Marazzi Tile is recognized around the world as a leading manufacturer of decorative indoor and outdoor tile applications. The style used on our show to tile the backyard sidewalk is called “Etrusca.”

Etrusca’s authentic, natural stone appeal is achieved by American Marazzi Tile’s latest glazing technology. Multiple glaze applications, sophisticated shade variation and random flashing, combined with a rustic, distressed surface make Etrusca’s beauty like no other.

Ceramic tile is rated according to its glaze durability and its coefficient of friction. As for durability, tile is rated from a one to a four, four being the most durable. Etrusca is rated a four plus (4+), which is ideal for any heavy traffic environment. The coefficient of friction is the ability to withstand slipping. This is required in any commercial environment. While Etrusca is rated highest in its friction coefficient, Marazzi recommends that consumers be careful because any tile surface can be slippery when wet.

When considering ceramic tile for an exterior application, some attention should be used depending on the climate of the application. If the installation is in an area that falls into a freeze thaw climate, the tile should be frost-resistant. Etrusca is a frost-resistant tile and can be used without the feat of thermo shock resulting in a broken or cracked installation.

In this segment, we also used Fast Set thin-set mortar. When using a rapid set material, you need to work quickly so that the mortar does not set up or “skim” over. If you are inexperienced in tile setting, you might opt to use a standard thin-set until you have exercised and perfected your skills. It is also advised to work in small areas to avoid the mortar setting up.

The advantage to using a Fast Set mortar is that it allows you to grout the installation within two to four hours after installation as opposed to a 24-hour waiting period which is required using standard thin-sets.