Preparing Walls for Tiling: A Step-by-Step Guide

Tiling a wall is a great way to give a room a fresh, new look. However, before you can begin laying tiles, it's important to properly prepare the wall surface. Here's a step-by-step guide to preparing walls for tiling.

Step 1: Remove any existing tiles or wallpaper

Before you can begin preparing the wall for tiling, you'll need to remove any existing tiles or wallpaper. Use a hammer and chisel to carefully remove any tiles and a wallpaper scraper to remove wallpaper. If the wall is painted, you can either remove the paint or tile over it, depending on the condition of the paint and the type of tile adhesive you plan to use.

Step 2: Repair any cracks or holes

Once the wall is stripped down to its base layer, you'll need to repair any cracks or holes in the wall surface. Use a filler compound, such as spackle or joint compound, to fill in any cracks or holes. Be sure to smooth the surface with a putty knife or trowel and allow the compound to dry completely before sanding it smooth.

Step 3: Clean the wall surface

Before you can begin tiling, you'll need to clean the wall surface thoroughly. Use a sponge or cloth and a mild detergent solution to remove any dirt, dust or grease. Be sure to rinse the wall surface thoroughly with clean water and allow it to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Step 4: Check the wall for levelness

It's important to ensure that the wall surface is level before you begin laying tiles. Use a spirit level to check the wall surface for any high or low spots. If you find any areas that are not level, you'll need to apply a leveling compound to even out the surface.

Step 5: Apply a primer

Before you begin applying tile adhesive, you'll need to apply a primer to the wall surface. A primer will help the adhesive bond to the wall surface more effectively. Apply the primer according to the manufacturer's instructions, using a paintbrush or roller.

Step 6: Measure and mark the wall

Before you begin laying tiles, you'll need to measure and mark the wall to ensure that the tiles are evenly spaced and aligned. Use a chalk line or laser level to create a horizontal and vertical reference line on the wall surface.

Step 7: Apply the tile adhesive

Once the primer has dried, you can begin applying the tile adhesive. Use a notched trowel to spread the adhesive evenly over a small section of the wall, following the manufacturer's instructions for mixing and application. Begin laying tiles at the intersection of the reference lines, pressing each tile firmly into the adhesive and ensuring that it is level and evenly spaced.

Step 8: Cut and fit the tiles

As you work your way across the wall surface, you'll need to cut and fit tiles as necessary to accommodate corners, edges and fixtures. Use a tile cutter or wet saw to cut tiles to the desired size and shape and use tile spacers to ensure even spacing between tiles.

Step 9: Grout the tiles

Once the adhesive has dried, you can begin grouting the tiles. Mix the grout according to the manufacturer's instructions and use a grout float to spread the grout evenly over the tile surface. Be sure to work the grout into the gaps between tiles and wipe away any excess grout with a damp sponge or cloth.

Step 10: Seal the grout

After the grout has dried, you'll need to seal it to protect it from moisture and staining. Apply a grout sealer according to the manufacturer's instructions, using a paintbrush or roller.