Tile Installation on Stairs

Tile Selection

• Selecting the type of tile for your stairs is the first step in this project. There are an array of tiles to choose from that are made from different materials and feature different colors and patterns. When selecting tile for your stairs, consider your taste, as well as the functionality of the material. Slate is slip-resistant and durable, making it an ideal tile choice for tiles. Another option is porous ceramic tile, which is also durable and slip resistant. Granite is highly durable, but can become slippery when wet, making it a less desirable option.

Stair Preparation

• When installing tile on stairs, you'll want to make sure the stairs are prepared for the application. For carpeted stairs, removing the carpet is essential, as is pulling out any nails and staples and sweep the stairs down. Wooden or previously tiled stairs don't need much in the way of preparation, as the tile can simply be applied directly over these hard surfaces; sweeping down the stairs to remove any debris is sufficient preparation for these surfaces.

Tile Preparation

• Prior to starting the installation process, prepare your tiles. Taking measurements of each of the stairs and making any necessary cuts in the tiles before beginning the job will make the task a simpler one. Waiting to take measurements and make cuts when you're already involved in the installation can slow down the process, making the job more time consuming and difficult than it needs to be.

Materials

• Ensuring you have the proper materials on hand will also help make the installation process easier. Before beginning the job, gather your materials, including grout, a trowel, tile spacers, grout floater and a sponge. You will used the trowel to apply the grout to the surface of the stairs, which will hold the tile in place. Tile spacers should be installed between the tiles to ensure proper and even spacing. Once the tile is installed, use a grout floater to fill the spaces between the tiles with grout. The only other tool you will need is a sponge to wipe down the surface of the tiles after the job is done.