How To Tile A Bathroom Floor

Mosaic tiles are two inches square or smaller. They can be installed individually or pre-mounted on mesh back sheets. In this guide, we'll be using 12x12 inch mesh sheets for the mosaic floor tile. For you to properly have this type of California bathroom floor tile, simply follow these easy steps:

1. Clean your work area

Before you start laying the tile, make sure the floor is smooth and level. Clean and vacuum the area to remove any dust, dirt, and debris. Snap layout lines to divide the floor into quadrants and sections. Square the lines and adjust them so the edges will be of equal width, or if you are tiling a small floor, you can layout the tiles without layout lines.

2. Mix your mortar

Testing for color and pattern and measuring end tiles for cuts. If you're using porous natural slate tiles, like we are, they must be sealed before grouting. Mix your latex-modified thinset mortar as instructed.

3. Start applying the mortar

Since this excess can't be cleaned out, use a mortar color that matches the grout you'll be using. Starting at the center of the room and using a square notched trowel, apply the mortar to one of the marked grids and comb it into straight vertical bridges

4. Mortar should cover the entire tile sheet

Set the first sheet of tile into one of the corners formed by the center layout lines. Press it into place by placing a small beater block on it and tapping lightly with a rubber mallet. Lift the sheet and check the bottom, the mortar should cover the entire surface if parts of the back are bare. Recomb mortar with a trowel with a larger notch before resetting the sheet.

5. Make sure tile sheets are flat and at the same level

Reset the first sheet and install the second sheet. Press both sheets into place with a beater block. Make sure both sheets are flat and at the same level, also check that they're properly aligned with each other. If one sheet is a little crooked, all the sheets you put down after it will be crooked too. Keep laying sheets the same way, make sure each is flat level with the other sheets around it and properly aligned. When you finish with one section, lay down mortar for the next. 

6. Follow the specified instructions for the mortar's curing time

As you work, use a damp sponge to wipe off any mortar that gets on the surface of the tiles. Continue tiling until the floor is complete. Once all the tiles are in place, let the mortar dry completely. Each type of mortar has a different curing time, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions. 

7. Time to grout!

Grouting is the next step in the tiling process. Grout fills the space between the tiles, grouting is messy so be sure to properly cover any areas that you don't want to get dirty. Using a margin trowel, mix the powdered grout with liquid and apply it. Skim the excess grout off with the edge of the float. To avoid digging into the joints, move the float diagonally across the tiles.

8. Let the grout sit

The grout will set up in about five to 15 minutes and have a putty-like consistency. When a thumbnail pressed against it doesn't leave an impression, the grout is hard enough for the final cleaning.

9. Clean the tiles

With a damp sponge wipe the tiles diagonally to clean them. Rinse the sponge frequently in clean water. The sponging process will leave a haze on the tile, to remove it wipe the surface with a damp rag then with a clean dry rag.

10. Don't skip the curing process

Cure the grout and let it set thoroughly before applying sealer. The curing process is very important, do not disturb it. Once the grout is cured, apply the sealer with a sponge. Sealing tile grout gives it greater water and mildew resistance and helps keep it from getting dirty. Make sure to wipe off any drips before the sealer dries.

If you have been planning to update your house, a DIY project is a way to go. It's not only cheap but it's also the best thing to do if you're very particular with your house details. On the other hand, if you'd like to cut the hassle and would rather hire California bathroom remodeling professionals then go ahead and try Eano Home Renovation's bathroom remodel packages. Rest assured we'll only work with an expert crew who are dedicated to delivering your bathroom project on time and on-budget.