Making sure you have the right tools for the job is important so we have answered a few questions to help you choose the best solution.
Q: What tools can you use to cut tiles with and are they expensive?
A:There are a number of ways to cut tiles, for example a Scoring Cutter, is similar to a glass cutter. It creates a deep scratch on top of the tiles surface while pressure is applied to the side to allow it to snap. Tiles that have a very deep texture may need cutting with a Wet Saw. Because of the pattern you will have to be careful not to cause any damage or you will have to replace the tile as these are not reparable.
Q: What type of trowel do I use to apply thinset for my floor tile?
A:A 1/4 inch by 3/8 inch deep square trowel is ideal for setting ceramic and porcelain floor tiles. If you try to use a smaller notched trowel you might not apply a thick enough layer of adhesive to support the tile which can cause a uneven surface, resulting in loose or broken tiles later.
Adhesives for Tiling
A:A 1/4 inch by 3/8 inch deep square trowel is ideal for setting ceramic and porcelain floor tiles. If you try to use a smaller notched trowel you might not apply a thick enough layer of adhesive to support the tile which can cause a uneven surface, resulting in loose or broken tiles later.
There are many tile adhesives that are available on the market today. The choice will depend on the background to which you are fixing the tile to whither or not they will be subject to wetting.
If you are installing a shower unit or a bath you should use a waterproof adhesive. Flexible adhesive is ideal for surfaces which may move a little, such ass plywood paneling around a bath.
Buying a pre-mixed adhesive can be expensive but can easily save time and effort. Make sure you have set out the tiling lines correctly. Check that the panel at the bottom is really horizontal. To make sure that the vertical lines also stay vertical, use your gauge rod to measure and mark guide lines at regular intervals around the room. If you place these at about one meter intervals, you will be able to keep a check on the vertically of the tiles as you fix each one square meter bay.