Saturday 3 August 2013

How to Install Small Kitchen Ceramic Tile

Small ceramic tile, usually considered tile that is less that 2 inches square, can look wonderful on both kitchen countertops and as a backsplash. You can buy the tiles individually or in loosely connected sheets that still allow for grout between each tile. The type you choose should depend on the look you're going for and how much you want each tile to be perfectly straight. Individual tiles work best if you are trying to create a pattern.

Instructions

    1

    Remove any wallpaper or other covering on top of the area you would like to tile. Sand out any bumps on the surface. If you're planning an intricate tile pattern, sketch it out on your wall or countertop in pencil just like you would with an ordinary mosaic.

    2

    Add water to the cement adhesive according to the directions on the label. Make sure it stays thick (the consistency of toothpaste). Pick the area where you would like to start (a corner is recommended). Use the trowel to paint a very thin layer of cement onto the surface where you will apply your tiles.
    Since your tiles are small, cement a 12-by-12 inch area at a time, and then apply several tiles instead of cementing each individually.

    3

    Repeat Step 2 until you have tiled the entire area. Keep all of the tiles lined up and flat. Use a level if you need to. Also, try to keep the gaps between the tiles relatively the same. If they're in a sheet, it will be easy. If not, it takes some careful placement.

    4

    Add water to your grout until it is about the same thickness as the cement was. Use your putty knife to put grout in the cracks between each tile. Don't worry if you get grout on the tiles themselves. (It is almost impossible not to.) Just wipe them off with a cotton cloth. Make the grout smooth and tight so water doesn't seep in behind it. Go for too much as opposed to too little.

    5

    Wait 2 hours for the grout to dry. Then go back and sand off any excess. Wipe you tiles down with a wet cotton cloth to give them a polished shine.

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