How to Lay Tile on a Porch

Laying tile on a porch is a simple job if you follow a few basic instructions. Though time consuming, the end result can completely change the look of your porch area. Create a variety of floor designs with accent tiles and border styles that enhance your porch. Caring for your tile floor depends on the type of tile you select; glazed ceramic or porcelain tiles will not need to be sealed, but porous tiles like travertine and slate will need extra protection.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Measuring tape Chalk line Adhesive Notched trowel Tile Tile spacers Tile cutter Grout Float Sponge Sealer

1. Select the tile and gather your materials for your tiling project. You can find everything you need at your local home improvement store.

2. Remove any debris or other substance from the porch floor you plan to tile. Measure the length and width of the porch area to be tiled. Mark a chalk line across the center of the porch floor lengthwise, as well as across the middle of the width of the porch floor. You will have a cross point in the center of the porch floor area you are tiling.

3. Apply the tile adhesive on the cross point of the porch floor. Smooth out the adhesive so that it is level, and then scrape it with the edge of your trowel that is notched. This will help the tile adhere better to the porch floor.

4. Press the tile into the tile adhesive and place spacers around each of the sides. Spacers help you have an evenly spaced grout line between each tile. Work in small sections, alternately laying adhesive and tile. Lay the tile to one end of the center line of the porch. Begin in the middle and lay the tile to the other end of the porch.

5. Lay the tile on the porch until the floor is completely filled. Use a tile cutter if you need to cut tiles that are too large. If you're laying mosaic or smaller tiles on your porch, you can cut the mesh backing with strong scissors for easy sizing. Working your way out from the center of the porch floor creates a consistent edge around the border of your tiled floor. Remove the spacers when the adhesive dries.

6. Mix the grout in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Using your grout float, apply it to the lines between each tile. Make sure you press and smooth the grout into each line. Remove the grout from the face of the tiles before it has a chance to dry with a sponge and warm water.

7. Add a coat of sealer to the tiles if they are porous. Seal the grout to protect it from moisture and dirt.

Tips & Warnings

• Add a border to your porch with different colored and sized tiles.
• Wear safety glass when cutting tile.

Resources

• Tile Tools