Guest Blogger: How to DIY Your Bathroom Tile Flooring

Guest Blogger #560, Entry #1271 June 11, 2012

In most homes, the bathroom is one of the smallest rooms. For some, achieving the flooring style you want is difficult in such a small space. Tile is typically the first choice because it is water resistant. Whether you are replacing an older floor or installing a new one, you can’t beat the look of ceramic or stone tile. This type of flooring also requires almost no maintenance.

Simple step by step guide

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Feeling handy? Read the following tips to understand how to tile your floor yourself:

Sweep and clean the floor.

You need a clean surface so that the tile will adhere properly.

Measure the square footage of your floor.

This will give you an idea of the amount of materials you will need, including tiles and mortar thinset.

Dry lay the tiles to get the best idea of your layout.

If you would like a square grid pattern, it won’t be a difficult process, but if you are going for a more creative look, you’ll need a great attention to detail. When you cannot avoid awkwardly shaped tiles, place them where vanities will be able to cover them up later.

DIY tips for your next bathroom tiling project

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Spread the thinset with a floor trowel.

Shoot for a 2-3 foot radius at a time before you begin laying tiles.

Press the tiles in place.

Carefully set the tiles on the thinset using as much pressure as possible, giving it a slight twist to make sure it’s set. Take a step back after every few tiles to ensure they look like they are aligned correctly.

Cut tiles where needed.

You can use a snap cutter for those tiles which will need to be shaped in order to fit the layout of your bathroom. If you will have to cut many tiles, rent a wet saw.

Grout the floor.

Once all of the tiles are set in place, using a rubber grout float, spread grout between the tiles and use a sponge to clean up any excess that has spread onto the tile.

When installed correctly, tile floors should last forever. For most bathrooms, it can be done in a quick two-day process. If tiling your bathroom floor is something you would rather not take on alone, call Concord Tile Flooring today at (925) 338-9348.

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