Now that you have your tiles all positioned as you want them, it is time to lay them. Depending on the size of the area, it will be a good idea to clear an entire day for this portion of the tiling process. It is a good idea not to do this on a day South Africa is playing cricket (you should be fine if they’re playing rugby though, why disappoint yourself?).

If you are tiling both your walls and floors, it is a good idea to start with the walls to prevent damaging your newly tiled floors. Mix only enough adhesive for approximately a square meter of tiling at a time (about a quarter bag) according per the instructions on the bag.
Tile adhesive starts drying quickly, especially on hot and humid days.
Ensure that the consistency of the tile adhesive is correct. If the mixture is too runny or too hard, the tiles will not stick properly. Always remember to read the instructions on the manufacturers packaging on how to mix the adhesive for the best consistency for the tiles being laid.

Starting from the centre line on the wall, use your wall trowel to spread a layer of adhesive at least 3mm thick for a single row of tiles along your horizontal reference line. For floors, the adhesive needs to be a minimum of 5mm thick. Apply only enough adhesive for about four tiles at a time, otherwise the adhesive will dry before you can bed your tiles. The first row of tiles is crucial. Press the tiles gently into the adhesive. Ensure that each tile is correctly positioned and that it lines up with the horizontal and vertical reference lines. Place spacers between tiles to ensure that the distance between all tiles are uniform and equal. Remember to use your level to make sure that the tiles are all level to the floor – you don’t want a floor that has different levels to it.

Use the rubber mallet to tap each tile firmly into place, but be careful, the mallet is solid enough to break the tiles.
Using a piece of wood as a baton along your reference line is a good way to keep your tiling accurate and ensure that your tiles will not drift or slip. (Remember, you will be removing the piece of wood, so don’t nail it in too firmly)

Once the tiles are firmly in place and reasonably dry, remove the spacers and do not leave the adhesive to dry completely, or you’ll have trouble removing them. Scrape excess adhesive out of the joints before the adhesive dries too hard. Wipe the tiles thoroughly with a damp sponge to remove all excess adhesive.

After laying your tiles, avoid walking on the tiles for about 2 to 3 days, to prevent the tiles from moving out of position. You do get quick drying adhesives, so consult with your sales representative, to make sure of the actual time lines regarding the drying/settling period.

Now that the all your tiles are laid out, the next step is: “grouting & finishing off”. This will be discussed in the next article.

Should you not have the inclination, patience or experience to tile yourself, do not despair, we are proud to announce that Valuetec has added Tiling, painting, plastering and light renovation work to our service offering in Pretoria. If you require assistance with a renovation project, give us a call or email us for more information and let’s add value to your home the professional, correct and affordable way.