TILE LAYOUT PLANNING

Before commencing with work it is important to consider the shape of the room to be tiled and hence the layout of the tiles themselves. The tiles can be laid either in a traditional straight fashion or, if desired, brick fashioned (half bonded) at an angle in a diamond pattern resulting perhaps in a more aesthetically pleasing finish to the floor. To enhance the character of the room further, either a border or a profile may be added.

Floor Tiling Process
To begin, the tiller will need to find the centre of the room and create a centre line from one end (the end at which the door is located) to the other using a chalk line. Once the midpoint of this centre line is ascertained, the tiles should be laid without being fixed, so as to be able to see where the last whole tile ends. This should be done in both directions, if the gap at the end is less than half a tile, move the tiles away from the centre line until you achieve the correct gap, then mark the floor where the first tile will start.

When the actual tiling process commences, it is good practice to start at the point furthest from the door, the principal being that one does not need to step on the newly laid tiles. It is important to remember to leave a sufficient gap for the grout joint.

Wall Tiling Process
Similar to floor tiling a start point must be ascertained, if the floor is level and you are following the line of the tiles on the walls. Use a spirit level and mark a vertical line on the wall with a pencil from the edge of the centre positioned floor tile. Then measure up the wall and draw a vertical line around the room at the correct height for an equal distribution of wall tile between the floor and the ceiling. Remember to take into account any windowsills, and the height of the bath to ensure you do not leave too many small cuts.