How to Install Tile Floors: Complete Guide 2025
Installing tile floors can transform your home, adding elegance and value. While it may seem intimidating, with clear steps and preparation, you can complete this project with confidence and save on labor costs.
Why Install Tile Flooring?
Tile flooring is durable, easy to clean, and offers endless design possibilities for kitchens, bathrooms, and living spaces. It is resistant to water and stains, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas.
Cost Overview DIY: $3–$10 per sq ft (materials and tools)
Professional installation: $8–$25 per sq ft (materials + labor)
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Area
Remove old flooring and baseboards, clean the subfloor, and repair any cracks or uneven areas. Ensure the subfloor is dry and level.
2. Plan Your Layout
Find the center of the room using a chalk line and lay out tiles without adhesive to plan cuts and ensure a balanced look.
3. Mixing and Applying Thin-Set Mortar
Follow the manufacturer's instructions to mix the mortar. Apply it using a notched trowel, working in small sections.
4. Laying the First Tiles
Begin at the center point, pressing tiles into the mortar and using spacers for even grout lines. Check tiles regularly for levelness.
5. Cutting Tiles
Use a wet saw for straight and precise cuts around edges, corners, and obstacles. Wear safety glasses and gloves for protection.
6. Installing Remaining Tiles
Continue laying tiles, ensuring consistent spacing and checking alignment regularly. Allow mortar to cure for at least 24 hours.
7. Applying Grout
Remove spacers and mix grout according to the instructions. Use a grout float to press grout into joints at a 45-degree angle. Wipe excess grout with a damp sponge.
8. Cleaning and Sealing
After the grout has cured (typically 72 hours), clean any haze with a grout haze remover. Apply a grout sealer to protect from moisture and stains.
9. Reinstalling Baseboards
Finish your project by reinstalling or replacing baseboards for a clean, polished look.
