Tile floor installation is, according to many with experience, one of the more difficult projects in home remodeling. However, assistance is available through expert advice and through the use of modern technology. In recent years, companies have developed excellent home design/home improvement software that can take the amateur to another level of renovation expertise.
Printed information and software that focuses on tile floors help the do-it-yourself individual visualize the different steps in the tile process. This alone can prevent mistakes and make the project less stressful. Software programs also offer alternatives for room and floor design, as well as assistance with measuring, using the correct adhesives and glues, and cutting tile properly to ensure the best fit.
Once the right plans and software are in hand, the person planning to install tile flooring should consider the options available in floor tile. Some people choose more expensive stone or slate tiles to add beauty to their rooms. This is a great idea if the extra cost fits into the remodelling budget. Those who choose slate or stone should keep in mind that these materials will have to be sealed after the tiles are put in place (to prevent staining and to make the floor easier to clean).
After the choice of tile material, the do-it-yourself homeowner should turn his or her thoughts to preparation of the floor area. In some case, new tile can be installed over old vinyl or linoleum, but only if the older surface is level, and not too slick or worn. A poor base surface will only lead to problems later, as foot traffic puts stress on the new floor. For example, soft spots under the newly installed tile may lead to cracking. While no base surface will be perfect, care should be taken to identify spots that are 1/16th of an inch high or more.
If the new tile is to be installed on a concrete surface, it is important to identify high spots that should be reduced with a belt sander or disc sander. A near-perfect 2"x4" board can uncover high spots as it is passed over the surface. Tip: Very small bumps in the concrete surface can be chiselled, but this must be done carefully to avoid severely damaging the surface.
Strength in the base surface is also very important. Tile installed over something as flexible as thin plywood or panel-type sheets may flex and crack under regular foot traffic. In addition, uneven surfaces should be smoothed and strengthened. Composite materials spread across the base surface is one alternative. A board material composed of cement/fiber mix can also provide a more stable subsurface.
Once the surface is ready, it is time to find the center of the room. This can be done quite easily by stretching two strings or chalk line across from corner to corner. An indelible marker may be used to mark the center point. It would be wise to lay a few rows of tile, without adhesive, to get a mental picture of what the final pattern will be. This can also help give an idea of how much space is needed for grouting, if any. Tip: Those with experience in tile flooring emphasize using no less than a half-width tile next to the walls. When the last piece is in place, the floor should be allowed to sit for a few days before the room is used on a regular basis.