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Fact to Consider
Important things to consider
while laying of tiles
Laying a ceramic tile floor can be considered a daunting task, but with adequate planning and preparation, this perception can be overcome. Laying one’s own tile is also much less expensive and possibly more rewarding than having it professionally installed. Cost can be minimized by careful planning and preparation.
You prefer durable and good-looking tile flooring for your home; therefore, you always select quality Al Maha ceramic tiles for the flooring. There are a number of color and design options available to choose from Al Maha Ceramic tiles, which are considered to be water and abrasion resistant. Despite selecting the right type of tiles for your flooring, you may still face various problems after installation. This usually happens because of improper laying of tiles.
Things to remember
- Providing improper slope and level will allow water to accumulate on the floor.
- Improper filling of tile joints weakens the flooring surface and may lead to injuries due to sharp tile edges.
- Fixing tiles on uneven surfaces or using improper adhesive application may cause breakage due to floor movement.
- Unsealed joints can create a shabby appearance and allow dust to settle between tiles.
Tiles installation check list
- Before laying tiles, soak them in water for at least 6 to 8 hours.
- Calculate the total area and procure at least 7–10% additional tiles to cover wastage.
- Ensure the concrete base surface is clean and free from dust or foreign particles.
- Ceramic tile sub-base should be compacted and firm enough to withstand traffic movement.
- Maintain proper slope in the sub-base when installing ceramic tiles directly on concrete flooring.
- Complete all painting and plastering work before laying floor tiles.
- Use a spirit level while fixing tiles to ensure proper leveling throughout the floor.
- Ensure proper floor slope towards drain points and maintain enough clearance below doors.
- Allow at least 24 hours curing time before permitting movement on the floor.
- Place cut tile pieces near wall sides to avoid sharp edges in the center area.
- Use rubber or plastic spacers to maintain tile alignment and equal spacing.
- Prepare grout and materials properly within the manufacturer’s recommended setting time.
- The mortar bed should be smooth and evenly filled to avoid air pockets and breakage.
- Remove excess grout using a trowel and clean tile surfaces using a sponge.
- Tap tiles gently after installation; replace any tile that produces a hollow sound.
- Tiles should be cut properly in a single score to prevent cracks and uneven finishing.
