How to Install Tiles
We highly recommend the use of a basic grout such as Tec AccuColor, plus a grout admix such as Grout Boost Advanced Pro or Tile Doctor Grout Admix rather than a sealer. Firstly, admixes are mixed into the grout itself, so applying them couldn’t be easier. Secondly, admixes never wear off: as the grout wears down, more admix gets exposed. Thirdly, with with these products, grout becomes physically incapable of supporting mold and mildew growth.
Use Tile Doctor Grout Admix for showers and Grout Boost Advanced Pro for floors. The Advanced Pro formulation of Grout Boost is highly stain-resistant, even protecting against oils, coffee, and pet messes. Tile Doctor Grout Admix holds up better to constant water submersion.
Tec AccuColor is a great grout to use because it comes in 32 different colors to match any decor. There are even 32 matching colors of siliconized caulk and 20 matching colors of silicone sealant. Tec also makes the best thinset mortars.
ON floors
If this project is a wall & floor installation, always start with the floor.
Step 1: Repair and Smooth Damaged Concrete
On bad concrete, smooth with concrete filler, or similar compound.
Step 2: Clean and Degrease Existing Concrete
On old concrete, clean & remove old dirt. A degreaser is recommended.
Step 3: Remove Vinyl Flooring and Adhesives
On vinyl floor, remove vinyl flooring and adhesives.
Step 4: Install Concrete Board Over Wood Subfloor
On wood floor, install concrete board tape joints with fiber glass tape, & thinset joints.
Step 5: Clean and Test Existing Tile Surface
On old ceramic tile, clean with degreaser and test a small area overnight for bonding.
Step 6: Mark Center Lines for Tile Layout
Draw center lines and mark them with a chalk line and a straight edge.
Step 7: Dry-Lay Tiles to Visualize Placement
Lay out a few tiles to visualize the layout.
Step 8: Spread Thinset Mortar Properly
Spread your thinset with appropriate trowel at an angle of 45 degrees. For mixing instructions, refer to adhesive manufacturer.
Step 9: Install Tiles Along Center Line and Straight Edge
Install the the ceramic tile against the straight edge and center line.
Step 10: Set Tiles Using Beating Block and Mallet
Lay a beating block on the tile, and with a mallet, pound gently to smooth the surface to achieve better bond.
Step 11: Move Straight Edge and Repeat Installation Steps
Move the straight edge to the next section of installation. Repeat steps 8-11.
ON walls
Step 12: Remove Wallpaper and Adhesive Residue
Remove wallpaper and remove all traces of adhesives.
Step 13: Scrape Loose Paint and Roughen Surface
Remove loose paint and scratch good surfaces for better bonding.
Step 14: Patch and Smooth Wall Surfaces
Patch wall and smooth walls with appropriate compounds.
Step 15: Clean and Degrease Wall Surface
Clean & wash old walls with degreaser cleaner.
Step 16: Sand or Scrape Rough Areas
Smooth rough surfaces by sanding or scraping.
Step 17: Roughen Glazed Tile Surface for Bonding
If installing over old ceramic, scratch the glazed surface.
Step 18: Mark Vertical Reference Line
Draw your vertical line using bubble level or tile setter’s lead.
Step 19: Mark Horizontal Reference Line
Draw your horizontal line using a bubble level.
Step 20: Spread Adhesive at 45° Angle
Spread adhesive at 45 degrees following manufacturer instructions.
Step 21: Install Tiles from Center Outward
Apply ceramic tile starting at the center to the side walls.
Step 22: Cut Tiles for Side Walls
Proceed to cut the side walls with nippers or a good tile cutter.
Step 23: Trim Bottom Tiles as Needed
Cut the bottom as much as required.
Step 24: Clean Tiles After Installation
Clean the tile 24-36 hours after installation.
Step 25: Spread Grout Using Grout Float
Spread grout using a grout float.
Step 26: Pack Grout Into Tile Joints
With the grout float, pack grout into the joints.
Step 27: Remove Excess Grout
Remove excess grout with the grout float.
Step 28: Allow Grout to Set
Let it dry for 10-20 min.
Step 29: Clean Joints with Damp Sponge
Rub along the joints with a wet sponge.
Step 30: Polish Tiles with Clean Cloth
Polish tiles with a clean cloth.
Let’s Find the Perfect Surface to Define Your Style
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