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  • Den: Building a Platform for the Couch
  • From "Tiling Techniques"
    episode DTIL-103


    PHOTO

    In this episode of DIY's Tiling Techniques workshop, host Paul Wilson will update the worn-out carpet in this den with ...
    PHOTO

    new tile in the entryway, ...
    PHOTO

    companion tile in front of the fireplace ...
    PHOTO

    and even created a tiled circular area for the couch.
    In this final segment, host Paul Wilson will build a tiled platform for the couch.

    Materials:

    Carpenter's pencils
    Razor knife
    Steel tape measure
    Grout float
    Notched trowel
    Margin trowel
    Hydra sponges
    Two five-gal. buckets
    Tile cutter
    Safety glasses
    Ear protection
    Dust mask
    Knee pads
    1/2" drill motor
    Rod thin-set mixer
    Chalk line and chalk
    Clear lacquer
    Broom
    Floor scraper
    Tile saw
    4-1/2" masonry jamb cutter
    Shop vacuum
    Sealant gun

    Specialty Materials:

    See Resources (below)
    advertisement


    PHOTO

    Figure A
    Building the Couch Platform

    The platform for the couch was constructed in three sections just like the couch itself, and then the platforms were screwed together.

    1. Measure the outside dimensions of the couch.

    2. Construct the sides of the platform with 2x4's (figure A), and then attach the plywood with screws.

      Note: Make the platform as high as the tile is wide that you'll be sing.

    3. Attach the backerboard to the outside edge of the platform with backerboard screws.

      Warning: You can't set tile on 1/4" fibrous wood. Backerboard is needed so the tile will adhere to the platform.
      Tiling the Platform

    4. Tile the outside of the platform just like you tiled the floor (figure B).

      Note: For this particular project, Wilson used the same mustard colored field tile for the front curved part of the platform (Figure C).

    5. Measure and cut the curved tile pieces just like you did with the floor field tiles.

    6. Apply the thin set and place the tiles carefully, and be sure to use a beating block and rubber mallet to "lightly" tap the tiles into place.

    7. Set the small 2"x3" curved pieces in a vertical pattern (see Figure C) along the curved area on the front of the platform. The cut tile will easily form to the curve.

    8. Once the thin set has cured for 24 hours, you can grout the tile the same as the floor tile. Using the grout float, apply a small amount to the surface. For the areas that are difficult to apply the grout with the float, use your fingers (figure D).

    9. After the grout has cured, clean it with a nearly dry sponge, and then repeat the step to clean off the excess grout. Don't forget to let the grout set for 24 hours.
    Photo

    Figure B

    Photo

    Figure C

    Photo

    Figure D



    RESOURCES :

    Den Tiling Products Information (Home Depot)

    Artisan II Collection "Titan"
    13x13
    Model #: 384-058
    Color: 300 olive sheen

    Golden Brown
    12x12
    Model #: 640-490

    Mosaic rock Sheet Tile
    4x12
    Model #: 277-862

    Grout by Custom
    Delorean Gray (sanded)
    Model #: 123-852

    Red Guard Waterproofing and Anti-fracture Membrane
    Model #: 755-504

    Modified Thin Set Mortar by Custom
    Model #: 399-727

    Where available: Home Depot

    The Home Depot U.S.A. Inc.
    Website: www.homedepot.com

  • ALSO IN THIS EPISODE: