What elements do I need to tile a bathroom?
Tiling a bathroom is a DIY job that anyone should be able to master if they want to. You will need to know which tiles to buy and you will also need some tools on hand. As the bathroom is an area that can get very wet, the correct type of tile must be used. Your tiles will need to be vitreous or impervious to water to prevent damage. Porcelain tiles are a good option. They can be completely colored or simply glazed with the colour.
They are incredibly hard and are good for bathroom floors. Marble, granite, slate, and sandstone tiles are also ideal for floors and can also be used on walls, counters, and backsplashes. Floor tiles need to be strong to last, and not too soft to prevent people from slipping. Look for a tile with a Coefficient of Friction (COF) rating of at least 0.60, dry and wet. Quarry tiles can be used in damp areas, but they stain easily, so they may not be the best option. A natural stone tile sealer will be required.
Wall tiles will also need to be vitreous or waterproof, but they don’t need to be strong as no one will walk on them. If you have a small bathroom, small size tiles will make it appear larger, and for a large bathroom you can use large tiles to reduce the overall impression of size. To order the correct number of tiles, you need to measure the length and width of the area to be placed and multiply one by the other, then add at least 10% to that total to account for breakage, etc. You will also need tile spacers and grout. Use sanded grout for porcelain, granite and other single-fired tiles. A grout spreader will also be required.
It is important to always use a waterproof tile adhesive in areas that will come in contact with water. You can usually buy these pre-mixed, but some will require you to add water yourself. For floors, choose a thin-set mortar adhesive. On countertops, it’s usually fine to use caulk under and over the cement backer board. Get yourself an adhesive spreader to help spread the glue and a damp sponge to clean up any excess. You’ll also need a tile cutter, tile saw, tile cutting jig and tile nipper to cut your tiles and a spirit level to make sure your work is straight!
While most items will need to be bought, borrowed, or rented, there is something you can do yourself. A feeler stick will help you trace the position of the tiles on the wall and can easily be done with a piece of soft wood. Lay several tiles next to the wood (adding the spacers) and mark the position of each tile along the stick. Use a spirit level to make sure this is accurate. The indicator rod is now complete and can be used to lay out the rows of tiles on each side. With the right tiles and tools, your bathroom project should be a success, and actually quite nice to do!