When tiling, you need to pay significant attention to the quality of the work, because you will be looking at the result for several years and even that one poorly glued tile will bother you every single day. So choose a craftsman or company you trust to ensure you get a quality result. Ideally with building supervision.
What makes up the price of tiling work
The price of tiling depends mainly on the area to be tiled, the corners and last but not least the size of the tiles or paving.
Labour intensity
The complexity of the pattern or design affects the time and effort required to install the tiles. More complex designs, such as mosaics or diagonal installations, require more time and precision, which increases labour costs.
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Do you want large format tiles?
Large format tiles, such as 120cm x 60cm or 200cm x 100cm, are modern and very pretty, but they are more difficult to install correctly. That is to say, large format paving, apart from the fact that it is considerably more expensive, has more complicated working procedures. The largest formats require a perfectly smooth surface - plasterboard
- The large surface is less easy to lay: micrometer unevenness in small formats is not visible to the naked eye, but even a small unevenness in a large format will translate as a visibly curved tile.
- Large format has a heavy weight: To be solid, large format tiles need to be thick, which in large format means heavy weight and difficult handling.
Do you have straight walls? Are you sure?
The condition of the surfaces to which the tiles will be applied affects the price. Many people think they have straight walls at home. However, after removing the old tiles, you will find that there are very big differences and you have to compensate for this during the tiling process so that the walls look nice after the final tiling. We are talking about millimetre differences, but these are visible to the naked eye and are distracting.
If the walls or floors are uneven or damaged, they need to be levelled and repaired first, which increases the preparation costs.
Frost-resistant and load-bearing paving is more difficult
If you are tiling or facing with frost-resistant tiling, so-called gres, you have to expect a significantly higher price than with conventional tiling.
However, gres paving is also suitable for the driveway to your garage, for example, and you can be sure that it will not be damaged by vehicles.
Experience and expertise
The price of a job can vary depending on the experience and expertise of the tiler. More experienced and reputable professionals may charge higher prices for their services, but they can also provide higher quality and more durable results.
How to do it.
Preparing surfaces for tiling
Before starting tiling work, it is important to prepare surfaces thoroughly. This includes removing old tiles, cleaning and levelling walls and floors. Surfaces must be clean, dry and level to ensure that the new tiles adhere properly.
Selection and preparation of materials
Choosing the right cladding materials is key to achieving the desired look and functionality. Commonly used materials include ceramic tile, porcelain tile, natural stone and glass mosaic. Once the materials have been selected, they need to be properly prepared, which may involve cutting the tiles to the desired size and shape.
- Planning: Before starting tiling, it is important to think about the layout of the tiles and calculate the number of pieces needed. Take into account the size and shape of the room, as well as the dimensions and type of tiles. Always be aware of and take care not to buy tiles that are 10% larger than your actual room size.
- Surface preparation: the surface you will be tiling on must be clean, dry and even. If necessary, level it with MVR plaster on the walls or self-levelling compound on the floor.
- Choice of adhesive: Choose an adhesive suitable for the type of tile and the substrate. Follow the adhesive manufacturer's instructions for mixing and applying the adhesive.
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Installing tiles
Tile installation begins with applying the adhesive to the prepared surface. The adhesive is applied using a notched trowel to ensure even distribution and adhesion. The tiles are then laid in the adhesive according to a predetermined pattern or design. It is important to ensure that the tiles are laid evenly and accurately, using spacers to maintain even gaps between tiles.
- Applying the adhesive: Use a serrated spatula to apply the adhesive to the wall or floor in an even layer. The size of the tooth of the spatula depends on the size of the tiles.
- Placing the tiles: Place the tiles one by one, pressing them into the adhesive and checking their flatness with a spirit level. Leave the desired joints between the tiles.
- Alignment: Use spacers to keep the joints between the tiles even. Periodically check the flatness and evenness of the tiles.
Wedges and clips for levelling tiles
For perfectly flat tiles, a levelling system based on wedges or clips can be used to achieve a perfectly even result during laying. For large format tiles, these systems are a must.
The disadvantage is that these systems are disposable and therefore their use increases the cost of tiling.
Grouting
Once the tiles have settled and the adhesive has dried, grouting follows. Grouting involves filling the gaps between the tiles with grout, which provides an aesthetic appearance and protection from moisture. The jointing compound is applied with a rubber trowel and the surface is thoroughly cleaned after drying.
- After the adhesive has dried, fill the joints between the tiles with grout. Choose a colour of grout that matches the tiles.
- Finish: Once the grout has dried, clean the tiling with a damp sponge and remove any excess material.
Additional tips:
- Before tiling, lay out the tiles on the floor to check their layout and visual effect.
- Use a tile cutter or tile nippers to cut the tiles.
- When tiling corners and curves, use special tiles or cut them to the desired shape. Corner finishing strips are also used which can be incorporated into the tiles.
- Moist environments such as bathrooms and shower enclosures require waterproofing before tiling.
- Observe safety regulations when working with tools and materials.
Work with different types of tiles:
- Tiles: are the most common type of tiling and are available in a wide range of materials, colours and designs. They are suitable for both walls and floors.
- Tiles: are mostly ceramic, but there are also panels made of different materials such as wood, stone, glass or metal. They give walls an elegant and luxurious look.
- Tiles: are designed for floors and are made of durable materials such as ceramic - gress, stone or concrete. Choose tiles with a non-slip finish in wet areas.
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Types of tiles and their uses
There is a wide range of tiles on the market, differing in material, colour, pattern and properties. Choosing the right type of tile depends on your preferences, the type of room and the desired effect. Here is an overview of the most commonly used tile types:
Ceramic tiles:
- These are among the most popular tiles due to their durability, water resistance and ease of maintenance.
- They are available in a wide range of colours, patterns and finishes, from smooth and glossy to embossed and matt.
- Suitable for walls and floors, both indoors and outdoors.
Porcelain tiles:
- They are even more durable and stronger than ceramic tiles and are suitable for harsh, heavy-duty environments.
- They have low water absorption and are scratch and chemical resistant.
- Suitable for walls and floors both indoors and outdoors.
Glass tiles:
- They add a modern and elegant look to interiors.
- They are available in a variety of colours and finishes, including transparent, opaque and reflective.
- Suitable for interior walls.
Natural stone:
- Provides a luxurious and timeless look.
- The most commonly used types of stone for cladding are marble, granite and slate.
- Suitable for walls and floors both indoors and outdoors.
Mosaic:
- Consists of small pieces of tile in a variety of colors and materials.
- Suitable for creating patterns, borders and accents.
- It can be used on walls and floors both indoors and outdoors.
Concrete tiles:
- They are durable and affordable.
- Suitable for walls and floors both indoors and outdoors.
- They come in a variety of colours and finishes, including imitation brick and stone.
Gres tiles are a type of ceramic tile that are characterised by low water absorption, high strength and wear resistance. They are made from fine clay which is pressed and then fired at high temperatures (above 1200 °C).
They are a type of ceramic tile characterised by low water absorption, high strength and wear resistance.
Properties of gres tiles:
- Low water absorption: gres tiles absorb less than 0.5% of water, making them ideal for wet environments such as bathrooms and kitchens.
- High strength: Gres tiles are very strong and resistant to impact and scratches. They are also suitable for harsh, heavy duty environments.
- Wear-resistant: Porcelain tiles are wear-resistant and retain their appearance even with intensive use.
- Resistance to chemicals: Porcelain tiles are resistant to chemicals such as cleaning agents and disinfectants.
- Easy to maintain: Porcelain tiles are easy to clean and maintain.
- Variety of designs: Porcelain tiles are available in a wide range of colours, patterns and finishes, so you can choose the ones that suit your taste and décor.
- A variety of designs: porcelain tiles are available in a wide range of colours, patterns and finishes, so you can choose the ones that suit your taste and interior design.
Uses of porcelain tiles:
Gres tiles are suitable for both walls and floors, both indoors and outdoors.
They are most commonly used in:
- Bathrooms. They are also suitable for floors, walls and shower enclosures.
- Kitchens: Porcelain tiles are resistant to stains, chemicals and wear and tear, making them ideal for kitchens. They can be used for floors, walls and tiling behind the counter.
- Corridors and hallways: porcelain tiles are hard-wearing and easy to clean, making them ideal for corridors and hallways.
- Living rooms: Porcelain tiles with imitation wood or stone give living rooms an elegant and luxurious look.
- Terraces and balconies: Porcelain tiles are weather and frost resistant, making them ideal for outdoor spaces.
Benefits of porcelain tiles:
Durability and durability: Gres tiles are one of the most durable and long-lasting tiles on the market. They last for decades even with heavy use.
Low maintenance: porcelain tiles are easy to clean and maintain.
Versatility: Porcelain tiles are suitable for different types of rooms and surfaces.
Aesthetics: Porcelain tiles are available in a wide range of colours, patterns and finishes, so you can choose the ones that suit your taste and décor.
Disadvantages of porcelain tiles:
Higher cost: Gres tiles are more expensive than regular ceramic tiles.
Difficult to install: Gres tiles are heavier and more fragile than regular ceramic tiles, so installation requires experience and expertise.
Smooth surface: some porcelain tiles have a smooth surface that can be slippery, especially in wet conditions
In addition to these types, there are also less common tiles such as leather tiles, metal tiles and cork tiles.
When choosing a tile, consider the following factors:
- Type of room: choose a tile that is suitable for the type of room, such as a tile for the kitchen and bathroom and a wall tile for the living room.
- Purpose of use: consider the load to which the tile will be subjected and choose a type with sufficient durability.
- Your style: Choose a tile that fits your taste and overall interior design.
- Maintenance: Choose a tile that is easy to clean and maintain.
- Price: tiles vary in price depending on the material, quality and brand.
Important insights in conclusion
Tiling your walls and floors with tiles is a great way to enhance the look of your home. By following the correct procedures and using quality materials, you will achieve professional results that will last for years.
Remember, if you're not confident in your abilities, it's always better to contact a professional tiler - a master tiler.