How to Install Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tiles are glossy and often have pretty patterns, making your bathroom and your kitchen sections look dainty. This popular material is a welcome addition to your home, given its appearance and the number of styles to choose from. Normally, a carpenter is tasked to install ceramic tiles, but why pay for something that you can do on your own?
The Tile Underlay (For Tile Floors)
The tile underlay provides a smooth surface for the ceramic tiles, which assures a straight and even layer of tiles. Installation is also easier, since tile latches on easily to an even surface. To prepare the underlay, lay thin strips of plywood on your floor. Starting from the floor’s end, drill a hole on the wood every six inches (or more), so it is firmly connected to the original floor. If you’re tiling a bathroom wall, you don’t need the underlay. Just even the surface using the right carpentry tools.
Layer the Tiles
ceramic tileApply tile adhesive on the underlay or the bathroom wall. Make sure you prepare an ample amount, which is evenly distributed on the surface, so the tiles will be firmly affixed. Set the tiles on the surface, following the designated pattern and dimensions. When all the tiles have been set, cut the excesses using a tile saw or a tile cutter. Place tile spacers in-between the rows and columns. Push the tiles onto the tile spacers to create a nice fit. Once done, leave the setup for a day, so the adhesive can settle then dry.
Prepare and Apply Tile Grout
Look at a tile wall or floor closely and you will see small cement-like layer in-between the tiles. That area is the tile grout. The preparation of tile grout is relative to the brand, so just follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Once prepared, remove the tile spacers then apply the “gray stuff” on the spaces between the tiles using a groat float. Let the grout dry for a day.
Remove Excess Grout
Grout looks good as long as it stays within the space provided. If it sticks to the tiles’ visible surface, your floor or wall will look shabby and poorly made. To remove excess grout, mix one part white vinegar with three parts warm water. Apply the mixture onto a piece of cloth then scrub away at the excess grout. This step may take some time, since grout can be pretty stubborn. After removing all traces of excess grout, prepare and apply tile sealer.
A Worthwhile Challenge
In truth, installing ceramic tile is challenging, in fact, some parts are quite frustrating. Just push on. All your efforts will be rewarded by the sheer beauty of the tiled wall and flooring.