How to Tile a Border

 Laying a tile border around the outside perimeter of your tile floor is a job that is going to require some preparation and time. However, this is a job that you should be able to do if you have the proper knowledge and patience. Here are the basics of how to tile a border in a room.

What You'll Need:

• Tape measure
• Tile
• Wet saw
• Trowel
• Tile spacers
• Tile adhesive
• Grout
• Chalk line

Step 1 - Select the Proper Border

There are a number of different types of borders that you could potentially do. In order to choose the right one for your job, you are going to need to look at the different products that are available. You can look at magazines or pictures online in order to get an idea of what you want to do. You can completely customize your border to look like anything that you want. Therefore, you need to spend some time choosing the proper border for your room. You could use the same tile that you installed on the floor and just turn it diagonally or stagger it. You could use listello pieces to create a border. You could use small mosaic tiles to create a border. Your options are basically limitless. Choose the tile for your border and then order it.

Step 2 - Lay out the Pattern

Once you have chosen the tiles for your border, you are going to want to lay it out before installing it. This part of the process can take some time. You want to do a diagram on a piece of paper first so that you can see how you should lay it out. Take the tiles and lay them on the floor so that you can see what they will look like. Adjust the layout to fit your needs. If you are using listello pieces with corners, make sure that you have enough corners for each corner of the tile.

Step 3 - Lay the Tile

You are now ready to lay the border. Using your trowel, apply some tile adhesive to the floor. Then press your border pieces down into that adhesive. Make sure that the border pieces are firmly into the adhesive so that there are no gaps behind the tile. Put tile spacers on the edges of the tile so that you can space the tile appropriately.

Step 4--Allow it to Dry

You should then allow the tile border to dry thoroughly. In most cases, you will want to allow it to dry overnight before moving forward.

Step 5--Grout

At this point, you are ready to apply the grout. Using a grout float, spread the grout over the tops of the tiles and fill the grout joints. When you are done with this, you will want to clean up the mess. Use a sponge and water to wipe down the tiles. This is also going to help smooth out the joints. After you grout joints, you will want to let the grout dry overnight before walking on the tile.

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Are Ceramic Tiles Sustainable?

The use of recycled and natural, sustainable materials, such as ceramic tile, in building construction has addressed some of the most current environmental concerns. Bamboo flooring is readily recognized as one of those natural, sustainable materials; however, ceramic tile is not. The reality is that ceramic tile is not only sustainable, but it is made from natural materials, doesn’t require the use of caustic cleaners, and can save consumers money.

Composed of natural clay and other raw ingredients, it doesn’t require the destruction of other natural resources like wood or plant material. The clay can be formed into a wide variety of shapes to accommodate a wide variety of uses, such as indoor or outdoor use. The tile can also be finished in many different ways to simulate wood, glass, or metal, adding another distinct advantage of ceramic tile over other flooring materials such as carpeting.

Glazed tile offers a surface that cannot be penetrated by odors or other contaminants. For this reason, no chemical cleaners are needed. Only mild cleaners or even just warm water can clean tile sufficiently while avoiding adding dangerous chemicals to the water system.

Invulnerable to stains or absorbing odors, ceramic tile offers a much longer lasting flooring option over carpeting. It is a money-saving material since ceramic tile doesn’t need to be replaced as often as carpeting.

It may not be at first readily recognizable, but ceramic tile is a surprisingly sustainable alternative to traditional flooring materials.

Source: www.DoItYourself.com 

5 Types of Tile for Kitchen Tile Backsplashes

Kitchen tile splashbacks can provide added beauty and style to your kitchen, as well as make it easier to maintain. Furthermore, you can demonstrate your creativity and add flair to your kitchen’s design with your choice of tile.

If you are leaning towards having a tiled splashback, there are several options from which you can choose. The information you will find on the five types of splashback tiles below will help you make an informed decision as to which type of tile will be the best fit for you and your kitchen.

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1. Porcelain Tile

Often ceramic and porcelain tiles are thought to be the same, but they are not. They are, in fact, manufactured completely differently.

Porcelain is made from compressed porcelain dust. This type of tiling is very dense and tough, thus sturdier than ceramic tile.

Another feature of porcelain is that it can be manufactured with a matt, glazed, or highly polished finish. It is important when choosing tile for a splashback that you use a glazed tile. The glazing will protect the tile from kitchen grease and smudges, make it easier to clean, and ensure it lasts longer.

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2. Ceramic Tile

Ceramic tile is made from clay, then fired in a kiln. The visible part of the tile is a glaze which is coloured or patterned.

Your choice of colours and patterns is virtually unlimited. An advantage of ceramic tile is that it is easy to cut, making it simple to install.

Regardless of whether you choose porcelain or ceramic tiles, they are both available in a range of sizes and both are installed the same way. Tile adhesive is used for placing the tiles, and the gaps are then filled with grout.

There is also a wide range of colours for grout that allow you to coordinate the tiling with your kitchen’s interior colour scheme.

Both porcelain and ceramic tile are excellent choices for a splashback because they do not stain easily, making for simple clean-up.

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3. Glass Tile

Another choice in tiling is glass. Just like ceramic and porcelain, glass tile is a great option because of its waterproof nature.

Glass has a unique appearance in that it reflects light, making your kitchen splashback appear as if it has tiny, sparkling gems. The grouting used for glass is a specialised mortar, or unsanded grout. You may even wish to consider adding some glass tile as an accent with your choice of tile.

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4. Metal Tile

Chrome, copper, and aluminium tiles can also make an interesting and attractive addition to your kitchen. These tiles can create a contemporary look and can also suit a more traditional kitchen.

Depending on the overall effect you wish to create with your metal tile, you can choose between a shiny or brushed finish.

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5. Stone and Marble Tile

Stone and marble are popular choices for both countertops and splashbacks in today’s market. With marble, you will find a variety of styles available.

The downside of a stone splashback is that stone cannot be sealed, making it more difficult to keep clean. 

Source: www.DoItYourself.com

Can I Use Bleach to Clean My Ceramic Tile Floor?

 A ceramic tile floor is very durable. When cared for, the tiles will last for many years. Generally speaking, all you need to do to clean it is to sweep it daily and use a damp mop to wash it.

Bad Stains

For stubborn dirt or stains, a couple of drops of soap in mop water will be sufficient. If the tile or grout is white, you can add a bit of bleach to the mop water. This will remove yellowing and stains.

Is Bleach Necessary?

Bleach is not needed in routine cleaning of ceramic tile, and is actually a bit of overkill. Use it only for bad stains and yellow grout.

WARNING: Bleach stains clothing and is toxic to inhale, so be sure to wear old clothing and gloves and check your work area has proper ventilation before you use it. If you're going to have your face close to the bleach while you work (which often happens when leaning down to clean floors), then wear a face mask and safety glasses. This is especially important if you have a history of respiratory problems.

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How To Clean Tile In A Steam Shower

Tile in a steam shower requires very little effort to clean and maintain. The steam that is produced in the enclosure does a great deal of the cleaning. It loosens any residue, allowing you to simply wipe it away. If moisture remains on the tile too long, mold and mildew can develop. Clean your steam shower tiles at least twice a month to prevent bacteria from accumulating.

What You'll Need:

• Liquid detergent
• Soft cleaning cloth

Applying the Detergent

Pour a small amount of liquid detergent onto the cleaning cloth. Use the cloth to apply the detergent to a small area of the tiles. Continue applying the detergent until the entire shower is covered. Allow the detergent to sit for 5 minutes.

Scrubbing the Tiles

Use a cloth to scrub the residue from the surface of the tiles. Work the cloth between the tiles as well. Rinse the tiles with cool, clear water.

Using the Ozone Generator

If your steam shower has an ozone generator, allow it to operate for about 10 minutes after each shower in order to clean the tiles and prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.

Source: www.DoItYourself.com

Tips for Cleaning Terracotta Tiles

 Cleaning terracotta tiles is not as difficult a task as you might assume. Terracotta tiles are a popular form of tile used today in homes across the country. Their natural, rich amber color is sought by homeowners who like a warm, homey feel.

What You'll Need:

• Broom
• Brushes
• Water
• Damp Mop
• Professional Cleaning Products To Taste

What Are They?

Terracotta, which means “cooked earth” in Italian, can be beautiful to look at. However, these types of tiles do need some care if you decide to have them in your home. When installed by a professional, terracotta tiles can be either used in their raw form or sealed with a glaze so they appear shiny. Terracotta tiles are produced from raw clay and are usually available in several color options. Terracotta tiles lend themselves to a Southwest or rustic style and simple appearance.

Here are a few tips that can help you to keep terracotta tiles looking their best day in and day out without too much effort.

Be Prepared

Before you start, have everything you need handy including brooms, brushes, water, damp mop, and professional cleaning products.

Wear Shoes

When mopping and wetting the floor tiles, be sure to wear rubber sole shoes so you do not fall. Terracotta, like most floor tiles, can become slippery when wet.

Sweep

It’s important to remove anything that is laying around on the surface of the terracotta floor such as pet hair, baby toys, food, and dust. Use a broom with soft bristles and sweep the tiles thoroughly. Doing this on a regular basis may help keep the tiles clean on the surface and mopping to a minimum.

Mopping

Use a soft rope mop or soft sponge head mop with warm water to clean when the floor starts to look dull or grimy. Do not use a metal mop head, which could potentially scratch and harm the terracotta tiles.

Professional Products

There are professional cleaning products on the market that are designed specifically for cleaning terracotta tiles. These products are usually available at home improvement and flooring stores. Or ask your tile installer what he recommends when cleaning the terracotta tiles.

Natural Alternatives

If you prefer the natural way to clean, try equal parts of white vinegar to a bucket of warm water and then mop the tiles accordingly. Vinegar is good for removing any oily materials or debris on the tiles and dries quickly.

Other Oils

If you have other stains such as water, you might want to try using some Linwood oil, also available at home improvement and flooring stores. Use a small amount on a slightly damp mop head after you are done washing the floor. Spread a light coat the oil evenly on the tiles moving from wall to wall. Then, let the floor dry for at least 24 hours before walking on it or replacing furniture.

Move all furniture and other accessories that might get ruined or covered in oil prior to using it.

Try to Avoid

Be sure to avoid harsh chemicals on the terracotta tiles; they could become permanently discolored or damaged if the wrong cleaning products are used. If you're in doubt, don’t use it.

As you can see, cleaning your terracotta tiles is not too difficult. Proper maintenance will ensure they will last for years to come.

Source: www.DoItYourself.com

How to Clean Grout Haze From Tile Grout

Grout haze is caused when tiles are installed and the grout is not completely removed from the tile surface after the project is complete. To clean it, you can use common household ingredients or a commercial tile cleaner. The best time to remove grout haze is within 24 hours of completing a grouting project; however, it is possible to remove haze even days or weeks after the tiling project is finished.

What You'll Need:

• Bucket
•  Warm water
•  Scouring pad
•  Vinegar
•  Commercial grout haze remover
•  Protective gloves

Removal Methods

It's always best to start with the simplest removal method first. If you're trying to remove the grout haze within that first 24-hour window, plain elbow grease may just do the trick. Fill a bucket with warm water and, using a green scouring pad, give the haze a good scrubbing. For stubborn haze or haze that's had a little more time to sit, this may not work.

If your grout haze refuses to come up with just warm water, try a mixture of warm water and vinegar (50 percent of each). In many cases this will remove the haze, provided you use enough force against the tile to remove the excess grout causing it.

By this time, if the haze has still not been removed, then it may be time to resort to a commercial haze remover. You can purchase this type of product at any large home improvement center in the tile department. Following the instructions on the package and wearing protective gloves, soak a cloth and use it to wipe the haze from the tile. If the haze continues to be a problem, then the next step is to try applying the remover directly to the surface of the tile. Take care when resorting to this measure that you try small amounts at a time in small areas to avoid possibly damaging the grout you want to keep. Also, be sure to clean up the remover thoroughly, using a new cloth if you have to.

Again, keep in mind that the longer grout haze is allowed to set, the harder it will be to remove.

What Not to Use

The primary products to avoid when attempting to remove grout haze are commercial detergents that may be overly harsh on the grout and leave their own film on tile.

Be aware that attempting to remove grout haze may actually soften the grout between the tiles. If this occurs, then use a putty knife to smooth the grout into place and then reseal the grout to prevent further damage.

Source: www.DoItYourself.com