Laying a Tile FloorLaying a tile floor is not as hard as you think. Doing it yourself, you can save the expense of having it done by a flooring contractor. With the proper materials, and knowledge, you can complete the job with pride.

Steps to Success

1. You must first measure your floor and determine the number of square feet which will help avoid expenses on materials. Calculate the area, and round up all measurements to the nearest foot. For odd-shaped rooms, divide the odd shapes into squares or rectangular sections and add all the areas to get the total square footage.

2. Picking tile is a matter of personal preference. There is a wide variety of sizes, colors and styles. Other things to consider are that large tiles work well in big areas. Rough or textured finishes are good for areas around water, given their anti-slip surface. Buy 10%-15% more tiles to cover mistakes, breakages and future replacements.

3. You must now prep the subfloor. First remove the current flooring, making sure to scrape off adhesives or mortar. Make sure the floor is level and flat. Low spots in a concrete subfloor can be patched. Wooden subfloors must be covered with cement backer-board. Recess corrosion-resistant screws flush with the surface. Make sure the subfloor is level. Never lay tile on a wooden subfloor! Trim the bottom of the door jambs so that the tile will fit nicely underneath.

4. Double check your measurements and use chalk on the floor parallel to the walls to act as a guide for laying the tile. Mix thin-set mortar in a five-gallon bucket with a mixing paddle connected to a slow speed hand drill. Be precise with the water to mortar ratio. Mix only enough mortar that can be used in 15-20 minutes. Keep a water bucket and a sponge nearby for cleaning.

5. Using a notched trowel, spread the mortar evenly. Test a small area first. Tap the tile down lightly into the mortar. Use plastic spacers between the tiles and continue laying the tile. Level after every third tile to eliminate sloping. You must wait at least 24 hours before stepping on the tile. Now that all the full tiles are set, work on the cut tiles. You can go you your local rental facility and rent a tile cutter. For those rounded or awkward angles, use tile nippers. Allow mortar to set.

6. Applying grout is even easier. Mix grout in a five gallon bucket. Again, pay attention to the water and grout ratio. Remove spacers, and start spreading grout in a 45 degree angle, using a rubber float. Let dry for minutes and then use a wet sponge to wipe off excess grout on tiles until clean. Once the grout has hardened the recommended time, apply a sealer to the joints using an applicator bottle or foam brush.

Now the only take is to enjoy your new floor!

This article is penned by Richard for Finish Line Floors, a Brooklyn Park, MN based who are commercial & industrial flooring contractors. At Finish Line Floors, they have revolutionized the world of floor care with our innovative floor finishing solutions. So when you need any type of flooring or floor finishing like anti-slip finish or ultra-durable floor finish then get in touch with Finish Line Floors.