The Basics of Tile
Today's homeowners are short on cash. While the remodeling market is on the upswing, many homeowners are choosing to do-it-themselves. Making improvements to your home can be a great way to add value, especially if you keep costs low.
One popular project among DIYers is tiling. Local home improvement stores offer weekend classes on how to tile. Check for the times available in your area. There are also a wide range of instructional videos available on YouTube that can steer you in the right direction. Sometimes it helps to see what to do in addition to reading what to do.
The first step is to measure your room. How many square feet of tile will you be needing? To figure this, pull back out that old elementary school geometry and take the multiply the length times the width. An 8 foot by 10 foot room, for example, will have 80 square feet. You'll need this figure to help you know how many tile to buy. Pricing is also generally by the square foot.
Types of Tile
Price ranges widely depending on what material you buy. There's a huge variety of tile, from large to small, slick to textured, decorative to utilitarian. The choice is yours! Porcelain and ceramic tile are less expensive that marble and travertine. Both options are durable and are made to last. The latter, however, will give any space an upgraded look. Entryways and sunrooms are complimented by slate and saltillo tiles.
Supplies
- Knee pads
- Chalk line
- Tile cutter or saw
- Tile nippers
- Mortar and bucket to mix it in
- Drill attachment for mixing mortar
- Trowel to spread mortar
- Tile. Always get a little extra. Tiles can break during installation and you'll also want a few extra to keep for replacements down the road.
- Plastic tile spacers
- Grout and bucket to mix it in
- Trowel to apply grout
- Sponge to remove excess grout
- Sealant
- Sealant application bottle
Now that you have your supplies, here is a simply run-down of how you install tile.
Application
First, clean the area thoroughly. You don't want any pieces of dirt or old mortar on the floor, since it will cause unevenness. Next, have a game plan. Where are you going to start your tile? Will you have the grout lines perpendicular to the door or will you have them angled? Laying out a chalk line on the floor ensures an even first row.
Next, mix the mortar and spread only a small amount at a time. It dries quickly! Place your first tile square with the chalk line. Press it firmly into the mortar and use a plastic spacer to get the next tile spaced perfectly. Continue your way around the room. You'll need to make cuts at certain points. A tile saw works best, but use what you have!
Next, you'll want to remove your spacers and let your tiles set for 24 hours. Don't walk or move the tiles during this time. The mortar needs time to set up.
Once you have your tiles in place, it's time to grout them! Mix your grout and then trowel it between the tiles. After 10 minutes, use a wet sponge diagonally to clean off the excess grout. Allow this to dry 72 hours before sealing your grout.
Working with tile isn't "rocket science". An amateur can do handle this project. Have faith in your abilities and you'll have something you've done with a real sense of pride and ownership.
Written by Carla Hill for www.RealtyTimes.com Copyright © 2011 Realty Times All Rights Reserved.
