Tile Workers

Laying ceramic tile can be a scary project, but I am going to present you with 4 steps that will make your installation go smoothly. Some people may feel a little intimidated taking on such a big task. I hope after reading this article it will help motivate you to do it yourself. Just think about all the money you can save by laying the tile yourself. And once friends see your tile work you may have some job offers to earn extra cash. Now let’s get started.

Step 1 - Prepare the floor

Ceramic tile requires a good bond to the subflooring. Your floor preparation will vary based on the subflooring. Concrete subflooring is probably the easiest to work with. If you have any cracks or holes in the concrete be sure to patch them usinga cement based, floor leveling compound. This compound can also be used to level the floor if needed. If your subfloor is plywood you should install ½ inch backerboard to the top of plywood. Make sure you fasten the backerboard with the approved screws, they help resist corrosion.

Step 2 - Test Your Layout

Tile that is centered in the room is the most visually pleasing. Using a measuring tape find the center in both direction and snap a chalk line forming a “T” . Where the lines in the “T” cross should be the center location of your room. Now lay tiles, starting at the center going in both directions. When you reach the wall notice how large the last tile will be. To cut down on wasted tiles, this last tile should be less than half. With it being less than half you can get two pieces from one tile. If the last piece was more than half you would end up throwing a lot of tile away. If the last piece of tile is to big try shifting your center lines.

Step 3 - Lay the Tile

Spread mortar on the floor covering the size of about 4 tiles using a notched trowel. Place the tile on the mortar and gently tap with a rubber mallet, this will help seat the tile. Line up the next tile and space it equally by placing tile spacers in the joint. Be sure the entire area under the tile has mortar. Any voids under the tile will cause stress and can crack the tile. As you start to pickup speed you can try spreading the mortar for 2 rows of 4 tiles. Do not walk on the floor for at least 24 hours.

Step 4 - Grout

After the mortar has setup you can begin grouting the tiles. Work the grout into the joints using a grout float. Going at a diagonal across the tile works great at getting the joints completely filled. Scrap off any excess grout by holding the grout float at an angle. Be careful not to accidentally remove the grout. Use a sponge to cleanup the tiles but be careful of the joints. Continue working this method for the remainder of the floor. Once the grout is dry, at least 24 hours, you can follow up with another cleaning. It may take several cleanings to get the dusty haze off the tile. Follow the manufactures recommendation on applying tile and grout sealer.

Now all you have to do is enjoy the beauty of a well installed ceramic tile floor.

 

Author: David A Z

About the Author:

Ready to learn more on tiling, visit my site for 5 Tips For Laying Ceramic Tile, you will also find out my secret on how you can earn extra money tiling like a pro.

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