A critical element of knowing how to lay tile is having the correct tools and materials for the job. There is a saying that a craftsman is only as good as his tools. That doesn’t mean you have to have the latest or most expensive models. It’s just a matter of having the right tools and materials for the mosaic job you want to tackle.
To place ceramics on the floor, these are the tools and materials you will need.
1. A tape measure. This is absolutely essential. You should be able to accurately measure the area where you are going to tile. One necessity of how to lay tiles is to know the measurements of the area to lay so you can calculate how many tiles you need;
2. A good drill with a mixing paddle. A sturdy model is preferable. You can rent one, but if you plan to tile other home decor projects in the future, it makes sense to buy one;
3. A tile or wet saw. Again you can rent or buy;
4. A chalk line. A must to make sure you lay the tiles in a straight line;
5. A notched tile trowel to spread over the setting material. This will give you a rib pattern that ensures an even thickness of material. Choose a trowel size suitable for the size of tiles you will be using;
6. A grout trowel. This is used to force the grout into the joints between the tiles. The face can be made of rubber or foam;
7. Tile spacers. These will be used to give uniform joints between tiles. Please choose the size according to the size of the grout line you want;
8. A bucket and a sponge;
9. Flexible additive and setting compounds. There are many setting compounds on the market. Choose one suitable for ceramic tile. The flexible additive is vital and ensures that the tile does not crack when people walk on it;
10. grout;
11. Backsplash (1/4 inch thick) if installing over wood floor. It is not necessary if ceramic is placed on a concrete floor;
12. Protective gear such as safety glasses, gloves, coveralls or old clothes, and knee pads (knees take quite a beating when laying a tile floor); and last but not least
13. The ceramic tiles of your choice.
