How To Lay Floor Tile

Tiling a floor is a great way to update the look of your home and add value. It's also a relatively easy project that you can do yourself with a little planning and preparation. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you lay floor tile:

Step 1: Prepare the Subfloor

The first step is to prepare the subfloor. This means making sure that it is level, smooth, and free of any debris. If the subfloor is not level, you will need to level it using a self-leveling compound. If the subfloor is not smooth, you will need to sand it down until it is smooth. And if the subfloor is not clean, you will need to sweep and vacuum it to remove any debris.

Step 2: Lay Out the Tile

Once the subfloor is prepared, you can start laying out the tile. Start by finding the center of the room and snapping a chalk line. Then, lay out the tile in a straight line along the chalk line. Make sure to leave a small gap between each tile, about 1/16 inch. This gap will allow the tile to expand and contract as the temperature changes.

Step 3: Apply the Mortar

Once the tile is laid out, you can start applying the mortar. Mortar is a mixture of cement, sand, and water that is used to hold the tile in place. To apply the mortar, use a notched trowel to spread a thin layer of mortar over the subfloor. Make sure to spread the mortar evenly and to press it down firmly into the subfloor.

Step 4: Set the Tile

Once the mortar is applied, you can start setting the tile. To set the tile, simply press it down into the mortar. Make sure to press down firmly and to wiggle the tile back and forth to ensure that it is level. Once the tile is set, use a level to check to make sure that it is level. If the tile is not level, you can use a rubber mallet to tap it into place.

Step 5: Grout the Tile

Once the tile is set, you can grout the tile. Grout is a mixture of cement, sand, and water that is used to fill the gaps between the tiles. To grout the tile, use a grout float to spread a thin layer of grout over the tiles. Make sure to spread the grout evenly and to press it down firmly into the gaps. Once the grout is applied, use a damp sponge to clean off any excess grout.

Step 6: Seal the Tile

Once the grout is dry, you can seal the tile. Sealer is a liquid that is applied to the tile to protect it from stains and scratches. To seal the tile, use a paintbrush or a roller to apply a thin layer of sealer to the tile. Make sure to apply the sealer evenly and to allow it to dry completely.

Step 7: Enjoy Your New Floor

Once the sealer is dry, you can enjoy your new floor! Tiled floors are durable, easy to clean, and beautiful. They are a great way to update the look of your home and add value.