How To Install Ceramic Tile On Walls And Floors

It s not particularly hard to do but it s easy to do poorly.

How to install ceramic tile on walls and floors.

Installing a ceramic tile floor may appear to be beyond the abilities of some homeowners but most diyers can handle it. Tile floors are an attractive functional option for kitchens bathrooms laundry rooms and entryways. So let s look at the basics of wall tile installation that will make everything go a lot smoother less frustrating and less costly. Save time by setting several tiles at once.

However wall tile installation has its own set of rules that you dare break at your own risk. Floor or wall indoors or out and tile type and size are all factors. Ceramic tiles can be installed directly on drywall plaster or if they are in moist areas onto green drywall or even better cement backer board. After all the penalty for poorly installed wall tile is a lifetime of having to look at the stuff.

If your tile floors are worn or chipped or you re simply ready for an upgrade follow this guide to learn how to install a tile floor yourself. In our project we set the tile for the wall opposite the shower door first. Stuff a rag in the hole to block sewer gases. Keep in mind that floor tiles should be laid with the first tile centered in the middle of the floor working onward from that.

First get the toilet out of your way. So if you re looking to put your tiles on a bathroom or kitchen wall be sure you get semi vitreous or impervious tiles. To install ceramic wall tile use a level and measuring tape to mark the tile locations on the wall with chalk. Ask if sanded caulk is available in a color that matches your grout for the floor tub and floor wall tile joints.

Find the right trowel and mortar here. On the ceiling and floor of the shower we used 2 x 2 tiles and on shower walls 2 x 4 tiles. Before you start setting tile take some measurements and see how the tiles will all lay out image 1. Because you are attaching a relatively heavy material to vertical surfaces it is somewhat trickier than installing ceramic floor tile but with a bit of careful study and patience any diyer can.

Before you start remember that using the correct trowel and mortar is critical to a successful tile project. Just don t rush it have a little patience. Installing ceramic wall tile is a project that rewards pre planning and patience. Installing a tile floor in any of these rooms will give you an easy to clean waterproof floor that holds up against weather and wear.

Install ceramic tile over a subfloor that s. Step 1 prepare the wall.