The flooring that you install in your home should last several years before you even have to consider replacement. If your flooring isn't lasting that long, chances are, you aren't choosing the type of flooring that will fit into your lifestyle very well. This blog is all about choosing flooring that will fit into your lifestyle and last you many, many years before you have to rip it up and replace it. You will also find tips for keeping it looking like new as it survives the abuse that your family, friends and pets put it through during the course of the year.
The flooring in your home can make your interior space more comfortable and more functional for your lifestyle. Tile is a great option for flooring because it is long-lasting, durable, looks attractive, is cooler in a hot southern climate, and is easy to clean up after if you have pets. If you choose to install tile, here are some recommendations to help you to successfully do so in your home.
Start With the Right Foundation
Whether you are installing your tile on an upstairs floor or on a basement or ground floor, you need to make sure the base foundation which will support your tile is ready for installation. If you are installing your tile on a floor that you have stripped of the old flooring and found a wood material underneath, such as particleboard or plywood, you will need to apply a layer over that to keep the new flooring waterproof. The reason for this is because the new tile and grout are not completely waterproof, and if you install it directly onto the wood floor, water will seep through the tile and can absorb into the wood, leading to moisture damage and mold growth.
Install a layer of cement board at least one-half inch thick over the wood subfloor to provide a waterproof barrier, which you can install your tile and grout upon. However, if you are installing the tile and grout directly onto a concrete floor, you don't need to add any additional layers. Just be sure the area is swept and washed clean without any debris or oils.
Begin Your Installation
Before you begin to install the tile within a room or area of your home, look at the entire space to determine where it would be best to start the tile. When you begin tiling you can set the tiles along the length of a wall or floor edge in a straight pattern using whole tiles. But when you get to the end of the project against the other side of your workspace, you will likely need to cut tiles to fit the space.
Consider where in the room these partial tiles would look visually the best. For example, is there a space in the room that will be covered by furniture or draperies? Installing whole tiles at the entryway to a room is going to look more attractive, for example, than having partial tiles in full view every time you walk into the room or space.
For more information about tile installation in your home, contact a local professional.
Share2 October 2020
