Tiling over outdated tile in your bathroom can refresh the room greatly.
Many people tend to think that it's necessary to remove any existing floor covers before installing ceramic tile. That's not always the case. If the existing tile in your bathroom is still in good shape, without large cracks or broken pieces, you can lay your new ceramic tile over it once you clean the floor thoroughly. This procedure can save you a lot of hard work removing the old tiles and it adds an extra layer of insulation to the bathroom floor.
Instructions
1. Clean the tile floor thoroughly before beginning. Mix a batch of thinset mortar in a 5-gallon bucket, following the manufacturer's directions. Begin working at a far corner of the room, moving toward the door, so you don't trap yourself inside the bathroom.
2. Spread a layer of thinset evenly over a 3-foot square section, using a notched trowel. Position the first tile into place and wiggle it slightly to embed it in the thinset. This helps ensure a secure bond.
3. Insert tile spacers around the initial tile and then install the second tile in the same manner. Keeping tile spacers between the tiles will ensure that they are evenly spaced and visually appealing.
4. Continue laying the tile in this manner, spreading thinset over a section and installing the tiles, keeping them evenly spaced, until you have completed the bathroom. Allow the tiles to set for 24 hours before continuing.
5. Mix the grout according to the manufacturer's directions. Allow the grout to rest in the mixing container for five to ten minutes and then mix it again.
6. Apply the grout to the joints of the tiles by holding a rubber float at a 45 degree angle and dragging it across the joints. This helps push the grout down into the joints. You should completely fill the joints with grout but it should not overun with it.
7. Allow the grout to rest for about five minutes. Wipe excess grout from the tiles with a dampened sponge, rinsing it often. Work diagonally across the tiles, taking care not to follow the joints with the damp sponge, as it may remove too much grout and leave a gapped area.
8. Apply a coat of grout sealer to the joints of the tile after 24 hours. Grout sealer typically comes in a squeeze bottle with a built-in applicator or brush. Simply place the tip of the grout sealer against the grout and pull it toward you with a slow, deliberate motion. Allow the grout sealer to dry for at least six hours before walking on the tile.
Tags: Allow grout, Allow grout rest, ceramic tile, evenly spaced, five minutes, floor thoroughly