Tiling your floors or walls is not the most difficult home renovation project; with that said, it is very easy to make tiling mistakes. To avoid ruining a project you’ve invested time and money into, here are some of the most common mistakes to avoid.

Using the Wrong Cutter or Saw

One of the biggest tile installation mistakes you can make when doing your own project is using the wrong tiling tools. A tool that exhibits too much pressure or the wrong level of pressure can cause your tiles to crack. To avoid this, you should find out which cutting tool is the best for your tiling project. Our tiling guide may help. A diamond wet saw is the best method for cutting tiles because it is not toothed and is very abrasive. Other tiles can be cut with a manual cutter.

Choosing the Wrong Grout

There are different types of grout on the market and each provides its own benefits depending on the tiling project. Be sure to choose the right grout for your project, and be careful to mix it properly with the right consistency of water.

Not Leaving Enough Space

The chemical reaction process of curing concrete to lay tiles result in the expansion and contraction of tiles. Without enough space between each joint, the expansion can cause the tiles to pop up and overlap each other.

Improper Waterproofing

Another huge mistake that could cost you your entire project is forgetting to waterproof areas like the shower or bathroom. Before setting the tile, you must install a waterproof backer board. This layer prevents water from seeping into cracks and causing leaks and mould growth.

Lack of Good Workmanship and Cleanliness

When a project needs to get done by a certain time, it can be tempting to rush the job and forget proper precaution when cleaning tiles and preparing the surface. However, taking your time and cleaning up the jobsite will ensure the tiles bond better between the adhesive and surface.

Wrong Underlayment

The underlayment is the surface that the adhesive and tile are laid upon. The underlayment must be smooth, flat, and strong. If you place tiling on the wrong flooring, such as a weak surface, the tiles will sag and crack in places, resulting in a poor-quality final result.

Taking too Long to Fix Mistakes

Once the grouting paste is exposed to the air, it begins to dry, so if you make a mistake during the process you must fix it quickly. Waiting too long to fix your mistake can make it more difficult, or impossible, to remedy your mistake, especially if the grout has hardened.

Consult with Our Professionals Before Starting a Project

If you’re preparing for a tiling project, you understand the importance of good planning, the right tools, and proper installation technique. However, mistakes can happen, which is why it’s best to get some extra peace of mind by consulting the professionals.

The team at Centura Tools has years of industry experience, and can advise you on which tile installation tools are right for your project. Our store offers a variety of products including tile gutters, large format tile tools, in-floor heating products, Schluter products, tile leveling systems, flooring products, high-end tools, professional equipment for flooring and tile installers, and more. We stand out from our competitors because we source our products from around the world to ensure our customers are getting the best international brands. Products from Germany, Spain, Italy, Japan, and the U.S. fill our shelves, and we pride ourselves on offering the best prices and products on the global market.

If you are looking for something you don’t see in our store, let us know and we can source the specific items you need. Contact us at (416) 785-3311 or visit our store to see our amazing products.