Steps to Tiling a Floor
Tile is a very durable flooring material which are desired for kitchen and bathroom floor areas because of its low maintenance. It is not only practical, but beautiful and is available in a wide array of designs and colors to match your decor. With the proper tools and a bit of knowledge, a do-it-yourself homeowner can successfully install it.
Supplies
- Tiles
- Tile spacers
- Adhesive
- Grout
- Float
- Putty knife
- Tape measure
- Wet Saw
- Level
- Sponge
- Select the style of tiles to be used on the floor. The size of the floor area and your personal preference will help in your selection. Ceramic tiles are the most popular and are the most commonly installed.
- Measure the floor and purchase the supplies for the project.
- Make sure your floor area is sturdy and level. If tiles are being laid on a wood floor it is important to be sure the floor is in good condition and will hold the weight of the tiles.
- Remove the baseboard or moldings along the wall.
- Sweep the floor and make sure it is free from any loose debris.
- Start at the center of your room and lay in a full tile piece. Work outward from the center of your room toward the walls. Try to use as many full tiles as possible.
- Space the tiles about a half-inch apart. Tile spacers can be used to get a uniform space.
- Make any of the necessary size adjustments to the tiles that must be trimmed with the wet saw. It is best to put cut pieces along the walls and out of high traffic areas.
- Once the floor has been laid, carefully lift each tile and apply the tile adhesive and replace the tile onto the floor. Repeat the process until all the tiles have been glued to the floor.
- Prepare the grout mixture according to manufacturer's instructions. Apply the mixture between the tiles with the float tool. It is important to sponge off any excess that gets on top of the tile.
- Allow the floor to dry at least 24 hours and replace any baseboards or moldings, which may have been removed.