Tiling In A Bathroom: 5 Basic Steps for Beginners
Tiling in a bathroom can last forever, enhancing both its aesthetic appeal and value. This guide aims to provide you with everything you need to know about the fundamentals of tiling a bathroom floor, from initial preparations to the order and steps of the tiling process for beginners. Let’s dive into the basics and address any questions you may have along the way.
- Time: 3-5 Days
- Difficulty: Moderate-Hard
- Price for Labor:$4-$15 Sq. Foot
Are you planning on tiling a shower? Check out this post on choosing the right tile.
Planning Your Bathroom Tile Project
Planning is the most important stage of a tiling project. It lays the foundation for success and creates a seamless transition from start to finish. By estimating the size and layout of the tile job you can run estimates and availability of the product you will be using.
Keep scrolling to find a list of tools and materials that will be needed for a tiling job in a bathroom.
Tile Selection
It is important to understand that tiling in a bathroom can have several different processes depending on what it is being tiled. In this post, I am talking about tiling on the bathroom floor, not shower or wall. Let’s get started. Check out my post on the best tile and grout color combinations.
First, I would choose a porcelain tile that will go with the overall design of the bathroom remodel. Be sure the tile is in stock at the store and order 10-15 percent more than you will need so you have enough left over after cut loss. Have the square footage of the bathroom before you head to the store to purchase tile. The box of tile will give you the cover area in square feet.
Prepare Bathroom for Tiling in a Bathroom
Now, it is time to prepare the bathroom for tiling. This may include any demolition that needs to be done. Remember the base is the foundation of a good tile job. It is vital that the floor is clean. Ensure the subfloor is level and in good condition before continuing.
Be sure not to tile directly onto the plywood subfloor. Laying tile on a wood floor can cause cracking in the grout lines or the tile itself. This is because the plywood or floorboards can expand and contract overtime and can vary with temperature changes. That is why I always use HardieBacker cement boards for tiling in a bathroom. Here is a link to the HardieBacker cement board we have used in our recent laundry room/bathroom remodel.
Make sure you take into account the transitions into your bathroom. A smooth level transition is key to a professional look. Add the cement board, mortar, and tile to confirm that you will have a smooth transition. The total depth should match the depth of the floor that your tile will butt up against.
Tiling a Bathroom Floor
The next step is to lay the Hardiebacker cement board. I have found two different ways that the board can be cut. One being with a regular scoring knife. A carbide blade works the best. The other is an oscillating tool with a diamond blade, especially if a flange needs to be cut.
It is recommended that mortar is placed on the subfloor prior to installing the Hardiebacker board. Dry fit this as well and have cement boards cut. Using a ¼ inch trowel, place the board that has already been cut onto the subfloor with the mortar still wet.
Make sure that you stagger the joints or it can create a weak spot. Leave a 1⁄4 inch gap from the wall. Screw down the board using cement backer screws. For a ¼ inch Hardiebacker use 1 ¼ inch screws. Now tape the seams using fiber mesh tape. Use a flat trowel and thinset to go over it. Let it cure overnight before tiling.
5 Steps to Tiling a Bathroom Floor in Order
It is finally time to start tiling in a bathroom. It is important that you have thought about the tile layout. Start with a dry run first. Layout your tiles without the mortar, starting in the middle of the room.
The key is to not leave a small sliver at the end. If it is less than half of the original tile size just simply shift your starter row over. You will also want to finish the job headed out the door.
Snap a chalk line to follow for your first row. This will help keep everything straight. Cut the tiles as you go. It is important to use the spacers in between each tile so they are evenly spaced apart. Once the tile floor is laid out and cut you see what the finished product looks like. Remove the tiles/spacers and prepare for officially laying tile.
Clean the Hardiebacker board with a sponge to remove any dirt and debris. This will allow the thinset/mortar to adhere to the cement board. If you made it this far it is time to start tiling in the bathroom.
Start by applying the thinset/mortar using the recommended trowel notch size for the tile you purchase. Spread it out evenly on the back of the tile. Use the trowel notches to level out the thinset, making sure the lines go in the same direction.
Back buttering using the same technique is usually recommended. Place the tile on the floor, using a rubber mallet firmly set the tile. If this is your first bathroom tiling job, I would have a helper. This will save so much time to have an extra set of hands.
After the first tile has been laid, place the tile leveling system. This will keep your tiles level throughout the room. Use as many as needed to ensure it is level.
Lay the next tile, repeating the thinset application and back buttering process. At this point, we need to add our spacers between each tile. Ensure you that the original straight chalk line on the backerboard is being followed.
Now just keep the process going, applying each piece of tile. Knee pads can make your life a lot easier as you work. As you move along, have a bucket of water close by with a sponge. Use the sponge to clean off any thinset from the tiles as you go.
If any thinset starts to pop up in the grout lines, use a toothpick to clean it out before the thinset hardens. If you don’t do this, the grout line will be thinset instead and cause color variations.
After tiling is complete, stay off the floor for 48 hours so the tile to fully dry. After this remove the leveling system by using a rubber mallet. The leveling system will break off.
Grouting The Tile In A Bathroom
Now it is time to mix the grout that will be applied to the tile you just laid to fill in the gaps between each tile. I would use a respirator (N95) during the mixing because it can create a lot of dust. After the grout is mixed you’re finally ready to finish the tiling in a bathroom. This part of the process is much easier!
Fill the joint lines using a rubber float, pressing the grout into the tile gaps. Use a diagonal action when using the float. The grout will set up fast, so don’t waste any time. After the grout lines are filled, wait about twenty minutes.
You should see a haze on the tile that is dried, but the joint will still be wet. At this time you can get ready to sponge the grout lines. Be sure to read the grout packaging – it will have instructions on setup times.
Have one or two buckets of clean water ready to go. With a damp sponge wipe the grout lines using a diagonal motion. Make sure you are not pulling the grout out and do not scrub the joint.
After about an hour a second wipe is necessary. The goal at this point is to clean the haze. Keep your sponge and buckets clean. After the haze is gone the job is done.
Purchasing a sealer can help maintain the life of the tile and grout lines. Be sure to follow all of the manufacturers recommendations.
At this point you have successfully completed a tiling job in a bathroom. Now it is time for more projects around the house. Check out my blog for tiling jobs we have done in our home.
Watch this video to help you along the way!
19 Essential Tools and Materials
Tiling in a bathroom requires having the right tools to make the process smoother and more efficient. Here’s a list of essential tools and materials for tiling in a bathroom:
- 1. Tile Cutter/saw: Used for cutting tiles to fit around edges, corners, and obstacles. Manual tile cutters or electric tile saws are common options. Wet tile saws are the best way to cut tile.
- 2. Tile Nippers: Ideal for making small cuts or shaping tiles around curves and irregular shapes.
- 3. Tile Spacers: Help maintain consistent spacing between tiles for uniform grout lines.
- 4. Trowel: Used for spreading adhesive or mortar evenly on the substrate before laying tiles. Notched trowels are commonly used to ensure proper adhesive coverage.
- 5. Grout Float: Used to apply grout into the joints between tiles and to smooth the surface for a clean finish.
- 6. Level: Essential for ensuring that tiles are installed evenly and straight, preventing uneven surfaces or crooked lines.
- 7. Measuring Tape: Necessary for accurate measurements to ensure proper tile placement and alignment.
- 8. Rubber Mallet: Used to gently tap tiles into place without damaging them or disrupting adjacent tiles.
- 9. Sponge: Used for cleaning excess grout and adhesive from tile surfaces during installation and grouting.
- 10. Bucket: For mixing adhesive, mortar, or grout. I use two or three buckets.
- 11. Notched Trowel: Used to apply adhesive or mortar onto surfaces with even ridges for proper tile adhesion.
- 12. Tile Leveling System: Helps maintain consistent tile heights and prevents lippage between tiles.
- 13. Tile Adhesive or Mortar: Choose a suitable adhesive or mortar based on the type of tiles you’re using and the substrate you’re tiling onto. Also known as thinset.
- 14. Grout: Select grout in a color that complements your tiles. Purchase enough to cover the total area, factoring in the width and depth of the grout joints.
- 15. Chalk Line- Not necessary but can be beneficial.
- 16. Backer Board or Cement Board (if necessary): Provides a stable surface for tiling, especially in wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens.
- 17.Tiles: Purchase enough tiles to cover the area you plan to tile, plus extra for cuts and replacements (typically around 10% extra).
- 18.Cleaner and Sealant (for after installation): Once the tiles are installed and grouted, you’ll need a cleaner to remove any grout residue and a sealant to protect the grout and tiles from stains and moisture.
- 19. Other Common Tools: Speed square, T-Square, erasable marker, knife, knee pads
Porcelain Tile in a Bathroom
Porcelain is the product to use when tiling in a bathroom. This product is water resistant and durable, which makes it a superior option. Even if you don’t plan to spill or get water on the floor, a bathroom will always have humidity.
Porcelain is also a more durable product than ceramic and it is less likely to scratch and chip or break. The bathroom is typically a high foot traffic area, for this reason let’s use the best product.
Porcelain tiles in a bathroom can cost from $3-$10 a square foot at any major home improvement store. The prices can increase depending on the size and intricate designs that you are looking for. .
Figure out your square footage before you start the project and make sure the tile is in stock. Home Depot will include coverage area per tile or per box. Purchase an extra 10-15% to prevent any delays.
Tackling a bathroom tiling project is no small feat and requires careful planning and thorough research beforehand. Ensure you’ve meticulously planned the process and gathered all necessary materials before embarking on this endeavor.
FAQs
How long do I have to wait before grouting?
It is best to wait 48 hours.
Should I tile my floor or walls first?
Either one is acceptable. My opinion is to tile the wall first, in order to keep the floor tiles clean and scratch free.
Where to start tiling a bathroom?
Stating in the center of the space is the most common practice. Always lay out the tiles in a dry run to ensure the correct starting spot.
Is tiling in a bathroom easy?
The short answer is no. It takes time and preparation. If it is your first DIY tile job ask for some help. Research. Gather tools/supplies.
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