Alright, let's get started!
You'll likely get your tiles at a hardware store, which Fliesenleger is fine, but check out the local newspapers for tile stores in your area – they'll have plenty more on display and can offer you good discounts. You should be able to get glue, grout and tools from the same vendor.
You will need a 6mm trowel for walls and a 10mm trowel for floors. 4mm for mosaics. Need a can of ready-to-use wall adhesive or inquire about the best quick setting mix for your floor. You will need 2 empty buckets, a large sponge, a caulking trowel/squeegee, a paddle for mixing powders, a tape measure, a spirit level, a cheap tile cutter: diamond wet cutter and possibly a dry cutter and scraper. Check how much it's all going to cost you and seriously consider whether it's worth buying: most tilers will only charge a few hundred for an average bathroom or kitchen, and then you won't have to hang the tools around.
The most important thing is to measure carefully, find the horizontal lines with the spirit level, work out the pattern in advance and order many more tiles than you think you will need! I start on the line resting on and around the edge of the bathtub or from a focal point like under the range hood or around a window in the kitchen. For floors, check if you see a pattern that will allow you the most whole tiles. Consider a diluted PVA preparation on wet surface areas.
It's worth checking out commercial tiles and your friends' houses first to see what you like and don't like. Where are the cut tiles? What is striking? Place one line at a time and then build up the wall or across the floor back to the door. Spread your glue horizontally with your trowel and really pull the pressure along to save on excess. Place the tile carefully but not too tightly. Use matches to place your tiles. Try a brickwork design to save yourself the hassle of lining up the joints! Leave overnight before grouting.
Mix your grout with a small amount of water and some Flexibond . Spread one small area at a time and wipe with the sponge. Rub the sponge firmly over and over again to leave a good, clean grout line. Natural stone needs sealing – check this when buying the tiles. Bath and shower areas benefit from spraying Seal-Guard after tiling. Take your time to achieve clean silicone lines along wet surface joints. Lick your index finger along the silicone line for a clean finish.
Difficult areas benefit from being tiled up with a baton – I use a metal batten that I screw to the wall.
Remember: measure twice, cut once.
If you feel tired, walk away and start again later. Tiling is not easy and requires the utmost focus and concentration, as well as good, strong light. Tea is always welcome!
Consider border tiles, different shades, diagonal lines. Take a look around and see what you like.
Don't ever be fooled into buying the cheapest thing – it's cheap because it does a poor job. Applying a lot of tiles can save you money, but what if you run out? Ask for advice in the shop and walk in the middle of the street. Before you buy, read the labels to make sure the product is what Fliesenleger in der nähe you want. Ask and save your time later!
And if you get stuck, consult your local tiler , if only for advice, after all they do this on a daily basis!
