Bathroom Tiling

• Mixing and SpreadingThinset Mortar
• Choosing the Proper Tools
• Sub-floorPreparation
• Layout and Cutting
• Grouting and Clean Up

Do It Yourself Tile Projects

By: Glenn Whitehead

Bathroom tiling can add beauty and value to your home at a reasonable cost if done as a do it yourself project. While it does involve some hard work, depending on the size and type of project; it is something that can be accomplished with quality results by most anyone with basic handyman skills. Some of the important facts you should know before starting your bathroom flooring project include:

• Surface Preparation-One of the most important ingredients to a proper installation, which will remain durable over the long term, is preparing a clean, level sub floor. Dirt and other debris will hamper the bonding process of the thinset mortar and may cause delaminating. Installing tile over uneven or unleveled surfaces can cause protruding edges and corners or cracks in the tile.
• Proper Adhesive Materials-Most tile is applied with thinset mortar, which can be purchased in powdered form, then mixed with mortar, or pre-mixed and ready to use. There are also other adhesives and mastics for different types of applications. Always read the manufacturers instructions to find the right material and mixing and application procedures.
• Layout-Careful consideration must be given to the layout and pattern before beginning the installation. Finding the correct starting point to begin working from is the key to an attractive finished product. It’s a good idea to place tiles on the bare floor (without mortar) to get an idea of the finished appearance.
• Tools-Having the right tools is the key to any successful project. Things to consider include: trowels for spreading mortar, manual andpower driven cutters, levels, grout floats, and empty buckets formixing mortar and grout, and clean up. Your choice of tools will be decided by the size and scope of the job and the types of materials you’re using.
• Grout Joint Spacing-A variety of spacing options for grout joints are available. Have an adequate supply of the proper size spacers on hand when you begin the job. The material and your personal preference should determine the size of the joints.

For more help with your bathroom tiling project; check out
"Tile Made Easy"; a video by professional tile setter Randy Davis. It will walk you through the entire process; step-by-step.

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