How to Install Marble Tile

The almost ridiculous beauty of marble tiling.

Installing marble used to be such an expense that only the super rich could afford. Today, marble is affordable enough that many more households than ever can attain the elegant luxury that a marble floor provides.

Things You'll Need

• Marble tiles Wet saw tile cutter Trowel Adhesive Tile spacer Sponge Gloves Cement Mask

Instructions

1. Lay the tiles out carefully in the design that you wish to achieve. Doing this gives you a sense of where you may need to cut the tiles to fit before it is too late.

2. To cut marble tile use an electric tile cutter called a wet saw. Rent a wet saw from a local hardware store for less than $50 a day. Ask for a demonstration if possible, if not thoroughly read the instructions before using.

3. Use the trowel to apply the adhesive. Make sure that the application of adhesive is not too thick; a thin application is all that will be necessary and makes cleaning up easier.

4. Place the tiles down over the adhesive as carefully as possible. Use the tile spacers if necessary to ensure absolutely perfect spacing between the tiles. Allow 24 hours to dry.

5. Begin the process of filling in the cracks after the drying process is complete. Use tile cement rather than grout when using marble tiles. Wear a mask and gloves for the sake of your health and safety because tile cement can burn your skin and wreak havoc on your lungs. Use a squeegee to apply the cement into the cracks between the tiles, allowing about ten minutes before using the sponge to clean away any cement overage.

Tips & Warnings

• Since marble tile is unquestionably more expensive than ceramic tile, it behooves most people to seriously consider the cost of marble before making the investment. Many ceramic tiles are almost indistinguishable from marble. This is an important decision to make. If you should make a mistake when installing tile in your home it is a greater headache to remedy, especially when using marble.

• When applying the cement in the final stage, do not underestimate the health danger that can be involved. Always make sure the room has proper ventilation, cover your mouth with a mask, and use gloves.