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Tiling a bathroom may seem like a big job, but with the right approach, anyone can get beautiful results. From complete beginners to seasoned DIY-ers, we will guide you through the process step for step. By the end you will have the know-how and confidence to start your bathroom tiling project.
Planning and Preparation
Before starting the actual tiling process, it is important to take a few moments to plan and prep. Making sure you have everything you need, and that you are prepared to take that big step, makes this stage the most important part of a project for a smooth start.
The first is to measure your space. Measure the area that you want to tile (walls, floor or surface + area to be covered). Measuring correctly ensures that you buy the right quantity of tiles and materials. Measure the length and the width of each surface and find the total square footage. This will help you not to run out of tiles in between the project or not end up with excess tiles.
After you obtain your measurements, the next step is to select your tiles. Tiles have to be one of the most important choices to make that will definitely impact the design of your washroom. From ceramic and porcelain to natural stone and glass, the choices are endless.
Consider your bathroom style and colour scheme Some jobs that are not done according to plan can be heavy on the wallet, so keep in mind that different tile materials have varying levels of durability and upkeep. Porcelain tiles, for instance, are quite durable and waterproof, which makes them a perfect choice for bathrooms.
With your tiles selected, it’s time to grab your tools and supplies. The right tools will make your tiling process much simpler. Essentially you will need tiles, tile adhesive, tile spacers, grout, a tile cutter or wet saw, a trowel, a grout float, a sponge, measuring tape, a level, a pencil, and safety equipment like gloves and goggles. Making sure you have all these things before you get started will save you a lot of frustration down the track.
Things you need to do before you can start laying your first tiles The surface needs to be smooth and clean for an effective tiling job. If you are tiling over an existing surface, make sure it is a solid surface free from damage by chipping up any old tiles, adhesive or muck. If you are covering a new surface, ensure that the surface is dry and dust-free. If the surface requires levelling, apply a self-levelling compound to make sure you have a flat, even base.
Laying the Tiles
With the planning & preparation behind you, you can go ahead and begin laying tiles. This is a measure of patience and precision, and these steps will guide you to a near-professional outcome.
Using a notched trowel, apply the tile adhesive in a small area. What you want to do with the trowel is hold at a 45-degree angle to create ridges in the adhesive, which help the tiles to better bond to the surface. Make sure to only work in small areas so the glue does not dry before the tiles can go down.
Begin in the middle of the area you’re working on and move your way outwards. This balances the layout up and down to give the layout a symmetrical look, which is needed for the reasons of aesthetic. Firmly press each tile into the adhesive, twisting slightly to make sure they make good contact. Maintain consistent spacing between tiles using tile spacers. This will make it easier to grout and will give a more professional finish.
Check them with a level as you lay the tiles to ensure that they're even. Make small adjustments to the tiles where needed so that they have a flat surface. If mistakes are made, it is crucial to correct them while the adhesive is wet because, once the adhesive sets, making any corrections will be significantly harder.
You will most likely have to cut tiles to place around obstacles or borders. Take the measurements of the area where the tile must fit and then label the tile with a pencil. Make the cut with a tile cutter or wet saw. Protect yourself from dust and sharp edges by always putting on safety gear (use dust mask, gloves, and safety goggles) while cutting tiles.
After all tiles are installed, let the adhesive set according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. This process generally takes around 24 hours but can take longer depending on the kind of adhesive and environmental conditions. Be sure to allow the adhesive enough time to fully cure before proceeding to the next step.
Grouting the Tiles
Once you apply the grout, a float is used to scrape excess grout off the surface of the tiles. Just be careful not to take grout off of the gaps. Let the grout sit for about 15 – 30 minutes. This wait is important because it allows the grout to firm up a bit, which makes that next step easier.
After the grout sets, use a damp sponge to delicately remove any residual haze of grout left on the tile surfaces. And rinse the sponge often enough and replace the water regularly so you know it stays clean. It may take several trips to remove the remaining grout haze completely. But be careful not to rock the grout lines while you're cleaning.
After the first dose of cleaning, let the grout cure according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer (usually about 24 hours). It helps for the grout to cure, so during this curing time, keep the grout from getting wet or extreme temperatures that might skew the curing process.
Sealing the Grout
After the grout has completely cured, it’s a wise decision to seal the grout to prevent moisture and staining. And sealing the grout is especially critical in a bathroom, where floor and wall tiles are regularly wet and exposed to humidity. This will keep your grout looking good and clean longer when you have a good grout sealer in use.
Select a grout sealer that is suitable for yours. Using a small brush or applicator bottle, apply the sealer, making sure to carefully adhere to the manufacturer's instructions. Be sure to work all the grout lines well. Make sure the sealer is dry before using the bathroom. This drying period varies, so consult the sealer’s instructions for specifics.
Final Touches
With the tiles laid and the grout sealed, your tiling project is almost complete. There are just a few final touches to ensure everything looks perfect and functions well.
First, inspect the tiled area for any missed spots or imperfections. Touch up any areas that need additional grout or adhesive. Clean the tiles one last time with a damp cloth to remove any remaining dust or residue.
Next, reinstall any fixtures or fittings that were removed during the tiling process. This includes items like towel racks, mirrors, and showerheads. Be careful not to damage the tiles as you reattach these items.
If you removed the baseboards or trim before tiling, now is the time to reinstall them. Use a caulking gun to apply a thin bead of caulk along the edges where the tiles meet the walls, ceiling, or other surfaces. This will help create a clean, finished look and provide additional protection against moisture.
Maintenance Tips
Proper maintenance will ensure your tiled bathroom remains beautiful and functional for years to come. Here are some tips to keep your tiles and grout in top condition.
Regularly clean the tiles with a mild detergent and warm water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the tiles and grout. A soft sponge or cloth is usually sufficient for routine cleaning.
Pay special attention to the grout lines, as they can attract dirt and mildew. Use a grout cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and water to scrub the grout lines periodically. An old toothbrush can be an effective tool for this task.
Keep the bathroom well-ventilated to reduce moisture buildup. Use an exhaust fan during and after showers to help remove humidity from the air. This will help prevent mould and mildew from forming on the tiles and grout.
If you notice any cracks or gaps in the grout, repair them promptly to prevent water from seeping behind the tiles. Small cracks can often be fixed with additional grout, while larger gaps may require removing and replacing the damaged grout.
Start Tiling!
Sometimes tiling a bathroom can sound like a daunting project, however, if you plan correctly, now where are the right tools and take a systematic approach anyone with determination can do it successfully. Follow this guide, and you can create a beautiful, functional bathroom that you'll love.
Only be sure to remain patient and meticulous if you want professional results. Be patient with each step, from measuring and selecting tiles to laying them and filling in with grout. Take your time and address anything you messed up along the way.
Now that you’ve learned some new skills and the science behind tiling, you’re ready to take on your bathroom tiling project. It’s doubtless challenging, but you’ll enjoy the process, and then you’ll enjoy knowing you did a good job. Happy tiling!
