How to Prepare your Floor for Tiling

DIY tiling is a great way to save some cash during a renovation. But if you want great looking tiles that stand the test of time, there’s no rushing the job. From what to do with existing floors to prepping your sub-floor, these are our top tips for getting a room ready for tiling.

Measure up

Make sure you order and receive your tiles before you start ripping up old flooring to speed the process. Measure your room to determine how many tiles you will need. Multiply the length by the width and then add ten per cent just to be safe. For extra help in calculating tile quantities, you can use our tile calculator.

Tiling over an existing floor

Tiles can be laid over most surfaces – in some cases even over existing tile! The issue with doing so is in the increased height. If you lay your tile over existing tiles, you stand to lose 10-15mm off your room height. As a rule of thumb, most flooring surfaces can be tiled over, the subfloor just needs to be in good condition.

Removing existing floor

You may decide to remove your existing floor before you tile. This can be a messy job. Linoleum floors can be removed with the help of a trusty utility knife and a heat gun to soften the glue. Remove tiles by chiselling along the grout lines and angling the chisel to pry them up.

When you have your old floor up, make sure you take the time to make any necessary repairs to your subfloor. You need your subfloor to be stable, dry and level in order to achieve the best results when tiling.

Waterproof

Wet rooms like bathrooms and laundries will need to be waterproofed before tiling. In most states, only licensed waterproofers are able to do this job due to properties sustaining water damage in the past as a result of failed waterproofing. Those without qualifications will have to get someone in.

Whether you choose to tile yourself or send for an expert, selecting from our range of stunning tile designs will leave your room looking fantastic. Come in store to speak to one of our friendly staff and peruse our tile range today.

Tile Wizards stores are located across Australia around Brisbane (Springwood), Adelaide (Lonsdale, Para Hills West, Richmond), Sunshine Coast (Bokarina), and Coffs Harbour.