5 steps to complete a successful ceramic tile installation
If laying ceramic tiles is totally new to you, "5 Steps to
complete a successful ceramic tile installation" is a set of
basic but important tips that you will help you avoid making
costly mistakes on your next bathroom or ceramic tile
installation.
" Plan which Tile
" Shop around if you want to save
" Prepare the surface for a long lasting job
" Lay the tiles
" Finishing touches
Plan which Tile
This step is often underestimated and sometimes even forgotten
(can you believe it?). Planning your ceramic tile installation
from A to Z is probably one of the most important steps for a
smooth, easy going and problem free bathroom tile installation.
Some things to take in account are;
" Suitability of the tile
" Pattern /colour of the tile
" Size of the tile
" Size of the area to be tiled. (This is important data
that will be vital to know how much tile, grout, etc, you have
to buy)
" Adhesive, mortar or grout to suit your needs
Not all ceramic tile installations are the same, different
tiling installations may require different mortar or grout. DO
NOT feel shy about asking the suppliers for advice or help in
calculating how much you need. They will gladly help you, as
they are likely to make a sale.
Shop around if you want to save
This isn't as difficult as the first step, however when the
budget is tight it can be tricky to find the right tile for the
ceramic tile installation you want. You are going to have to
make some compromises and so don't get carried away by the
beauty of some of the ceramic tiles. Prices can vary a lot
between different tiles, so some end up rather expensive for
only a few square metres.
Always shop around, it has never been easier. Just sit in front
of the computer and use the Internet. Use local directories to
find the suppliers close to you and pay them a visit.
Before making your final decision always check the chosen tile
under different lights as the results can be surprisingly
different.
Prepare the surface for a long lasting job before laying the
ceramic tiles
The surface to be tiled (floor, wall or any other) will often
need to be prepared, this can include work like filling,
levelling, smoothing, priming and sometimes water proofing.
The right preparation will be directly affect the lifespan of
the ceramic tile installation. Unless you want to be tiling
again soon, you want to get this right from the start.
This is probably the most important point to ensure a long
lasting tiling job. Don't rush it.
Laying the ceramic tiles safely
The technique of laying ceramic
tiles is not especially
difficult. It only takes a little bit of practice before anyone
can easily master it. Clearing the room to be tiled before
starting will help you to do the job safer and easier. Don't
forget to wear your safety goggles when cutting or chipping
tiles.
Laying ceramic tiles can also be a bit messy, if you don't want
dust all over the house we suggest sealing the room you want to
tile whenever possible. A large piece of plastic tacked to the
door frame will do the job quite well.
Try not to allow any adhesive to get on your skin and never
forget to read the manufacturers directions before even opening
the tin. If some ends up on you, just clean it with water as
soon as possible. Even though tile adhesives aren't usually
abrasive, if you leave it for some time it may cause an
allergic reaction.
Use a spirit level to help you with the depth & level of the
tiles and spacers to maintain an even distance between them.
The finishing touches
Once the tile adhesive or mortar has cured (dried) and the
tiles are firm and even, you can start with the finishing
touches.
You'll have to fill the spaces between tiles with grout making
sure you don't leave any gaps as these cause damp problems, in
a shower for example.
The technique is very simple, use a rubber faced trowel to
spread the grout and a cotton cloth to clean the excess grout
from the tiles afterwards.
There are many different types of grouts; you'll have to choose
the right one depending on the surface and chosen tile.
Now that you have your ceramic tiles laid down, you only need
to take care of them, usually manufacturers provide information
on taking care of their tiles and only minimal effort is
required. Most household cleaning products will do the job
well, if some particular stain is stubborn, there are many
commercial stain removers, just make sure you use the right
product for the right tile.
You are now closer to discovering how satisfying it can be
handling a tile installation yourself; just follow these 5
steps to get the best result.
About the Author
Building Maintenance Engineer expert Manuel Kupka focuses on developing home improvement related ebooks and articles. As recognized professional, he develops easy to follow ebooks for 'Do It YourSelvers' of all kinds, who want to improve their homes. To read many home improvement articles and/or sign up for free monthly DIY Home Improvement newsletter, loaded valuable with home improvement tips & tricks, go to: http://www.doityourself-tips.com
|