Tile Installation Process

At the beginning of your tile floor installation always do a test to ensure the consistency of the mortar is appropriate.

Tile installation process.

Use a tile saw or wet saw both rentable if necessary for cutting numerous or thick tiles. Once the best layout has been determined measure tiles that must be cut to complete coverage. Cut tile as needed. To install ceramic tile over wood the wood surface must be structurally sound enough to support the weight of the tile.

Put the first test tile onto the thin set bed. Chipboard cushioned vinyl flooring particle boards of any type oriented strand board osb interior grade plywood tongue and groove planking and hardwood floors are unsuitable substrates for direct installation of ceramic tile. Wipe the tiles with water and a clean sponge as you set them. Installing new tile is a multi step process that typically takes 1 3 days depending on the space and size of your project.

Next lay out a row of loose tiles along the center lines in both directions leaving spaces for uniform joints use tile spacers. Then lay tile in a configuration that will use the most whole tiles and best fits the space. After you have completed the fields that is the broad surfaces of the roof you will need to cap the tops with special ridge tiles. You can use a tile cutter to achieve pinpoint straight or diagonal cuts.

This should be the final step in the process of installation. For making curved cuts you can use tile nippers. Stick to the script and facilitate your tile installation with the perfect adhesive application. Use a level to make sure tiles are straight.

Next you set the tile with mortar based on your tile type. First you have to prep the surface ensuring it is clean flat and ready for tile installation. Once in place push the tiles evenly into the thinset. Use tile spacers to make sure tiles are square and evenly spaced.

Lay the tile flat and then with mild pressure slide the tile 1 4 inch back against the thin set ridges then slide it back into place. When all the tile work is complete allow the tiles to dry in place for several days before grouting. Position tiles to minimize visibility of tiles that must be cut to size. Repeat along other center line if necessary.

Use a tile cutter for small straight cuts. If the tile is too thick for nippers try the following. These are rounded and depending upon design can either be laid out end to end or in an overlapping style. Make masterful curved cuts with a nipper chipping.

Install the ridge tiles. Lastly you grout the tile and apply a sealer. Use your hands or a grout float to apply pressure. Start by marking carefully measured cuts to be with a pencil or felt tip pen on the tile surface.

Check the level of each row before you set the next one image 3. Installing over wood. As you near cabinets doorways walls and other flooring stops trim tiles as needed for installation.