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How to Install Daltile Suretread & Pavers

Daltile Suretread and Pavers are durable, stain-resistant tiles that are designed for commercial and residential use. "Suretread" refers to the fact that the raised tread pattern on the tiles pools grease and water below the level of foot traffic, which provides better traction. You can install them either indoors and outdoors too. The Suretread line comes in a standard 6-inch-by-6-inch size with several different trim and corner options available. One of the biggest benefits of installing the tiles yourself is the amount of money you can save compared to the cost of hiring a flooring professional.

Things You'll Need

  • Wash cloth
  • Soap
  • Water
  • Rags
  • Scraper
  • Chalk line
  • Pen
  • Tile cutter
  • Tile adhesive
  • Trowel
  • Daltile Suretread and Pavers
  • Tile spacers
  • Wood block
  • Hammer
  • Grout
  • Grout sponge
  • Float
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clean off the surface in which you wish to install the Daltile Suretread and Pavers. Use a scraper, wash cloth and warm water to remove any dirt or spots from the floor. Repair or patch any damaged or uneven areas before proceeding.

    • 2

      Mark the center point between the four walls around the installation area. Snap chalk lines between the center points of opposite walls to form a cross in the center of your room.

    • 3

      Lay the loose tiles along the center lines in both directions and put tile spacers in between the joints. Lay the tiles until you reach the walls.

    • 4

      Mark off the tiles you need to cut by placing them flush against the wall if the last tiles you lay do not fit flush against the wall. Drawing a line across where you need to cut the tile to make it fit appropriately. Make any necessary cuts with the tile cutter.

    • 5

      Mix up your adhesive according to the package instructions. Start in the center of the installation area, and spread 1/4-inch of adhesive on the ground so you cover an area for three or four tiles at a time. Work in grids so you set one quarter of the room at a time.

    • 6

      Install the first tile and work your way outward. As you set each tile into place, put spacers in between them. Do not slide the pavers onto the adhesive; rather, use a slight twisting motion to set the tiles into place. Fit perimeter tiles in each grid last, leaving 1/4-inch gap between tile and wall. Once you install one quarter of your room, tap each tile into place by setting a level piece of wood onto the tile and tapping it with a hammer. Scrap off any excess adhesive with a knife or rag, then wipe off the tiles with a wet rag. Repeat this process until each grid is done. Don't put any weight on the tiles for 24 hours.

    • 7

      Mix up your grout according to the package instructions. Take out the tile spacers, and spread grout onto the tile surface are with a grout sponge. Remove excess grout from the tiles with a float or a clean sponge. Set the grout in between all the joints, wipe off the excess grout and then let the grout set for 24 hours before walking on it.