Avoid These 8 Common Mistakes When Tiling

To help your tiling experience go smoothly, here are some frequent mistakes to watch out for during and after the installation:

Common Tiling Mistake #1: Overlooking Surface Preparation

Before laying down tiles, it’s crucial to prepare the subfloor properly. Any old coatings or residues need to be eliminated to create a smooth and clean foundation. This step is vital for establishing a strong bond between the tile and the floor, which helps avoid potential problems such as loose tiles or cracks in the future.

Common Tiling Mistake #2: Grouting Too Early

When it comes to grouting, patience is crucial. It’s vital to ensure that all tiles are fully installed and the adhesive has dried completely before starting the grouting process. Grouting too early can cause uneven drying, leading to an irregular finish and reduced durability.

Common Tiling Mistake #3: Incorrect Adhesive Application

While it might seem logical to apply adhesive dots to the corners of tiles, this is a frequent misunderstanding. An uneven application of adhesive can lead to tiles breaking or cracking over time. To create a strong bond, use a tile trowel to spread the adhesive evenly across both the back of the tiles and the area where they will be installed.

Common Tiling Mistake #4: Choosing Inappropriate Adhesive

The adhesive you choose plays a crucial role in the durability of your tiling project. Always pick an adhesive that is appropriate for the specific purpose of the area. In high-humidity environments, such as bathrooms or pool areas, it’s best to use waterproof adhesives to avoid moisture-related issues.

Common Tiling Mistake #5: Neglecting Floor Leveling

To ensure a smooth and uniform installation, we highly recommend using floor levelers when laying floor tiles. Although it might appear to be an unnecessary and time-consuming step, floor levelers help keep tiles securely in place while the adhesive dries, minimizing the chances of an uneven surface. An uneven floor not only detracts from the aesthetics but also raises safety concerns, as the edges of misaligned tiles can lead to trips or injuries for those in the space.

Common Tiling Mistake #6: Insufficient Tile Quantity

When determining how many tiles you need, it’s wise to buy slightly more than the exact amount required. An additional allowance of approximately 10% to 15% can help cover breakage during installation, cutting waste, and potential miscalculations. Having extra tiles on hand is beneficial, as they can serve as replacements for future damages or even be repurposed for different projects.

Common Tiling Mistake #7: Postponing Excess Grout Removal

It’s almost unavoidable to have excess grout during the application process, but timely removal is essential before it fully hardens. Delaying this task can complicate grout removal, as it becomes tough and may leave unsightly streaks on your beautiful tile surfaces that are hard to eliminate.

Common Tiling Mistake #8: Utilizing Harsh Chemicals for Cleaning

Following any tile installation, it’s essential to clean the tiled floor, as there will likely be dust and excess grout that needs to be removed. While some effort may be needed, it’s crucial to avoid harsh chemicals to expedite the process. Although ceramic and porcelain tiles are quite resilient, using abrasive cleaning products can damage the surface and diminish the design’s vibrancy. Most household cleaners are safe for tile surfaces, but if you need something more potent, it’s wise to consult professionals for recommendations on suitable cleaning agents to use after installation.

By steering clear of these common tiling mistakes, you can achieve a successful and striking tiling project that will endure through the years.