10 things that can go wrong when laying tiles

Laying tiles is not difficult in itself. But as with most projects, there are pitfalls to be aware of. Here we list 10 things that can go wrong when laying tiles. Take the safe side before the safe side and read through the points before embarking on your next tiling project!

1. INCORRECT SUBJECT AS A BASIS

Tiles are more fragile than clinker and other ceramic building products. In order for them not to crack over time, it is important that you install the tile on a surface that is not too mobile, in which case plaster, concrete or plaster are suitable. If you are going to tile in the bathroom, it is also important that you meet the guidelines and requirements for waterproofing in wet areas.

2. SETTING TILES ON UNEVEN SURFACES

Regardless of whether you are re-tiling a surface or putting tiles on already bare walls, it is important that the surface is properly even. In kitchens old fix is ​​not to worry too much about, just make sure to remove enough of the finish for a smooth surface. You simply fill in pits with putty and then sand the walls. If the previous tile was on a plaster wall, we recommend that you replace it. Then you give your new tiled wall the best conditions for a sustainable result.

3. USING THE WRONG CERAMIC PRODUCTS

When renovating kitchens and bathrooms, it is important that you use the right ceramic products based on the purpose. Tiles work well as a splash guard or for the walls of the wet room, but are not a product to lay on the floor.

4. SPREADS JOINT ON TOO LARGE AREA

When laying tiles, it is best to work in stages. The joint compound dries relatively quickly and therefore you should not apply directly to too large surfaces. Spread the grout on one of your surfaces, let it burn for a short while and then attach your tile.

5. TILING WITH POOR ATTACHMENT

When you place the tiles against the wall, it is important that you give the back of the tile a proper joint. By simply moving the board sideways, back and forth with small movements when you put it in the joint, the mass spreads out on the back and gives it better adhesion. Another option is to apply some grout directly to the back of the tile before adhering to the prepared surface. Then your tiling will be durable with a strong attachment to the substrate.

6. PLACES TILES ANGLE

When laying tiles, it is good to choose a good starting point that makes the job easier. For splash guards in the kitchen, it is good to start from the kitchen counter. Then use, for example, a laser measure to ensure that the setting is straight. Keep in mind that corners where walls meet are rarely perfectly straight. And putting tiles in bathrooms is a more complicated story. The floor is usually set up with falls and something you need to take into account when tiling your walls.

7. CUTTING THE PLATES WRONG

A common mistake when installing tiles is that you cut tiles incorrectly or that they break. It is therefore important to take into account that there will be some wastage. Which tile cutter you use in relation to slab can also reduce the amount of wastage. Tiles with cracked glaze are an example where you'd best use an electric tile cutter.

A tip is also to plan beforehand how you will lay the tile so that you cut the same amount on each end. It gives a much nicer result!

8. PLACE THE CUT EDGES OUTSIDE

When you cut your tile, remember not to place the cut edges outwards when laying the tile. No matter how finely you cut the plate and sand the edge, it will not look as good as the other sides of the plate.

9. USING THE WRONG JOINT COLOR FOR THE TILE

Joints in a contrasting color to the tile can produce unwanted effects with sharp grid patterns. If you instead choose a joint color in harmony with the color of the tile, you will give the wall the impression of being larger and more uniform. Above all, we give a word of warning for mosaics where a contrasting joint color can give patterns with an almost stitched appearance.

10. WAITING TO WASH OFF FOG RESIDUES

After you've filled your joints, it's important to quickly and thoroughly wash off joint residue from the surface. Grout residues that have solidified on the tile are very difficult to remove.