Blog Layout
3 Tips for Your First Ceramic Tile Project
Bader Obeid • Mar 17, 2014
Although many beginners are hesitant to lay ceramic tile for the first time, it really isn’t as difficult as it looks. If you want to learn how to install ceramic tile, a small space like your bathroom floor or tub surround is a great place to start. Use these tips from the Carrollton Flooring experts at CMA to get started, and enjoy your new tile and a fresh, updated look.
- Know the drying times for your mortar. The surface you are tiling, not the instructions on the bag of mortar, is what will determine your drying times. Concrete and wood sub-floors usually take several hours or a full day to dry. However, concrete backer board removes moisture out of mortar – sometimes in as little as half an hour. Also, don’t apply too much mortar at once. If you get behind while you’re placing tiles, you might find yourself chiseling dried mortar off the backer board. Remember, drying times are not the same as curing times so while the mortar might look dry, most brands will take 24 hours for a full hardening.
- Use mesh and a straight edge to lay your tiles. Carrolton ceramic tiles two inches and smaller often come on a paper or plastic mesh to help keep them aligned as you lay them. It does make the job a little easier, but it is important that you don’t rely on the mesh to keep the tiles perfectly straight and flat. Keep a straight edge on hand to make sure your grout lines stay even, and press the tiles into the mortar with a level to keep your surface flat. Knowing the tools you’ll need before you begin the project can help ensure a beautiful final product.
- Never stop tiling in the middle of a row. We are all busy, and don’t always have time to do an entire tiling project in one day. However, if you stop somewhere in the middle of a row, the last tile you install will only be supported by spacers on three corners instead of four. It may shift before you return, and you’ll have to tear out that tile along with any others that moved with it. To prevent this, never stop tiling in the middle of a row. Best practice for laying tiles is to always lay them from one wall to the opposite wall.
Think you’re ready to tackle your first tile project? Head down to CMA Flooring and check out our extensive selection of tile floors in Carrollton. Our flooring experts can help you select the right size tiles for your needs, without breaking your budget. We also have professional installation available in case you’re not sure a DIY job is right for you. Call us at 972-418-6606 for more information or to schedule your free in-home consultation.
Why Choose Us?
Our experts work closely with customers to achieve the looks that fit their lifestyle without sacrificing quality or value. We offer:
Complimentary in-home estimates
In-house sample & display making
Large stock of materials
Competitive pricing for major brands
Flexible work hours with trained staff
Highly skilled and trained installation teams
More Topics & Ideas
Changing out the flooring in your home can be pricey. However, certain materials might be a little easier on your budget without sacrificing quality.
Spring is just around the corner, which means you may want to change up the design of your home to match the season. These ideas will get you started.
If you leave your dog in the front or back yard, you'll definitely need some type of fencing. These 5 materials offer the protection you're looking for.
When making plumbing renovations in your home, you may need to inform your insurance. Here are a few reasons to tell them about the changes you make.
If you're going for a rustic look in your home, there are certain flooring types you should consider. The 4 options on this list may be just what you need.
Adding a deck to your backyard gives you a good excuse to relax outdoors more often. If doing this project yourself, take a look at the following tips.
If you're considering new wood flooring for your home, reclaimed wood is an attractive alternative. This type of flooring offers many great advantages.
One of the most important features of a home is the yard, and turning this area into an entertainment space can make it even more useful and enjoyable.
Kitchen renovations can be tricky, even more so when the space is on the smaller side. Use these tips to transform your kitchen into something gorgeous.
In theory, installing shelves is a simple project any homeowner can take on. However, many make significant mistakes that can cause problems down the line.
