Tile installation is an expensive option compared to other forms of decorating. It is important that you know how to lay tiles. You certainly don’t want to make these mistakes.
1 Not planning the layout of the tiles
Result: too many tile cuts
Solution: Plan where any pattern, border, or accent tiles will go before you begin to tile. An important element of knowing how to tile is being able to visualize the effect of the finished tile.
2 Incorrect tile base
Result: loose tiles, cracks
Solution: Fill the cracks with the appropriate filler. Hammer in any protruding nails. Remove any glue or cement residue with a blade scraper. Thoroughly clean the surface. Cement is by far the best base for laying tiles. Cement backboard is excellent for wood floors, walls, and countertops.
3 Not checking work at regular intervals
Result: badly ugly tiles or grout errors that are very difficult to correct
Solution: Inspect your handiwork every 15 minutes. It is easier to rectify mistakes before the tiles or grout have set.
4 Using the wrong adhesive
Result: tiles come loose, water leaks, tile cracks
Solution: Choose an adhesive suitable for the use of the area where you will lay the tiles. For example, waterproofing for wet areas, flexible additive for floors.
5 excess grout
Result: The overall appearance of the tiles is spoiled
Solution: Use the straight edge of the grout trowel at a ninety degree angle to scrape off the excess. When the grout is dry, clean and polish the tiles. Tile grouting correctly is essential for a quality finish.
6 Use of incorrect grout
Result: water leaks or cracks over time.
Solution: Use a grout suitable for the use of the tiled area. Waterproof grout for wet areas, specialized grout for exterior use or food preparation areas.
7 Miscalculating the number of tiles required
Result: you run out of chips.
Solution: measure the area very carefully. Calculate the number of tiles needed in each pattern/color. Allow additional tiles for awkwardly shaped areas. Add 15% to allow for errors, outages and replacements. Buy all the tiles at the same time. Make sure they come from the same batch to avoid color variances.