12 Biggest Mistakes You Can Make When Installing Tile

Tiling might seem straightforward, but I’ve learned firsthand that small mistakes can lead to big headaches. After years of weekend projects around the house, tackling everything from fixing faucets to building playsets, I’ve come to appreciate the tricks of the trade that make a difference.

Tiling is one of those skills that requires an eye for detail and a bit of know-how to get right. From mixing grout to laying each tile perfectly, there’s a lot that can go wrong.

To help you avoid the usual headaches, here are the 12 hugest mistakes you need to watch out for.

Not Preparing the Surface

Before you lay down the first tile, the prep work you do on your surface is crucial. Think of it as laying the groundwork for a painting—you wouldn’t start without a clean canvas, right? Make sure the surface is clean and smooth, free of any dust, debris, or old coatings.

A well-prepared surface ensures the tiles will adhere properly, preventing issues down the line that could lead to a redo of the entire job.

Not Grouting with Care

Grouting isn’t a step to rush; it’s about precision and patience. Using a squeegee to spread the grout evenly across the tiles can make a world of difference in the final appearance. If you move too fast, grout in areas you’ve moved on from can start drying and curing, leading to uneven levels and a less than professional finish.

Also, be diligent about wiping away excess grout as you go. It’s much harder to scrape off once it’s dried, and you’ll thank yourself later for the time you save on cleanup.

Choosing the Wrong Trowel Size

When you’re tiling, picking the right trowel size can make all the difference. It’s like choosing the right tool for any job—essential for getting it done right.

If you’re working with larger tiles, you’ll need a trowel with deeper notches. This helps you lay down a thicker bed of thin-set, which larger tiles require to adhere properly without issues.

Check the thin-set packaging for terms like “medium bed,” “large tile,” or “large format” to ensure compatibility with your tiles.

How Not to Crack Your Tiles

Tiles, especially those made of porcelain, can be pretty unforgiving when handled incorrectly. It’s heartbreaking, not to mention costly, when they crack. To minimize breakage, your best friend is a diamond wet saw. This tool is worth its weight in gold for cutting through tiles cleanly.

Remember to use slow, steady pressure to ensure a clean cut. Rushing can lead to mistakes, wasting both your time and your tiles.

Dotting Corners with Adhesive

It might seem like a shortcut to stronger tiles, but adding extra dollops of adhesive at the corners is a no-go. Here’s the deal: as the adhesive dries, it tends to shrink, and when it’s thicker at the corners, it puts uneven pressure on the tiles.

This can lead to cracks and breaks, which is exactly what you’re trying to avoid. Always strive for a consistent layer of adhesive across the entire back of the tile for the best results.

Using the wrong Adhesive

When tiling in areas like bathrooms or around swimming pools, choosing the right adhesive isn’t just important—it’s crucial. Humidity and moisture are the enemies of a lasting tile job. Waterproof adhesive is the way to go in these environments.

Without it, even the best-laid tiles won’t stand a chance against water seeping through, which can cause the adhesive to crumble and the tiles to lose their grip. Make sure you’re using an adhesive that’s up to the challenge to ensure your tiles stay put and look great for years.

Not Ensuring Proper Underlayment

When it comes to laying tiles, the underlayment needs to be spot-on. You wouldn’t build a deck on shaky ground, right? Same goes for tiling. Vinyl can work well as an underlayment if it’s in tip-top shape, but don’t take chances.

If there’s any doubt, beef it up with a layer of 1/4-inch or 1/2-inch cement board. It’s a solid move that’ll keep your tiles flat and prevent cracking, just like making sure your kids’ playground is level and secure.

Incorrect Tile Layout

Setting tiles diagonally might look slick, but it requires some extra know-how. It’s like setting up a playroom: you want everything to fit just right. Start by centering your tiles with the corners aligned to a layout line—this is your anchor point.

As you build out from that line, think of it like assembling a jigsaw puzzle, ensuring each piece fits snugly and straight. Always use a straightedge to keep your lines true. It’s these little details that make the big picture come together perfectly.

Grout

Don’t underestimate the power of good grout—it’s the frame to your tile artwork. Imagine hanging a beautiful painting in a frame that doesn’t do it justice. That’s what bad grout does to your tiles.

To keep that fresh, clean look, make sure your grout lines are sharp and well-defined. It not only enhances the aesthetic but also protects your tiles, ensuring they stand the test of time and the daily chaos of family life.

Not Using a Waterproof Backer Board

Installing tiles in wet areas like showers without a waterproof backer board is like forgetting an umbrella in a rainstorm—it just doesn’t work. That backer board is your best defense against water damage; it keeps the structure stiff and the moisture out.

Without it, you’re inviting water into places it shouldn’t be, which can lead to bigger headaches down the road. So, think of it as an essential layer of protection that ensures everything stays dry and intact, much like making sure your home is safe and secure for your family.

Always Buy Extra Tiles

It’s a classic rookie mistake to buy just enough tiles to cover your space. Here’s a tip from one home improver to another: always buy an extra 10%. Whether it’s a mishap while cutting or a tile cracks down the line, having spares can save you from scrambling or color mismatches later.

Plus, it’s a little peace of mind knowing you’re prepared for those just-in-case moments, much like keeping spare batteries or light bulbs around.

Not Sealing Bath Tops Properly

Waterproofing the gap between your tiles and the bath top is crucial. It’s like making sure all the windows are closed before a storm hits. To ensure a solid seal, fill the bathtub with water first. This weighs down the bath, exposing the true gaps that need sealing and helps prevent future leaks.

Think of it as battening down the hatches to keep everything shipshape in your bathroom sanctuary.