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An analysis of color variation, environmental exposure, and evidentiary standards in grout-related claims By Gil Chotam & Greg Andrews | National Tile and Stone Authority (NTSA) Grout appearance is a frequent source of dispute in tile and stone installations. Variations in color, surface texture, or uniformity are often interpreted as installation defects, particularly when they…
An analysis of how field-testing conditions affect reliability, interpretation, and evidentiary weight By Gil Chotam & Greg Andrews | National Tile and Stone Authority (NTSA) Field testing is often relied upon to evaluate material performance under actual site conditions. In forensic investigations, these results may be used to support conclusions regarding installation quality, material suitability,…
An examination of how testing practices affect reliability, interpretation, and evidentiary value By Gil Chotam & Greg Andrews | National Tile and Stone Authority (NTSA) Tile and stone laboratory test reports are often treated as objective and definitive. In practice, the testing process may be influenced by sampling methods, specimen preparation, reporting practices, and selective…
By Gil Chotam & Greg Andrews | National Tile and Stone Authority (NTSA) A few years ago, during a visit to Israel, I observed something that has stayed with me: the concept behind digital photography existed thousands of years earlier in the form of mosaics. What initially appeared to be an artistic comparison also raised…
By Gil Chotam & Greg Andrews | National Tile and Stone Authority (NTSA) Glass tile has long been a favored choice for pools and water features due to its stunning beauty and versatility. Its popularity, however, comes with a significant challenge: the issue of discoloration under transparent and translucent glass tiles. This problem has plagued…
By Gil Chotam & Greg Andrews | National Tile and Stone Authority (NTSA) The beauty of a swimming pool lies not only in its sparkling waters or beautiful interior finishes but also in the meticulous details that adorn its perimeter. Among these details, pool coping stands out as a crucial element, serving as the transition…
By Gil Chotam & Greg Andrews | National Tile and Stone Authority (NTSA) In the world of construction and renovation, tile installers are crucial artisans responsible for the aesthetic and functional aspects of flooring and wall installations. Their work, requiring precision and a deep understanding of materials, is guided by tile industry installer standards and…