How to do tiling in the bathroom & Must-Have Tile Installation Tools

A new floor tile is a relatively inexpensive way to get started and If you have selected tiles and tolls in advance, this project can be completed over a weekend! rnToolsrn1. Tile Installation Tools: Manual Cutterrn2. Tile Pincers (Nippers)rn3. Tile Level Installation Kitrn4. Tile Tools: Rubber Bucketsrn5. Tile Mortar Mixer-How to Mix Mortarrn6. Trowels-Choose the Right Tile Trowel Sizern7. Tile Installation Tools: Grout Floatsrn8. Tile SpacersrnTile ToolsrnThe list can go on, but these few items are amongst the most important tools that a tile installer needs. All by Confair www.theconfair.com Lets go:rnMeasure FloorrnUse a tape measure to determine how much tile, mortar, grout and backingboard will be needed. Purchasing the right amount of tile at the beginning of the job reduces the risk of mismatches in texture or color between production lots.rnPrepare UnderlaymentrnAttaching an underlayment of cement board to sub-flooring provides a level and sturdy surface to which bathroom tile can be easily attached. Using a circular saw, cut panels to fit measured bathroom and use a jigsaw to cut holes as needed to accommodate the toilet and other bathroom fixtures. rnAttach UnderlaymentrnUse a drill with driver bit to attach backerboard screws to underlayment to sub-floor. Space screws approximately 6 inches apart and make sure they rest flat once secured.rnDetermine Tile LayoutrnIf using a contrasting trim, lay edge tile first. Then lay tile in a configuration that will use the most whole tiles and best fits the space. Use tile spacers to make sure tiles are square and evenly spaced. Position tiles to minimize visibility of tiles that must be cut to size. Once the best layout has been determined, measure tiles that must be cut to complete coverage.rnCut TilernUse a tile saw to cut tiles necessary to complete floor.rnPlace Cut TilesrnPlace cut tiles to complete tile layout and confirm tiles are spaced evenly, are spare and that the layout is pleasing to the eye. Once satisfied with the layout, remove tile to apply thinset mortar. rnApply Thinset MortarrnApply a thin layer of thinset mortar to floor in small sections using a notched trowel. Replace tiles a few at a time, once again using spacers to help hold position. rnAllow Mortar to DryrnOnce tiles are all in place, allow mortar to dry for 24 hours before continuing.rnApply GroutrnOnce mortar is dry, remove spacers, mix grout and use a grout float to completely fill spaces between tiles. rnWipe Away Excess GroutrnOnce grout has been completely applied, use a damp sponge to wipe away excess grout, leaving tiles clean and grout smooth and level. Make sure to be thorough. Grout left behind on tile results in “grout haze”, which can be difficult to remove once grout has set. Grout will be ready to walk on within 24 hours, although may take several weeks to fully cure. rnApply Grout SealerrnOnce grout is dry, finish your weekend tile project by applying a grout sealer to reduce staining and protect grout. That’s it! You made it!!!!