Floor and wall tiling involves selecting appropriate tiles based on usage and applying them using specific preparation and installation techniques. While floor tiles are more durable and can be used on walls, wall tiles are lighter and designed for vertical applications only.
Key Considerations for Floor and Wall Tiling
- Tile Type: Floor tiles are built to withstand pressure, abrasions, and corrosive liquids, making them suitable for high-traffic areas. Wall tiles are lighter, easier to clean, and ideal for areas exposed to moisture and splashes, such as kitchen backsplashes and bathroom walls.
- Design & Aesthetics: Tiling offers vast design possibilities. Wall tiles can create dramatic accent walls or elevation designs. For a cohesive look, many designs treat the floor and wall as a single visual unit, using complementary colours and textures.
- Installation Sequence: The general consensus among professionals is to tile the floor first, then the walls. This method ensures the wall tiles appear to hang over the floor for a cleaner finish and helps hide cuts at the bottom. If tiling walls first, a professional uses a ledger board to leave space for the floor tiles and prevent damage from dropped adhesive.
Step-by-Step Installation Process
Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or hiring a professional, the process typically involves these steps:
- Surface Preparation: Ensure the surface is clean, dry, sound, and free from debris. For floors, securing loose sections and laying a backer board creates a level base. For walls, plaster may need to be applied.
- Layout Planning: Plan the tile layout with a measuring tool and a spirit level to ensure straight lines and uniform cuts. Start from the center of the floor or a predetermined level line on the wall.
- Adhesive Application: Apply the appropriate tile adhesive to the surface using a notched trowel, ensuring an even and consistent bed.
- Setting the Tiles: Press and twist the tiles into the adhesive, using spacers to maintain uniform joint sizes.
- Cutting Tiles: Use a manual or electric tile cutter for precise cuts around edges, corners, and fixtures.
- Grouting: Once the adhesive is fully cured (typically after 24-48 hours), remove spacers and apply grout into the joints using a grout float.
- Sealing and Finishing: Clean excess grout with a damp sponge. Apply silicone sealant to joints where the wall meets the floor, worktops, or baths to prevent water seepage.