How to install ceramic tile flooring Part 7 - Laying Down the tile permanently

At this point in time, you are well on your way to having the ceramic tile flooring you�ve envisioned for your indoor or outdoor installation. A lot of research has been done on the subject of ceramic tiles for flooring and how to install ceramic tile. After working with your sales rep on which type of ceramic tile is the most suitable to install, you�ve received your delivery. You�ve gathered the right tools to do the install. Your ceramic tiles have been removed from their boxes and have been allowed to adjust to the temperature and moisture levels in the space where you are going to lay them down. You�ve prepared a floor plan for your ceramic tile installation, and you�ve laid your tile in a dry run. After the "rehearsal" stage of the dry run,  the substrate has been prepared, the space has been measured, and the mortar adhesive has been applied. You�re ready now to start placing your tiles permanently. When looking to lay down ceramic tiles, here are the basic steps:

• Set the first tile in place at the corner lines made by the center point, pressing down slowly and firmly. The grooves should neither be too deep nor too shallow. Set tile spacer and continue with the rest of the tiles. Keep setting spacers after each tile.

• Take a rubber mallet and lightly tap the tile to assure a good coverage. Work in small sections and take your time. Keep an eye on the mortar, if it gets too dry, it may be necessary to add more water and remix. If the mortar adheres to the surface of any of the ceramic tiles, remove it before it dries. Lay all the full tiles first and leave the cut tiles until last.

• Ceramic tiles, if being installed on horizontal surface, must include a slope for drainage purposes. Generally speaking, a slope of � inch per foot is required to provide complete surface drainage.

• Otherwise, make sure that your flooring is level as you add tiles to each quadrant. Remember that all surfaces have some degree of variation, although you should aim for the most level surface possible. You can adjust each tile in order to achieve a more level surface by moving it or adding adhesive to the floor.

• Once a quadrant is complete, remove the tile spacers so they do not set into the adhesive. Follow this process for the remainder of the floor.

After the tiles are set, it is usually advised to wait at least one day or overnight to allow the adhesion to dry and cure. After the adhesive has set your tiles on the floor, you can start the grouting process.