DIY Network

Room to Grow: How to Install Bathroom Tile Here are a few expert tips on installing new bathroom tiles From "Sweat Equity" episode DSEQ-110

Kim and Amy remove the orange countertop, orange carpet and gun-themed wallpaper, now its time to give this bathroom an upgrade. With the framing, insulating and dry walling finished, and Kim’s new shower pan installed, Amy helps Kim install a tile floor.

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Materials:

tile
tile speed square
wax pencil
wet tile saw
measuring tape
thinset mortar
grout
grout float
trowel
notched trowel

	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D
	Figure E
	Figure F

Bathroom Tile Installation Tips:

• Only mix as much thinset mortar as can be applied in an hour; otherwise it will dry out and not be as effective.

• Set the tiles on the floor to grid out the space, to make sure you have enough to cover the area and also to determine what cuts will be needed. This is especially important if you’re attempting a pattern.

• Purchase enough tiles to cover the entire project, accounting for one-half pieces, scrap pieces and replacement tiles. Often tiles from a different stock look slightly different.

Safety Alert:

• Always wear protective eyewear when working with power tools.

How to Install Bathroom Tile:

• Amy and Kim begin by first laying the tiles out right on the floor. Making marks right on the concrete and on the tiles where cuts will be needed (figure A).

• Mix thinset mortar to the consistency of peanut butter and spread the thinset out with notched trowel, holding the trowel at a 45-degree angle (figure B).

• Amy and Kim lay the tiles, wiggling them into place (figure C). Insert spacers to keep the tiles separated (figure D).

• Amy must make a circular cut around the toilet flange (figure E). So she marks the cut with a wax pencil.

• Amy shows Kim how to make a circular cut with a tile saw. She cuts a series of notches into the tile, one right next to the other. The notched pieces will break out and form a half circle cut-out (figure F).

• Kim and Amy finish the tile floor, making cuts where necessary. When the tile is dry they finish the floor with grout.

RESOURCES :

Handyman Matters
Website: www.handymanmatters.com

GUESTS :

Adam Berlin
General Contractor
Maverick Home Remodeling Inc.
Website: www.RenewTheHome.com

Dave Hauser
Elite Drains and Plumbing Inc.
Phone: 720-296-2255