Tile layout is an easy DIY project, which many homeowners opt for when remodeling their home. Replacing old flooring with tiles is a task that can add value and beauty to a house. If you are planning to undertake this task, consider some tips for planning your tile layout, in order to achieve a professional result. Proper tile layout will give you the chance to complete the task fast, in a hassle-free way.
1. Measuring
The first thing you need to do is measure the floor or the walls you are tiling. It's important is to measure properly, calculating for the shelves, windows or anything that is in the way. Proper measurement is the cornerstone of a successful task without sloppy work. When measuring, always include a few inches for the grout. If you do not include the grout in your initial plan, the entire task might fail.
2. Installing the Tiles on a Flat Surface
Whether you are installing floor tiles or wall tiles, you need to ensure a flat surface. You will most likely find edges and cuts, so plan ahead and consider the tile layout based on the surface and the obstacles you will have.
3. Starting at the Middle
Contrary to what most people believe, when installing tiles, you should never start from the wall corners. Tile layout should start from the middle of the space, and continue following a square pattern. That will save you from possible alignment mistakes. You should always tile the wall borders last, because in some cases, walls might not be straight and completely parallel to each other.
4. Draw the Layout
Most people do not actually design the layout on the floor or walls, but that is something that will help you tremendously. Take chalk and draw the tile design on the floor or wall to give you a complete idea of how your project will look when you are done. Moreover, drawing the layout will give you the chance to fix any possible mistakes you made while measuring. Draw the design of the tiles and count them so that you know how many you need. Of course you will need to buy a few more just in case, but you will avoid costly mistakes.
5. Cut Carefully
One of the most common mistakes people make is that they cut the tiles too early. You need to cut the tiles only when you are ready to install them. You can check the initial layout and see how you want the corner cuts to be. Or, you can decide to increase or decrease the grout size so that you can finagle the measurements.
6. Plan According to the Space
One of the best things you can do is plan the tile layout according to the room you are tiling. If the layout is correct, you can make even a really small room appear larger. Use smaller tiles in a tiny space, and large tiles in a spacious room, to add to the optical impression with your tile layout.
Source: www.DoItYourself.com
