How To Install Ceramic Tile

Lay out mark and cut small groups of tiles at a time and leave them in the space where they will be installed.

How to install ceramic tile.

To cut a curve mark the cutting line then cut away bits of tile with tile nippers. Gently press the tile into the wet thinset twisting the tile back and forth to press it deeper into the thinset. Lay the tile. Install cut tiles in small groups to avoid mixing too much mortar and risking it drying out before you can use it all.

Occasionally lift a tile and check the back to ensure full coverage. Watch our how to install ceramic and porcelain floor tile videos and learn the steps needed for a successful installation. To install ceramic wall tile use a level and measuring tape to mark the tile locations on the wall with chalk. Measure twice before you cut.

Install ceramic tile over a subfloor that s no less than 1 1 8 inches thick. Ceramic porcelain natural stone if the variety of shapes sizes textures and colors that are available in tile has stirred your creativity you may be read. A thinner subfloor will cause the floor to flex due to the weight of the tile. You ll see how to complete each step and work the required tools such as trowels manual snap cutter wet saw and tile nipper.

Then using the lever to which the cutting wheel is attached draw the cutter across the surface. Use long sweeping motions to apply mortar to the wall and start placing your tiles in the marked locations. Your aim is to collapse any ridges in the mortar and fill in gaps.