Project details
Skill
3 out of 5ModerateNot a job for first-time DIYers
Cost
About $200 to $400
Estimated Time
4 to 6 hours
In this video, contractor Angelo McRae installs a new mosaic-tile floor.
Steps on how to tile a bathroom
- Plan the tile layout based on the size of the tile and the position of a primary element, such as the tub or vanity.
- Snap a chalk line onto the floor to establish the starting point of the tile.
- Mix fortified thin-set mortar with water in a bucket using an electric drill and mixing paddle.
- Apply the mortar to the subfloor using a ¼-inch x ¼-inch notched trowel. Spread the mortar along the chalk line, but don’t obscure the line.
- Set the first sheet of mosaic tiles into the mortar, flush with the chalk line.
- Lightly press down the tile using a rubber float.
- Continue to spread mortar and set tiles across the floor. Be sure to maintain consistent joints between the tile sheets.
- When it’s necessary to fit the tiles around an obstacle, such as a toilet flange, use a utility knife to slice through the backing mesh, then remove the individual mosaic tiles from the sheet.
- Use a wet saw to cut the mosaic-tile sheets to fit along the wall.
- Mix up more thin-set mortar, when necessary, and set the last tile sheets into place.
- Allow the mortar to cure overnight, then mix water and tile grout in a bucket using a margin trowel.
- Spread the grout across the floor using a rubber float. Be sure to force the grout down into all the spaces between the tiles.
- Wait an hour or two for the grout to set up (partially harden), then wipe off the excess grout with a damp sponge.
- Allow the grout to cure for three or four hours, then buff off any residual haze with a soft, dry cloth.