How To Tile Floors

The starting point – find the halfway point on each wall. Run a string line from each wall to opposite side. The centre point is where the strings cross (see Diagram 1).

Check that the strings meet at 90 degrees by measuring 3 metres along one line (or 600mm), 4 metres (800mm) along the other. If correct, the other leg of the triangle will be exactly 5 metres (or 1m). If it’s not, adjust the strings (see Diagram 1) until this is achieved.

Starting at centre point, lay out tiles to see how the last one fits. Best to end with an even sized tile on each side of room. Move centre lines to achieve this. If, for visual effect, it is important to start tiles at a doorway, then move the start point to that line. Mark final line with pencil or chalk line (see Diagram 2).

Mix adhesive as per instructions.

If trowel lines slump when trowelled, adhesive is too wet. Remove, add powder, re-mix and reapply. If trowel lines crack where trowelled, adhesive is too dry. Remove, add water, remix and reapply.

Begin from the centre point. Spread adhesive with flat edge of trowel to ensure good wetting of surface. Then comb through the adhesive with the notched trowel to get a full, even application. Hold trowel at about 60 degrees. Only apply about 1 square metre at a time (see Diagram 2).

Set tiles into the adhesive with a firm push and twist. Do NOT slide tile as this will push adhesive into the grout line which will then need to be removed. Use spacers between tiles at all corners. After laying a line of tiles, check with spirit level for trueness.

Adjust promptly with a light tapping onto a straight wooden block. Clean adhesive out of areas where cut tiles are to be put. Cut tiles and apply adhesive at a later stage.

Cutting Tiles and Grouting

Mitre 10 Handy Hints

For advice on how to tile walls, please go to our How To Guide, Tiling Walls