- Perhaps the most important is not to begin a project without reading the instructions. This is at the root of most problems. If you are confused, contact us and ask questions to ensure you install the product properly. Most of our instructions indicate that you should also follow industry standards, TCNA guidelines and local building codes. You should know what those are before commencing an installation.
- Do not use a product for an application that is not indicated in our literature. One example is not to use NobleSeal membranes as a wearing (walking) surface. Also, do not use Chloraloy Shower Pan Liner as a bonded membrane.
- Do not penetrate waterproofing membranes below the water level without properly repairing the penetration. One common area where this happens is on the interior side of the curb, where people often secure the membrane with nails and forget to seal the penetrations. It is recommended to secure the membrane on the outside face of the curb.
- Do not allow weep holes in a clamping ring drain to become plugged. Weep holes can get clogged with mortar, sealants, etc. Use pea gravel, broken tiles or a Positive Weep Protector to keep weep holes open.
- Do not forget that grout and thin-set are not waterproof. If creating decorative items such as niches and benches, remember to waterproof these items or use preformed items (such as Noble Niches and Benches) which are waterproof and ready-to-tile. The image below is of a shower bench that was not properly waterproofed and resulted in a mold issue.
- Do not try to embed NobleSeal sheet membranes into NobleBond 21 without waiting until the adhesive has flashed off liquids and become sufficiently tacky.
- Do not exceed deflection requirements for the flooring you are installing. NobleSeal sheet can bridge horizontal movement > 1/8”, but our membranes cannot protect tile from cracking due to deflection.
- Do not cut a drain hole that is wider than the opening in the drain body.
- If you are installing NobleSeal SIS, don’t forget to isolate perimeters and penetrations to prevent flanking noise.
- Crack isolation – Do not forget to install movement joints in the tile field. Follow TCNA detail EJ171.
- Remember to follow recommendations for exterior applications if an interior installation is exposed to sunlight or moisture.
- Do not hire contractors that are not qualified to install Noble sheet membranes. Noble Company does not have “certified installers”, but contractors should have experience and knowledge of industry standards, TCNA guidelines, local building codes and Noble’s current printed instructions. If you are a contractor and have concerns about aspects of a project, you should state those issues in written communication to the GC, architect or owner.
Pre-project advice with after-the-sale support is a hallmark of Noble Company’s customer philosophy. With experienced tile industry experts on staff, Noble is ready to help you plan your project, offer problem solving, and walk you through any size installation. Let us help to save you valuable time and money. Just call Noble toll free 1-800-878-5788, and ask for the Technical Support.



