Specifications
General Description
McIntyre LEGACY AND SHINO TILE are formed from wet clay, hand finished and hand glazed and single fired to 2400 degrees F. Each tile has a flat back and cushioned edge.
Standard Specifications
McIntyre Tile conforms to ANSI 137.1 as Special Purpose Tile. Our tiles are produced, graded and packed to our stated specifications. When requested by the purchaser prior to production, a Master Grade Certificate may be issued certifying compliance with properties mutually agreed upon by purchaser and McIntyre Tile. Generally, a Master Grade Certificate should be requested when the tile is specified for a commercial floor or any exterior use.
How to Specify
Glazed, high fired McIntyre LEGACY OR SHINO TILES in actual size __________________ (specify actual size) and color ___________________ (specify glaze name) as manufactured by McIntyre Tile Company, Healdsburg, California. Tile shall have a flat back, a cushioned edge, and shall be fully vitrified (absorption less than 3%). Tile shall conform to ANSI 137.1 as Special Purpose Tile. Allow 6-10 weeks production time at time of purchase order was received to production completion.
Availability
This tile is made to order and are therefore subject to production limitations and order volume fluctuations. For purposes of specification please check with the factory or your local distributor for verification of delivery.
Color Variation
Most McIntyre glaze colors vary from tile to tile, some more than others. These variations are intentional, resulting from our particular production methods and our choice of raw materials. When specifying a McIntyre glaze, always work from a sampling of 3 or more tiles which represent the range of color you can expect on the job.
Frost Proof
McIntyre Tile has a water absorption of less than 3% (vitreous) and is suitable for use in pools and spas for both interior and exterior applications.
Legacy and Shino Feature Crackle Glazes (Crazing)
Crackle glaze or crazing is one of the distinguishing features of the LEGACY and SHINO product line. The crackle is determined by the chemical formula of the glaze. The crackle effect may be emphasized or de-emphasized, but will always be present with these tiles. To emphasize the crackle, rub India ink or other staining material into the craze lines. When the desired effect is achieved, the tiles may be sealed with a penetrating sealer. Staining these crackle tiles is the responsibility of the owner or installer and not the manufacturer. Thoroughly test loose samples before general application or installation. The crackle effect may be de-emphasized but never removed by pre-sealing the tiles with a penetrating sealer before installation and periodically re-treating them. Crackle fracture lines will become more pronounced over time.
Installation
Installation procedures should conform to the Tile Council of America "Handbook for Ceramic Tile Installation" (current edition). The layout should be evenly spaced on each surface and maximize the use of full tiles. Grout joints should align. Avoid grouping tiles of the same hue or value. Choose stacks of tiles from several different cartons to achieve the best overall blend of color.
Sealing
Legacy and Shino tile should be sealed after installation to prevent discoloration of the crackle in the glaze surface.
Grout Space Allowance
McIntyre is sized modular with a square foot space, allowing a 3/16" grout joint throughout. A narrower grout spacing can be used including "tight", however, additional tiles will be required to cover a given area. Close grout spaces accentuate tile irregularities. When cutting tiles, use a diamond saw.
Grouts
Colored grout pigments can discolor the surface of any glazed tile. The hairline fractures in the LEGACY and SHINO glazes may absorb grout pigments. A penetrating sealer may be used before grouting to minimize staining from colored grout pigments. Always test before using. Do not apply any materials to your tile without first satisfying yourself, by testing, that the result will be satisfactory.
Custom Color Development
We specialize in custom color development. Generally, we can match the hue and sheen of a sample submitted. For a fixed development fee, we will conduct a series of glaze tests and make a prototype tile for submittal. Custom glazed tiles are surcharged 20%. Typically 2-4 weeks is needed for testing, however, please check with the factory for current development time in our glaze lab.
Durability Considerations
Depending on specific site conditions, all glazed tile are subject to wear over time. To determine the suitability for specific applications, each McIntyre glaze has been tested and ranked on the MOHS scale and classified according to hardness and recommended use. Light colors and matte glazes are a better choice in heavy use areas rather than dark colors and gloss finished glazes because scratches on the tile surface are less apparent. A means must be provided for people to clean abrasive materials off their shoes before walking on a glazed tile floor.
Maintenance
Minimal maintenance is required. Mild soaps should be sufficient for most cleaning. For persistent stains, stronger cleaners (even mild acids) may be used on the tile (except for Metallic glazes), but care must be taken to avoid contact with the grout, especially if a colored grout has been used. Test any cleaners before general use.