How To Install Floor Tiles The Right Way
Before Installation
Make sure that you have specified the design of your job and expectations with the tile layer. Take care to include any special arrangements in the contract, such as the extent of cleaning required.
- Make sure there are enough tiles to finish the job. Sometimes the same colour and texture of tiles are unavailable at a later date.
- It’s recommended that you buy more tiles than expected, these extra tiles can be kept on site and will mean that you can easily match tiles if any are broken during laying. These left over tiles can also be used for any repairs in the future.
- It is normal for shade variations to occur with porcelain or ceramic tiles, while the clay is in the kiln. Meaning there is a chance the tiles you receive will be slightly different from the sample you picked up. Expect this to be the case and you won’t be disappointed. Although the variance shouldn’t be too noticeable.
- Arrange your tiles to be delivered in advance and make sure the shade or tone markings on all tile cartons are correct to make sure you have received all the right ones and that they are all from the same batch. Open one or two cartons to be completely sure. Doing this will make sure there are less potential problems down the track and that you aren’t disappointed once installed.
During Laying
As tiling begins it’s best to have the lighting in the room as close as possible to the permanent lighting so that you will have a proper idea of how your tiles will look in the room. Also ensure the tiler is using tiles from various cartons. This ensures that any colour variations are spread across the floor, which will create blending.
As the tiling continues it is recommended to periodically check:
- The blend and colour shading are maintained throughout the space.
- No flawed or defective tiles have been laid.
- It is advised to tile hidden areas, such as under stoves, fridges, etc. last so that if any extra tiles are required matching tiles won’t be as crucial.
- If you have any concerns as the job goes on, you should stop the tiling and immediately contact your tile supplier.
After Laying
After the tiler has completed the grouting process there may still be some residue left over on the tiles after the tiles have dried. If you have any concerns with the completed job speak to your tiler first to make sure that the tiler has removed all waxes, grout and grout residues. The tiler or yourself may need to dust any excess grout residue left over from the grouting process. Dust the tiles with a clean dry rag and sweep up the residue. Once clean you can then mop the floor with a suitable tile cleaner. If there are any marks that are hard to remove or there is excessive grout residue, contact a Tile Wizards store where one of the friendly staff members will be happy to show you a suitable cleaner to make your tiles look beautiful. And while you’re there, browse through our range of tile products in-store.
Tile Wizards stores are located across Australia:
- In Queensland – Bokarina, Springwood
- In South Australia – Lonsdale, Para Hills West, and Richmond
- In New South Wales – Coffs Harbour
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE TO READ:
How to Install Tiles in a Diamond Pattern
Want to try out something different for your tile flooring? Try laying your tiles in a diamond pattern. Not only will it be an interesting feature in your spaces, it also makes your rooms look bigger. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do a diamond pattern tile laying…READ MORE