DIY Network

Big Phat Home Theater Man Caves creates a state-of-the-art home theater. From "Man Caves" episode DMCV-104

If the Goose was still in the NFL, the "508" would be able to watch him brutalize a quarterback or two in the lap of luxury in their new Big Phat Home Theater room.

Host Tony "The Goose" Siragusa has a vision of creating the perfect room to watch the big game in Larry Cannalonga's basement. But before he can install the 70-inch plasma TV or call John Elway for some signature home theater furnishings, host Jason Cameron must build the space to custom perfection, including a slate wall that creates an acoustical environment in which every bone-crunching hit can be heard.

In day one (see Framing Finished Walls in a Basement under Related Articles, below) the Man Caves team, Larry and his friends put up the walls.

In day two (see A Celtics Fan's Ultimate Bar under Related Articles, below) a state-of-the-art bar is constructed.

In day three (see Custom Poker Table under Related Articles, below) a poker table any Vegas shark would be envious of is constructed.

The first project for the Big Phat Home Theater is to install the slate wall.

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	Since each slate tile will vary in color, it's important to lay out all tiles on the floor and not to group similar colors together. This will help keep the wall even.
	Figure A
	Figure B
	Host Jason Cameron installs the first tile and explains how important it is that the first tile be aligned perfectly.
	The carpet tiles are a breeze to install — and this pattern complements the slate wall and brown leather recliners beautifully.

Slate Wall

Materials:

measuring tape
level
1x piece of wood
12 x 12 slate tiles
mortar
mixing drill
bucket
water
slotted trowel
wet saw, grease pencil and protective glasses (if tiles need to be cut)

Steps:

1. The first row is most important, so start off by measuring 12 inches from the floor and mark. Use a level to mark a straight line across the wall.

2. Take a 1x piece of wood long enough to fit across the wall and insert it along the line, making sure it is level before installing with dry wall screws. The 1x will serve as your guide rail (figure A).

   Note: Tile layout is by choice, but for this particular project, the Man Caves team and Larry Cannalonga chose to use the staggered look.

3. Mix mortar in a bucket using a drill and mixing bit. Fill 1/4 of the bucket with water and slowly add the mortar mix. Continue mixing until you have a creamy (peanut butter) consistency. If it's too watery, add more mortar.
   Note: You may want to use a lightly damp sponge to wipe down each tile before applying the mortar.

4. Using a slotted trowel, apply a small amount of mortar, also known as buttering to the back of the tile (figure B) for full coverage. Place the first tile on the guide rail and along the edge of the wall. Proper placement of the first tile and row are crucial for a perfectly aligned wall.

5. To cut tile, use a wet saw and mark the areas that need to be cut with a grease pencil. Make sure you wear protective glasses and covering.
   Tip: It may be best to cut tiles outside as this step could get a messy.

6. Finish the bottom row of tile last, keeping in mind that some tiles may need to be cut since all floors are not always level.

Carpet Tiles

Follow the easy manufacturer's instructions, which will likely be something like this: peel, stick and do some minor cutting at the edge of the walls.

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