Material Handling Instructions

Upon Delivery
Take normal precautions when handling ceramic glazed material by wearing approved protective eye wear, gloves, and clothing as directed in the Material Safety Data Sheet. Any questions call your supplier.

Delivery of Material at the Job Site
• Do not place material directly on the ground for storage.
• Do not double stack cubes of material.
• Check delivered units for accuracy. Call before use if any problem or discrepancy.
• Never touch areas where the ceramic glaze has been broken or chipped to avoid cuts.
• Sequence material in the order of use at the staging area as it is delivered.
• Keep units in the factory packaging (keep in paper trays with dividers) until ready to be placed in the wall by the bricklayer.
• Do not use brick tongs.
• Do not pitch or toss units.
• Stack unused material in a protected area and cover to keep clean and dry.

Preparation for Installation (also read above information)
• Lay-out units before placing units in the wall.
• Checkpoints marked every 3-4 feet to ensure proper joint spacing.
• Lay out first course without mortar to determine head joints. Avoid cutting when possible.
• If cut pieces are necessary, try to use at door jambs, corners or non-visible areas.

Installation of Ceramic Glazed Units (also read above information)
• Always follow the BIA, Brick Industry Association, recommendations.
• Interior construction should be well lighted.
• Do not use metal tools on glazed faces.
• No glazed faces in the mortar joints unless scored with a saw blade for bonding.
• Build the corner or lead the same as with face brick.
• Keep mortar joints uniform at 3/8" (or as specified), except for minor variations as required to maintain bond.
• Use full, unfurrowed bed and head joints.
• If you are not sure about a unit, ask before placement.
• Look for uniform color as you go.
• Chipped or damaged units should be set aside for use as "cuts" as job progresses.
• Never use a cut piece less than 4" in length on SGFT.
• Cutting, drilling and repairing directions available from supplier.

On-Going Maintenance of Installed Units (also read above information)
• Use 1" (or larger) non-metallic jointer to strike joints when thumb print hard.
• After initial set (won't smear), clean area using a wood tool/stick to remove clumps of mortar. Then wipe wall with course rag (burlap, carpet, etc.). Shake rag to clean often.
• Do not use acid, abrasive powders or unauthorized cleaners.
• Protect cove base SGFT with a wooden 2x4.

End of Work Period (also read above information)
• Cover weather-exposed walls at end of each day or at the start of each shutdown period. Use non-staining, waterproof material and extend by at least 2' over each side of the wall. Anchor   securely.
• Protect finished walls by covering with 15# felt paper and erect wooden barriers to protect walls from construction traffic or material movement.
• Protect glazed face from exposure to things such as welding slag, harmful chemicals and sharp falling objects.

Planning Tips

Final Cleandown (Once Mortar Has Cured)