How to Tile a Carport

Remove all dirt and debris from the carport surface. Make sure the surface is even and free of rocks.

Measure the carport from one side to the other side to gather its width and from top-to-bottom to gather its length. Use a piece of chalk to mark the halfway points, and write down the dimensions of the carport into a notepad. This will be used to determine the number of tiles needed.

Secure one end of a chalk line on the middle portion at the top of the carport. For example, if your carport measures 10-feet wide, at the top of the carport place the chalk line at the 5-foot mark. Pull the chalk line down to the end of the carport and snap the chalk line. This will create a straight vertical line of chalk down the middle of the carport. Secure one end of the chalk line at the middle point on the side of the carport. For example, if your carport measures 16-feet long, place the end of the chalk line at the 8-foot mark on the right side of the carport. Pull the chalk line across the carport in a horizontal line, and snap the line. This will create a straight horizontal line across the carport. You should have four even squares outlined on the cement of the carport.

Mix mortar into a plastic bucket according to the mortar mixing instructions.

Apply a thin layer of mortar onto a 2-foot by 1-foot section of the carport ground with the smooth edge of a trowel. Use the chalk line as a guide to ensure the mortar is applied in a straight line. This coat preps the surface for a thicker layer of mortar. Wait five minutes for this layer to set before moving onto the next step.

Apply another layer of mortar on top of the first layer using the comb or ridged side of the trowel. Make sure the lines created by the trowel are straight.

Press the first tile into the mortar. This tile should be placed on the far right or left side of the mortared section.

Place a wooden spacer, which is a thin piece of wood, next to the tile to create an equal distance between the tiles. If the tile has a built-in spacer, then this step is unnecessary.

Continue to install each tile in the same manner. When you have laid three to five tiles, rest a level across the surface of the tiles to ensure they are even. If not, place a straight piece of wood across the tiles and carefully tap the top of the wood with a mallet until the tiles are even.

Repeat the installation process in 2- by 1-foot sections until the entire carport is tiled.