Tile is one of the superior construction materials used all over the world. It is an efficient option as well as can turn a place attractive in no time. Tiles can easily be installed in your kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and entryways. A space covered by tiles makes the rooms waterproof and helps them prevail against weathering throughout time.
During the pandemic, we have seen many DIY tiling projects on various social media platforms. These projects helped many to overcome their depression while beautifying their home decor. The availability of tiling tools and conveniently low-cost materials also helped immensely. That’s why many new DIY tile projects are still executed even when the lockdown is lifted.
Why Consider Doing a DIY Tiling Project
When the pandemic hit, the whole world was locked down. No one was allowed to stay outside of their home without emergency circumstances—this promoted frustration to almost all individuals. In a view to cope out with this very new condition, people started to indulge in various repairing and creative projects. There are several benefits of DIY tiling projects. Such as:
Implying Your Own Ideas
When you are doing a DIY tiling project, you can always apply your own creativity in that space. You can change or improve your design any time you like while doing your own project.
Saving Installation Cost
You can save a significant amount of cost if you install your own tiles. You can associate that cost with buying better quality tiles or tile installation products. However, it’s not recommended to install tile in an integral place of your home if you don’t have prior experience.
Claiming Control in Your Own Hands
Sometimes, professional tile installers may slack off. It can frustrate some people greatly. If you are doing a DIY installation, you have control over the working pace and other aspects.
Utilizing Your Potential
You may have a unique approach to choosing and installing tiles. When you are doing a DIY project, you can apply your creativity and achieve incredible satisfaction.
Things to Consider When DIY Tiling
You may not get the best outcome in your first DIY tile project. But as the saying goes, practice makes a man perfect. So you should consider starting with a smaller project, like a place in your home that has less traffic.
During your project, you can change your mind or lose perspective. That can severely harm the aesthetic of your project. So before starting to work, chalk out a design or make a mental note. And try to follow it all along.
If you are an amateur in installing tiles, you should consider executing easy projects first. Dry areas, backsplashes, or floors can be easier to install tiles. Consider working with larger and lighter tiles. The smaller mosaic tiles can harm your continuity, while heavy stone tiles can possess significant problems due to being heavy.
Tiling Tools for DIY Projects
With the right tools, your tiling project can get very easy to handle. Most of the tools you need may be significantly low-cost. And the expensive ones can be rented. We have made a list of 9 tools that you’ll heavily need for your project.
Wet Saw / Tile Cutter
A tile wet saw is the preferred choice of tool for cutting tiles. This tool can cut through almost all types of tile, including stone tiles. The Wet saw consists of a blade with diamond grit. While cutting the tile, both the tile and the blade are overflowed with water to prevent overheating. This machine can be rented.
Grout Float
A grout float is like a concrete trowel, but the base is made out of rubber. It is used to force the grout into the joints between installed tiles. The flushed grout is also scraped with its help. It has a significant job that no other tools can perform.
Grout Sponge
This sponge comes with rounded edges and corners and is very dense. It is used to smoothen the grouted joints. An ordinary household sponge can be used as an alternative. But the sharp edges and smaller shapes of household sponges does more harm than good.
Notched Trowel
This tool is used for spreading tile adhesive before installing the tiles. Trowels come in different sizes and shaped notches. The mastic manufacturers often recommend what kind of Trowell should be used.
Tile Nippers
These tools help you cut the tiles in irregular shapes, which the wet saw cannot achieve. One can successfully finish a tiling job without this tool. But it can often come in handy.
Chalk Line
This is a convenient tool that has been used for ages. Load it with chalk powder, unreel the string to the desired length. Now, snap the string, and you have the straight line that you need. This tool is used when you are mapping the area to install tiles.
Bubble Levels
A bubble line is a measuring tool. It is used to draw lines diagonally, horizontally, and vertically. It can be handy for checking tile alignment and level.
Rubber Mallet
The rubber mallet is used to tap tiles to place it in level with others. It strikes the tile softly so that the material is not cracked.
Plastic Buckets
The buckets are used for mixing mortar and grout and rinsing grout sponge. The bucket should be voluminous enough to reach in with a grout float, trowel, and sponge.
Finishing a DIY tiling project can be very satisfying to you. And space can get a completely new look and vibe. With practice, you’ll be able to style your home’s high trafficked areas in no time. So, what are you waiting for? Widen your creative mind and get your tools for your DIY project.