An NTCA Webinar from November 24, 2024 provided an in-depth discussion on best practices for exterior tile installations. It was led by Mike Little, a 50-year veteran in the ceramic tile industry who currently serves as a commercial architectural service representative with Custom Building Products. His presentation covered the challenges, product selection, and installation methods critical for ensuring durable and successful exterior tile installations.
The importance of early collaboration
One of the key takeaways from the webinar was the importance of early collaboration between tile installers, architects, and designers. Little emphasized that installers should be involved as early as possible in the design process, particularly for exterior wall installations, to address critical issues such as deflection and structural movement. Different materials require specific deflection tolerances, and understanding these requirements ensures that exterior tile projects are built on a solid foundation, preventing long-term failures.
Choosing the right materials for exterior use
Little pointed out that not all tile and installation materials are suitable for exterior applications. Proper product selection is essential, considering factors such as freeze-thaw cycles, compatibility with surface materials, slip resistance (DCOF), and appropriate tile size for external applications. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the Tile Council of North America (TCNA) Handbook provide industry best practices for compliance, while the National Stone Institute sets specifications for dimensional stone used in exterior applications. The specifier plays a key role in ensuring materials align with project conditions, expected traffic, and environmental factors.
Installation methods and drainage considerations
Proper installation methods and drainage are crucial to prevent moisture buildup and efflorescence, both of which can compromise an installation’s longevity. Bonded mortar beds offer heavy-duty performance for exterior floors, while sloping and optional waterproofing membranes help manage water drainage. Exterior wall installations require cement backer boards, correctly-placed movement joints, and proper flashing with weep holes to allow for moisture evacuation. For pools and fountains, waterproofing membranes are mandatory to withstand continuous submersion, and grout must meet ANSI A118.7 standards to prevent efflorescence buildup. Surface slip resistance must also comply with safety codes.
Challenges in exterior tile installations
Adhesive selection plays a critical role in exterior installations. High-performance mortars and grouts with greater polymer content provide the necessary flexibility and strength to handle thermal expansion and contraction. Another major challenge is weather conditions, as exterior installations must be designed to withstand water intrusion, freeze-thaw cycles, extreme heat, and thermal cycling.
Effective water evacuation is essential in exterior surface designs. The faster and more efficiently water drains from a tiled surface, the lower the risk of freeze-thaw damage and efflorescence. Without proper movement joints, exterior tile installations are prone to cracking and failure. Inadequate movement joints are the leading cause of failure, and Little stressed the importance of following ANSI guidelines for joint placement.
Final takeaways
To ensure the success and longevity of exterior tile installations, installers should be involved early in the design process, ensuring that only ANSI-compliant materials are used. Proper drainage and movement joint guidelines should be strictly followed to prevent water damage, cracking, and efflorescence. By implementing these best practices, tile professionals can create durable, long-lasting exterior installations that withstand environmental challenges and maintain high performance over time.
Check out this webinar and more on NTCA’s YouTube channel.
Elena Grant
Elena Grant is the Assistant Executive Director of Marketing, Communications and Public Relations for the National Tile Contractors Association and Publisher of its publication TileLetter. Grant has over 20 years of experience leading marketing initiatives, programs, and operational enhancement strategies. As Publisher of TileLetter, she oversees all print and digital communications for the publication.
