How to Lay a Tile Floor
A tile floor is durable, waterproof, and timeless — but it has to be installed on a stable, level base or it cracks. Rushed grout is the other thing that ruins tile jobs, so build in dry time.
Safety firstFind the center of the room and dry-lay tiles in both directions before mixing any thin-set. You only get one chance to set the pattern right.
What You'll Need
Notched trowel
Tile spacers
Wet saw
Bubble level / straightedge
Mixing paddle and bucket
Grout float
Tile sponge
Knee pads
Step-by-Step
Prep the subfloorMake sure the subfloor is flat, clean, and stiff enough. Install cement backerboard if you're tiling over wood.
Find the center and dry-fitSnap chalk lines through the center both ways. Lay tiles loose to confirm the layout and avoid skinny edge cuts.
Mix the thin-setCombine mortar and water to a peanut butter consistency. Let it slake for 5–10 minutes, then stir again.
Spread mortarTrowel a workable section of thin-set onto the subfloor. Comb it in straight lines with the notched edge held at a 45-degree angle.
Set the tilesPress each tile firmly into the mortar with a slight twist. Insert spacers at every corner to keep gaps uniform.
Cut edge piecesMeasure each cut individually and use a wet saw for clean edges around walls, vents, and corners.
Let the mortar cureStay off the floor for at least 24 hours so tiles don't shift while you grout.
Mix and apply groutMix grout to a thick consistency, then push it diagonally across the joints with a float. Pack each joint full.
Wipe and finishAfter about 15 minutes, wipe excess grout with a damp sponge in light circles. Repeat until the haze is gone. Seal grout once fully cured.
If you don't think you can do it, let our experts help.