A quick and easy guide for getting your bathroom floor or wall tiling project completed successfully.

Step By Step Guide

Although it can seem intimidating at first, tiling or retiling your bathroom yourself can be achievable with the proper knowledge and tools. The most important part is the preparation!

Preparation

The first step is to research, which you’re already doing by reading this article. However, it is best to research your chosen tools as different grouts and thinset mortar brands can have special instructions or other drying times. The research stage is also the best time to get your budget together. Tiles can get pricey, so you’ll want to organise precisely how much you expect to spend so that you do not go over budget. Also, don’t forget to measure your space to see exactly how much you’ll need. Then, you can venture out and purchase your tools:

• Tiles
• Grout
• Spacers
• S tile saw
• Sponges
• A level
• Cement board (the best type of underlayment for tiles)
• Thinset mortar
• A notched trowel
• A grout float
• Grout sealant (optional but recommended) 

Preparation also includes clearing and cleaning your space so that it is ready for the new tiles. You will start by removing any old tiles, vacuuming, and wiping down the area. 

Set the Basis for your Tiles

You’ll want to apply your underlayment to your sub-floor. Using an underlay like cement board provides a level ground to place your tiles. After laying your underlay, you can then decide the layout of your tiles. This is where you can cut all the tiles to fit your space perfectly and use those spacers to determine your design. A good tip for placing tiles is to use chalk and draw lines on your cement board to ensure expert installation. Use your tile saw to prepare all those tiles to fit those tricky edges. 

Place Your Tiles

First, apply an even, thin layer of thinset mortar to the underlay that you applied to your floor. The ideal tool to use while doing this would be a notched trowel at a 45-degree angle. Then, you can slowly and carefully place each tile exactly how you planned and use the spacers to keep them even. Only working with one small section at a time is optimal because your thinset mortar can dry quickly and make it tough to apply tiles if you wait. After putting all the tiles as planned, you will need to allow the mortar to dry. Typically, this takes 24 hours.

Finishing Touches

After your mortar is dry, you can then remove all your spacers. Next, generously apply the grout to all the spaces between the tiles. The best tool for this is a grout float. Finally, use a sponge to remove any excess grout in the spaces and on the tiles. After the grout has dried, which usually takes around 24 hours, an optional but valuable extra step is applying grout sealant to reduce grout stains.  

We would love to see any tiling jobs you have done yourself using our products, so send us some pictures to show off your handy work! https://www.facebook.com/easybathroomshop