Prevent Efflorescence & Picture Framing on Your Tiles? Follow These Simple Steps.

Protect your tiling investment with these expert tips and trusted Technokolla and Fila Solutions products.

Efflorescence, picture framing, and surface staining are common headaches for homeowners, builders, and even experienced tilers—especially when working with natural stone or moisture-sensitive tiles. These issues can take away from the beauty of your installation and, if left unchecked, may even require a full reinstallation.

Here's the good news: preventing these problems is completely doable with the right system. Think of it as an insurance policy for your tiling project—adding a little extra protection now can save you a world of pain later. Here's how:

Start by protecting your substrate. Moisture rising through the substrate is one of the main causes of picture framing and efflorescence.

What to use:
Technokolla Rasolastik Evo – This waterproofing membrane is a single-component, fibre-reinforced cement-based mortar designed to waterproof and protect concrete surfaces in both residential and commercial applications. Rasolastik Evo has hydrostatic properties and protects against rising moisture. Suitable for Waterproofing and protecting concrete slabs, underground outdoor walls and waterworks such as swimming pools, basins, tanks, concrete pipes, reservoirs, and canals, as well as drinking water.

How to apply it:

1.       Prepare your surface: Ensure the substrate is clean, dry, and free of dust or loose debris.

2.       Mix thoroughly: Follow the mixing ratios precisely as per the Technokolla datasheet.

3.       Apply two coats:

―      Apply the first coat with a roller or brush. Allow it to dry fully (approx. 4–6 hours).

―      Apply the second coat in the opposite direction to the first. This ensures full coverage and a continuous waterproof layer.

4.       Allow to cure: Wait at least 12–24 hours (depending on site conditions) before tiling over the membrane.

This not only forms a moisture barrier but also helps your adhesives and grouts perform better by reducing the amount of water movement in the system.

Natural stone is porous and prone to absorbing moisture and contaminants from the back, sides, and surface. This can result in uneven colouration (picture framing) or even structural issues over time.

What to use:
Fila PW10 – a five-sided penetrating sealer specifically designed for the back and sides of natural stone tiles before installation.

Why it matters:

ü   It blocks moisture and adhesive migration from the substrate into the stone.

ü   It prevents salts from surfacing, which is the cause of efflorescence.

ü   It significantly reduces the risk of discolouration and picture framing.

How to apply it:

1.       Lay your natural stone tiles face-down on a clean surface.

2.       Using a roller or brush, apply Fila PW10 to the back and all four sides of each tile.

3.       Allow them to dry thoroughly before proceeding with installation.

Once your tiles are laid and grouted, it's time for one final layer of protection. This step helps guard against water, oils, dirt, and everyday wear—especially in bathrooms, kitchens, or outdoor spaces.

What to use:
One of Fila's premium topical or penetrating sealers, such as:

v   Fila W68 – for protecting porous material, such as rough-finish natural stone, terracotta and cement.

v   Fila MP90 – for invisible protection on polished stone, porcelain, or terracotta.

v   Fila Stone Plus – to enhance colour and protect unpolished natural stone.

v   Fila Wet Look – for a semi-gloss, enhanced finish on porous stone or terracotta.

Benefits:

ü   Makes cleaning easy and effective.

ü   Prevents staining and dullness.

ü   Preserve the appearance and longevity of your tiles.

Application tips:

v   Always test on a small area first.

v   Apply evenly with a clean cloth, sponge, or low-pressure sprayer.

v   Wipe off excess before it dries on the surface.

v   Let it cure fully as per product instructions.

Visual Guide

Here's a simple step-by-step visual for quick reference:

1.           Waterproof the substrate with Technokolla Rasolastik Evo (2 coats).

2.           Seal the back and sides of natural stone with Fila PW10.

3.           Lay and grout your tiles.

4.           Finish with a surface sealer like MP90 Eco Plus or Stone Plus.

In Summary

Preventing efflorescence and picture framing is easy when you follow a system:

v   Use Rasolastik Evo to waterproof the substrate.

v   Use Fila PW10 to seal five sides of natural stone tiles before laying.

v   Use a Fila surface sealer to protect your finished tile work.

Taking these precautions means you can enjoy flawless tile finishes that stay beautiful for years to come

At Surtec, we stock the full Technokolla and Fila Solutions range and offer expert advice across all our branches.

Contact us at 0800 NZ TRADE  |  contact@surtec.co.nz

You can also visit our Fila Solutions page for more information and videos.