Tips for Choosing the Tile
- Decide
on size and structure. There are many
types of stone
kitchen tiles available in the Ottawa area. Tiles can
be sold in individual units, or in sections that contain many tiles fastened
together for ease of installation. Think
about how long it will take you to complete the project. If it's your first time working on a DIY wall
tile project, it may be best not to use individual tiles as it is more
time-consuming. Fastened tiles may also
reduce your margin for error.
- Choose
tiles with a hard texture to reduce breakage.
Consider buying more tile than you think you will need in case you make
a mistake or ruin some of the tiles. Planning
ahead will help ensure that you're not short on product when you reach the end
of your project.
- Look
for tiles that are pre-cut to save yourself the hassle of having to cut the
tile yourself. Cutting tile means
renting tile cutting machinery and can lead to inconsistencies in tile size and
shape. It will be easier to install tile
that has flat edges, however if you don't want this look, you can find
alternative options for purchase.
- Consider
colour! Select something that matches
your overall vision for the decor of the room, whether that is a dramatic bold
look, or something more neutral and understated. Stone tiles last a long time – make a
decision that will allow future flexibility if you want to redesign the
space.
Make a Plan
Once you've selected your
tile, lay out your design. You may want
to arrange it in a symmetrical grid, or achieve a particular colour
design. Take measurements and draw out your
designs before you start laying any tile.
Making a careful plan will ensure you don't make a mistake once you've
begun the installation process. Think
ahead and have a clear vision of what you're trying to achieve.
Install the Tile
- Apply
the Adhesive – Apply wall tile adhesive to the wall. Do not apply it to a large area as it dries
quickly. Using firm strokes, apply it to
a small area, against an edge, such as the bottom or top of the wall.
- Install
the Tile – Starting at an edge or corner of your wall, line up your first tile
or section of tiles. It will be hard to
move once you've pressed it against the wall, so make sure you have it arranged
flush against your starting point. Once
you're sure it's in the right spot, firmly press your tile against the wet
adhesive. Repeat this step until you've
laid out a section of tiles.
- Apply
Grout – Prepare a small amount of grout.
It dries quickly, so don't make too much at once. Using a trowel or grout float, apply grout to
the tiles by brushing it steadily across the tiles, allowing it to fill in any
holes or gaps. Use a cloth or sponge to
wipe off any excess.
- Caulk
the Edges – Use caulk to fill in any gaps between your countertop and the bottom
tiles, or between your cabinets and the upper tiles. Do not overfill the caulk. After the grout and caulk have dried, wipe
down the tiles with a dry cloth until they are clean.
Congratulate
Yourself!