What Is the Process in Putting Tile in a Home?

Preparation

• If you already have carpet or another flooring material in your home, the first step is to remove it. According to "Black & Decker Complete Home Repair," although it is possible to install tiles over old flooring materials, it isn't usually the best option, especially if there are already multiple layers of flooring materials. Once the old flooring has been removed, the next step is to prepare the floor surface by marking the layout of the tiles. If you're installing the tiles yourself, take your time on this step. Failure to plan the layout of your tiles may lead to unnecessary mistakes and miscalculations later in the process.

Laying the Subfloor

• The subfloor or substrate is crucial to the quality of your tiled surface. According to professional tileworker and owner of Cape Cod Tileworks, Tom Meehan, a good subfloor is what distinguishes a professional tile job from an amateur one. The subfloor acts as a foundation for the tile and prevents damage from expansion or settling in the floor. Subfloors may be made from a variety of materials, including concrete, plywood and drywall. Specialty subfloor products are also available at home improvement stores.

Adding the Tile

• After the subfloor has been laid, it's time to add the tiles. This is actually one of the quicker steps in the process. According to This Old House, it may take anywhere from six to 10 hours to tile an 8-by-10 foot area. First the mortar is applied to the surface of the subfloor. If you tile your own floor, be sure to only mix as much mortar as you will need for two hours. After the mortar is spread, it's time to set the tiles, which will need to sit undisturbed for 24 hours.

Grouting

• Once the tiles have set for 24 hours, you're on the last leg of the process. Applying grout is the final big step. If you are tiling your own floor, be sure to always begin applying grout from the edge of the room to the center. Applying grout from the outside in prevents grout buildup along the outside of the room and allows you to easily redistribute it if necessary. Allow the grout to sit for 12 to 24 hours before walking on the floor.