There is nothing like a job well done, especially one that you have done yourself. There are many benefits to be had when you learn how to lay tile yourself. First, you get the satisfaction of improving your home. Then, you get the satisfaction of doing the job yourself.
This, of course, is not to mention the fact that you can save money at the same time, over professional installation. When learning about laying tile, if you learn the proper methods, you can have a professional looking installation, that you have done on your own, that you can be proud of.
However, before you can get started with actually laying the tile, you have to understand what tools you will need. The tools are probably the most important element to getting the job and done correctly. If you do not have the right tools, you will find yourself taking shortcuts, which could hurt the overall quality of the job and the results.
So, what supplies do you need? The first and most evident are the tiles themselves. You have many choices in the type of tiles you use such as Marble, mosaic, ceramic, quarry, slate, or even glass. The size you want can be anywhere from 4x4 inches to 12x12 inches, you can even mix and match for a really great look.
You will also need an adhesive, the type you get will depend on the type of tile and where you are laying it. For example, if the area gets wet often such as your kitchen or bathroom, get an adhesive that is waterproof.
A trowel is necessary, a notched trowel is best. This is for laying your adhesive and thinset. You will also need a tile saw and a diamond saw. The tile saw is for cutting the tile for edges and when you simply cannot lay a full tile. The diamond saw is perfect for when you have to create holes for various purposes.
Grout is an absolute necessity, it is used as a filler between the tile spaces. You can get this in a color that will match your flooring or overall decorative scheme, generally colors such as terra cotta, white, or grey.
Grout spacers are also ideal, as they fit between two tiles to give you the proper spacing for the grout. You will also need a grout float, use a rubber one because it will cause less potential damage to your tiles. Never opt for a putty knife because this will definitely cause tile damage.
Other supplies you will need when learning how to lay tile include sponges, a bucket, chalk line, and a level. When you have the right supplies, you can install your tile with absolute confidence.
