Tiling a wall: A step by step guide

Materials needed:

  1. Tiles
  2. Tile adhesive
  3. Tile spacers
  4. Grout
  5. Notched trowel
  6. Tile cutter
  7. Level
  8. Sponge
  9. Grout float
  10. Bucket
  11. Safety gear (gloves, goggles)

Steps:

  1. Preparation First, make sure your wall is clean, dry, and even. Remove any old wallpaper or flaking paint. Fill any holes or cracks with filler and sand it down when it's dry.

  2. Layout Measure the wall and plan your layout. Find the center of your wall and mark it. This is where you will lay your first tile.

  3. Applying Adhesive Mix the tile adhesive according to the instructions on its package. Use a notched trowel to apply the adhesive to a small section of the wall.

  4. Placing the Tiles Place your first tile at the center mark, then place the rest of the tiles out evenly from the center. Use tile spacers to maintain even gaps for the grout.

  5. Cutting and Fitting Tiles You will most likely need to cut some tiles to fit the edges of your wall. Mark where you need to cut the tile and use a tile cutter to do so. Be careful when cutting tiles and always wear safety gear.

  6. Let it Dry Allow the adhesive to dry. This can take up to 24 hours. Do not grout before the adhesive is completely dry.

  7. Applying Grout Once the adhesive is dry, you can start applying the grout. Use a grout float to spread it over the tiles and into the gaps. Make sure all gaps are filled.

  8. Cleaning After the grout has been applied, wait for about 15-30 minutes for it to start to set, then use a damp sponge to wipe away the excess grout from the tile surfaces. Rinse the sponge frequently in clean water.

  9. Finishing Up Let the grout dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions, usually 24 hours. Once it's dry, you can use a soft cloth to buff away any grout haze that's left.

  10. Sealing If your tiles are in a wet area like a bathroom or kitchen, you may want to seal the grout to protect it from moisture and mold. You can purchase a grout sealer from a home improvement store and apply it according to the instructions.

Remember, tiling requires patience and precision, but with these steps, you should be able to successfully tile a wall.