How to Lay Marble Tile
Marble tile will make a beautiful and sturdy addition to any bathroom or kitchen. This tile is laid differently and is harder to work with. However, the effort is worth it in the long run. Marble tile will last longer than traditional ceramic tile and offers a richer look.
Marble tile is harder to work with, but the look is desirable. If you have the patience and access to the right tools you can install this on your own in just a few days.
What You'll Need:
- Bucket
- Clean sponges
- Grout and notched trowels
- Wetsaw
- Grouting mix specifically for marble
- Thinset adhesive
- Spacers
- Utility knife
- Mesh tape
- Drill
- Mortar
- Deck screws
- Backerboard
- Marble tile
- Measure the room and prepare to lay down the backerboard. Spread the mortar adhesive to the back of the boards with the notched trowel. Press the boards in the adhesive then secure them by using the deck screws every 6 inches. The boards should be staggered out. Cut the end pieces as you need them. The utility knife should work for making the cuts.
- Use the mesh tape to tape down the seams. Even out the mortar with the drywall knife.
- Place the marble tiles out on the floor. You want to start the pattern in the center. When you get to the edges of the room you may need to use the wetsaw to cut through the tiles so you have a perfect fit.
- Use the thinset. Spread this on to the back of the tile with the notched trowel. Put the tile in the right place and use the spacers at each corner. Continue this process until you have the room covered in tile.
- Wait an hour for the thinset to dry. Pull the spacers out with the utility knife. Wait a day before you come back to allow the for the thinset to cure completely.
- Mix the grout in the bucket by using the directions provided by the manufacturer. Use the grout tile to apply this between the tiles. Wipe any excess grout away with the wet sponge. It will take several hours for the grout to settle before you can begin to use the area again.