Installing Ceramic Tile Floor - How to Lay Durable Flooring Tiles for a Lifetime of Beauty

Installing ceramic tile floor properly is a job that requires attention to detail. Because ceramic floors will last a lifetime it is crucial for the installation to be done right. Although preparation is time consuming, it is an important step.

How to install ceramic floor tiles - it is best not to lay ceramic floors on top of linoleum or vinyl. If the subfloor is cement it must be free from paint, adhesives and sealers. Particle board and hardwoods are also unsuitable as subfloors for ceramic tiles.

Laying ceramic tile floors includes removing baseboards and undercutting door casings. In the bathroom, remove the toilet for easier installation. Let the tiles sit inside for at least 24 hours before installing so they can adjust to the temperature and humidity.

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Install a double layer of 1 1/8" exterior grade plywood over floor joists with 1/8" gap between each sheet. To prevent moisture damage to the substrate, lay a waterproofing membrane over the surfaces to be tiled. Sweep or vacuum the entire area thoroughly to ensure that there is a flat, clean surface.

Snap chalk lines to mark a grid pattern on the floor. This ensures a consistently square layout, particularly in a large room. Cutting ceramic flooring tiles to fit edges and patterns requires special equipment - either a wet saw or a single rail ceramic tile cutter that scores glazed porcelain and clay.

Thinset mortar can be applied either to the tile or the subfloor. Install tiles so they align with the chalk guide lines and push firmly to seat. Allow to dry at least a day before cleaning thoroughly and finishing with grout.