Tiles make a perfect flooring choice. They come in attractive and multiple designs such that you can get a unique one for your home or office. The fact that ceramic, stone and porcelain tiles are water-resistant, they make a durable choice, especially for rooms like bathrooms and kitchens where there is a lot of moisture. They are also durable for places with high traffic like the living room or recreation room. If you are looking for the best tiles, buy from Metro Tile for the best choices to fit your needs. Here is a five-step guide to successful tile installation from the experts.
Table of Contents
Tile Installation Steps:
Choose the Tiles that Fit Your Needs
The first, and crucial step to successful tile installation is choosing the right tiles to fit your specific needs. There are limitless types of tiles, each with a unique design. Some are fit for indoors and others for outdoors. You will also come across different brands.
Some tiles are fit for casual settings, while others are best for formal contexts. Do you want glazed or unglazed finishes? Tile is versatile, giving you a chance to customize your own patterns. Our experts will provide advice on texture and shades and recommend the most suitable features to match the tile.
Clear the Surface
Before you lay the tiles, you will need to remove the existing flooring and clear the surface. Remove the carpet and any layers of vinyl if present. The problem with this is that you will have a lot of trash but there I nothing to worry about. Experts can help you deal with the trash.
Install Cement Boards
It is advisable not to use the sub-floor to install the tiles. This is because the plywood does not bond well with the thin-set. Instead, add a cement board before installing the tiles. This is a solid foundation that will provide support to the tile. Make sure you wear protective gear to protect yourself from the chemicals found in cement.
Place the Tiles
Start placing the tiles in the middle of the room to see what it will look like when the work is complete. Make sure you include the spacers when placing tiles. Avoid placing too much thin-set to ensure it will be easy to work. You should then place the spacers to ensure the tiles are in place.
You may have to alter the tiles at the edge of the room to ensure they fit well. Use a saw to cut the tiles carefully to fit the remaining space. Leave the tiles overnight to dry.
Apply Grout
When your tile is dry enough, you can now apply the grout. You may have to remove the spacers before applying grout or leave them in, depending on the type of spacers you used. You will need to check with the tile manufacturer to know what needs to be done. Make sure the surface is even when applying grout. Work in small areas and use a damp cloth to remove excess grout.
Conclusion
These are the simple steps of installing tile successfully. Make sure you pick the right tiles and clear the surface before installation. Use a cement board at the bottom and place the tiles. After drying, apply the grout and wait for the results.