Do-it-yourself tiling in the kitchen - Школа ремонту

Laying tiles in the kitchen is an important stage in the renovation, which not only gives the room an aesthetic appearance, but also ensures practicality and durability. Kitchen tiles are an ideal material for protecting walls and floors from dirt, moisture and mechanical damage. It is easy to clean, resistant to chemicals and has high wear resistance. The choice of tiles and their correct arrangement can significantly improve the appearance of the kitchen and increase comfort in the room.

Self-laying tiles has many advantages. First, this is a significant cost savings, since the services of professionals are expensive. Secondly, laying tiles with your own hands allows you to fully control the process and the result of the work. You choose the materials yourself, plan the location of the tiles and carry out the installation at a time convenient for you. In addition, doing work independently brings great satisfaction and allows you to acquire useful skills that may come in handy in the future.

In this article, we will consider in detail all the stages of laying tiles in the kitchen, starting with surface preparation and ending with grouting. By following our recommendations, you will be able to efficiently and effectively install tiles with your own hands, creating a beautiful and practical interior of your kitchen.

Preparation for tiling

Before starting to lay tiles in the kitchen, you need to prepare carefully. This includes gathering all the necessary tools and materials, as well as preparing the surface on which the tiles will be laid. Good preparation is the key to a successful result.

Necessary tools and materials

To lay tiles, you will need the following tools and materials:

Tile . Choose a tile that is suitable in color, size and texture for your kitchen. Calculate the required number of tiles with a small margin in case of spoilage or mistakes.
Adhesive mixture . Special tile glue or solution. Choose an adhesive suitable for the type of tile and the surface on which it will be laid.
Grout : Choose a grout of the appropriate color and composition to fill the joints between the tiles.
Primer . It is used to prepare the surface and improve the adhesion of the glue to the base.
Spatulas . A notched trowel for applying glue and a flat trowel for grouting seams.
Tile cutter Hand or power tool for cutting tiles to size.
Crosses for tiles . Plastic crosses to ensure uniform distance between tiles.
Level . To check the horizontality and verticality of laying tiles.
Roulette and pencil . For measuring and marking.
Masking tape and polyethylene film . To protect surfaces and furniture from contamination.
A sponge and a bucket of water . For cleaning tiles from excess glue and rubbing.
Gloves and knee pads . To protect hands and knees during work.

Surface preparation

Surface preparation is an important stage that affects the quality of laying tiles. The surface must be clean, flat and dry.

Surface cleaning . Make sure that the surface is free of dust, dirt, grease or remnants of the old coating. If there is old wallpaper, paint or tiles on the surface, they must be removed.
Leveling the surface. The surface should be as flat as possible. Use putty or a special leveling compound to correct unevenness and cracks. If the floor or walls are very uneven, you may need to apply a leveling layer.
Priming. Apply the primer to the prepared surface. The primer improves adhesion of the glue to the base and prevents moisture absorption. Allow the primer to dry completely before tiling.
Marking . With the help of a level, a tape measure and a pencil, mark the surface so that you know exactly where the tiles will be located. This will help avoid mistakes and simplify the laying process.

Preparing for laying tiles is an important and responsible stage that requires time and attention to detail. Careful preparation of the surface and the availability of all the necessary tools and materials will ensure high-quality and durable tiling in your kitchen.

Planning and marking

Before starting to lay tiles in the kitchen, it is necessary to carefully plan the location of the tiles and mark the surfaces. This will help avoid mistakes and ensure an even and neat laying of the tiles.

The first step is to determine the location of the tile. It is important to think about how the final result will look, so that the tile fits harmoniously into the interior of the kitchen. Start by choosing a main wall or floor where you will start laying. Usually, laying starts from the most visible corner or center of the room. This will minimize the number of cut tiles in visible places and create an aesthetically pleasing look.

First, measure the area you are going to cover with tiles to accurately calculate the amount of material. After that, determine how the tiles will be arranged: horizontally, vertically, diagonally or in another pattern. Consider using decorative elements or accent tiles to add visual interest.

The next step is to mark the surfaces. Marking helps to accurately determine the place of laying each tile and avoid distortions. Start by drawing horizontal and vertical lines that will serve as guidelines for laying. Use a level and pencil to draw these lines. The horizontal line must be level, and the vertical line must be strictly perpendicular to the horizontal.

If you start from the center, find the center of the surface and draw lines from the center to the edges. This will allow you to evenly distribute the tiles throughout the area and minimize the number of undercut tiles at the edges. If the stacking starts from a corner, make sure that the corner is even and the marking lines coincide with its boundaries.

It is also important to note that during the installation process, situations may arise that require the tile to be trimmed to fit edges or around obstructions such as outlets or pipes. Plan the placement of the tiles so that the undercut tiles are located in less visible areas.

After applying the main marking lines, start laying the tiles dry, that is, without glue. This will help you visually assess the location of the tiles and make the necessary adjustments before the final installation. Arrange the tiles according to the marking and check how they will look in the end. Make sure that the marking lines are visible between the tiles and that all the tiles are evenly spaced.

Planning and marking are important steps that ensure an even and neat tiling. Careful planning of tile placement and correct marking of surfaces will help you avoid mistakes and achieve a professional result.

Preparation of adhesive mixture

Correct preparation of the adhesive mixture is an important stage of laying tiles. The strength and durability of the coating depends on the choice and correct mixing of the glue. In this section, we will look at how to choose an appropriate adhesive compound and how to properly mix and apply it.

Selection of adhesive mixture

There are several types of adhesive mixtures that can be used for laying tiles. The choice depends on the type of surface, tile size and operating conditions. Here are the main types of glue for tiles:

Cement glue. This type of glue is the most common and is suitable for most types of tiles. It provides good adhesion and moisture resistance. Cement adhesive is often used for laying tiles on floors and walls.
Dispersion glue . This adhesive is ready to use and does not require mixing. It is suitable for laying tiles on plasterboard, plywood and other smooth surfaces. Dispersion glue is easy to use and does not require special preparation skills.
Epoxy glue . This type of glue is characterized by high strength and resistance to chemical influences. It is used for tiling in high-traffic areas such as industrial premises and kitchens. Epoxy glue consists of two components that must be mixed before use.
Polyurethane glue. This adhesive has elasticity and is used for laying tiles on wooden and metal surfaces. It is resistant to moisture and temperature fluctuations.

When choosing glue, pay attention to the recommendations of the tile manufacturer and the features of the surface on which the tile will be laid. Choose an adhesive that meets your requirements and operating conditions.

Proper mixing and application

After choosing the adhesive mixture, it is necessary to properly prepare it. If you are using cement glue, it will need to be mixed with water. Follow the instructions on the package to get the correct ratio of ingredients. This usually involves a clean bucket and a construction mixer or a drill with a mixing attachment.

Mixing glue . Pour the required amount of water into the bucket, then gradually add the dry mixture, stirring constantly. The mixture should be homogeneous, without lumps. Let the glue sit for a few minutes to activate all the components, then mix again.
Applying glue. Use a notched trowel to apply glue to the prepared surface. The size of the teeth of the spatula depends on the size of the tile: for small tiles, use a spatula with small teeth, for large tiles – with large ones. Apply the glue in an even layer, holding the spatula at an angle of 45 degrees to the surface.
Creating relief . Run a notched spatula over the applied glue, forming relief grooves. This will improve the adhesion of the tile and ensure an even distribution of the glue under the tile. Make sure that the adhesive covers the entire surface on which the tile will be laid.
Laying tiles. Apply the tile to the surface and press a little so that the glue is evenly distributed. Use tile crosses to ensure even joints between tiles. Check the stacking level using a construction level and adjust the position of the tiles if necessary.

Proper mixing and application of the adhesive mixture will ensure a reliable and durable tile attachment. By following these recommendations, you can avoid common mistakes and achieve a professional result when laying tiles in the kitchen.

Laying tiles

Laying tiles is an important stage that requires precision and accuracy. In this section, we will look at the step-by-step process of laying tiles and give advice on how to place them evenly.

Step-by-step installation process

Start of stacking . Start laying tiles from the most visible corner or center of the room. This will minimize the number of cut tiles in visible places and create an aesthetically pleasing look. Usually, laying starts from the bottom row on the wall or from one of the corners of the floor.
Applying glue . Use a notched trowel to apply glue to the prepared surface. Hold the spatula at an angle of 45 degrees and spread the glue evenly over the surface, creating relief furrows. Make sure that the adhesive covers the entire area where the tile will be laid.
Laying the first tile . Place the first tile against the surface and press lightly to spread the adhesive evenly under the tile. Use a level to make sure the tile is installed level. If necessary, adjust the position of the tile until the glue hardens.
Installation of crosses . Insert plastic crosses between the tiles to ensure even seams. The crosses will help keep the same distance between the tiles and prevent them from shifting.
Laying the following tiles . Repeat the process of applying glue and laying tiles, starting with the first tile. Check the level of each row to make sure the tiles are level. If necessary, use a rubber mallet to lightly tap the tiles and level them.
Cutting tiles. Trimming the tiles may be necessary when laying tiles around edges or around obstructions such as sockets or pipes. Use tile cutters to precisely cut tiles to size. Try each tile in place before applying the adhesive to make sure it is the correct size and shape.
Completion of stacking . After laying all the tiles, let the glue dry for the time indicated on the package. This usually takes 24 to 48 hours, depending on the type of adhesive and environmental conditions.

Tips for even placement of tiles

Use a level. Regularly check the level of each tile being laid and each row of tiles. This will help to avoid deviations and maintain a flat surface.
Work in small sections. Apply glue to small areas of the surface so that it does not have time to dry before laying the tiles. This will facilitate the laying process and ensure better adhesion of the tiles to the surface.
Use crosses for tiles . Crosses will help maintain even seams between tiles and prevent them from shifting. Make sure that the crosses are installed evenly and do not interfere with stacking.
Watch the location of the seams. Make sure that the joints between the tiles are even and parallel to each other. This is especially important when laying tiles diagonally or in complex patterns.
Clean off excess glue. Remove excess glue from the joints and from the surface of the tiles before it hardens. This will facilitate further rubbing of the seams and ensure a neat appearance.
Let the glue dry . Allow the glue to dry completely before caulking the seams. This will ensure a strong adhesion of the tiles to the surface and prevent them from shifting.

By following these steps and tips, you will be able to neatly and evenly lay tiles in the kitchen, creating a beautiful and durable coating.

Cutting tiles

Tools for cutting tiles

For accurate and safe cutting of tiles, special tools must be used. Here are some basic tools you will need:

Manual tile cutter . It’s an easy-to-use tool that’s ideal for straight tile cutting. It consists of a base with guides that move the cutter and a handle to create pressure on the tile.
Electric tile cutter. This is more complex and expensive equipment, which is used for cutting a large volume of tiles or complex cuts. It provides high precision and can easily handle hard materials.
Pliers for tiles . These nippers are used to cut small pieces of tile and create curved cuts. They are useful for fitting tiles around pipes and other obstacles.
Angle grinder. With a diamond blade, this tool is used for complex cuts and for working with thick and hard plates.

Technique of safe and precise cutting

Preparation for cutting . Before you start cutting, make sure the work surface is clean and level. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from splinters and dust. Be sure to follow the safety instructions for the tool.
Tile marking. Use a tape measure and pencil to accurately mark the cutting line on the tile. If you need to make a curved cut, use a template or compass for marking.
Using a manual tile cutter. Place the tile on the base of the tile cutter, aligning the cut line with the guides. Lower the handle of the cutter and run it along the cut line, applying slight pressure. Then lift the handle and use it to gently break the tile along the cut line.
Cutting with an electric tile cutter . Fill the water tank (if present) and turn on the tile cutter. Carefully slide the tile along the guide, keeping your hands away from the blade. Let the tool do the work and avoid applying too much pressure.
Using ticks for tiles. Grasp a small portion of the tile with the pliers and gently squeeze to break off the piece along the cut line. Repeat the process until you reach the desired shape.
Grinding the edges. After cutting, finish the edges of the tile with sandpaper or a special sanding tool to remove sharp edges and irregularities.

The correct cutting technique and the use of appropriate tools will ensure accurate and safe tile cuts, which will allow you to achieve a professional result when laying tiles in the kitchen.

Rubbing seams

Joint grouting is the final stage of tiling, which gives the surface a finished look and protects the joints from moisture and dirt. The correct choice of grouting mixture and careful application of grouting will ensure the durability and aesthetics of the tile coating.

The choice of grout depends on the type of tile, the width of the joints and the operating conditions. The most common cement and epoxy grouts. Cement mixes are suitable for most types of tiles and are available in a wide range of colours. They are easy to apply and relatively inexpensive. Epoxy grouts are more durable and resistant to chemicals, making them ideal for areas with high humidity and aggressive environments, such as kitchens and bathrooms.

When choosing a grouting mixture, it is important to consider the width of the joints. For narrow seams (up to 3 mm), it is better to use fine-grained grouting, which easily fills thin gaps. For wider seams, a coarse-grained grout is suitable, which provides a dense and reliable filling.

Before applying the grout, make sure that the tile adhesive is completely dry. Prepare the required amount of grout following the manufacturer’s instructions. Usually, the paste is prepared by mixing the dry powder with water to a uniform consistency.

Use a rubber spatula to apply the paste. Apply a small amount of the mixture to the spatula and spread it over the surface of the tile, filling the seams with diagonal movements. Make sure the grout completely fills the joints without leaving any voids or bubbles. Work in small areas so that the grout does not have time to harden before the job is finished.

After applying the grout, remove the excess mixture from the surface of the tile using a damp sponge. Wipe the tile in a circular motion, regularly rinsing the sponge in clean water. Be careful not to wash the grout out of the seams. For best results, repeat cleaning several times until the tile surface is clean.

Allow the grout to dry for the time indicated on the package, usually 24 to 48 hours. After drying, perform a final cleaning of the tile with a dry, soft cloth to remove the remains of the grouting and give the surface a shine.

Correct application and cleaning of the grout are important steps that ensure a good and long-lasting result. Give enough time and attention to this process so that your tiles look perfect and last a long time.

Finishing work and care for tiles

Finishing the tiling job includes checking the quality of the installation and proper care of the tiling. These stages are important for the tile to serve for a long time and retain its original appearance.

Checking the quality of laying

After finishing laying and rubbing the seams, it is necessary to carefully check the quality of the work performed. Make sure all the tiles are stacked evenly and firmly glued. To do this, use a level to check the horizontal and verticality of the tiled floor. The tiles should be on the same level, without protrusions and depressions.

Check that the grout has completely filled the seams and has no voids. Seams should be uniform in width and depth, without visible defects. Make sure that the paste does not fall out of the seams when pressing. Also pay attention to the edges of the tiles, especially if they have been trimmed. The edges should be smooth and neat, without chips and sharp corners.

Pay special attention to the joints of tiles with corners, pipes and other obstacles. Make sure all cuts and fits are done accurately and neatly. If necessary, use silicone sealant to seal joints where they join plumbing and other elements to prevent moisture from entering.

Recommendations for tile care

Proper care of the tile will help preserve its beautiful appearance and extend its service life. Here are some recommendations for tile care:

Regular cleaning . The tile is easy to clean and does not require special care. For regular cleaning, use a soft cloth or sponge soaked in warm water with the addition of a mild detergent. Avoid using abrasive cleaners and hard brushes, which can damage the surface of the tile and grouting.
Stain removal. Use special tile cleaners to remove stubborn stains. Follow the instructions on the package and test the product on a small, inconspicuous area before use. If limescale deposits have formed on the tile, you can remove them using a vinegar solution or a special limescale remover.
Injury prevention . Protect the tile from mechanical damage by using mats or stands for heavy objects. Avoid dropping heavy or sharp objects on the tile, as this can cause cracks and chips. Regularly check the condition of the seams and, if necessary, renew the grouting.
Processing of seams. To keep the seams clean and not exposed to moisture and dirt, they can be treated with a special protective compound for rubbing. This will help prevent the formation of mold and mildew in the seams, especially in areas with high humidity, such as the kitchen and bathroom.
Restoration of damaged tiles . If the tile is still damaged, try to replace it as soon as possible to avoid further damage to the coating. Carefully remove the damaged tile, clean the surface and lay the new tile using glue and grout.

Laying tiles in the kitchen with your own hands is not only an opportunity to save on the services of professionals, but also a great way to give the interior a unique and personalized look. In this article, we have considered in detail all the stages of the process: from surface preparation and selection of tools, to grouting of seams and care of the finished coating.

Each stage of work requires attention to detail and accuracy. Correct surface preparation and marking, competent selection and mixing of glue, careful laying and cutting of tiles, as well as careful grouting of seams – all this guarantees the durability and aesthetics of your tile covering. An important aspect is the observance of safety measures and the use of quality materials and tools.

Do not forget about regular care of the tile so that it retains its original appearance for as long as possible. Regular cleaning, joint treatment and damage prevention will help keep the tile in excellent condition.

By following our recommendations, you will be able to successfully cope with laying tiles in the kitchen and create a beautiful, practical and durable floor or walls. Let your home be cozy and stylish, and the process of laying tiles will bring pleasure and satisfaction from the work done.