Care + Maintenance
- Pre-Grouting Protection: NA
- Initial Cleaning: Fila Cleaner
- Protection Natural Effect: Fila MP90
- Protection Color Enhancing: Fila Stone Plus
- Standard Maintenance: Fila Cleaner
- Special Maintenance: NA
Applications
- Exterior Cladding: Yes
- Exterior Pavers: Yes
- Interior Walls: Yes
- Interior Floors: Yes
- Kitchen Countertops: Yes
- Other Countertops: Yes
- Wet Areas: Yes
- Traffic: Yes
Important Information
<p>This material is part of the Vegas Rock collection, a series of Silver Cradle to Cradle certified natural stones. Sierra Smoke meets the requirements set by the LEED building rating system and may be used to earn LEED MR Credits 5.1, 5.2 and ID 1. As with most quartzites, this material has naturally occurring cracks and fissures. Expect to see factory repairs. The quality of the repair is dependent upon the factory of origin, the fabricator of the stone and the installer. Due to its absorbency and mineral make-up, this material has a tendency to warp during installation. To prevent warpage, use a rapid setting adhesive such as GraniRapid from Mapei or similar. Color enhancers such as Fila Stone Plus are very effective at bringing out a deeper more vibrant color in this material.</p>Abrasion Resistance
Medium
This material has medium abrasion resistance. It rates as a 3.5-6.5 on the Mohs scale. It is more resistant to scratching than materials with a low abrasion resistance rating (i.e. certain marbles and limestones, onyx, schist and slate). It is not as resistant to scratching as materials with a high abrasion resistance rating (i.e. granite, quartzite and porcelain tile).
Absorption
High
This material has a medium to high absorption rate. Always seal this material prior to use. Properly seal the material prior to grouting by applying several coats of sealant or until water beads up on the surface. Use Fila PRW200 to avoid staining from grout residues and specify a grout color that is similar to the color of the stone to avoid color bleeding into the material. Use low moisture setting materials. To reduce the appearance of stains, always wipe up spills immediately. Oil and highly-pigmented liquids can penetrate and stain the stone and may need poultice to remove the stain.
Acid Sensitivity
Minimal
This material is minimally sensitive to acids. It will not acid etch or lose its surface sheen when exposed to acidic liquids such as lemons or tomatoes.
Freeze-Thaw
All Exteriors
Due to this material's Minimal or Moderate Absorption rating, its Abrasion Resistance rating, color fastness and tensile strength, this material is suitable for all exterior applications where freeze-thaw cycles are a concern. Use MIA standards for thickness in exteriors and consult an engineer regarding fastening systems and thickness/tensile strength required for your project. This material will patina.
