5 Tips to Tile Your Floor Like a Pro
A new tile floor can completely transform your home. Tile comes in many materials and shapes so you can get the look you want. Tile is also durable and easy to clean.
Although you might love the look of tile, professional tiling can cost $1,050 to $2,100 for a 10X15 foot room. Labor costs add to your tile project. So you might want to tile your floor yourself.
Tiling can be overwhelming, and you might be worried you won’t get a professional look if you do it yourself. But following some tiling tips will help you tile your floor with ease. Read on to learn how to tile like a pro.
1. Get the Right Tools and Materials
Tiles come in many shapes and sizes. You don’t want to choose a tile because it is the cheapest option. Look carefully at the tiles you want to ensure they are identical and don’t have warping.
You will need different mortar and grout depending on where you are tiling.
There are two types of mortar mastic and thin-set. Mastic is a glue-like mortar that is often used for kitchen backsplashes. Thin-set mortar is a paste and is suitable for all tile applications.
Then there are three types of grout: sanded, non-sanded, and epoxy. Sanded and non-sanded grout contains different-sized particles and should be chosen based on the spacing between your tiles. Epoxy is waterproof and durable but also more costly.
Next, choose the right trowels and tile cutters for the job. You’ll also want to have a level and leveling spacers. Finally, you’ll want some everyday tools, including a hammer, bucket, and sponge.
2. Make Sure Your Subfloor Is Level
Before you start laying tile, now is the time to do any floor maintenance to ensure your floor is level. Look at your floor to find dips, and use a level to find uneven areas.
You can use backer boards, uncoupling membranes, or self-leveling products to correct uneven subfloors. You shouldn’t lay tile directly on wood or fresh concrete since they can shift and expand. So you’ll want to lay backer boards over your subfloor before tiling.
3. Set Yourself Up for Success
Start by laying out your tiles to get an idea of how to space them. Lay them to reduce the cuts you must make and ensure any patterns are correct. Position tiles so any cuts you have to make are out of eye-line.
You can draw a layout line throughout the room to create a reference so you lay your tiles straight. Pay close attention to your first course of tiles as it will set up the rest of your tiles. Finally, plan floor transitions so your new tile flows into other rooms.
4. Pay Attention to Detail
There are so many things that could go wrong when tiling. You’ll want to pay close attention to your spacing and mortar application.
Leave space between tiles and the wall in case of tile expansion. Some tiles will need to be back buttered. Back buttering is where you put grout on larger tiles to prevent cracking.
You’ll also want to keep your workspace clean. Cleaning any extra mortar off the sides of your tiles will create a professional-looking finish.
5. Finish With Grout
Choose grout that will blend well with your tiles and works with your spacing. Sanded grout has larger particles, so you don’t want to use them if you have small spaces between tiles.
Spread grout across your tiles with a rubber float. Once it begins to set, remove any excess with a sponge.
Grout can stain some tiles. You can use tile sealer before applying grout to prevent staining and to speed up the grout clean-up process. Use the best sealer for porcelain tile to get professional results.
Tile Your Floor Like a Pro
Don’t be afraid to tile your floor. Choosing the right tools and materials to help lay tiles will simplify the process. Taking your time and paying close attention to detail can help you create a professional finish.
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