Introduction
According to Matt Davies Stockton, people spend a lot of time choosing wall tiles for their kitchen. However, if you’re unable to install them properly, it isn’t going to look as good. Let’s check out how you can install sensational kitchen wall tiles properly.
The Considerations
- Measure the wall – Before you install the tiles, you need to figure out the wall’s square footage. It determines the number of tiles you’re going to need and would reduce unnecessary waste. You also need to take into account switches and outlets while you measure the wall.
If just one section of the wall needs to be covered, multiplying the height and width should give you the square footage. However, disproportionate sections need to be measured separately. Finally, add around 10 percent headroom to the final number so that you can account for small gaps and damaged pieces.
- Prepare the wall – Remove all cookware and appliances from the site and place a drop cloth on the countertop to protect it. Next, start removing old tiles with a chisel and masonry hammer. Make sure to wear proper safety gear while you handle ceramics. After removing old tiles, patch up the holes with spackling paste. Now clean the wall with mild soap and remove grease with a primer. If you have a glossy surface, you can sand it down.
- Pre-Lay and cut tiles – Now lay the tiles on the wall and measure them out. Mark the starting and end points with a pencil. Next, you need to use a tile cutter to cut those tiles to fill up the measured area with ceramic or porcelain tiles. For making round cuts, you’ll need a tile nipper. However, you’ll be better off with a wet tile saw if you have tiles made of natural stone. Otherwise, they may break or get chipped.
- Mortar – Get a bucket and fill it up with water and the mortar mix in the quantities listed on the label. Mix it thoroughly and let it sit for a few minutes before you mix it again. Now you have a short window to use the mortar. Use a notched trowel that measures the same as your tiles and start spreading the mortar at a 45-degree angle.
- Lay and seal tiles – Next, you need to lay the tiles and prepare a grout mix and apply it to the back of the tile after scraping off dust and other residues. Use the grout float at a 90-degree angle. When excess grout comes off the sides, remove it with a damp sponge. Finally, you can apply the grout sealer after the tiles are laid and the grout has dried off for at least a few hours.
Conclusion
Matt Davies Stockton suggests that you follow the above-mentioned steps to properly install your tiles. That way, they are going to stay aligned and won’t come off easily. You can also get help from a professional if you’re not too confident about your DIY skills.
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