Ceramic tiles can be installed directly on drywall plaster or if they are in moist areas onto green drywall or even better cement backer board.
Wall tile installation guide.
If not the tile will simply amplify the imperfections.
So let s look at the basics of wall tile installation that will make everything go a lot smoother less frustrating and less costly.
Step 1 prepare the wall.
And that works fine if the base of the wall usually the floor or bathtub is perfectly flat and level.
Showers and bathrooms installation guide.
Before you begin tiling check the surface with a straightedge.
Remember to apply the adhesive using a 15mm u notch or a 10mm v notch trowel and spread towards one direction only.
To install ceramic wall tile use a level and measuring tape to mark the tile locations on the wall with chalk.
The obvious way to tile a wall is to start at the bottom and work your way up.
To do so make sure all of the tiles are intact and secure.
When tiling onto walls with floor tiles consideration must be given to weight as floor tiles are often heavier than wall tiles.
You ll end up with misaligned tiles and grout lines that vary in width.
For wall cladding follow the same procedure as previously shown in the floor installation section.
Remove the tile and prepare the wall according to the corresponding instructions above or tile over the existing tile.
Repair any loose or cracked tiles.
So if you re looking to put your tiles on a bathroom or kitchen wall be sure you get semi vitreous or impervious tiles.
If existing tiles are beyond repair remove the tile and install a piece of wallboard in its place.
Dean says that one of the most important tips for any tile setting job including mosaics is to start with a perfectly flat surface.
Be sure to put spacers between each tile as you go.
That way if you do have to cut tile to fit they ll be at the bottom where the tub or shower pan might be slightly out of level.
If you find a dip in a wall flatten it by screeding a layer of setting type joint compound over it as shown here.
If you plan to cut the bottom row of tile start your installation with the second row.
Use long sweeping motions to apply mortar to the wall and start placing your tiles in the marked locations.
Our sales teams will be happy to confirm the weight of the tiles so you can confirm suitability.
Measure and mark the spot for your second row of tile check your mark for level then attach a board to the wall to act as a guide.