denotes a slip-resistant adhesive (that limits the extent to which tiles might slide down walls).
Adhesives with extended open time (minimum of 30 minutes under standard laboratory
conditions).
Only used for cementitious adhesives, where it denotes special deformable characteristics.
S1
Deformable adhesives (a transverse deformation of 2.5 to 5 mm), while highly deformable.
S2
Adhesives have a transverse deformation of at least 5 mm.
PRIMESEAL
New Generation of Waterproofing
Membranes
RAPID SETTING
CLASS 3, HIGH ELASTICITY
TOTALLY IMMERSIBLE UNDER TILES
Bostik Australia
Customer Service Tel: 1300 364 710
www.bostik.com.au
A DHESIVE GU IDE
ARDEX AUSTRALIA
1300 788 780
ACT AUSTRALIA
1300 794 321
DAVCO
1800 653 347
ASA/BOSTIK
1300 364 710
FLOORS
Concrete
ADH-55
ADH-44
ADH-33
ADH-31
C2ETS1
C2ETS1
C2ETS1
C1ETS1
ARDEX X 78
ARDEX X 18
ARDEX STS 8
(with ARDEX E 90 in
Compressed
Fibre Cement
Sheet
(Floor)
ADH-55
ADH-44
ADH-41
ADH-33
ADH-31
C2ETS1
C2ETS1
C1ETS1
C2ETS1
C1ETS1
ARDEX X 78
ARDEX Abaflex
ARDEX X 56
Existing Tiles
ADH-55
ADH-44
ADH-33
C2ETS1
C2ETS1
C2ETS1
ARDEX Optima*
C2TS2
ARDEX X 78
C2ES1
(dry areas*)
ARDEX Abaflex
C2TS1
*no removal of existing tile glaze,
or use of special primer for internal
applications
Cement Render
(Masonry)
ADH-55
ADH-44
ADH-33
ADH-31
ADH-22
C2ETS1
C2ETS1
C2ETS1
C1ETS1
C1ET
ARDEX X 77
ARDEX Abaflex
ARDEX D1*
C2TES1
C2TS1
D1TE
Plasterboard
ADH-55
ADH-44
ADH-41
ADH-33
ADH-31
C2ETS1
C2ETS1
C1ETS1
C2ETS1
C1ETS1
ARDEX D2*
ARDEX D1*
MPP *
*(internal walls)
ARDEX
ARDEX
ARDEX
ARDEX
C2ES1
C2TES1
C1T (C1TS1)
exteriors)
Evoflex
Conflex
Evofix
C2S2ET
C2S1E
C1S1ET
Davco SMP Evo
C2S1TE
Evoflex
Asaflex
Conflex
C2S2ET
C2S2E
C2S1E
Davco SMP Evo
C2S1TE
Superglue*
C2S2EF
Prontofix + Megalastic*
C2S1EF
Evoflex
C2S2ET
*No glaze removal needed when
primed with Specialist Primer
Davco SMP Evo
C2S1TE
Ultra Mastik
Megafix
Mastik
C2S1ET
C1S1ET
D1ET
Davco SMP Evo
C2S1TE
D2TE
D1TE
C1S2
Ultra Mastik
Megafix
Mastik
C2S1ET
C1S1ET
D1ET
Davco SMP Evo
C2S1TE
C2TES1
C2TES1
Superglue
C2S2EF
Ultra Mastik + Megalastic C2S2ET
Evofix + Megalastic
C2S1E
Davco SMP Evo
C2S1TE
WALL AND FLOOR:

ARDEX S 16
+ ARDEX E 90
C2FTS1
ARDEX Quickbond
+ Abalastic
C1FTS1
ARDEX WA 100
R2T
*internal only with no mesh
back (mesh back panels require
additional application steps).
WALL:
Ultra Mastik + Megalastic
Superglue
Evoflex
FLOOR:
Superglue
Ultra Mastik + Megalastic
Prontofix + Megalastic
Contact the manufacturer for

project specific advice.
ARDEX X 56
C1ES2
ARDEX S 16
(internal only)
C2FTES1
ARDEX Quickbond
C1FT (C1FTS1)
(use with ARDEX Abalastic in
exteriors)
Superglue
Prontofix + Megalastic
Expressfix
C2S2EF
C2S2EF
C2EF
Davco 2 Part Rapid C2S1FE
Conflex
Ultra Mastik
Evoflix
C2S1E
C2S1ET
C1S1ET
Davco SMP Evo
C2S1TE
C2S1TE
C2ES1
C2TS1
C1ES2
WALLS
MISCELLANEOUS
Swimming
Pools &
Other Total
Immersion
Locations
ADH-55
C2ETS1
Glass Mosaics can be
grouted with ADH-55
Slim thickness
tile or panel
3-5+mm
ADH-55
+ AD-1
ADH-55
C2ETS2
C2ETS1
ADH-44
C2ETS1
X 77
X 18
STS 8 W +
E 90
C1TS1
C2S2ET
C2S2EF
C2S2ET
C2S2EF
C2S2ET
C2S1E
Floor tiling to
receive floor
traffic on same
day of tiling
ADH-55
Fast Set
ADH-44
C2ETS1
C2ETS1
Shower Floors
ADH-55
ADH-44
ADH-33
ADH-31
ADH-22
C2ETS1
C2ETS1
C2ETS1
C1ETS1
C1ET
ARDEX X 77
ARDEX Abaflex
ARDEX X 56
Vitrified
products
(Porcelain)
ADH-55
ADH-44
ADH-33
ADH-31
C2ETS1
C2ETS1
C2ETS1
C1ETS1
ARDEX X 77
C2TES1
ARDEX Abaflex
C2TS1
ARDEX STS 8
C1T
(C1TS1)
(use with ARDEX E 90 in exteriors)
Evoflex
Ultra Mastik
Evofix
C2S2ET
C2S1ET
C1S1ET
Davco SMP Evo
Granite/Marble
ADH-55
ADH-55
Fast Set
ADH-44
ADH-33
C2ETS1
ARDEX S 16 W
C2FTES1
(internal only)
ARDEX Quickbond +
ARDEXAbalastic
C1FTS1
ARDEX WA100
R2T
Expressfix
Evoflex
Superglue
C2FE
C2S2ET
C2S2EF
Davco SMP Evo

C2S1TE
Davco 2 Part Rapid C2S1FE
for moisture sensitive stone
C2ETS1
C2ETS1
C2ETS1
C2TES1
C2TS1
C1ES2
COmmeRCIAl eG
Two part epoxy grout

Ideal for showers, pools, shops, dairies, hospitals
Wall/floor/interior/exterior applications
Suitable in joints from 1.5mm - 15mm
Can be used as a tile adhesive*
Complies with AS ISO 13007.3-2013 RG1
www.rlagroup.com.au
1800 242 931
NSW | VIC | QLD | SA | WA
A DHESIVE GU IDE
LATICRETE
1800 331 012
MAPEI
1800 652 666
NOVATEX PRODUCTS
02 9757 3525
RLA POLYMERS
1800 752 679
FLOORS
Concrete
4-XLT
(For extra large tile)
Lataflex Gold
335 Premium
C1TES1
C1TES1
C2TES1
Kerabond Plus &

Isolastic
C2TS2
Keraflex Maxi S1 C2TES1
Granirapid
C2FS1
Nova Mastic White

C2S1TE
Nova Flex Plus Non Slump C2S1TE
Nova Magic
C2S1TE
Unibond
Moreflex
Techbond
Compressed
Fibre Cement
Sheet
(Floor)
4237 & 211

Crete filler powder
Lataflex Gold
335 Premium
C2S1
C1TES1
C2TES1
Kerabond Plus &

Isolastic
C2TS2
Granirapid
C2FS1

Nova Magic
C2S1TE
Uni Nova
C2S2TE
RLA Flex 2 Part C2S2E

Unibond
C2S1
Existing Tiles
3701 Latex/X8
Multi Purpose
335 Premium
101 Rapid Set Latex/
290 Super
Kerabond Plus &

Isolastic
C2TS2
Granirapid
C2FS1

Nova Magic
C2S1TE
Uni Nova
C2S2TE
RLA Tileflex
Unibond
Techbond
*existing tiles should be primed

using Optimus Primer
* Existing Tiles should be

treated with RLA Universal
Primer
2TES1
C2TES1
C2TFS1
C2S1
C1S1T
C2S1ET
C1S1T
C2S1
C2S1ET
WALLS
Cement Render
(Masonry)
X8 Multi Purpose
Lataflex Gold
335 Premium
C1TES1
C1TES1
C2TES1
Kerabond Plus
& Isolastic
C2TS2
Keraquick
C2FTS1
Supa Nova
Nova Mastic White
Nova Ezy Non Slip
C1E
C2S1TE
C2S1TE
Flexibond NS
Just 2 EZY
RLA Mastic
C1S1T
C2S1T
C1S1T
Plasterboard
X8 Multi Purpose
Lataflex Gold
#15 Multi Mastic*
* Internal only
C1TES1
C1TES1
D1TE

Tixobond Fine S1 C1TES1
Mapemastic Easy D1TE
Nova Mastic White

Nova Ezy Non Slip
Nova Magic
C2S1TE
C2S1TE
C2S1TE
Flexibond NS
RLA Mastic
Supreme NS
C1S1T
C1S1T
D1TE
C2TES1
Granirapid
Kerabond Plus &
Isolastic
Nova Mastic White +

Nova Mix Additive
Nova Magic
Uni Nova
C2S1TE
C2S1TE
C2S2TE
Just-2-Ezy
C2S1T
RLA Mastic +
Uniflex
C2S1T
Tilebond Extra +
Uniflex
C2S1
Contact the manufacturer for

project specific advice.
WALL Nova Magic

FLOOR Nova Magic
C2S1TE
C2S1TE
Supa Nova + Nova Rapid C1

Nova Mastic + Nova Rapid C2S1T
Nova Magic + Nova Rapid C2S1T
MISCELLANEOUS
Swimming
Pools &
Other Total
Immersion
Locations
335 Premium
3701 Latex/X8
Multi Purpose
4237/PermaColor
Grout
Slim thickness
tile or panel
3-5mm
WALL & FLOOR

335 Premium
335 Premium Rapid
LATAPOXY 300
C2TES1
C2FS1
C2TS2
C2FTS1
C2TES1
C2TFS1
R2
WALL
FLOOR
Contact LATICRETE for further

info.
Floor tiling to
receive floor
traffic on same
day of tiling

290 Super
335 Premium Rapid
LATAPOXY 300
C2TFS1
C2TFS1
R2
Keraquick &
Latex Plus
Keraquick
Adesilex P4
C2FTS2
C2FTS1
C2F
Shower Floors
X8 Multi Purpose
4237/211
335 Premium
C1TES1
C2S1
C2TES1
Kerabond Plus &

Isolastic
Granirapid
C2TS2
C2FS1
Vitrified
products
(Porcelain)
4-XLT (For extra

large tile )
Lataflex Gold
335 Premium
C1TES1
C1TES1
C2TES1
Kerabond Plus &

Isolastic
C2TS2
Granirapid
C2FS1
Granite/Marble

290 Super
C2TFS1
335 Premium Rapid C2TFS1
LATAPOXY 310 Stone
Adhesive
R2T
Keralastic T
Kerapoxy
Granirapid
** Contact LATICRETE for

information regarding moisture
sensitive tile and stone
R2
R2T
C2FS1
Commercial FS
C2S1FTE
C2S1TE
C2S1TE
C2S2TE
RLA Tileflex
Just 2 Ezy
Techbond
C1S1T
C2S1T
C2S1ET

Nova Magic
C2S2TE
Uni Nova
C2S1TE
RLA Tileflex
Moreflex
Techbond
C1S1T
C1S1T
C2S1ET

Nova Magic
C2S1TE
Uni Nova
C2S1TE
Just-2-Ezy +
Uniflex
C2S1T
Techbond
C2S1ET
Commercial FS* C2S1FTE
Nova Mastic White

Nova Magic
Uni Nova
* for moisture sensitive

stone
Eco Prim Grip
Application
Multi-purpose, ready-to-use
acrylic resin and inert silica
based bonding promoter and
primer, with extremely low
emission level of volatile
organic compounds (VOC)
Ready for use, quick and easy to apply by

roller or flat brush.
Multi-purpose product: excellent bonding
promoter for render applied on concrete and
masonry substrates and for smoothing and
levelling compounds and adhesives for ceramics
applied on old internal ceramic and stone floors.
Completely harmless for floor layers:
NO SOLVENTS
practically zero emission of volatile organic
compounds.
EMICODE
GEV
Our environmental commitment

More than 150 Mapei products help project designers
and contractors building innovative projects,
which are LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental
Design) certified by the U.S. Green Building Council
Freecall: 1800 652 666

Email: sales@mapei.com.au
Scan here to download the data sheet
FE ATURED PRODU CTS
Aqua-Seal Gold + Rapid Seal

This premium natural look penetrating sealer utilises C6 fluoro-seal technology to protect against
contamination caused by oil, grease or grime. This safe, non-toxic, non-flammable product cures
in four hours. Aqua-Seal Gold + Rapid Seal also inhibits mould, mildew and bacterial growth. No
volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are emitted. It can be used internally or externally on all types
of stone and tile in residential and commercial environments.
AQUA-SEAL 02 9521 4000
www.aqua-seal.com.au
PERMACOLOR Select
PERMACOLOR Select is an advanced high performance
cement grout that offers the industrys first dispersible dry
pigment solution. PERMACOLOR Select is designed for
virtually all types of residential and commercial installations
and offers optimum performance on the most demanding
exterior or interior applications. Easy to mix, grout and clean,
PERMACOLOR Select is fast setting. Available in 40 lifestyle
colours, it carries the Laticrete Lifetime System warranty.
LATICRETE
1800 331 012
EG 15 Epoxy Grout
Epoxy is considered the first choice for high performing grout
but historically unpopular to install.EG15 changes all that
Ardex EG 15 is a high performance, three-part epoxy grout
designed for situations that require standards of hygiene, high
chemical and physical resistance. It can be used in joints from
1.5mm up to 15mm wide on walls and floors.
Ideal for wet areas including swimming and hydrotherapy
pools, with water wash up, Ardex EG 15 is exceptionally easier
to clean than other epoxy grouts during applications.
Ardex EG 15 is available with eight colour packs; Black,
Charred Ash, Havana, Magellan Grey, Misty Grey, Slate Grey,
Travertine and White.
ARDEX AUSTRALIA
1300 788 780
www.ardexaustralia.com
Mapeimastic Easy
Mapeimastic Easy is a ready to use paste adhesive that can be used to adhere
most types of ceramic tile, including porcelain, to interior walls and floors. Suitable
backgrounds include: concrete, plasterboard and cement sheeting. The product
cannot be used in pools or areas where tiles are totally immersed in water: however,
Mapeimastic Easy is ideal for use in intermittent wet conditions such as shower
surrounds. Significantly Mapeimastic has no vertical slip, courtesy of its high initial
grab, which ensures that wall tiles up to 300 x 600mm will not slip. Tiles can be
precisely installed without the use of spacer pegs; furthermore, the adhesives extended
open time permits minor adjustments to be made. This solvent free product exceeds the
criteria required for Green Star certification.
MAPEI AUSTRALIA
07 3276 5000 www.mapei.com.au
www.laticrete.com.au
Join the Elite
Elite ColourGrout
Davco Elite ColourGrout

for one of the finer details
Beautiful design is achieved by those

who look for quality in the finest details
Davco Elite ColourGrout is a premium performance grout with superior smoothness
and maximum colour consistency that beautifully complements high quality natural
stone, mosaic, ceramic and porcelain tiles. Perfect for bathrooms:
n
n
n
Available in a range of ten on-trend colours

Mould and bacteria resistant
Water repellent
n
n
n
Resistant to efflorescence
1-8mm joints
Also suitable for outdoors
FE ATURED PRODU CTS
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
World ceramic tile production
rises
After Care range protect, enhance, renew

The new Ardex After Care range has been developed by Australias experts
in engineering solutions for tiling and flooring. These five products have been
specifically engineered to protect the floor from spills, enhance the beauty of
the surface and remove staining to keep floors as good as new.
The range consists of a Tile and Grout Finishing Sealer, Tile and Grout
Enhancing Sealer, Tile and Grout Multipurpose Cleaner, Tile and Grout Heavy
Duty Cleaner and a Tile and Grout Problem Solver. Recommended for use in
both internal and external applications, all products are available in 1L and
4L sizes. (ACP 25, 1L only). The Ardex After Care range is designed to work
together to provide total reliability and high performance
ARDEX AUSTRALIA
1300 788 780
www.ardexaustralia.com
Hydragrout Plus
Epoxy is considered
the first choice for high
performing grout RLA
Polymers recently released
Hydragrout Plus, a high
performance grout, which
is designed for internal
and external application
in joint widths ranging
from 1mm to 15mm. As
the name implies this new
grout has hydrophobic
properties, which aid in its
resistance to efflorescence.
It can be used to grout the
vast majority of ceramic,
natural stone and glass
products, including mosaic.
Hydragout Plus sets and
dries quickly. It complies
with As ISO 13007.1 2013 Class CG2 WA. It is
available in 2.5kg and 10
kg bags.
RLA POLYMERS
1800 242931
www.rlagroup.com.au
Ceramic World Review (Italy)

recently published its World
Production and Consumption of
Ceramic Tiles report. This report
was compiled by Acimac, the Italian
Research department and covers the
ten year global trends up to 2014.
In 2014, global production and
consumption continued to expand,
albeit more slowly. Total production
reached 12.4 billion square metres, a
3.6% increase over 2013.
Want more inspiration?

Registration is now open for
DesignBUILD 2016, Australias
destination for the landscape and
outdoor, structural and materials,
interior fixtures and finishes and
technology products.
Find
the
latest
product
innovations and inspiration for
your next project from 4 to 6 May
at the Melbourne Convention and
Exhibition Centre.
Registration is free for all
architecture, building, construction
and design professionals.
RAK fully acquires Iran unit

RAK, one of the worlds premier
producers of ceramic tile, recently
announced that it has fully acquired
its subsidiary in Iran.
RAK is based in the United
Arab Emirates (UAE) and, as close
neighbours to Iran, the company will
anticipate that major benefits will
accrue, once the financial sanctions
against Iran are lifted on July 14,
following the recent agreement,
which placed limits on Irans nuclear
activity.
RAK products are distributed in
Australia by Prestige Tiles, whose
global distribution outlets exceed
160. In a company statement RAK
announced it has a long term
vision for the Iranian market both
domestically and as an export centre
in Central Asia as the sanctions
regime gets lifted.
LOCAL NEWS
Continued growth at Ardex
Ardex Australia has announced the
appointment of Fabian Morgan as
the Chief Operating Officer of Ardex
Australia.
Mr Morgan has been with Ardex
for eight years and was previously
the Sales and Marketing Director.
He recently completed a six month
role exchange with Jesse David,
President of Ardex Americas and his
new appointment highlights Ardexs
ongoing commitment to internal
leadership development within the
Ardex Group
In his new role, Mr Morgan will
have the responsibility of General
Manager, Ardex Australia, reporting
to Ian Forster, who will continue
his duties as Regional Managing
Director, Asia Pacific and as a
member of the Global Management
Committee.
Mr Morgan said: I look forward
to continuing the growth that
Ardex has experienced. It is great
to see the ongoing commitment
that our shareholders are making
in the Australian market Ardexs
investment in our region has never
been higher. It is exciting times
and we look forward to several
announcements soon.
Mr Morgan has recently appointed
Raewyn Hughes to the position
Category Manager Tiling and
Flooring Systems. Ms Hughes has
been with Ardex for seven years and
will be expanding her role to include
all flooring categories.
Raewyn has led our tiling
products category for the past
five years and her experience in
the professional channels will be
invaluable to the growth planned,
Morgan said.
Beaumont Tiles continues

growth
Beaumont Tiles is set to realise 20%
growth over the next 12 months.
Managing Director of Beaumont
Tiles, Bob Beaumont, said the growth
is being fuelled by the business
drive to expand, complemented by
healthier construction trends and a
growing appetite by Australians to

renovate. Beaumont Tiles is aiming
for a $250 million turnover by the
end of 2016.
Beaumont Tiles also announced
the launch of a high end dedicated
channel for the commercial market
tailored to builders designers and
architects. Called The Beaumont
Studio, the initiative will see the
introduction of four new Beaumont
shopfronts geared for this market.
In the past 12 months, Beaumont
Tiles has moved 99,775 tonnes of tiles
(from local and overseas suppliers),
more than 13,000 tonnes over the
previous year. The biggest growth
market has been NSW due to organic
and market growth in line with active
commercial and residential markets.
Beaumont Tiles has an aggressive
growth story in Queensland with a
$10 million plus investment in the
state in 2016. This will include the
opening of another six retail stores
and the construction of a massive
12,500 m2 distribution centre
opening in the Brisbane suburb of
Rochedale in March.
The distribution centre will sit on
a major north-south arterial with
easy access to the western corridor
via Logan motorway (situating
Beaumont Tiles closer to the wharves)
and will service all of Queensland
and Northern NSW.
Mr Beaumont said across its
national network, Beaumont Tiles
plans an additional sixteen stores in
the next 12 months with an emphasis
on growth in New South Wales and
Victoria.
Our distribution strategy is
focussed on getting the best possible
product to the customer in a way
NEWS
that suits them no matter who that

customer is, Mr Beaumont said.
Our brand and product mix has
certainly evolved and so has the
Australian appetite for designer looks
and trends. Weve seen innovations in
tile manufacturing that has meant we
can offer an incredibly diverse range
at prices even for the more premium
product that are affordable.
Its an exciting time for Beaumont
Tiles with the introduction of The
Beaumont Studio a playground
of cutting-edge, experimental and
dynamic ideas all in the one place
because it marks our formal entry
into the high design market and
shows our commitment to deliver
industry best outcomes, he said.
Mr Beaumont said its state-ofthe-art warehousing was being
constructed for efficiency, safety and
speed.
Were not just investing to hold
larger quantities of stock but to get
out product closer to our customer
without the need to transfer from
interstate warehouses. Reducing our
costs means we can maintain market
leading price points.
Beaumonts first Style Studio is set
to open in Brisbanes Fortitude Valley
in early 2016. This will be followed by
Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide.
Apology and correction

Pages 70 and 71 of Issue #87 of the
Tile Today magazine contained an
interview with Mr Troy Hogan, the

Managing Director of CTA. That
article contained a prominent picture
of the building, partly occupied by
CTA, which is located at 2 Prime
Drive, Seven Hills.
It has been brought to our
attention that the picture provided
had been digitally altered to replace
the signage displayed at the front of
the building, which refered to Marble
Plus, with signage referring to Sika.
Sika is not a tenant of those premises
and never has been. Marble Plus is
the main tenant of those premises.
Tile Today apologises to the
owners of the premises and to Marble
Plus for publishing the inaccurate
information providedto us. Shown
is a true, unaltered photo of the
premises.
Shining Bright
In 2015, Ardex Australia announced
a new corporate friendship with the
McGrath Foundation with a view
to raising money to train and place
McGrath Breast Cancer Nurses in
communities across Australia.
Ardex Australia will donate a

percentage of sales on selected tile
adhesives to the McGrath Foundation
during promotional months, and will
join participating retailers, tilers and
builders in a range of fundraising
events.
last November, an Ardex and
McGrath gala evening was held
with a fitting theme of Shine Bright,
The sea of pink included Ardex
employees, customers and suppliers
as well as friends and family.
The guest speaker, Dr Geoff
Wilson, was the first person to
trek across the Antarctic continent
without assistance in a huge effort
to raise money for the McGrath
Foundation.
advertiser
advisory
index panel
ACT Australia
20, 66, 78, 88 & 89
Aqua-Seal
11 & 73
Ardex75
B.A.T. Trims
53
The 2016 Editorial Advisory Board includes

leading authorities on standards, installation
practices and products, architecture and
developing trends and technologies.
Peter Carter
President, Australian Tile Council
Bostik79
CDK Stone
5, 31, 55 & 62
19
Construction Technologies Australia 12, 13 & 63

Distinctive Tile Imports
60
DW Tiles
39
Europe Imports
25
Everstone
7 & 21
Johnson Tiles
33
Laticrete69
PUBLISHER
Vicky Cammiade
vicky.cammiade@elitepublishing.com.au
Raewyn Hughes
Ardex Australia
GROUP MANAGING EDITOR

Jennifer Curtis
jennifer.curtis@elitepublishing.com.au
Peter Hartog
Jackson Teece Chesterman & Willis Architects
Carl Strautins
Safe Environments
Alex Njoo
Architect and member of ARB, Victoria
Fred Gray
Laticrete Australia
Mapei83
Metro Tiles
35 & 57
National Ceramic Industries

Novatex
Parex Group (Davco)
85
Prestige Tiles
41
Gary Jones
Eco Ceramic Faade Systems
Richard Mackenzie
Ocean & Merchant
NATIONAL SALES & MARKETING MANAGER

Ashley Cooper
ashley.cooper@elitepublishing.com.au
CIRCULATION MANAGER
Georgia Gilmour
georgia.gilmour@elitepublishing.com.au
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Uber Creative Annette Epifanidis
Mobile: 0416 087 412
annette@ubercreative.com.au
www.ubercreative.com.au
PRE-PRESS
Prominent Digital
PRINTED BY
Prominent Press Pty Ltd
ELITE PUBLISHING CO PTY LTD
PUBLISHERS OF:
Flooring Magazine, Discovering Stone Magazine, Surfaces
& Finishes Magazine, TileToday Magazine, Supplier
Magazine and FB Magazine.
RLA81
Southern Cross Ceramics
CONTRIBUTING EDITOR
Anthony Stock
anthony.stock@elitepublishing.com.au
PRODUCTION
For artwork and production enquiries please
email: production@elitepublishing.com.au
Andrew Nunn
Parex Group
9
87 & Insert
Proudly produced and printed in Australia

ELITE PUBLISHING CO PTY LTD
ABN: 27 006 876 419
PO BOX 800, Templestowe, Victoria,
Australia 3106
Ph:+ 61 3 9890 0815
Fax: + 61 3 9890 0087
Email: info@elitepublishing.com.au
Website: www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au
Naomi Abood
Everstone Pty Ltd
Cinajus91
Colortile Distributors
TILETODAY
Back Cover
Starstile45
Tile Power
Specialist B2B Publisher
2&3
Trade Port International
Leading the Industry
Supporting the industry since 1981
Endorsed by Australian Tile Council

www.australiantilecouncil.com.au
27
ELITE PUBLISHING CO PTY LTD. All rights reserved. No

part of this publication maybe reproduced, transmitted
or copied in any form or by any means, electronic or
mechanical including photocopying, recording, or any
information storage or retrieval system, without the
express prior written consent of Elite Publishing Co
Pty Ltd. Viewpoints, opinions, claims, etc expressed in
articles appearing in this publication are those of the
authors. The Publishers accept no responsibility for the
information supplied or for claims made by companies
or their representatives regarding product performance,
etc or for any errors, omissions, misplacement,
alterations, or any subsequent changes, or for any
consequences of reliance on this information or this
publication.
TILETODAY
To discuss advertising
opportunities, contact:
To discuss advertising opportunities in

Tile Today Magazine or online, please
contact:
Ashley Cooper
E: ashley.cooper@
elitepublishing.com.au
Ph: 03 9890 0815
Fax: 03 9890 0087
Ashley Cooper
National Sales & Marketing Manager
E: ashley.cooper@elitepublishing.com.au
Ph: 03 9890 0815
Fax: 03 9890 0087
www.infotile.com
Please note: Shade variation is an inherent

feature of tile production. The Publisher is not
liable for any discrepancy between images
published in TileToday and actual products.
Sandstone
Sandstone
Granite
GraniteLimestone
Limestone
Bluestone
Bluestone
Travertine Basalt
Travertine Basalt
DISPLAY,
SALES
& WAREHOUSE
SYDNEY
DISPLAY,
SALES
& WAREHOUSE
SYDNEY
32 Bryant
Street,
Padstow
NSW
2211
32 Bryant
Street,
Padstow
NSW
2211
Ph: Ph:
02 9773
5677
Fax:
02
9773
5644
02 9773 5677 Fax: 02 9773 5644
Email:
info@cinajus.com
Email:
info@cinajus.comOnline
OnlineCatalogue:
Catalogue:www.cinajus.com
www.cinajus.com
INFINITY
feature walls
scceramics.com

Tile Today Magazine Australian Edition, Feb 2016

Uploaded by

Document Information

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Tile Today Magazine Australian Edition, Feb 2016

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

TILE TODAY

FULLY ENDORSED BY THE AUSTRALIAN TILE COUNCIL

ADHESIVE SELECTION GUIDE 2016

Do YOU Fit The

Maximum support, rebates and benefits for independants

Were Tile Power Limited

Tile Power Limited - 18 Kelso Crescent, Moorebank - NSW 2170

FULLY INSTALLED WARRANTY

Dynasty Warranty is an industry

Only available to members of Tile Power

Tile Power Limited - 18 Kelso Crescent Moorebank NSW 2170

WE KNOW OUR TRADE

ARCHITECTURE & SPECIFICATION

READ ON THE GO: Scan code

1-Piece System that virtually eliminates lippage during tile installation

White 3mm - 6.5mm thickness

Blue 6.5mm - 9.5mm thickness

Red 9.5mm - 13mm thickness

Position strap and cap

Lay the tile

Attach setting tool

P The system is easy to learn and use at any skill level

Tuscan Leveling System

Tension until level

Wait for glue to dry

Remove strap and cap

P Prevents tiles from moving whilst drying

Tuscan Leveling System

Tuscan Leveling System

Phone 03 8552 6000 to find your nearest stockist.

Under new management

MEET THE TEAM

The ALLMARBLE series by

FRONT COVER IMAGE

To subscribe to Tile Today magazine

A$85 per year

Digital Magazine FREE Online at

6 | TILE TODAY #88 | www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au

Ceramic tile imports:

Fig. 1 Australian Dollar Exchange Rate 2013 -2015

welve months ago, data

Unglazed ceramic tile imports

Source: Reserve Bank of Australia

8 | TILE TODAY #88 | www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au

Fig.2 Ceramic Tile Imports 2015 (Square Metres) by HS Category

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics

Fig.3 Percentage of State Total

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics

Fig. 4 Total Ceramic Tile Imports 2015

United Arab Emirates

United States of America

Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics

10 | TILE TODAY #88 | www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au

Stone & Tile Problems?

Industrial Strength Problem Solver

3 High Viscosity Heavy Duty Cleaner & Problem Solver

Efflorescence Cleaner & Inhibitor

3 Helps Remove Salts from Stone, Grout & Masonry

Anti Slip Treatment - DIY Formulation

3 Makes Slippery Surfaces Safer & Slip Resistant

Prevent & Remove Grout Haze

3 Makes Grout Clean Up Process Easy & Simple

Sealers Cleaners Problem Solvers Grout Colourants Stone Restoration

Fig.5 Top 10 Source Countries 2001 - 2015