To get a uniformly straight ceramic floor, you must install it with care using the right equipment. Also, you'll need many essential tools, all of which you can find at Outils Pierre Berger.
Below, we discuss how to lay ceramic tiles correctly.
1. Prepare the floor surface
Regardless of the type of subfloor, the surface where the tiles will be laid must be clean, dry, smooth, straight, and free of contaminants. Be sure to measure your floor's thickness to avoid it being uneven with the floor in the next room. You can use a levelling kit to help you with this step.
If your subfloor is made of concrete and has traces of paint, you must remove them mechanically before you start laying tiles.
2. Cover the surface
To make your cement and glue mixture, follow the instructions on the bag and mix with a drill. Then spread the mixture on the floor with trowels using horizontal movements. To add adhesion to the tiles, you can also double glue the back of the tiles.
When laying the tile, you can remove excess cement and adhesive mixture using slightly damp sponges. Use spacers between each tile to ensure that the joints are uniform. However, remember to remove them as you go before the cement and glue dry out too much.
Tip! If you're installing ceramic tiles in a bathroom, shower or around the bath, make sure you choose a waterproof and water-resistant adhesive.
3. Cut the tiles
If you need to cut some ceramic tiles to fill the surface of your floor, use a cutting wheel to guarantee a precise job. Using a ceramic saw or tile cutter may also be very helpful.
When installing cut tiles, be sure to place the finished edges on the visible side.
4. Apply the grout
As the grout mixture dries quickly, don't delay this step.
First, wait 24 hours after laying the tiles so that the cement/glue mixture can dry completely. Then, lightly wet the tiles with clean water before applying the grout so that it will set better. Next, work the grout into the joints following the diagonals of the tiles. Remove excess grout with a sponge as you go.
For best results, repeat this step two or three times. Once the application is complete, let dry for 48 to 72 hours.
Once dry, spread sealant along the grout lines with an applicator and wipe it off.
Tools required to lay ceramics
The Delta Tile Levelling Kit
This levelling kit is very useful when laying tiles. It allows you to ensure that each tile is straight and perfectly even with the others. Moreover, it's a quick tool to use that includes reusable wedges and delivers professional results.
5" Tile Saw
Thanks to its cutting rail, this tile saw allows you to make all types of cuts with excellent precision. It also allows you to work easily on corners and very long tiles.
Tile Saw with Stand
This tile saw with stand remains the ultimate precision tool. This saw is ideal for large projects that require a lot of cutting and delivers a flawless result every time.
24" Tile Cutter with Case
The tile cutter is light and dust-free. It offers a relatively clean cut and allows you to work quickly. It also avoids the need to go back and forth to the water saw. You can also keep it close at hand as you lay the floor.
7" Tile Saw
The 7" tile saw is easy to move and allows you to make various kinds of cuts. Moreover, it adapts to any tile and offers optional water blade cooling without causing too much damage. In short, this tool is a good compromise for your occasional projects.
A tip about cutting tools
For all cutting tools, remember to work with the appropriate blades and wheel cutters for the type of tile you are using. You shouldn't cut glass, ceramic, and porcelain with the same blades. Contact us for more information on this topic.
Put your trust in Outils Pierre Berger's experts
If you have any questions regarding the choice of tools or laying of ceramics, contact us or visit us in-store. Our experts will be happy to advise you and offer you the best products for this specific type of work.
