How to Apply Tile to Basement Walls Made of Cinder Blocks

Clean the cinder block walls, making sure they are free of debris, dust and residue of any sort. Remove any hooks or objects inserted into the wall for hanging items.

Find the center of the cinder block wall. Mark it by snapping a chalk line that runs from the floor to the ceiling. Have an assistant help you hold the chalk line.

Apply a layer of tile adhesive to the cinder block wall starting along the floor by the chalk line, which serves as a guide for installing straight tile. Use a notched trowel to spread it on the wall with upward strokes. Cover only an area that you can fill with tile in a five-minute period.

Line your first tile up with the ground, using the chalk line as guidance for a straight line. Fill out the area you covered with the tile adhesive, checking to make sure the tile lines up with the surrounding tiles. Continue applying tile adhesive and installing the tile until the entire cinder block wall is covered. Allow a the adhesive at least 24 hours to dry.

Prepare your grout mixture by mixing it in a clean bucket until it achieves the texture of peanut butter. Cover a rubber tile grout float with the mixture, hold it at a 45-degree angle and force it into the spaces between the tiles. Continue the process until the entire wall contains the grout. Shape the grout lines by running a toothbrush over them.

Wait for 20 minutes and wipe away any extra grout by running a damp sponge over it. Rinse the sponge often during the process.