To install 600x1200mm porcelain tiles needs a lot of attention to detail. One of the most critical aspects is to check that are correctly leveled, aligned and adhered to the wall or floor. If you are thinking of installing medium-size 600x1200mm Porcelain Tiles for the very first time, we recommend you to read this blog or get professional help to get a better quality result. Whether your porcelain tiles are polished, matte, punch effect, carving, or high glossy, this blog will help you understand the basic installation process.
How to Get Started: Pre-Installation Tips
So before you get excited about installing porcelain tiles all by yourself, understand that you need to be well-prepared with many things in mind. This phase before getting started—is crucial to ensure a successful installation.
Check the installation area.
- Start with checking your installation area.
- Even if it's a floor or wall, consider it a pristine surface free from bumps, dips, or any sort of imperfections.
- Your subfloor or wall should be clean and free from dust and debris
- Remove all sorts of moisture and keep a check for any kind of dampness or water issues
- If any such issue is observed, address it immediately. This is because sealing porcelain tiles will create a big challenge.
Gather all necessary tools and materials.
- Get the right tools and materials for successful tile installation.
- Make your toolbox ready and well-stocked with tile cutters, levels, spacers, and trowels.
- Choose the best adhesive and grout; both should be well-aligned with your specific tile and installation needs.
- Check with your tile manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Use tile spacers to maintain a consistent distance between two tiles.
- Your desired grout line width decides the space you want in your spacer.
- Select the right trowel size to spread adhesive based on the tile size and type of substrate.
- Handle the entire installation with the right gear to ensure smooth cutting and grouting of tiles.
Measurements and Layouts
- Take precise measurements and do proper layout planning.
- For that, you can measure the area use a tape measure to calculate the dimensions of the space.
- Measure the length and width of the floors or the height and width of the walls.
- If needed, record the measurements perfectly and accurately.
- Find out the center point of your installation area. It will be your starting point for laying tiles.
- You can use a chalk line or laser level to mark points.
- Do a dry layout before using adhesive. Arranging tiles without adhesive to see how they fit will give a clear idea.
- Ensure you provide a balanced and visually appealing layout
- If needed, draw reference lines to intersect at the center point.
- These lines should be level and plumb to give a professional finish
- Find out your desired grout line width using tile spacers whenever needed.
- With spacers, there will be consistent gaps between tiles, which will give the tile a polished look.
Prepare The Surface
This is the second phase after considering the pre-installation phase. It is a pivotal step to learning how to install porcelain tiles professionally. In this phase, you need to ensure your substrate—a floor or a wall—is ready to receive the tiles. This will provide a solid foundation for your project.
Preparation on the subfloor
- It is the most critical step for mastering how to install porcelain tiles
- Here you need to make sure the subfloor is in prime condition. The subfloor is the surface beneath the tiles.
- So clean the subfloor first and remove all the dirt and dust.
- Find out any unevenness and first fill those low spots with self-leveling compound and grind
- A well-leveled subfloor will always prevent tiles from cracking and shifting.
- Fix any type of cracks in the subfloor with patching material.
- Check the moisture content of the subfloor and use a proper moisture barrier if needed
- A well-prepared subfloor is the best sign of progressing to the next stage of the successful porcelain tile installation process.
Wall preparation
- Another crucial step is to start stripping off existing tiles, wallpaper, or wall coverings if you are installing tiles on the wall.
- Find out cracks, holes, or uneven surfaces on the wall.
- Fill them with the appropriate patching compound and smooth them out
- Create a rough texture on the wall, helping adhesive bond to stick to the wall securely.
- Apply suitable primer to the wall to enhance adhesive’s grip and hold.
Leveling and checking for plumbing
- Use level to ensure the wall is straight and plumb
- Make necessary adjustments to avoid misaligned tiles at the time of installation.
600x1200mm Porcelain Tiles Installation Techniques
To master the techniques of installing porcelain tiles for your living space, this section covers all the tips and tricks to make it a smooth and seamless process.
Mixing and Applying Adhesive
- If possible, first follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the preparation of adhesive.
- You must achieve a peanut butter-like consistency to get that optimal bonding.
- You can use a notched trowel to spread the adhesive evenly on the subfloor
- Once you spread the adhesive, make sure you create uniform ridges with the notched trowel
- Start placing tiles immediately after you put the adhesive
- Press the tiles firmly into the adhesive and align them with the layout plan
Setting the First Tile
- To get a flawless porcelain tile installation, begin from the center point of your layout. It will always ensure a symmetrical design.
- The first tiles should be firmly pressed into the adhesive with a slight twisting motion.
- You can use a level to confirm the tiles level and plumb.
- Continue with laying out of tiles from the well-placed starting point.
Progress Through the Installation
- Maintain regular spacing while progressing toward the installation
- Use tile spacers between each tile, ensuring consistent gaps for grout.
- After reaching edges, corners, or obstacles, use a tile cutter or wet saw to make precise cuts.
- Carefully take measurements to avoid errors.
- Use level periodically to confirm tiles stay level and plumb
- Install tiles in all manageable sections first and ensure the adhesive remains workable till that time.
Adhering Tiles To the Wall
- Now spread the thin-set mortar evenly on the wall surface by using a notched trowel.
- Work in small sections to prevent drying and waste of material
- Keep combing the adhesive with the notched side of the trowel to make uniform ridges
- Tilt at your predetermined reference lines and press tiles firmly into the adhesive.
- Use tile spacers to ensure there are consistent gaps between grout lines.
Grouting and Sealing Your Porcelain Tiles
Grouting and sealing your glazed porcelain tiles is the final finishing touch that elevates your porcelain tile installation. Next, blend the grout to a thick and creamy consistency according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Now spread the grout over the tile surface and push it in the gaps. For that, you can use a rubber float at a 45-degree angle. Wipe off excess grout from the tile surface with a damp sponge, keeping the sponge clean.
After 24 to 72 hours, the grout is cured. You can apply a sealer to protect the tiles against stains and moisture. With sealing, your tiles get more durability. Once the grout cures, you can completely clean the porcelain tiles with pH-neutral tile cleaner to remove any residue.
Now, all you need to do is sweep or vacuum regularly to prevent dirt buildup. Clean the tiles with a damp mop using tile-friendly cleaner.
Conclusion
Understanding the process of tile installation for 600x1200mm porcelain tiles is crucial if you are planning to install them yourself. Consider it a DIY project, as you need proper planning and the right techniques to achieve the best quality results.
If you want to install porcelain tiles without compromising on quality, contact Neelson Ceramic. We use the finest tools and techniques to ensure the tile installation happens with precision and longevity. Check out our latest 600x1200mm porcelain tiles collection on our website now!