ACT Large Format Tile study plan
ACT Large Format Tile · Give each week a clear focus.
8 weeks · About 6 hours per week
Substrate Preparation and Evaluation
Define substrate flatness tolerances (e.g., 1/8 in. in 10 ft) and explain how to measure them with a straightedge and feeler gauge
Identify common substrate defects (deflection, contamination, moisture, cracks) and describe remediation methods
Explain the difference between substrate flatness and levelness and why flatness is critical for large format tile
List acceptable substrates for large format tile and their preparation requirements
Your checkpoint
Create a one-page checklist for evaluating a concrete substrate before large format tile installation, including tolerance values and test methods.
Materials, Mortars, and Adhesives
Compare mortar types (thin-set, medium-bed, large-and-heavy-tile) and their appropriate applications
Explain ANSI A118.4 and A118.15 performance requirements and how they relate to large format tile
Describe proper mixing procedures for mortars, including water ratio, slake time, and pot life
Identify when to use a primer or bonding agent and how to prepare the substrate for adhesion
Your checkpoint
Build a comparison table of at least five mortar products (including ANSI classification, recommended trowel size, and open time) suitable for large format tile.
Layout and Planning & Installation Techniques for Large Format Tile
Calculate layout to minimize cuts and avoid narrow slivers, using methods such as centering and grid layout
Demonstrate how to establish a datum line and square reference lines using the 3-4-5 method
Describe proper troweling technique (notched trowel size, back-buttering, directional troweling) for large format tile
Explain the importance of achieving full coverage (minimum 80% for dry areas, 95% for wet areas) and how to verify it
Your checkpoint
Produce a scaled layout plan for a 10 ft by 12 ft room using 24 in. by 48 in. tile, showing tile placement, cut sizes, and expansion joints.
Installation Techniques for Large Format Tile & Tile Leveling Systems and Lippage Control
Explain the causes of lippage and how to prevent it through substrate preparation, mortar consistency, and trowel technique
Describe different tile leveling systems (clip, wedge, spin) and their proper use
Demonstrate how to set large format tile with proper mortar coverage and minimal lippage
List the steps for installing large format tile on walls, including back-buttering and support
Your checkpoint
Write a step-by-step procedure for installing a 24 in. by 48 in. tile on a floor, including leveling system placement and lippage check.
Movement Accommodation and Joint Design
Explain the purpose of movement accommodation joints (expansion, control, isolation) and where they are required
Calculate the required joint width based on tile size and environmental conditions
Describe how to install movement joints using backer rod and sealant
Identify the difference between movement joints and grout joints and the role of each
Your checkpoint
Create a diagram showing the placement of movement joints in a large floor area (e.g., 30 ft by 40 ft) with dimensions and joint widths.
Waterproofing and Wet Area Applications
List the steps for waterproofing a shower pan and walls using liquid membrane and sheet membrane systems
Explain the importance of pre-slope, weep holes, and proper drainage in wet areas
Describe how to handle transitions between waterproofed and non-waterproofed areas
Identify common waterproofing failures and how to avoid them
Your checkpoint
Draft a waterproofing plan for a standard shower stall, including membrane type, application steps, and detail at the drain and corners.
Cutting, Tooling, and Equipment
Select the appropriate blade (continuous rim, segmented, turbo) for cutting large format tile
Demonstrate proper use of a wet saw, including safety precautions and maintenance
Explain how to make L-shaped cuts and holes for outlets using a grinder or hole saw
Describe how to achieve clean cuts and avoid chipping on porcelain and natural stone
Your checkpoint
Create a cutting plan for a 24 in. by 48 in. tile around a corner and an outlet, listing tools and steps.
Safety, Codes, and Industry Standards & Substrate Preparation and Evaluation & Materials, Mortars, and Adhesives & Layout and Planning & Installation Techniques for Large Format Tile & Tile Leveling Systems and Lippage Control & Movement Accommodation and Joint Design & Waterproofing and Wet Area Applications & Cutting, Tooling, and Equipment
Review key safety practices for handling large format tile, including lifting techniques and PPE
Summarize relevant industry standards (ANSI, TCNA) and code requirements for large format tile installations
Complete a comprehensive practice exam covering all domains, focusing on weak areas
Review and reinforce concepts from all domains through flashcards and summary notes
Your checkpoint
Score at least 80% on a 50-question practice exam covering all domains, with a review of incorrect answers.
Milestones
Week 2: Complete a substrate evaluation checklist and mortar comparison table with at least 90% accuracy on a self-quiz.
Week 4: Submit a layout plan and installation procedure that meets industry standards for lippage and coverage, verified by a peer or instructor.
Week 6: Pass a midterm quiz covering domains 1-5 with a score of 75% or higher.
Week 8: Achieve a score of 80% or higher on a comprehensive practice exam covering all domains.