Laying tiles: tips for a clean and lasting installation

Tiles belong in every home. They help you create a pleasant, homely atmosphere.

They are made from natural raw materials: clay is shaped and fired at a certain temperature, which makes them easier to cut and gives them the necessary strength.

For Ceramics to stay beautiful and functional for a long time, they must be laid professionally.

Where tiles are used

Thanks to their properties, tiles can be used practically anywhere.

They are most often found in the Bathroom. There they are ideal for walls and floors, because they absorb no water and are easy to care for.

They are also often laid in Kitchen and hallways. Many people also use them in living spaces, on terraces and balconies.

For outdoor areas, it is best to choose slip-resistant, frost-resistant tiles.

Advantages of tiles

Tiles offer many advantages that make them so popular:

• They are very hard-wearing and wear-resistant.
• Cleaning and care are easy. A mild cleaning product and water are enough.
• They are fireproof and withstand any weather.
• They are easy to cut and inexpensive.
• They are made of natural materials, which makes them an environmentally friendly choice.
• They come in many formats, colours and patterns to suit any style.
• You can choose from many looks (stone, concrete, wood).

Laying tiles

The most important thing when laying tiles: the substrate must be level, smooth and firm. Otherwise a tile can easily break.

Tiles may only be laid on dry and clean surfaces. Before laying, a primer is applied to reduce the absorbency of the substrate. In bathrooms and outdoors, waterproofing is added too.

Before laying, calculate how many tiles you need for the area.

Allow at least 10% extra, because there are offcuts when laying.

Then the adhesive is applied to the substrate. It must be spread evenly so that the tile adheres over its whole surface.

Before each further tile, make sure the joint spacing is even. Only then will the result look good. The easiest way is with tile spacers or other spacing aids.

Once the tiles have been laid, it is best to leave them until the next day so that the adhesive dries properly. 

Then comes grouting. The grout is mixed according to the manufacturer’s instructions and worked into the joints. Wipe off excess grout with a damp sponge without damaging the joints.

Properly laid tiles last a very long time and are very easy to care for.

If you have no experience of laying tiles, it is best to leave the work to professionals. That way you avoid unnecessary problems.

Professional laying is crucial for good looks and a long service life. If you follow these tips, you will get a beautiful and functional surface.