Mexican Tile Installation

Remove the tiles from their packaging and form the desired arrangement before starting work. This process is known as a dry lay and will allow you to determine your overall design and picture. This is especially important when working with Mexican tiles because the tiles are handmade and inherently different.

Install a green drywall to the desired surface if the surface is in an area of the house that will be exposed to moisture on a regular basis, using 1/2-inch staples. The staples are meant to travel through the green drywall into the surface. Green drywall is designed to resist moisture better than standard drywall. If the tile is being installed on a patio or entryway, install cement backerboard to the surface for a complete moisture barrier. If the surface is concrete or cement, you do not need a backing.

Measure out and dry-lay your tiles again, marking a 1/8-inch grout line between the tiles or using a 1/8-inch grout line guide tool.

Locate the center of the surface with a carpenter's level and mark the vertical and horizontal points. This intersection is where you will lay your first four tiles.

Mix your tile mortar in a bucket according to the manufacturer's directions and blend until it is completely smooth and slightly elastic, using a mixing paddle placed on your drill.

Spread some mortar over the first 3-foot-square area along the intersecting lines with a notched trowel.

Spread additional mortar onto the backs of each tile before laying it in place to prevent the tiles from cracking.

Set the tile onto the mortar and gently twist it back and forth into place.

Continue laying the first 3-foot square of tile and place tile spacers on each side of the tiles. Leave the tile to set for the manufacturer's recommended time.

Mix your grout in the bucket according to the manufacturer's directions with a mixing paddle.

Remove the tile spacers.

Apply the grout along the tiled surface at a 45-degree angle with a grout float. Press firmly as you go to help the grout penetrate deeply into the cracks. Leave the grout to set for the manufacturer's recommended time.

Wipe away and residual grout with a wet sponge and water. Continue wiping until the tiles are shiny.

Apply a grout seal one week after you applied the grout. A grout seal will prevent stains and mold in the grout.