DIY Network

Tiling a Foyer: Tiling the Stair Risers From "Tiling Techniques" episode DTIL-102

	In this episode of DIY's Tiling Techniques workshop, this plain foyer is converted into ...
	a dazzling entryway by adding a tile medallion.
	And the medallion look is continued up the staircase!

In this segment, host Paul Wilson will tile the stair risers.

Materials:

Carpenter's pencils
Razor blade
Steel tape measure
Grout float
Notched trowel
Margin trowel
Hydra sponges
Rubber gloves
Two 5gal. buckets
Tile cutter
Power jamb cutter
Dry masonry saw
Hand backerboard cutter
1/2" drill motor
Rod type paddle mixer
3/8" drill
Rubber mallet with beating block
Chalk line and chalk
Flat pry bar
Hammer
Chisel
Floor scraper
Broom
Shop vac
Dust mask
Paintbrush
Safety glasses
Ear protection

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	For the stair risers, Wilson and the homeowners came up with a design that features an accent tile right in the middle. Simply lay the accent tile on top of the background tiles and mark the outline with a pencil, and then cut the tiles with a wet saw so the accent tile can lay perfectly in the middle.
	Figure A
	Figure B

Tiling the Stair Risers

1. For the stair risers, tape a piece of cardboard on the step to keep it free of thin set.

2. Sand the risers before applying the tile.

3. In order to get stone tile to stick to wood, be sure to use a thin set recommended for use on plywood for the stair risers if wood is the substrate.

   Note: EGP thin set mortar is a thin set designed for use on "exterior grade plywood."

4. It's easier and cleaner in small spaces like this to backbutter the tiles (figure A) before laying them. You will have less mess on the stair treads by doing it this way as well. Be sure to wipe away any extra thin set with a margin trowel.

5. Place the tile firmly on the riser, and use a rubber mallet and beating block to "lightly" tap the tiles in place.

6. Continue setting the tiles until the stair risers are done (figure B)

   Note: Be sure to let your grout cure for 24 hours prior to grouting it.

In the final segment, Wilson will grout the tile.

RESOURCES :

Foyer Tiling Products Information (Home Depot)

Westminster Tumbled Field Tile
Chiaro 6"x6"
Vendor: BananAppeal
Model #: 00606

Westminster Tumbled Field Tile
Noce 6"x6"
Vendor: BananAppeal
Model #: 00611

Westminster Tumbled Field Tile
Bottichino 6"x6"
Vendor: BananAppeal
Model #: 00612

Westminster Medallion
Basilicata 24"x24"
Vendor: BananAppeal
Model #: 00533

Grout by Custom
Color: Bone (sanded)
Model #: 123-852 (25 lb. bag)

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

Where available: Home Depot

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