Luigi’s Answer: Curvature occurs in almost all tiles due to the firing process with which they are made.
Discussion:
The centre of the tile is the highest point with the ends being the lowest. Curvature generally becomes noticeable when tilers attempt to brick lay tiles at 50% overlay. The global manufacturing recommendation is to not overlap any large size tiles more than 33%. Curvature is normally not an issue when the tiles are laid block stacked as the low points (ends) and high points (middle) align tile to tile. 50% overlap will mean the lowest point is aligned against the highest point of the next tile, leaving a lip or ridge between the two.
What to do if: The safest way to avoid this issue is to ensure your tiler does not overlap more than 33%. Dry lay a few tiles to ensure there is no problem before instalation. Prevention is better than cure.
The use of tile levelling systems will help minimise height differences but these won’t work if there is insufficient adhesive behind the tile…. make sure your tiler is not blob gluing!
Leveling Products
