Laying Floor Tiles – A DIY Guide On Laying Floor Tiles From TFO

You have chosen your floor tiles, laid the subfloor, and you are now anxious to get creative. Just like in the other two steps, you will need all the right tools before laying floor tiles.

Laying Floor Tiles – Tools Of The Trade

Many of the required tools for laying tiles you already would have had for the other two steps, except for, of course, your floor tiles. You will need the same polymer thin-set mortar you used to lay your subfloor, buckets for mixing the thin-set with water, a drill and a mixing paddle, your trusty tape measure, pencil and square. In addition, obtain tile spacers, a level and a rubber mallet. A tile cutter or saw will be needed to trim the tiles. Rubber work gloves, knee pads and safety goggles are recommended for your safety.

For finishes, you may need aluminum angles for the doorways where the tiling finishes.

With every tool or chemical substance used, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and make sure you are informed of any applicable building codes.

Before laying the tiles, take tiles from different boxes and mix them together just in case there is a slight colour variation between each box.

Laying Floor Tiles

Mix the thin-set according to the recommended consistency, then starting at the cross section at the middle of the room, spread the thin-set with a trowel in a one metre by one metre area and try not to cover your reference lines. Then comb the mortar with the notched edge of the trowel at a 45 degree angle. Comb in one direction without making swirl patterns. Use the trowel to pick up any excess and return it to the bucket.

Now lay tiles along the reference lines. Press them down gently with a slight twist and use spacers. Every few tiles, lift one up and have a look to see if it’s sticking well. If there is very little adhesive on the tile, add more with the trowel. If this continues, get a trowel with bigger notches.

After completing one section, use the level to make sure the tiles are even. If not, use the mallet to even them out. Cut tiles for edges near cabinets, etc.

Keep Laying The Tiles And Before You Know It, This Stage Will Be Complete

Tile Factory Outlet specializes in quality tiles and tile products. Whether you are looking for tiles for your kitchen, bathroom or any room for that matter, the best place is Tile Factory Outlet. We have over 350,000 m² of tiles ready for same-day pickup. So you are sure to find something that you will love.  Visit our TFO showroom in Sydney or visit our online tile store today.