Tiles are the most commonly used floor covering in private homes, especially in the kitchen, bathroom, and outdoors. Because of the constant humidity, frequent traffic, etc., the flooring must be resistant and easy to maintain like tiles. Especially since this type of material is available in different formats, colors, and textures, allowing it to blend with all decorations easily.
Tile is also accessible to all budgets since the price of this material depends on the format and texture chosen. As for the installation, it is best to entrust the work to a qualified person because of the complexity of the operation, especially if the surface to be covered is quite large.
What are the steps to follow to install the tiles?
Tile installation is not too difficult if you have some knowledge of masonry. In addition, you must have the right equipment:
- A cutting machine
- A spatula and a trowel
- A rubber scraper
- A grease pencil and a tape measure
- A ruler and a spirit level.
The first step in the installation process is to prepare the floor. Indeed, the tile will not fit properly if the floor has irregularities or if it is dusty. Therefore, start by leveling the floor.
Traditional screed or light screed?
If the floor has irregularities (dents, holes, etc.), it must be leveled. The most effective method is to lay a screed. This is the most difficult part of tiling. Entrust this operation to a screed operator. In addition, you can request a free quote online to get an idea of the budget to be expected. Simply fill out an online form and submit your project.
The company will send you an estimate. The screed not only smoothes the surface but also improves the thermal insulation of the room. When laying tiles, a lean screed is generally used. This is made up of cement, additive sand, water, and aggregates. There are different varieties of aggregates:
- Wood granules
- Polystyrene or clay beads
- Hemp
- Vermiculite
- Cork.
How to make the screen?
To prepare the screed, you can use a concrete mixer or opt for the old-fashioned method by mixing the ingredients on the floor. However, to get a better consistency of the paste, there is nothing better than using a concrete mixer. Start the mixer by simply running it with water in it.
Add the materials one by one, starting with the aggregates and sand and ending with the cement. Add the water little by little until you obtain a fairly homogeneous paste. Leave the mixer running for another 5 minutes. Before pouring the screed, make sure that the surface to be covered is properly cleaned.
Although the use of mesh is not mandatory in making a screed, it does help to solidify the screed and improve the structure’s hold. This can be done with a vacuum cleaner or broom. Gently pour the screed, making sure to cover the entire surface. Start with a thickness of 1 or 2 cm and add more as you go along until you get the right thickness. Let the screed dry well before laying the tiles.
Low maintenance
My partner and I both have full-time jobs, and it’s not easy to keep up with chores sometimes. And, let’s be honest, chores are called chores for a reason, and most of us dread them. That’s why I chose tile flooring for my home. Tile makes your life easier because it is easy to clean and maintain.
Tile won’t take up too much of your time in your daily cleaning tasks. You also don’t need to hire a professional cleaner to clean your tile floors, and you only need to use hot water to remove dirt and stains. This is why people who own an RB’n’B or have children prefer this type of flooring.
Sound off in the comments section below and tell us what you want to read next and if you want to read more about tiles.
