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Category: Tile - Topic: Installing Tile Steps

Installing tile steps
Before installing ceramic tile you must have a solid foundation of a sub-material/floor. Typically tile can be installed over plaster, drywall, cement block, or hard material board. Installing tile over tile, though may work, will not allow the tile to last for its maximum lifespan. Next clean that area of dust and debris as thoroughly as possible. As you are setting up the area where your tile will be placed make marks 1/4" in from the edges of the walls, or tub. You will need these marks to place the tile and leave room for the caulking portion of the project

Preparation after the wall is set
When installing tile, you must be certain that you are laying the tile level to the wall and floor. This can be accomplished by drawing a line using a leveler. It is important to level from a leveler and ensure the marks and line is at a 90 degree angle at the wall. If the initial line is drawn with the slightest of angles to the flooring, there will be problems as you lay in your final tiles. Next select a starting point for the tile. Always select a point to start at the bottom of the wall. This will allow you to place in wood strips (that will work as holders) for the first row of tile until they are set. You can place the strips in the wall, right on the line which you should now have drawn.

Getting the tiles to "stick"

Once your drywall (or similar material) has been laid and all the correct marketings and angles have been set on the wall, it is now time to apply the adhesive that will make the tiles "stick" to the wall. There are a variety of adhesives that can be purchased at your local hardware store. Be cautious if you have never worked with adhesives as the material, if used poorly can result in a very bad look tile project. It may be beneficial to work with a tile installing professional if you are not familiar with this type work. It is imperative that you do not allow the adhesive to dry before laying the tile. Only apply adhesive if you can get the tiles laid with a few minutes. Tile professionals may laying an area of 5 tiles (if they are 3x3), you may think about applying 2 layers worth. As you are laying the tile always work up and out, up and out. Check regularly that your drawn lines are matching with the laying of the tile. Even a 2 degree shift can be catastrophic in a bathroom or small room. As you are laying the tile push and turn the tiles into place. Never slide tile because your adhesive will be uneven and cause all kinds of problems. Keep a damp towl around to continuously remove overflowing adhesive. Cleaning during the laying process will allow the caulking project and quick and professional finish. Next, allow the tile to dry for one day before grouting.

APPLYING THE GROUT
When you are applying grout to tile, ensure grout never rests to long on the tile bed. Be generous with the grout, but make sure to wipe clearly right after the grout is laid in place. If grout is left, this will be a hassle to remove and cause much unneeded scrubbing time. Caulking, like tile laying is an art in many ways. Troubled grouting can cause ugly tile which can damage the value or sell-ability of your home. If you are not experienced grouting tile or working with caulk, call a professional for this type of project. If you have worked with grout, remember that after the grout has dried for about 3 days, seal the grout with a sealer.

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