The DOs and DON’Ts of Tiling

New tiling can completely transform your space and is a fun way to play with color and pattern in your decor. When starting a new tiling project, it’s important to go in with a plan so that everything runs smoothly. Here are some of the DOs and DON'Ts to keep in mind before tip toeing into tiling. 

DO get samples tiles first 

Much like wallpaper, just because a tile looks great on-screen or in-store doesn’t mean it’ll be right for your home. Samples will help you confirm that your favorite tiles will play well with your paint colors, other decor, lighting, and more. 

What’s more, samples allow you to test out several different styles without breaking the bank. (And without breaking your back over all that installation work, only to find you’re not crazy about your pick!) You might be surprised by which tiles you fall in love with.

DON’T forget to measure your space ahead of time 

Some projects are made for freewheelin’! Tiling is...not. Even with a simple tile pattern, you’ll still need to measure and plan your layout before getting started. While laying tile may seem easy, you could end up with uneven tiles, too much extra space, or other alignment issues if you don’t plan ahead. 

The first thing to do is measure and install your underlayment. A good underlayment is stiff and water-resistant to keep your tiles in place after they’ve set. Solid backer boards are the most popular underlayment option among contractors because of their durability. If you need additional water resistance, you can purchase membrane underlayments that are specifically designed to provide extra waterproofing. 

Next, you’ll need to measure your space and your tiles and make necessary marks to guide you while you’re working. It’s best to start from the center and work your way out, as you are most likely to end up with an even pattern this way. Use a tile spacer as you go to ensure that everything is even.

Pro tip: purchase several extra tiles before you start, just in case any are damaged in the process. 

DO play with size, color, and design 

Tiles are available in a wide variety of materials, colors, and shapes; don’t be afraid to get creative when putting together your layout! Whether you prefer bold, eye-catching patterns or a more minimalist look, there are plenty of excellent tile options to choose from. Some examples of trendy tile designs right now include herringbone, floral patterns, and basketweave. It’s important to consider the size of your space when designing your layout. For example, big tiles can make a small space appear larger, while too many contrasting colors and shapes can be very overwhelming in tight quarters. 

DO be safe while tiling 

Tiling is an intensive DIY project, and it’s important to take proper safety precautions. Start by making sure any electrical sockets are covered and that cables are completely out of the way. You’ll also need to check to make sure your plumbing is sound and there aren’t any leaks that could interfere with your project. 

Wearing proper safety gear while working on your tiling project is imperative. At the very least, you should wear gloves, but safety goggles are also a good idea. Bonus points: this gear not only keeps you safe, but also makes cleanup a heckuva lot easier!

DON’T touch your tile until it is completely set (see also: DO be patient) 

Touching or walking on your tile before it has completely set could ruin all of your hard work! Professional contractors typically recommend you wait at least 24 hours before using your new bathroom or kitchen. You’ll need to plan ahead for this--staycation or sleepover with friends, anyone?

Need Tools? 

You don’t need a contractor to tile your bathroom or kitchen, but you will need a set of reliable tools to get started. Don’t have a tool kit at home? Don’t stress; Sparetoolz has everything you need! Connect with DIY enthusiasts just like you--right in your community--who have tools to share, at an affordable price.