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Installing ceramic
tile is a perfect job for the do-it-yourselfer. Your first step will be
to develop a detailed tile plan on paper.
This will tell you the exact amount of
tile and other materials that will be needed to complete the job. When
drawing up your plan try to use as many full sized tiles as possible to
minimize the amount of tiles you will need to cut. Any cut tiles that do
need to be used should be placed away from the main focal point. For
best results do not cut a tile to less than half of its original size if
at all possible.
Installation of Ceramic Tile
Look over your supplies before you begin so that you are sure you have
everything you need to complete the job. You do not want to get half way
through the job and realize you are missing supplies. You will need to
use waterproof mastic if you are applying tile in a location that will
be exposed to water, such as a bathroom. Non waterproof mastic can be
used in areas that will not be exposed to water, such as a hallway. Many
people are tempted to use epoxy adhesives to install their tiles. One
problem with using epoxy is the difficultly in controlling their drying
times. You will only want to use epoxy in areas where you will need
extreme durability and resistance to chemicals, such as a darkroom.
Carefully read the manufacturers instructions prior to applying the
adhesive, taking special note of the drying time. You will usually have
approximately 30 – 40 minutes to work once the adhesive is applied, so
be careful not to apply more than can use at a time. Use the flat side
of the applicator to spread the adhesive onto your surface. Use the
notched side of the trowel to create grooves at a 45 degree angle once
an area of adhesive is down.
Setting Your Tiles
Use your drawn plan to set the tiles into proper position. You will want
to gently twist the tiles into place so that they seat in the adhesive.
Never slide a tile into place. To ensure that you have consistent grout
lines use spacers between the tiles if they do not come pre-made with
spacing lugs. The easiest spacers to use are designed to be left in
place and grouted over. Gently tap the tiles into place with a piece of
wood covered in an old towel to be sure that they are set properly in
the adhesive.
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