Snapstone Porcelain Tile System

	SnapStone is a floating tile system which aims to be easy and quick to install.  Unlike traditional tile installations, SnapStone is installed without any adhesive.  The system utilizes a unique interlocking grid which ensures even spacing.  Following a few simple steps (prep your floor, install the tile and grout) the SnapStone system makes installation of a tile floor sound easy.   There was some debate over at the John Bridge Forums, and information from folks that had actually installed the product was in short supply.  I happened to have a small office area that was in need of flooring and decided it would be a good spot to try the SnapStone product myself.	Disclaimer:  I received 45 square feet of Snapstone tile, free of charge, from the manufacturer.  There were no conditions attached and this review is entirely my own; written and posted online on my web site.
	SnapStone comes in one size - 12x12.  It is engineered to snap together by means of interlocking plastic tabs.  Once locked together the space between tile edges is exactly 1/4".  Use some caution handling these tiles, the plastic tabs are sharp!  I managed to cut myself once. The product is of excellent quality and is well engineered.  All pieces are uniform in size but you will need to "shuffle" the tiles to account for shade/pattern variation in the tile.  (This is not unique to SnapStone, most tile will have variations requiring mixing to achieve a balanced look to the installation.) Installation directions are included in each box of tile and are clearly written and easy to follow.  One of the biggest issues you must contend with before laying any tile is ensuring the floor you are setting on meets the requirements for tile.  Your floor must be flat within a tolerance of 1/4" in 10 feet or 1/8" in 6 feet.  In addition, you must meet deflection standards for a tile installation, meaning defelction no greater than  1/360 of the span.  SnapStone can be installed directly over floors that would otherwise need to be removed when installing a traditional ceramic tile.  for instance - particle board, hardwood flooring and resilient flooring are all acceptable substrates for SnapStone.	About the author:  I am a DIYer with a background in theatre and construction (although my day job is now spent working with computers).  I can be found online over at the  John Bridge Forums (Tile Your World) where I am one of the moderators.
	Once your floor has been prepped and you've established your layout it is time to start setting the tiles.  The first row of tiles to be set were at the threshold of the opening into my office.  I needed to remove the plastic tabs from the front edge of the tiles.  The plastic is hard so don't bother trying to cut the tabs off with a utility knife.  After trying a knife and getting nowhere fast, I grabbed my jigsaw and started cutting.  Even at the slowest speed it tended to melt the plastic as it cut but it did work.  I tried a handsaw which worked better, although slower.  Cutting the tabs off using my wet saw (Felker TM75) worked the best. Snapping the tiles together is a straightforward process.  I found it took a bit of effort to get them snapped in properly.  One of the tips from the installation directions say to use dish soap on the tabs to allow them to interlock more easily.  I wish I had read that tip before I had struggled so long on some of the tiles!
	Once the first row of tile is set you will have two edges to snap together each time.  I angled the tiles insetting one of the outside edges and tipping down to finish snapping them together.  Use a setting block and a rubber mallet.   Update:  I just finished grouting using the recommended grout (StarQuartz).    Best grout I've worked with!  Comes premixed in a bucket, spreads like regular sanded grout.  Easy cleanup, final cleaning with the included StarQuartz Cleaner mixed with water.   Now for the good part, the pros and cons of this system and some final thoughts...
	Pros: Quality product, well designed Quick install, no tile underlayment required. Cons: Selection - one size, less than a dozen colors. Grout joint - 1/4", not adjustable. Price.  $6.49 sf.  Add another dollar per sf for grout.
	After using the SnapStone product I am confident in its abilities to provide a good looking, long lasting tile floor.  Installing it is fairly easy and it can be a big timesaver when installing  in larger rooms.  The limited selection of colors, single tile size and relatively high price are all factors that need to be considered and will likely limit its appeal.