Want to have such a tile flooring installation that lasts for decades to come while offering increased durability, curb appeal, and versatility? Look no further, as all of the above features and many more are possible with tile installation in your rooms or living spaces. At VDC Builders Inc., our professionals are equipped with top-tier experience and expertise to offer excellence in tile installations. In this article, we’ll walk you through the overall process of seamless tile installation, from preparation to completion.
Seamless Tile Installation
Whether tile installation is made in the room or living spaces, it elevates the overall appeal of the living space in no time. Tile installation isn’t just easy to install, but it is also convenient to maintain and offers a range of options when it comes to tile installation.
Let’s dive into the steps of tile installation from preparation to final finish.
Prep like a Pro: Keep Everything Ready!
The first step when considering tile installation is to prepare the subfloor. Keeping the underlying surface dry, clean, and smooth is a prerequisite for installing tiles on it. In this step, first, you need to prepare the subfloor, making it plain, dry, and smooth. If there are any patches, they must be cleared out to prepare the floor for installation.
Map it Out: Plan your Design Layout.
In this step, you are supposed to measure the room and snap out the chalk lines in the middle of the walls. Now, start marking the loose tiles across the central lines throughout the room. If there’s a need to cut the tiles for use at the edges, note it down.
Mortar Application: Mix and Spread
Select the right mortar for the tiles you chose for your flooring. Read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and mix the mortar according to the guidelines provided. For the time being, only mix and create mortar that could be used within the next 30 minutes.
Use a trowel as mentioned in the guidelines, and apply a ¼-inch coat of mortar to the subflooring. Do not apply more mortar than that which could be set in the next 15 minutes.
Cut Tiles to Fit Every Edge
As you already have an idea of how many and what type of cut tiles they require, it’s time to cut your tiles using machinery. If you wish to cut the tiles diagonally or straight, use a tile cutter. For curved cuts, use a nipper, and for full-length curved cuts, use a rod saw.
| PRO TIP You may smooth the sharp edges of the tiles using a carborundum stone. |
Setting the Tiles: One at a Time!
Now comes the time to start setting up the tiles. Start inserting tiles in one grid, complete it thoroughly, and then move towards the next one. Place each tile carefully, leave an equal distance for joints, and then move towards the next one. Don’t forget to leave a ¼ distance between the tiles and the walls.
| Key Takeaways! Once the tile installation is complete, use a hammer or rubber mallet to tap the tiles thoroughly, ensuring they are adjacent and arranged in a level plane with a good bond. Don’t walk on tiles unless they are completely set and in place. Remove the extra adhesive from joints using a putty knife and from the tiles using a damp sponge. |
Grout the Gaps for a Smooth Finish
After 24 hours, it’s time to remove the tile spacers and begin grouting the joints. Read the manufacturer’s instructions manual thoroughly and start placing the grout adhesive on the tile’s surface, then float it down from the tile to the joints using a squeegee. Wait for approximately 15-20 minutes to allow the grout to set in the joints. Once it has set, remove the excess from the tile’s surface using a damp sponge.
| Key Takeaway! Once the grout joints are set, use a damp cloth or sponge and clean the tile surface thoroughly. Don’t get the tiling polished until 3 weeks, and then you may polish it as desired. Wait for almost 72 hours to get it completely set. |
Final Touch: Clean and Seal
The final step involves finishing your tiles, which includes thorough cleaning and polishing.
- Use a damp sponge to thoroughly clean the tiles, removing any excessive joint residue or haze.
- Add trims or any additional material to support the tiles.
Here you go; your tiles are entirely installed with a seamless finish.
Conclusion
Overall, the above blog covers the tile installation process from preparation to completion, encompassing all the essential considerations. If you’re a DIY enthusiast, you can try tile installation on your own conveniently and straightforwardly. However, if you require a stress-free and seamless tile installation, then consider hiring a professional tile installation service.
FAQs
1: What are the pros of professional tile installation?
Professional tile installation is seamless, durable, and efficient and offers high curb appeal to the home.
2: How long does tile installation take?
The duration of tile installation generally depends on a variety of factors such as
3: What to do before tile installation?
Before installing the tile, plan the overall layout of your room and order the necessary materials for the installation.
4: Where to start when installing tiles in a room?
When installing tiles, start by preparing the subfloor and designing the overall layout of the room. It’ll help you with seamless tile installation later.
5: Which mistakes should be avoided while tiling?
The mistakes to avoid when tiling include ordering a few tiles, not ordering sample tiles, and failing to plan the design layout.