How to Install an Octagon Dot Tile

Measure the length and width of the room. Multiply the length by the width to determine the square footage. You'll need one sheet of octagon dot tile per square foot.

Sweep the floor to remove the loose debris and dirt. Scrub the floor with a solution of 1/2 cup oxygen bleach per 1 gallon of hot water. Allow the floor to dry overnight.

Mix the thinset as directed by the manufacturer. Using a trowel with a textured edge, spread a coat of thinset on a 1 square foot section of the floor or wall surface.

Lay the octagonal tile sheet face down on a sheet of newspaper. Spread a coat of thinset on the mesh backing.

Lay the tile sheet over the coat of thinset on the floor or wall. Press the flat rubber surface of a float on top of the tiles to set them in place. Wipe away any excess thinset between the tiles with a damp sponge.

Lay the remaining sheets on the floor, lining up the sides of the octagon tiles. Cut the sheets as necessary to fit the surface; use a manual tile cutter -- found at home and garden centers -- to cut tiles, if necessary. Allow the tiles to dry for 48 hours.

Apply grout over the tiles using the float. Hold the float so one edge is at an angle, scraping the grout to push it between the tiles.

Wipe excess grout from the tiles with a microfiber cloth. Allow the tiles to dry for another 48 hours.

Clean the tiles with tile cleaner and a sponge.