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Six Common Tiling Mistakes Which Are Easy to Avoid
It is easy to make mistakes when laying tile. This article will not make you a tile-laying expert. Still, it will define ways to make the job easier and result in a more satisfying project completion.
Here are six common tiling project mistakes.
Mistake: Not Installing a Backer Board
If the tile is in an area with a lot of water, like a shower, you need to install a waterproof backer board. The backer board helps keep everything stiff, and this prevents water from seeping into tiny cracks. Read these tips to select the best backer board for your project.
Mistake: Improper Underlayment
For tiles to lay flat, the tile underlayment must be installed correctly. A rigid base will also prevent the tile from cracking. If the underlayment is not in good shape, put a quarter-inch or half-inch cement board underneath the tile to ensure a proper surface as an underlayer for the tile.
Mistake: Improper Wall Preparation
Clean off all grease stains and fingerprints from the walls before you tile them. If the walls are not clean, the adhesive will not adhere to the walls, nor will the tiles. Follow these other prep steps to prevent having to redo the job.
Mistake: Not Using the Right Tools
If You are a DIY, then you need to use the right tools. It makes the installation so much easier, and you will achieve a better result.
The tools needed for a typical tiling project are:
- Bucket
- Grout float
- Level
- Nippers
- Notched trowel
- Rags
- Safety glasses
- Sanding block
- Tape measure
- Utility knife
You will also need a tile saw, margin trowel, abrasive pads, and a suction cup.
Having these tools will save you time, reduce your frustration level, and produce a better result.
Mistake: Not Having Your Materials Ready
The materials you will need for a typical tiling project will be:
- Alignment clips
- Thin-set mortar
- Your Tile
- Tile backer
- Tile spacers
Avoid last-minute shopping trips by having all your materials ready ahead of time.
Mistake: Too Many Cracked Tiles
Depending on the tiles’ material (porcelain, for example), tiles can easily crack. Too many ruined tiles can become expensive and wasteful. There are a few preventative steps to take to reduce the number of cracked tiles. First, use the proper tile saw. The best tool to use when cutting tile is a diamond wet saw. When using the saw, make sure to apply slow, even pressure to create a precise cut.
A diamond tile saw is essential for cutting natural stone tile and other hard tiles.
The Delmarva Design Center can help you select a proper set of tiles from an aesthetics perspective and provide advice on ensuring that your tile is installed correctly.
Your Result
You want to achieve a result that is both amazingly beautiful, on plan, and on budget. It may be best for you to work with an experienced tile installer to achive the result you want.
Visit the Delmarva Design Center at 38507 Dupont Boulevard in Selbyville, Deleware, to see our wide selection of tiles and countertop materials.