The tiles can be laid on concrete, bricks, blocks, plaster base, painted surfaces. If the walls are flat and plastered, it is enough to prime the surface. It is better to knock down the old tiles, and then level the surface.
Draw a straight line from one wall to the next and tile up and down from it. Now the tiles are not laid on cement. For this, there are all kinds of mixtures and adhesives, in which the proportions of the components are strictly maintained. You can use our mixes or imported ones. For the bathroom, it is advisable to take solutions for wet rooms. For outdoor work, there is also a special glue. If you glue the tiles to hardboard, chipboard, drywall or painted surface, you can use hot melt glue. It is convenient in that it instantly fixes the tile. Simultaneously with it, for greater reliability, you can use liquid nails. The seams are covered with grout to match the color of the tile. The glue is applied in a thin layer with a straight trowel, then leveled – it is necessary that the entire surface of the tile is covered with glue. The tiles are laid at a distance of 2-3 mm from each other. When you have laid out 2-3 rows, check with a spirit level whether the tiles lie flat, and whether all seams are the same thickness. It is advisable to seal the seams after the glue is completely dry with a special sealant. After removing excess mortar from the surface, let the seams dry for 15-20 minutes. Finally, wipe the tiles with a damp sponge, and after 4-5 hours with a dry, clean cloth.
Seal the joints between the floor and the wall with technical silicone, use it in the corners, near pipes and where the tiles are in contact with other material. You can choose the matching wall and floor tiles to your taste, as well as decorate them with a border.
If you invite a master to lay tiles, the tools will “help” determine his qualifications. A good master must have a tile cutter (and certainly not a glass cutter), a notched trowel (not a trowel), a level, crosses (so that the seams between the tiles are even) and a mixer (drill with a special attachment) for stirring the solution.
I’m curious to know, what are some essential steps or techniques one should keep in mind while laying tiles? Are there any particular measurements or tools required to ensure correct placement? Additionally, what are some common mistakes to avoid during the tile laying process? Any helpful tips or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
When laying tiles, there are some essential steps and techniques to keep in mind. Firstly, ensure the surface is clean, level, and dry. Measure the area accurately to avoid uneven or crooked tile placement. Use a notched trowel to spread an even layer of adhesive, taking care to work in small sections. Press the tiles firmly into the adhesive, using spacers for even spacing. A tile cutter or wet saw is needed to cut tiles for edges or corners. After the tiles are set, apply grout in a diagonal motion, removing excess with a sponge. Avoid common mistakes like using too much adhesive, uneven spacing, or excessive grout application. It’s important to work patiently and methodically to achieve a professional finish. Additionally, always plan the layout before starting, and consider utilizing online tutorials or seeking professional advice for further guidance.