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How to Lay Tiles:
A Comprehensive Guide for Australian Homeowners

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Laying tiles can be a rewarding and at times an essential DIY project. However, it’s a task that requires careful planning, preparation and quite a bit of knowledge. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through all essential steps to lay tiles like a pro.

If you want to check out which type of tile will be suitable for your upcoming installation, you can browse the extensive tile collection at Royal Tiles here.

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In This Blog

Understanding Tile Types

Before you embark on your tiling journey, it’s crucial to understand the different types of tiles available in the market.

1. Ceramic Tiles

  • Made from a mixture of clay and other natural materials, fired in a kiln.
  • Available in a wide range of colours, patterns and styles.
  • Relatively affordable and easy to maintain.
  • Suitable for indoor applications, including walls, floors and countertops.
  • Varying degrees of water resistance and durability depending on the specific type.

2. Porcelain Tiles

  • Composed of denser clay and fired at higher temperatures than ceramic tiles.
  • Extremely durable and resistant to scratches, stains and moisture.
  • Suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications, including high-traffic areas.
  • Available in a variety of colours, textures and finishes, mimicking natural materials like stone or wood.
  • Low porosity and water absorption rate, making them ideal for wet areas.

3. Natural Stone Tiles

  • Made from various types of natural stones, such as marble, granite, slate, or travertine.
  • Each tile is unique in colour, pattern and veining, adding a luxurious and natural aesthetic.
  • Highly durable and suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.
  • Require regular sealing and maintenance to protect against stains and moisture.
  • Offer excellent heat resistance, making them suitable for fireplaces or other high-heat areas.

4. Mosaic Tiles:

  • Composed of small, individual tiles arranged in a pattern or design.
  • Can be made from various materials, including glass, ceramic, stone, or metal.
  • Offer a unique and artistic look, adding visual interest and texture to any space.
  • Suitable for walls, floors, backsplashes and decorative accents.
  • Require careful installation and grouting due to the intricate patterns and small tile sizes.

How to Lay Floor Tiles

Tools Required for Tiling


Here are all the major tools that can be required for your tiling procedure:

1. Tile Cutter or Wet Saw:

tile cutter wet saw

For cutting tiles to fit around edges, corners, or obstacles. A wet saw is preferable for larger projects or harder tiles like porcelain or natural stone.

 

2. Notched Trowel:

notched trowel

For spreading thinset mortar or adhesive onto the subfloor. Different notch sizes are used depending on the tile size and type.

 

3. Tile Spacers:

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Small plastic or rubber spacers used to maintain consistent grout lines between tiles during installation.

 

4. Grout Float:

grout float

A rubber or sponge float used for spreading and pushing grout into the joints between tiles.

 

5. Tile Nipper or Tile Scorer:

tile nipper

For making precise cuts or trimming tiles along walls or other obstacles.

 

6. Knee Pads: 

knee pads

Kneeling on hard surfaces for extended periods can be uncomfortable, so knee pads provide cushioning.

 

 7. Level or Laser Level:

level image

Ensures that the tile surface is level and free from lippage (uneven tile edges).

 

8. Buckets and Mixing Paddles

bucket and mixing paddles

For mixing thinset mortar, grout and other materials according to manufacturer’s instructions.

 

9. Tile Saw or Angle Grinder with Diamond Blade:

tile saw

Used for cutting tiles, especially harder materials like porcelain or natural stone.

 

10. Caulking Gun: 

caulking gun

For applying silicone caulk around edges, corners, or anywhere tiles meet different surfaces.

 

11. Grout Sponge:

A specialized sponge used for cleaning excess grout from the tile surface after grouting.

 

12. Safety Equipment: 

Gloves, safety glasses and a dust mask or respirator are essential for protecting yourself during the tiling process.

Step by Step Process

If you are a beginner in tiling, don’t you worry. We have prepared a thorough and detailed step-by-step process that will help you lay out your tiles easily.

  1. Prepare the Surface:

  • Ensure the subfloor is clean, level and free from cracks or debris.
  • For concrete floors, apply a primer or sealer to improve adhesion.
  • For wooden subfloors, install a cement backer board or underlayment to provide a stable base.

  1. Plan the Layout:

  • Measure the room and determine the center point.
  • Snap chalk lines to create a grid pattern, ensuring the tiles will be evenly spaced.
  • Adjust the layout if necessary to avoid skinny tiles along the edges.

  1. Dry Fit the Tiles:

  • Lay out several rows of tiles without adhesive to check the pattern and alignment.
  • Use tile spacers to maintain consistent grout lines.
  • Make any necessary adjustments before proceeding.

  1. Mix and Apply Thinset Mortar:

  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing the thinset mortar.
  • Use a notched trowel to spread the thinset evenly over a small section of the subfloor.

  1. Lay the Tiles:

  • Start from the center of the room and work outwards.
  • Gently twist and press each tile into the thinset, using a slight back-and-forth motion.
  • Use tile spacers to maintain consistent grout lines.
  • Cut tiles as needed along the edges using a tile cutter or wet saw.

  1. Allow the Thinset to Cure:

  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended curing time, typically 24-48 hours.
  • Avoid walking on the freshly laid tiles during this period.

  1. Remove Tile Spacers and Apply Grout:

  • Once the thinset has cured, remove the tile spacers.
  • Mix the grout according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Use a grout float to apply the grout diagonally across the tiles, pressing it into the joints.

  1. Clean and Seal:

  • After the grout has set (usually 24-48 hours), use a damp sponge to wipe away any excess grout from the tile surfaces.
  • Allow the grout to cure completely, then apply a grout sealer to protect it from stains and moisture.

  1. Apply Caulk (if necessary):

  • For areas where the tiles meet walls, bathtubs, or other surfaces, apply a flexible silicone caulk to seal the gaps and prevent moisture penetration.

  1. Final Cleaning and Maintenance:

  • Once the installation is complete, give the tiles a final cleaning with a pH-neutral cleaner.
  • Establish a regular cleaning routine to maintain the tiles’ appearance and longevity.

Golden Rules of Tiling

  1. Always apply adhesive horizontally with a notched trowel, rather than in a swirling motion.

  2. You should never store tiles in direct sunlight prior to fixing.

  3. Tiles should be dry, clean and free from grease, wax, oil, curing compounds, etc.

  4. You should dampen porous concrete with water prior to tiling with cement based adhesives. This will ensure greater adhesion and a longer open time.

  5. Make sure the back of each tile is in good contact with the adhesive.

  6. Make sure you remove any loose powder on the backs of the tiles.

Post-Installation Care and Maintenance

After completing your tile installation, allow sufficient drying time before using the area. This typically takes 24-48 hours for the grout to cure fully.

To maintain the beauty and longevity of your tiles, establish a regular cleaning routine. Use pH-neutral cleaners and avoid harsh chemicals or abrasives that could damage the tiles or grout.

If you encounter issues such as grout discoloration or tile damage, address them promptly to prevent further deterioration. Consult with a professional tiler or refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for repair or replacement recommendations. You can also get in touch with Royal Tiles for any questions or concerns.

All in all,

By understanding tile types, properly preparing the surface, gathering the right materials and tools and following the installation, grouting and sealing steps outlined in this guide, you can achieve a professional-looking tile installation. Remember, patience, attention to detail and adherence to best practices are key to a successful tiling project. With Royal Tiles as your trusted partner, you can rest assured that you’re using high-quality products that will stand the test of time. To check out all the tiles available at Royal Tiles, visit here.