DIY Network

Blog Cabin, Webisode 6: Tile Installation Step-by-step instructions for installing tile flooring, as seen in DIY's Blog Cabin.

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2. Choose the tile material you want to install (figure C).

• Note: Consider what will work best both design and maintenance wise for your space.

3. Look at the sub-floor your tiles will sit on (figure D). The subfloor needs to be clean, flat, structurally sound and strong floor.

• Note: Because tiles are heavy the subfloor needs to be strong enough to support your tile.

Figure C

Figure D

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4. Layout your tiles (figure E) and choose a starting point.

• Note: This helps you to design your room properly. Choose the starting point based on the area that draws your eye the most. Place full pieces here first and work outward, placing any tiles that need to be cut in less visible areas.

5. Choose your setting material and mix (figure F). For our porcelain tile and cement backer board, we’re using thin-set mortar.

• Safety Alert: Check the safety precautions on the product label before mixing.

• Note: Keep your experience level, the type of tile and the sub-floor your tile will sit on when choosing your setting material.

Figure E

Figure F

	Figure G
	Figure H
	Figure I
	Figure J

6. Next, spread your setting material over a small area on the sub-floor using a trowel. Use the notched edge and comb the thin-set in ridges (figure G).

7. Place and press your tile on the notched thin-set, quickly wiping away any excess (figure H).

• Note: With thin-set mortar, use a sponge and water.

8. After placing a few rows of tile, check for level and hit tiles into place with your hand or a rubber mallet, to protect tiles and properly set them in place.

9. When all of your tiles are placed, mix grout to a thick paste and apply it to the tiles, pressing it between the tiles using a grout float (figure I).

10. Use a damp sponge and wipe away any excess (figure J).

11. Wait about 20 minutes for grout to set, and repeat.

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RESOURCES :

Crossville Ceramics
www.crossvilleinc.com