Bathroom Ceramic Tile
Save Money With Self Installation Of Bathroom Ceramic Tile
When replacing the Bathroom Ceramic Tile the hardest part is removing the existing tile. All of the work can usually be done by someone that is not familiar with tile work; it just may be a slightly longer process. Doing the work on your own will save a tremendous amount of money and it can be done around your schedule.
To remove the existing tile is easier when beginning on an outside edge. Using a flat screwdriver or sturdy putty knife pry the first tile off, it may break but once the first one is removed the rest will come off easily and there will be many of the tiles that can be saved for recycling. After all tiles have been removed, the screen and mortar will need removed by gently chiseling until all is removed.
Installing the new tile requires basic tools such as a hammer, level, plastic spacers, the tile, grout, caulk, gloves, trowel and a sponge. When selecting the tile for use there is several varieties, styles and sizes available.
The walls getting tiled should be clean with no paint or mortar on them. The wall should have a smooth surface before beginning. If the walls have existing water damage or if it is unfinished drywall, it would be advisable to apply a primer to the entire surface. When tiling a floor, it also should be stripped to the sub flooring and cleaned.
Begin with penciling a line from the bathtub up the wall to the point where the tile will end. Starting on the back wall, place a starting row and make adjustments to avoid excessive cuts. When cuts are needed for the end pieces use a tile cutter to snap them. For pieces that will be placed around tight spots such as the toilet, cut the pieces as close as possible, but remember that grout and caulk will fill in imperfection of cuts.
Use the grooved trowel to apply the mortar but, only apply as much as you will be able to cover with tile in approximately thirty minutes, this will allow for any adjustments that need to be made. Start with the starter row next to the top of the tub and leave a 1/8 in gap between the tub and tile. Place the spacers between the two in order to maintain an even line. When this row is done, begin the second row by working in a stair step pattern while placing spacers between to keep them uniform.
When all walls are completed, let the mortar completely dry for a minimum of twenty four hours. When dry, mix the grout to a smooth consistency and wipe tiles with a wet sponge to prevent grout from sticking to them. Take out all spacers before applying grout. Spread the grout over a small surface at a time and wipe off any excess with a sponge. Let the grout to dry completely and remove the film of leftover grout from the tile.
For the space between the tub and around windows apply caulking in the gap and smooth then apply sealer for the new bathroom ceramic tile. When completed sit back, enjoy the new look and consider all of the money saved for doing the work yourself.