How to Tile a Laundry Room

A laundry room needs a sturdy floor that can stand up to heavy traffic and spills. Tile will provide a durable surface that can last for many years. There are many types of tiles, but ceramic tiles are the strongest and will support the weight of the washer and dryer. Installing tiles is a great weekend project for the do-it-yourselfer. Since the laundry room is one of the smaller rooms in the house, it can be a great first project.

Things You'll Need

• Thinset mortar
• Notched trowel
• Ceramic tile
• Tile saw
• Grout
• Rubber float
• Sponge
• Grout sealer

Instructions

Lay the Tiles

1. Spread a thin layer of thinset mortar using the smooth side of a trowel. With the notched side down, hold the trowel at a 45 degree angle and pull toward you, pressing down firmly to create grooves in the mortar. These grooves will help the mortar spread evenly when the tiles are placed.

2. Gently lay each tile in place and press down into the mortar. Align the tiles with the walls and other tiles. Leave an even space between them of about 3/8 inch. Leave a similar spacing between the tiles and the wall.

3. Once all the full rows are set, measure the remaining space. Be sure to leave the same space between the wall and the tiles. Cut tiles to fit using a tile cutter or a tile saw. Set the final tiles in place.

4. Allow the mortar to set. Before the tiles can be walked on to finish grouting the joints, it must be allowed to set. For best results allow the mortar to set overnight.

Grout the Joints

1. Work the grout into the joints. Using a rubber float, spread the grout filling the joints. Hold the float at a steep angle and pull parallel to the joints to remove excess grout.

2. Wring all the water out of a large sponge so it is just damp. Clean the grout residue from the surface of the tiles. Be careful not to disturb the grout in the joints. As the grout drys it will form a haze on the tiles; work until the haze is gone. With a soft cloth, buff the tiles to remove any excess residue.

3. Apply a penetrating sealer to the joints. Wipe any excess off the tiles. The sealer will protect the grout and help prevent mold and mildew, which is especially important in a laundry room.

Tips & Warnings

• Start in one corner and work your way backward so that you do not have to walk on the newly set tiles.

• Plastic spacers can be used to help keep even spacing between tiles.

• If the subfloor is wood you should lay concrete backer-board before setting tiles.

• Do not walk on the tiles until the mortar is fully set.

References

• "Home Improvment 1-2-3;" Home Depot; 1995