How To Tile

Before You Start

Learn the basics of how to tile with the Dunlop tutorial. Before you start tiling, surfaces must be prepared properly: primed and dry; floors may need to be levelled or repaired and wet areas will need to be waterproofed. It is important to know: 1. What is the surface you will be tiling on? 2. What are your tiles made of?

Application

Before beginning any tiling project, read the packaging carefully to ensure the surface has been prepared properly and the correct procedure is followed. It is easy to choose the right adhesive for your job and for the tiles you have chosen, use the Dunlop Tile Adhesive Selector.

Step 1

Measure the area and cut tiles. Do a “dry lay” of your tiles for floor tiling.

Step 2

When choosing a tile adhesive make sure that the adhesive it suitable for your tile type and surface type. Use the Dunlop Tile Adhesive Selector.

Step 3

If the adhesive is not premixed, mix the adhesive according to the instructions on the packaging by adding powder to water. Use the right water ratio and check mixing times too. Read the packaging and/or datasheet carefully.

Step 4

Apply the adhesive horizontally to the surface using a suitable notched trowel. As a guide use a 6mm notched trowel on walls and a 10mm notched trowel on floors. TIP: Large format tiles 400x400mm and above will need to be back buttered by spreading a layer of adhesive on the back of the tile before laying on the bed of adhesive. A larger notched trowel will be required such as a 12mm.

Step 5

Place each tile on the bed of adhesive with a firm push and bed it into place with a slight up and down movement across the notches of adhesive. It is important to have complete adhesive coverage on the back of each tile, check by occasionally lifting a tile.

Step 6

Use spacers to set the grout joints and keep them level. There are different size spacers available. TIP: Remember to remove spacers before grouting.

Step 7

Remove any surplus adhesive from the face and between joints of the tile before it sets using a sponge or microfibre cloth.

Step 8

Wait for the tile adhesive to dry and prepare to grout.

Handy Hints

• Measure the tiles that need cutting. Use a combination tile cutter or platform tile cutter to cut the tiles. To cut half circles or tricky shapes, use tile nippers to break off small pieces at a time.
• To make joints easier to maintain and clean, seal the grout joints with Dunlop Grout Sealer.
• To keep your tiles and grout clean, use Dunlop Tile & Grout Cleaner regularly.
• Ensure you wear personal protective equipment when tiling.