Decorative tiles can add visual interest and completely transform the look and feel of any space. From kitchen backsplashes to bathroom walls, installing decorative tiles is an easy DIY project that allows you to customize your home. With some planning, the right materials, and proper technique, you can create a stylish, unique tile installation.
Selecting Your Decorative Tiles
The first step in installing decorative tiles is choosing the right tiles for your project. With so many options to pick from, it’s important to consider:
Tile Material
Porcelain, ceramic, glass, and natural stone tiles each have distinct properties to take into account:
- Porcelain – Made from clay and fired at high temperatures, porcelain tiles are dense, durable, and water-resistant. Great for high-traffic areas.
- Ceramic – Less dense than porcelain, ceramic tiles are still durable and water-resistant. Typically more affordable.
- Glass – With an elegant, reflective finish, glass tiles make a beautiful backsplash. Not as durable as ceramic or porcelain.
- Natural Stone – Materials like marble, travertine, slate, and granite provide a classic, luxurious look. Require sealing.
Size, Shape and Texture
From mosaics and subway tiles to large format and hexagons, tile comes in so many sizes, shapes, colors, and textures. Consider the overall look you want to achieve. Larger tiles can make a small space appear bigger.
Coordinating Trim Pieces
Decorative tiles often require coordinating trim like bullnose tiles, corner pieces, and edge tiles that finish the installation nicely. Be sure to purchase any needed trim tiles.
Quantity Required
Measure the surface area to determine how much tile is needed. Purchase 10-15% extra in case of breakage or the need to cut tiles. Keep all lot numbers the same for uniformity.
Preparing the Surface
Proper prep is crucial for a long-lasting installation. The surface must be clean, smooth, and structurally sound:
- Remove existing flooring or wall coverings if needed.
- Thoroughly clean the surface – no dust, oil, grease or soap residue.
- Repair any holes, cracks or uneven areas – use spackle or tile adhesive.
- Sand and prime painted surfaces to improve adhesion.
For walls, plaster and drywall should be primed with a latex primer to waterproof the surface before tiling. Concrete surfaces need abrasion to help with bonding.
Planning the Layout
Take measurements and sketch out the tile layout on paper, keeping these tips in mind:
- Staggering joints – Tiles should be offset by at least half a tile width to evenly distribute grout lines.
- Border tiles – Balance border tiles on opposite sides of the installation. Measure to avoid narrow border cuts.
- Pattern and design – Balance the look and plan cuts needed to achieve the desired pattern. Mix tile boxes during installation.
- Accents and inserts – Determine placement of accent tiles and decorative inserts like medallions.
- Slope – Shower installations require a proper slope towards the drain. Mark slope references on the substrate.
- Expansion joints – Allow for expansion joints where tiles transition to another surface.
Gather Your Materials and Tools
Installing tile successfully requires using the right materials and tools for the job:
Tile Adhesive and Grout
- Portland cement-based mortar adheres to concrete and wood.
- Latex or polymer-modified thinset mortar offers strong adhesion and flexibility.
- Epoxy mortar is resistant to chemical and temperature changes.
- Match sanded grout color with tile color. Unsanded grout for narrow grout joints.
Essential Tools
- Notched trowel for spreading adhesive to the proper depth.
- Tile spacers to maintain even grout joints.
- Tile cutter and snips for straight cuts and curved cuts.
- Mixing bucket, grout float, sponge, and grout sealer.
- Safety gear – gloves, goggles, knee pads, work boots.
Installing the Tile
Once you’ve completed all the prep work, it’s time to start setting the tiles:
Step 1: Spread the Adhesive
Apply a coat of thinset adhesive using a notched trowel held at a 45-degree angle. Apply only as much as can be tiled in 30 minutes.
Step 2: Set the Tiles
Firmly press tiles into the adhesive using a slight twisting motion. Push adjacent tiles together with spacers in between.
Step 3: Check Alignment
Ensure tiles are aligned and evenly spaced as you go. Use leveling devices if needed. Allow the adhesive to cure per manufacturer instructions.
Step 4: Cut Tiles
Measure and mark tiles to fit edges and around obstacles. Cut with tools to fit. Set cut tiles with adhesive.
Step 5: Apply Grout
Prepare grout per package directions. Spread grout over the tiles, filling joints completely. Remove excess grout with float or sponge.
Step 6: Clean Tile Surface
Once grout has cured, use a damp sponge in a circular motion to clean grout haze from tile surface. Rinse sponge frequently.
Step 7: Seal Grout
Apply grout sealer to finished grout lines following manufacturer directions. Avoid applying sealer to tile surface.
And that’s it! Just let your grout and adhesive fully cure for 48-72 hours before enjoying your beautiful new decorative tile installation.
Tips for Achieving a Flawless Finish
Follow these pro tips to help ensure decorative tile perfection:
- Review manufacturer instructions for all materials and follow them precisely.
- Acclimate tiles before installing. Let tiles adjust to room temperature for 24-48 hours.
- Plan an extra 10-15% for cuts, waste and breakage. Leftover unopened tiles can often be returned.
- Pre-assemble any mosaic sheets to make installation easier.
- Work in small sections for best adhesion – about 4 sq ft at a time.
- Use high-quality tile spacers for even grout line spacing.
- Be extremely meticulous about cleaning excess grout from the tile surface.
- Avoid foot traffic until adhesive has fully cured – at least 48 hours.
- Seal natural stone tiles and grout lines to protect from stains.
With careful prep and attention to detail, your decorative tile installation can look professionally done. The finished result will add lasting beauty, value, and style to any bath, kitchen, fireplace or accent wall.
Frequently Asked Questions About Installing Decorative Tiles
What adhesive is best for installing decorative tile?
For most interior installations on walls or countertops, a white polymer-modified thinset adhesive is recommended. It provides a strong bond and flexibility. Epoxy adhesives offer chemical and heat resistance.
How do I cut decorative tiles?
Cutting requires patience and precision. A wet saw with a diamond blade makes smooth cuts. A manual tile cutter or tile nippers can also be used for straight cuts and round edges. Always wear safety goggles.
What are the decorative tile installation standards?
The Tile Council of North America (TCNA) provides installation guidelines. The Mortar and Tile Contractors Association offers training certification. Follow manufacturer instructions.
How long does tile adhesive take to dry or cure?
Tile adhesive drying times vary by product, from as little as 4-6 hrs to 48 hrs for cement-based mortar. Humidity and temperature impact curing. Don’t grout or walk on tile until fully cured.
Should spacers be left in between tiles when grouting?
Yes, spacers should be left in place to maintain even grout line width. Remove them once grouting is done before the grout fully hardens.
What is the proper tile layout planning method?
Mark the center lines on your surface. Dry lay tiles to visualize layout and test arrangements. Balance cuts on opposing edges. Stagger tiles in a brick pattern.
How long should I wait to seal grout on decorative tiles?
Sealing too early can seal in moisture or impurities. Wait a minimum of 72 hours for grout to fully cure before applying any sealer or finishing treatments.
How do I clean hard water stains from a tiled shower?
Hard water stains can be difficult to remove from tiles and grout. Try scrubbing with white vinegar first. For tough stains, use a commercial tile cleaner formulated for hard water.
Decorative Tiles Take Any Space from Drab to Fab
If you’re looking to add some visual pop and personality to your home, installing decorative tiles is an easy DIY project with dramatic results. With such a vast array of beautiful and unique tile shapes, colors, sizes and textures to choose from, you can mix and match to perfectly suit your own personal taste and style.
Just take your time with careful prep, proper installation techniques, and finishing touches like accent trim and grout sealing. You’ll be thrilled when those eye-catching tiles transform a basic wall or floor into your favorite new decorative feature – one that will last for years to come. Let your creativity run free and make a bold tile statement!