Hi All,
I’ve, for years, been laser engraving text & peoples’ & pets’ photos into black granite tiles.
Using the solid black tiles I’ve bought at Home Depot; later, the ‘granite tiles’ purchased from Johnson Plastics/LaserBits. Often enough, my customers embed these tiles into formed concrete slabs; as a less costly alternative to professionally made foot-stone markers.
Have never had an issue with these tiles cracking, when embedded “flat” into the ground. However, for one project, the granite tile was mounted into a large, upstanding, rock boulder; the tile set recessed into a sandblasted rectangle area.(using construction adhesive.) After ‘bout a year, the HD granite cracked, so I replaced it with the JP granite tile. Now, I’ve learned (again, after ‘bout a year) that this granite tile has also cracked!
Probably due, more than likely, to our dramatic climate changes here in Minnesota? But, just wondering if you’ve got any ideas as to how I might “strengthen” the granite tile? - like, maybe, adhering a sheet of aluminum, or some other material, on the back side? Or, any other clever ideas to keep tiles from cracking! (BTW: the tiles are sealed well ‘nough to prevent moisture from seeping behind.)
This tile ‘n boulder commerate a veteran KIA in Iraq; so, this next granite tile, well, I’ve just got’ a get it right!
Eager to hear! - thanks!
Bill