DIY Network

Tile Floor Transition From "DIY to the Rescue" episode DTTR-204

With the damaged area now repaired and structurally-sound, host Karl Champley shows homeowner Jeff Barbles how to repair the floor in the area where the wall was torn away. In this demonstration, the two will transition from the saltillo tiles in one area to the hardwood floor or the other.

Materials:

Wet saw
Notched trowel
Sponge float
Grout sponges
Buckets
Cold chisel
Hammer

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D

1. Remove old tile as necessary (using a grinder can help cut the grout and allow for easier removal of tiles), then scrape area to be replaced to remove all debris and residue (figure A).

2. Mix mortar to the consistency of cake frosting. This will help it the mortar "hold" the ridges left by the notched trowel.

3. Have tile measured, cut and ready to install before applying mortar.

4. Apply a thick layer of mortar and spread with a notched trowel (figure B).

5. Lay in full and cut tiles -- watching for straight grout lines as you go along. In this case, the saltillo tiles -- which are handmade -- are uneven and spacers are unnecessary. However, to keep grout lines straight when using more uniform tiles, use spacers between each tile.

6. Allow mortar to set well before applying grout.

7. Use sponge float to apply grout (figure C) and push it into the grout lines. Allow grout to set up but not dry completely before sponging off the excess.

8. Continue sponging with fresh water to clean and really work each grout line to make the edges as clean and straight as possible.

9. Allow tile and grout to dry fully, then seal both.

10. To finish the flooring project, wood trim (figure D) is angled at the corners, then nailed to the floor to provide an attractive transition from the tile to the hardwood floor.