DIY Network

Installing Tile Installing Tile From "Creative Wall Coverings" episode DCWC-102

Tiling a fireplace requires a few extra steps due to the necessity of applying some tiles to the bottom of a horizontal surface. Here, the process is simplified -- and then you learn how to tile around a curved surface.

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Steps:

1. Mix thinset bonding mortar with water. For a smaller space, you'll only need to use about one-third of the bag. Make sure the amount of water added is relative to the amount of mortar used (e.g., a 50-lb. bag requires six quarts of water; therefore, when using one-third of the bag, add only twoquarts of water).

2. When completely mixed, mortar should have no lumps. It is very important that it be mixed thoroughly.

3. Once it's mixed, let the mortar set for five to 10 minutes.

4. Using a standard 1/4" square-notched trowel, apply the mortar to the surface. The ridges in the mortar help the tile adhere. (Note: For smaller tiles -- e.g., 4" -- a small v-notched trowel works best.)

Mixing mortar is definitely a hands-on job! The mortar should have the consistency of oatmeal.

Chris Chapman shows the tool used for this project -- a 1/4" square-notched trowel.

Tips: Normally, mortar is applied to the surface being tiled, but in tighter spots like the top of the firebox (figure A), it isn't uncommon to apply the mortar to the tile itself (figure B). Also, to make sure tiles are firmly seated in the mortar, put each tile in place, slide it slightly away from the point where it needs to be located and then back into place.

Figure A

Figure B

5. Slide a piece of wood and support to hold tiles while they dry in place (figure C).

6. Place 1/4" tile spacers between the tiles to keep them equal distance apart (figure D).

7. Let tiles set for at least 24 hours before grouting.

Figure C

Figure D

Figure E

Grouting

Steps:

1. Mix sanded tile grout and let it set for about 10 minutes (Note: Be sure to use the right type of grout for your joint size, that is, the space between the tiles.).

2. Remove tile spacers. If there are areas between tiles where the dried mortar is sticking out, knock this excess mortar out with a screwdriver (figure E).

3. Using a grout float, apply grout at an angle. (Note: It's okay to use fingers to push grout deep into spaces between tiles.)

Tip: Applying grout at an angle prevents the float from catching an edge straight on and possibly pulling some of the applied grout out of the joint.

4. Wipe tiles clean with a large tiling sponge.
Curved wall

Materials:
Tape measure or ruler
Pencil
Wet saw
Speed square
Backerboard
1/2" notched trowel
Thinset mortar
Grout float
Level
Spacing wedges
Tile spacers
Drywall or unsanded grout

	The 8" and 4" tile pieces for the curved wall.
	Figure F
	Figure G
	The curved wall in the process of being tiled.

Steps:

1. When you're dealing with a curved wall, the first step is to find the longest distance where the wall is flat, before the curve begins. Following the tile pattern as a guide, use a wet saw to cut tile into strips to make the radius turn.

2. Mark the wall at the bottom (to create a level line where the tiling will start) and in the middle (to provide a reference line to ensure that the tile is applied level).

3. Cut tile according to your measurements. Using a 1/2" notch trowel, apply thinset mortar to the wall, building out the wall a bit so that you can push the tiles back in to help make the curve. Start in the corner and work toward the curve (figure F).

4. Wedges (figure G), which taper in height from 1/16" to 1/8", are used at the bottom of the wall instead of spacers to provide more leeway and a level line. Standard tile spacers are used for the vertical joints.

5. After the mortar dries, apply grout. When applying particularly smooth or glossy tile, use a drywall or unsanded grout so that the surface of the tile isn't scratched.

GUESTS :
Chris Chapman
Home-improvement expert
Atlanta, GA

Chris Palmieri
Palmieri Natural Stone and Tile
Lilburn, GA

Andre Preer
Palmieri Natural Stone and Tile
Lilburn, GA

Kathie Davis
The Studio Gallery
Smyrna, GA
E-mail: Thestudiogallery@hotmail.com

Azure Davis
The Studio Gallery
Smyrna, GA
E-mail: Thestudiogallery@hotmail.com