Installing tile over cement is a great way to add a beautiful look to any room in your home. There are many reasons why homeowners choose this option over another option, such as painting the cement wall. The biggest reason is because it is easier and less time consuming than painting the wall. Also, if you have an expensive paint job that was just done, installing ceramic tile over cement will make your entire wall look like brand new.
Before you get started, make sure there are no underground gas or oil lines that could be leaking. Also, be sure that there is no electrical service coming from the house. If the pipes are leaking, this will also affect the tiling installation. If there are electrical wires or pipes leaking, then call a plumber. You don’t want to damage the walls while installing the tile. If you do not want to call a professional, then you will want to make sure the water has cleared from the home.
When choosing the color of the tiles, you need to keep in mind what colors will look best with your walls. If you have a light colored room, then darker colored tiles will be the perfect match. If you have a very dark cement room, then lighter colors will look better.
When choosing the size of the tiles to use, think about how much the room is used. This is very important. It’s better to use bigger tiles in a larger room. However, if the room is only used for decoration, then smaller tiles will work. Always measure the area before purchasing anything.
Use a tape measure to determine the size of the area that you will be covering. You should be sure to measure the entire wall area. Don’t forget to include a space for doors and windows. The area that you cover must allow movement of air.
Use an adhesive or grout to seal the area. Use an easy to clean product to avoid getting dirt and grime into the product. Allow it to dry completely. You may want to apply mold release to make the area look as clean as possible.
Now it is time to install the tiles. You can either use wall screws or nails for heavier tiles. Make sure you have enough nails or screws to finish the job.
Allow for air to flow around the tiles while they are being installed. You can use a fan or open fan over the wall to help circulate the air. It is also a good idea to have an assistant at all times when installing. They can help with different aspects such as directions and ensuring the right tiles are being used. An assistant can also help with uninstalling tiles and removing tools that may get left behind.
Some tiles come pre-drilled for easy installation. Others will need to be drilled after the wall has been formed. This will depend on the size and shape of the tiles. The area must be properly measured before any tiles are installed.
For best results, use a level. Otherwise you may have uneven areas that are impossible to straighten out. If you are using pavers in the area, use an angle grinder. This device cuts the angles and curves that are common with paving tiling.
Once the wall is properly measured, prepare adhesive and grout. Make sure that the area where the wall will be is flat and clean. Apply adhesive to each tile as it is laid. Be sure to use a high quality adhesive that is meant for the type of flooring you are installing.
Once the tiles are secured to the wall, apply the grout to the entire area. Use a tile adhesive that has a good bond to the tiles. You can also use masking tape if you do not want to spread the adhesive evenly. Leave the room to dry for a few hours before grouting the remaining area.
