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How to Install Wall Tiles

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Installing wall tile is easy!

You can install wall tiles in your living room, dining room, hallway, bedroom or any other room in the house! Wall tiles can make a home warm and inviting and installing it yourself can save you money. Here's how to install wall tiles in your home: Does this Spark an idea?

Things You'll Need

  • tiles of your choice
  • spacers
  • level
  • pencil
  • tile adhesive
  • notched trowel
  • tile cutter
  • grout
  • rubber float
  • sponge
  • cloths
  • rubber gloves
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Instructions

    • 1
      Remove obstacles and turnoff electricity.

      Remove any obstacles from the wall you plan to tile (light switch plates, light fixtures, furniture etc). Unplug electrical items and turnoff electrical outlets.

    • 2
      Make sure drywall is smooth.

      Make sure the drywall is smooth and doesn't have any holes. Patch holes as necessary. If it's not smooth, sand the area. Be sure to clean up dust after sanding.

    • 3
      Measure the wall.

      Find the center of the wall and 'dry fit' your tiles to see if the pattern ends similarly on the edges. Use a pencil to mark vertical and horizontal lines where appropriate. You want the tile size to be consistent as they approach each end point. Double and triple check your measurements!

    • 4
      Measure and cut the wall tile.

      Measure and cut the wall tile. You can rent a wet saw (for large tiles) and/or tile cutter (smaller tiles) from a local home improvement store. Use sandpaper to smooth out the tile edges if they are sharp after you cut them.

    • 5
      Apply the tile adhesive.

      Apply the tile adhesive to the wall (3 feet at a time) with the notched trowel, starting in the middle of the wall. Set the wall tiles into the adhesive and place the spacers in-between each tile as you go. Be sure to give each tile a little twist to ensure a good bond with the adhesive.

    • 6

      Let the tiles set in the adhesive overnight.

    • 7
      Mix the grout.

      Remove the tile spacers and mix the grout according to the manufacturer's directions.

    • 8
      Apply the grout.

      Using the rubber float, apply the grout at a 45 degree angle. Wipe off excess grout with a wet sponge.

    • 9
      Wipe off grout haze.

      After about an hour, check for grout haze on the tiles and wipe them clean as needed.

    • 10

      See the Resources listed below for more tiling ideas.

Tips & Warnings

  • Be sure to let the tile sales staff know if your tile will be in a location where it will get wet. You'll need to buy tile that is more waterproof.

  • Use HardiBacker cement board if you are installing the tile in a location where it will get wet.

  • If the space between your tiles is wider than 1/8 inch, use sanded grout for a stronger hold. Otherwise you can use non-sanded grout.

  • If you are grouting a tile area that will get wet, be sure to buy a waterproof grout.

  • Buy extra tile in case you cut your wall tiles incorrectly.

  • Use rubber gloves when apply the adhesive and grout.

  • After cutting tiles, be sure to handle them carefully - their edges may be sharp.

  • Wear goggles and earplugs if you end up using a wet saw.

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Comments

View all 8 Comments
  • betterbody Apr 05, 2009
    I am getting ready to do this. I have tiled, but not walls. Thanks for the details in How to Install Wall Tiles
  • redtomcat Mar 16, 2009
    These instructions were simple and easy to follow!!! Thanx
  • FrazzledNanny Mar 15, 2009
    Great details and easy to follow instructions. Thanks for the article. 5*
  • NaimaManal Mar 15, 2009
    Very clear instructions. Great article!
  • kaytay Mar 14, 2009
    excellent step by step instructions on installing wall tiles

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