How to Glue Tile to a Wall
Installing wall tile involves gluing the tiles directly to the wall, but the catch is that you cannot use just any type of glue. Mastic, which is also called construction adhesive or ceramic tile adhesive, is a strong glue that will hold the tiles securely to the wall during the drying time and for years to come. While mastic is effective, it is important to only install tile on a clean surface or grease and dirt on the surface may interfere with the adhesion of the glue. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- White vinegar
- Warm water
- Dish soap
- Sponge
- Clean towel
- Mastic
- Notched trowel
- Tile spacers
Instructions
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1
Mix together equal parts white vinegar and warm water and add just enough dish soap to make suds in the mixture. Apply the mixture to the wall with a sponge to clean away any dirt, dust or grease from the wall. Wipe the wall dry with a clean towel.
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2
Spread mastic onto the wall with a notched trowel. Turn the trowel and drag the notched end through the mastic to make lines in the glue. Apply the mastic to the bottom of the wall first and spread enough to set the bottom row of tiles on your wall. Avoid spreading the mastic over large areas because it may dry before you can install the tile.
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3
Press each tile firmly into the wet mastic. If you will be grouting the tiles later, leave small spaces between each tile, using plastic tile spacers.
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4
Spread the mastic onto the wall and press the tiles into the mastic until you have covered the desired area. Let the tile installation dry overnight. Avoid touching the wall during this time. If you used tile spacers, they may be removed by hand or with a screwdriver when the mastic is completely dry.
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References
- Photo Credit Tile wall image by Pontus Edenberg from Fotolia.com
