How To Lay Porcelain Tile – Planning And Preparing Your Space

Laying a porcelain tile floor can be a very daunting task if you are not sure where to start. That is why you need a lot of planning and preparation to overcome this perception. Laying your own flooring is dramatically less expensive and completing that challenge could be more rewarding than hiring a professional to install it. The cost can also be reduced with proper planning and preparation.

1) Lay your foundation

What is your floor made of? Essentially, plywood is ideal, but if you have the typical 1/2″ to 5/8″ particle board over a deck made of 2 x 8 wood planks, then you may have a tougher job on your hands. After removing the base trim, the particle board must be lifted up and then replaced with plywood. You’ll need a skill saw, or if you’re working with a kitchen floor, you’ll need a keyhole saw. You need to make sure you replace the particleboard up to where you want your tiles to stop; As you remove the particle board, it may be a good idea to check the deck to make sure it is securely attached to the floor joints. Now, you are ready for the leveling compound. You will then need to attach the backing plate. If you don’t, your tiles will just come off.

2) How much space must be tiled?

Measure the room from one wall to the opposite wall and make a note of the distance. We’ll say 12 feet for now for the purpose of this article. Once you have your first measurement, you should take the measurement of the opposite wall. Let’s say this is a distance of 7 feet, then you can multiply the two distances together and this will give you a total area of ​​84 feet. It is important to note that some measurements will not always be so easy, depending on the size and shape of the room.

3) Decide your mosaic

Tiles come in many different sizes: 4″x4″, 8″x8″ and 12″x12″ and so on… Tiles can also be laid in different patterns. The number of tiles you will need depends on the size of the pattern you want. Since the area of ​​the room is 84 square feet, you will need about 84 12″x12″ (1 square foot tiles)

It may be an idea for beginners to purchase additional tiles to prevent breakage or marked tiles. So it might be an idea to buy an additional pack or two, just in case!

4) Choose a color

The only thing that limits you is your imagination and the stock list of the chosen store! Choosing a color depends entirely on your personal preferences and tastes. One thing to keep in mind is how the color of the tiles will look in contrast to the color of the grout between the tiles. Dark tiles with light grout really show off the space in between, and the same goes for lighter tiles with dark grout, so be careful with this.

5) Prepare your space

It’s important to make sure the entire surface is as smooth as possible and the best way to help is to use a floor leveling device to eliminate any holes.

You should now be fully prepared and you can now start laying your tiles. Good luck!