Handy Hints For Laying Tiles

1. Tiles,
2. Adhesive,
3. Adhesive Mixer
4. Trowel,
5. Tile Cutter
6. Tile Spacers
7. Grout
8. Grout sealer
9. Sponge
10. Grout cleaner
11. Tile Trims. Tile trims are designed to provide edge protection where tiles are bordered by other tiles or floor covering. It is important to select the right tiling trim for your project. For example, Quadrant tile trims are designed for wall and external corner applications, while Square edge tile trims are ideal for external corners both vertical and horizontal. L-shape or straight edge tile trims are ideal for use where tile meets tile, carpet, wood floor etc.

Mark the top surface of the tile with a pencil or marker, then score along the mark. Snap the tile along the scored line using the appropriate tile cutter.

Adhesive Adhesive

1. Trowel adhesive evenly onto walls and floors, spreading horizontally when tiling walls.
2. Press tiles into the adhesive with a slight up and down movement, ensuring at least 80% adhesive coverage on the tile.
3. Once in position, remove excess adhesive, insert spacers, and adjust tile positioning. Use the appropriate square notched trowels according to tile size.

Choosing Spacers and Trowels:

• Use Cross Spacers, T Spacers, or Wedge Spacers depending on preference.
• Select the appropriate size square notched trowel based on tile size:
  • 150 x 150mm tiles: 6 x 6 x 6mm trowel
  • 200 x 200mm tiles: 8 x 8 x 8mm trowel
  • 300 x 300mm tiles: 10 x 10 x 10mm trowel
  • 400 x 400mm & larger tiles: 12 x 12 x 12mm trowel
  • 500 x 500mm plus tiles: 15x15x15mm trowel
• Use 1.5mm or 2mm spacers for walls and 3-5mm for floors.

Laying Tiles on Walls:

1. Prepare the wall surface, find the lowest point, and mark a level line.
2. Mark the centre of the wall, then lay out tiles along the wall using spacers.
3. Start tiling from the top down, removing the batten and placing the bottom row of tiles last.

Laying Tiles on Floors:

1. Prepare the floor surface, measure the room, and mark centre lines with chalk.
2. Lay a row of tiles along the centre lines, adjusting positions if necessary for complete tiles at entryways.
3. Finalize the layout, mark cut points, cut tiles, and lay them in position, ensuring straight edges.
4. Work from the straight edge, ensuring tiles are square as you proceed.

Finishing:

• Allow adhesive to dry and remove spacers once dry.

This summarized guide covers the key steps for effectively cutting and laying tiles, ensuring a professional finish.