Tiling is an excellent way to upgrade your space, whether it's a bathroom, kitchen, floor, or wall. This guide will take you through each step of the process, from surface preparation to grouting and sealing, ensuring a perfect finish.

Step 1: Prepare the Surface

Before laying any tiles, you need a clean, level, and stable surface.

✅ Checklist for a Suitable Surface:

✔ Remove old tiles – If tiling over an existing surface, ensure it's clean and secure.
✔ Check for levelness – If uneven, use Levelflex self-levelling compound to create a smooth surface.
✔ Clean the surface – Remove dust, grease, and debris.
✔ Apply waterproofing – For wet areas (bathrooms, showers, kitchens), apply Mapelastic waterproofing membrane to prevent moisture damage.
✔ Mark out your layout – Find the center of the area and use a chalk line to guide tile placement.

🚨 Important: If tiling over a wooden floor, install a cement backer board to prevent movement.

Step 2: Plan Your Tile Layout

Proper planning will help reduce cuts and create a symmetrical look.

1. Measure the space – Find the midpoint of the wall or floor and mark it.
   
2. Use a dry layout – Lay out a few tiles without adhesive to see how they fit.
3. Adjust for symmetry – Avoid ending with tiny slivers of tile at the edges.
4. Use tile spacers – This ensures consistent grout lines.
   

✅ Pro Tip: Always start tiling from the center of the room and work outward for a balanced look.

Step 3: Mix and Apply the Adhesive

Choosing the right adhesive ensures tiles stay securely in place.

Which Tile Adhesive Should You Use?

• For ceramic & porcelain tiles → Use Kerakoll Rapid or Standard Set Adhesive
• For large format tiles → Use Kerakoll S1 Flexible Adhesive
• For wet areas → Use a waterproof tile adhesive

How to Apply Tile Adhesive:

1. Mix the adhesive – Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Spread the adhesive – Use a notched trowel, holding it at a 45-degree angle, to create even ridges.
3. Back-butter large tiles – Apply adhesive to the back of the tile for extra grip.
4. Work in small sections – Only spread enough adhesive for 1-2m² at a time to prevent drying.

🚨 Important: If the adhesive dries before you place tiles, remove it and apply fresh adhesive.

Step 4: Lay the Tiles

Now it’s time to start tiling!

How to Lay Tiles Properly:

1. Place the first tile at the center of the space, pressing it firmly into the adhesive.
2. Use tile spacers between tiles to maintain even grout lines.
3. Press and twist each tile slightly to ensure full contact with the adhesive.
4. Check for levelness – Use a spirit level to ensure tiles are flat.
5. Continue working in rows – Follow your chalk guidelines to keep tiles straight.
6. Cut tiles as needed – Use a tile cutter for straight cuts and a wet saw for curves.

✅ Pro Tip: Every few tiles, lift one to check for full adhesive coverage on the back.

🚨 Let the tiles dry for at least 24 hours before grouting.

Step 5: Cutting Tiles

Not all tiles will fit perfectly. You’ll need to cut tiles for edges, corners, or around objects.

How to Cut Tiles:

• Straight cuts – Use a manual tile cutter to score and snap the tile.
• Curved cuts – Use a wet saw or angle grinder with a diamond blade.
• Holes for pipes – Use a carbide-tipped hole saw or a tile nipper.

🚨 Remember: Always wear protective goggles when cutting tiles!

Step 6: Grouting the Tiles

Once the adhesive is fully set (after 24 hours), it’s time to apply grout.

Which Grout Should You Use?

• For general use → Kerakoll Grout (available in 1-50 colors)
• For bathrooms & kitchens → Kerakoll Silicone Grout (waterproof & flexible)
• For high-moisture areas (showers, pools) → Kerakoll Epoxy Grout

How to Apply Grout:

1. Mix the grout – Follow manufacturer instructions.
2. Apply with a rubber float – Hold it at 45 degrees, pressing grout into joints.
3. Remove excess grout – Use the float at 90 degrees to scrape off excess.
4. Wipe with a damp sponge – Clean diagonally across tiles.
5. Let it dry for 24 hours, then buff with a dry cloth to remove haze.

🚨 Avoid walking on the tiles for at least 24 hours after grouting.

Step 7: Sealing & Finishing Touches

For extra protection, especially in wet areas, seal your grout.

1. Seal the grout – Some grouts (like epoxy) don’t need sealing, but cement-based grout does.
2. Apply silicone sealant – Use Kerakoll Silicone Sealant for expansion joints and edges.
3. Final cleaning – Buff the tiles to remove grout haze.

Common Tiling Mistakes to Avoid

🚫 Skipping Surface Prep – An uneven surface leads to cracked tiles.
🚫 Using the Wrong Adhesive – Always match the adhesive to your tile type.
🚫 Not Using Tile Spacers – Uneven grout lines look unprofessional.
🚫 Applying Grout Too Soon – Wait at least 24 hours before grouting.

Recommended Tile Ranges at Archi-Tile

Looking for the perfect tiles? Check out our best-selling ranges:

🔥 Modern Marble Collection – Elegant & timeless for bathrooms.
🏡 Limestone Effect Tiles– Natural look, great for walls & floors.
🌿 Textured Matt Tiles – Non-slip, ideal for high-traffic areas.
🔳 Large Format Tiles – Seamless, ultra-modern appearance.

📍 Visit us in-store or online to browse our full selection!

Final Thoughts

Tiling is a rewarding DIY project, but it requires patience and precision. By following this step-by-step guide and using Archi-Tile’s premium adhesives, grout, and tools, you can achieve a professional finish that lasts.

Need more help?

📍 Visit our showroom or contact us for expert advice!

🚀 Ready to tile? Let’s get started! 🚀