How To Install Wall Tile

Inspect the grout joints.

How to install wall tile.

Spread the adhesive with the smooth side of your notched trowel and then go over it with the notched side to create ridges in the adhesive. Mortar a small spot and then place a tile. Tile layout measure the height from the floor up to the ceiling. If you are tiling a shower or tub surround leave a 1 8 inch space between the tile and the tub or shower base to provide an empty space for caulk.

This line serves as your cutting guide to fit tile along the counter. Hold a tile at this spot accounting for a 1 8 inch expansion gap. The accent tiles go on the same way image 3. To set the tile apply an even coat of mastic on only a small portion of the wall at a time.

Then lay your tiles on the the floor in a straight line making sure you put spacers between them. The best way is to arrange your wall tile in a pyramid shape. Again apply the tile with a slight twisting motion. Butter the tiles and press them into place.

If there are any remaining trim or border pieces to install complete the job by installing them now. Measure mark and trim any tiles to fill partial gaps at the top and bottom of the wall. Install tiles one through four as directed. Pull the tile up and look at the pattern that is create on the back.

For the average small wall tiles which are currently popular you will want to use a 1x4 square notch trowel. If it seems complicated try this. Next use a tape measure along the tiles to see how much you have to cut from the first row of tiles you should install full tiles on the last row. Test a tile to make sure the mortar is mixed and spread correctly.

Then every subsequent row is a process of draping over the pyramid back and forth. To see where the tile will end at the top of the installation make a jury stick. Then use a level to extend the line along the work area. Take care not to cover your lines.

Starting in the center on one side of your reference line apply a coat of tile setting adhesive to an area about 3x3 feet square. Most wall tiles have built in lugs that automatically set the grout gaps.