Saturday, July 30, 2005
In with the Ceramic Tile!
Question: "My wife and I are considering adding ceramic tile to the bathroom we recently installed in our teen suite. We've read books on the process, but the directions are somewhat confusing. Can you give us a quick lesson on the best way to install ceramic tile?”
Thanks so much for your question. Installing ceramic tile is a popular project that any do it yourselfer should know how to complete. It is a basic process that you can do yourself to save money. The first thing you need to do is gloss over the basics. Make sure that you have all of the materials you need before you start. I'll trust that your reference books have given you a comprehensive list. Also, make sure that your tiles and grout match the desired colors. And that you have enough quarter round tiles to complete the edges properly.
Consider whether or not the area you intend to tile will be subject to exposure to water or moisture. If so, use a water proof mastic that will resist deterioration or discoloring due to frequent exposure to water. Make sure that you read the tile manufacturer's instructions and follow them to the letter. This will save you time and trouble throughout the project. Spread your adhesive on across the area to be tiled with the smooth surface of your trowel, and then flip it to make deep grooves in the adhesive at a 45 degree angle.
Gently twist the tiles into place. Do not slide them. Lay your tiles row by row and cut them to specifications as you reach the edges of your tiling area. Use padded wood to beat down your tiles as you go to ensure that all tiles are properly seated in the adhesive. This piece of wood should extend beyond at least two tiles for maximum results. Keep going until you reach the end of your desired tiling area.
Thanks so much for your question. Installing ceramic tile is a popular project that any do it yourselfer should know how to complete. It is a basic process that you can do yourself to save money. The first thing you need to do is gloss over the basics. Make sure that you have all of the materials you need before you start. I'll trust that your reference books have given you a comprehensive list. Also, make sure that your tiles and grout match the desired colors. And that you have enough quarter round tiles to complete the edges properly.
Consider whether or not the area you intend to tile will be subject to exposure to water or moisture. If so, use a water proof mastic that will resist deterioration or discoloring due to frequent exposure to water. Make sure that you read the tile manufacturer's instructions and follow them to the letter. This will save you time and trouble throughout the project. Spread your adhesive on across the area to be tiled with the smooth surface of your trowel, and then flip it to make deep grooves in the adhesive at a 45 degree angle.
Gently twist the tiles into place. Do not slide them. Lay your tiles row by row and cut them to specifications as you reach the edges of your tiling area. Use padded wood to beat down your tiles as you go to ensure that all tiles are properly seated in the adhesive. This piece of wood should extend beyond at least two tiles for maximum results. Keep going until you reach the end of your desired tiling area.
