Material Engineering
Comprehensive technical specifications for backsplash materials and installation requirements.
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Ceramic Tile Properties
- Water Absorption: <3%
- Breaking Strength: >250 lbf
- Chemical Resistance: Class A
- Scratch Hardness: 7 Mohs
- Thermal Shock: ±50°C
- PEI Rating: Class 4-5
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Natural Stone Specs
- Density: 144-168 lb/ft³
- Compressive: 7,500-20,000 psi
- Absorption Rate: 0.2-0.45%
- Flexural Strength: 1,000-2,000 psi
- Acid Resistance: Class C
- Slip Resistance: >0.42 DCOF
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Glass Tile Parameters
- Thickness: 4-8mm typical
- Impact Resistance: 18-22 J
- Light Transmission: 85-92%
- Thermal Expansion: 8.5x10⁻⁶/°C
- Chemical Durability: Class AA
- UV Resistance: No change
Installation Standards
Critical specifications for proper backsplash installation:
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Substrate Requirements
- Flatness: 1/8" per 10'
- Moisture Content: <2.5%
- Surface pH: 7-9
- Cure Time: 28 days min
- Deflection: L/360 max
- Gap Treatment: 1/8" min
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Adhesive Specifications
- Shear Strength: >300 psi
- Open Time: 20-30 minutes
- Coverage: 50-80 ft²/gal
- Thickness: 3/32"-1/8"
- Cure Time: 24-48 hours
- VOC Content: <50 g/L
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Grout Parameters
- Joint Width: 1/16"-1/8"
- Compressive: >3,000 psi
- Water Absorption: <5%
- Flexural: >1,000 psi
- Shrinkage: <0.2%
- Stain Resistance: Class A
Design Considerations
Technical parameters affecting backsplash design and performance:
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Layout Specifications
- Height Range: 4-18 inches
- Overlap: 1/8" minimum
- Corner Treatment: 45° miter
- Edge Profile: 1/4" radius
- Pattern Repeat: 6-12 inches
- Grout Line: 1/16"-3/16"
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Environmental Factors
- Temperature Range: 40-140°F
- Humidity Tolerance: 20-80%
- UV Exposure: 1000+ hours
- Chemical Exposure: pH 3-12
- Impact Rating: 0.3-0.5 J/m²
- Moisture Barrier: Class I
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Maintenance Requirements
- Cleaning pH: 6.5-8.5
- Sealer Duration: 3-5 years
- Grout Sealing: Annual
- Surface Hardness: 5-7 Mohs
- Stain Resistance: Class 5
- Chemical Resistance: A+