Concrete is the best flooring to use for tiling a floor. The surface is not just easy to clean, but it is also durable.
Required Tools and Materials
Knee pads
Acid based solution for concrete roughing
Sponge
Rubber float
Grout
Tile cutter
Notched trowel
Compound
Leveler and floor patch
Tile adhesive
Pencil
Level
Tiles
Spacers
Mop
Clean the concrete surface. Remove any sealants, glue, fillers and old paint on it. Use a mop to remove dust and dirt. Let the surface dry. For smooth concrete, apply an acid based solution. This will roughen the surface a bit, which is necessary. Flatten the floor surface.
Step 2
Smooth and fill out bumps on the surface. The leveler and floor patch will be handy here. The leveler will ascertain the floor surface is even.
Step 3
Dry fit the tiles. When tiling a floor, check if the edges and pattern end in a similar manner. Mark the horizontal and vertical lines with a pencil. Make sure the tile sizes are consistent.
Step 4
Use the notched trowel to apply adhesive on the surface. Begin application in the floor’s center. Place the tiles on the adhesive. Put the spacers between the tiles. Apply a light twist to each tile so it will stick. Cut the pieces to make them fit.
Step 5
Smooth the tile edges with the sandpaper. Let the tile adhesive dry overnight.
Step 6
After the adhesive has dried, take the tile spacers off. Mix the grout as per package instructions.
Step 7
Put the grout on the concrete floor. Use the rubber float to apply the grout at 45 degree angles. Remove the surplus grout with a wet sponge.
Step 8
Check for grout haze after an hour. Remove them if necessary.
Step 9
Use the mildew resistant caulk to seal the edges. This is necessary if the floor gets damp (i.e., a bathroom floor). This will not be necessary if the area does not get weak.
Tips and Warnings
The space between tiles is usually 1/8 of an inch or less. If it is more than that, apply sanded grout. This is stronger. Ensure the grout you use is waterproof if tiling on floors that will get wet. Always wear rubber gloves when putting on grout. Take care when handling the tiles after cutting; they may have sharp edges.
If you are tiling a floor, you should don protective goggles. Cutting the tiles is easy, but small pieces may fly off. Wearing eye goggles will keep the debris from getting in your eyes.
