Laying A Ceramic Tile Floor
Posted by Sarah on Feb 27, 2010
If you want to completely change a room, the most dramatic change you can make is to install a new floor. But should you choose quality bamboo laminate flooring, good quality vinyl plank flooring, or even carpeting?
One of the primary types of flooring that people choose is ceramic tile. Ceramic tile is so popular because of its versatility. It’s attractive, it’s durable. And, it lasts a long time.
The most important part of installing a ceramic tile floor is preparing it for the tile. The first step towards a perfect installation is to start with a clean, flat floor. So be prepared to remove all of the old carpet, any old tile flooring, nails, screws, etc. If the floor is unlevel, you should take steps to level it. If necessary, you may have to lay a sub-flooring over the existing floor in order to get a nice flat surface.
Once you’ve prepared the sub-floor, the next step is to choose your starting point.
Unless the room is oddly shaped, professionals usually begin their tiling at the center of the room. The center of the room is the focal point for people entering it and you want to make sure that you get that right.
When you have found the center, you simply snap chalk lines to help guide yourself in the laying of the first tiles. When you’ve reached this point, you’ve completed the most difficult part of your task.
Going forward, your tasks are relative simple. You’ll primarily be mixing the tile adhesive, applying the adhesive to the back of the tiles, and laying it on the floor - always moving out from the center of the room towards the four walls. It may be necessary to cut tile pieces as you get near to the wall or corners.
When the tile adhesive is dry, apply grout between the tile pieces to fill in the joints. Finally wipe the grout residue.
Please visit our web site for more information regarding cleaning laminate flooring.