How to Lay Porcelain Tile like an Expert

Do-it-yourself work in the home has become somewhat of a craze these days. In fact, you cannot turn on the television without coming across a show that centers around this theme. Having caught the bug ourselves, so to speak, my husband and I purchased a home for a reasonable price, that needs some work, and we have taken on the task of doing much of the renovation on our own. Our most recent task has been to lay porcelain tile in our kitchen and the end result is absolutely fabulous.

The first step you have to take is to measure the area you are going to tile. Then, for best results, you need to get the old flooring up. Then, it's time to go shopping. Items you will need are as follows:

You will need a tile cutter. They have smaller versions and if there is a high probability that this will be your one and only tile job, then I recommend just getting that; they cost about $30.00. If, however, you are going to lay tile at some time in the future, the higher end models prove to be a great investment. You will also need the following:

Tile of choice

Cement Board and Nails (these boards take up to 150 nails per board). This is used only for wood sub-flooring. If you have a cement floor you can skip this step. Some people might advise you to skip this step regardless, that it is unnecessary. I have seen floors buckle and warp after time when this step was ignored on wood sub-flooring, so I would advise installing it if applicable to your situation.

Chalk line

Cement Mix

Grout Mix (ensure color matches tile as you would like it to)

(2) large mixing buckets (one for cement, one for grout)

Protective Gloves (rubber is fine)

Notched Trowel

Putty Knife

Metal Cement Mixer (that attaches to a heavy-duty drill)

Heavy-Duty Drill (if you do not have one to attach cement mixer attachment to)

(1) Bag of tile spacers

One or two large sponges

Sponge mop

Grout Sealer (optional)
Step One: The first thing you need to do is remove all of the existing baseboards.

Step Two: Evaluate the condition of the existing floor and replace or make repairs as necessary.

Step Three: Install your cement boards if you are starting from a wood sub-floor