How to Install Tile Flooring

Install tile flooring by preparing the subfloor, laying out your pattern, spreading adhesive in small sections, placing tiles with spacers, and finishing with grout and sealant.

1. Level the Foundation First. Remove existing flooring and ensure the subfloor is level, clean, and structurally sound. Fill any gaps or holes with wood filler or self-leveling compound. The surface must be within 1/8 inch of level over 10 feet. Install cement backer board over plywood subfloors in wet areas like bathrooms.
2. Map Your Starting Point. Find the center point of the room by measuring and marking the midpoints of opposite walls, then snapping chalk lines. Dry-lay tiles along both center lines to see how they align with walls. Adjust your starting point to avoid narrow tile cuts at visible edges. Mark your final starting point clearly.
3. Spread Adhesive Evenly. Mix tile adhesive according to manufacturer instructions, preparing only what you can use in 30 minutes. Using a notched trowel, spread adhesive in a 3-foot square section, holding the trowel at a 45-degree angle to create consistent ridges. The ridges should be uniform and cover the entire area.
4. Set Tiles Straight and True. Place your first tile at the intersection of your chalk lines, pressing down with a slight twisting motion. Insert tile spacers at each corner. Continue laying tiles along your starting lines, checking frequently that they remain straight and level. Use a rubber mallet and beating block to seat tiles evenly.
5. Expand Row by Row. Continue applying adhesive and laying tiles in manageable sections, working away from your starting point. Keep tile surfaces clean by wiping off excess adhesive immediately. Check that tiles are level with each other using a straight edge. Remove any tiles that are uneven and re-set them.
6. Trim Edges to Fit. Measure and mark tiles that need cutting to fit against walls. Use a tile wet saw for straight cuts, or a tile nipper for small notches around pipes or fixtures. Test-fit each cut tile before applying adhesive. Remember to account for grout line spacing when measuring.
7. Wait for Full Adhesion. Let the adhesive cure for 24 hours before walking on the tiles or proceeding with grouting. Remove all tile spacers and clean any adhesive from the grout lines using a utility knife or grout removal tool. The grout lines should be clean and at a consistent depth.
8. Pack Joints Full and Flush. Mix grout according to package directions. Using a diagonal sweeping motion, spread grout across the tile surface with a rubber float, pressing firmly to fill all joints completely. Work in small sections and remove excess grout from tile surfaces with a damp sponge before it hardens.
9. Seal and Protect. After grout has dried for 24 hours, clean any remaining haze from tile surfaces with a clean, damp cloth. Apply grout sealer according to manufacturer instructions to protect against moisture and stains. Install transition strips at doorways and apply caulk around the room perimeter.