Laying Twelve Inch Ceramic Tiles
12 inch ceramic tiles are often used in the patio, kitchens, and even bathrooms. Ceramic tiles like these are often used traditionally on homes. This is because they are easier to clean than the other tiles. They are perfect for areas that are high with traffic or grit.
When laying 12 inch tiles on our homes we should always consider some pointers to help us to lay them in a much easier way. Installing the tiles ourselves will save us much credit while having fun with some simple home improvements.
The following are the instructions on how to lay twelve inch ceramic tiles at home:
- Step 1
The first thing we should do is to draw a line on the floor that will divide the space in half widthwise. We have to make sure that the line is parallel to the edges or the walls of the space. After that, we draw a second line, this time a perpendicular one dividing the whole room in half lengthwise. This line also has to be parallel with the walls or edge of the space.
After that, we place a tile on the intersection of the two centerlines. We lay the tiles end to end creating a row of lengthwise and a column widthwise. While lining up the tiles, we need to allow a gap between each tile for it to accommodate the grout line later. We then have to fill the rest of the spaces with the tiles by placing the tiles parallel and perpendicular according to the initial columns and rows of the tiles.
- Step 2
The next step would be the application of adhesives under the tiles using a notched trowel. When doing this, we have to make sure that the adhesive is applied evenly beginning from the middle of the space working outward. We will then have to set the center tile and use plastic spacers between each subsequent tile. The use of plastic spacers will allow the grout line to be even. For this, we use at least 3/32 inch spacer. The tiles will look better with a thin grout line though plastic spacers of ½ inch will be a good one too.
- Step 3
After setting the tiles evenly on the floor, we will now draw dimensions on the edge tiles before cutting. The edges of the tiles must be cut using a tile cutter. We have to trace the template with the tile before cutting. We can experiment with edge designs and borders of the tiles. We can add up some artistic touches to it depending on how we want it to be.
- Step 4
The final step would be the removing of the plastic spacers. We remove them and the grout diagonally. We will then have to wipe away any excess grout by using a sponge. After the grout is cured, we will then apply two coats of silicone sealer in order to protect the grout lines.
Those are the easy steps on laying twelve inch tiles. This is a very easy home improvement job anyone can do to their homes.
