Do It Yourself: Ceramic Tile & Stone
- 1). Vacuum the subfloor. Remove any staples and nails with pliers or a hammer. The subfloor needs to be clean and free of any obstructions that might interfere with installing the ceramic tile or stone flooring.
- 2). Decide what type of tile you want to use. Both stone tiles and ceramic tiles hold up to everyday wear and tear. However, stone tiles are typically more expensive than ceramic tiles.
- 3). Determine a layout for the tile. Do this by laying your chosen tile out on the floor without mortar. Use tile spacers between each of the tiles to allow for tile joints and correct spacing. Laying the tile out on the floor before installing it will help to give you a good idea of what the tile will look like once installed. It will also give you a good idea of how many cuts of tile will need to be made when the tile is laid out in different positions. Once you have decided on a tile layout, mark the floor where you will start the tile layout. Remove the tile and spacers from the floor and set aside.
- 4). Mix the thin-set mortar according to the manufacturer's directions in a clean bucket. Apply the mortar to the floor at your previously-marked starting area. Apply the mortar with the flat edge of the notched trowel, and then use the trowel at a 45-degree angle to remove the surplus mortar from the floor.
- 5). Press the first tiles into the notched mortar. Place tile spacers in the joints between the tile. Continue applying mortar to the floor and setting the tiles in place. Measure and cut tile that needs to be cut to size with a tile saw. Set the cut tiles into the notched mortar. Wait until the mortar is dry--at least 24 hours--before grouting.
- 6). Mix the grout according to the manufacturer directions. With a rubber float, apply the grout to the stone or ceramic tile joints. Fill the joints completely. With the rubber float at a 45-degree angle, move diagonally across the stone or ceramic tiles to remove the surplus grout. Use a damp grout sponge to remove the grout haze. Wait until the grout is dry before using the tile floors.
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