Installation Guide

Installing Porcelain Tile
Page 2 of 4
STEP 2: PREPARE THE SURFACE
Make sure you remove any old floorcovering. The surface should be clean, smooth, and dry for
optimal results. Repair, patch, and level any damaged or uneven areas. Double check to make
sure the surface is architecturally sound and can support the weight of tile flooring.
Remove any moldings, trim, or appliances that may interfere with the installation, and check
the doorjambs to make sure that you have enough clearance for the tile to be laid beneath.
For an efficient tile laying experience, start by marking the center point of each of the walls in
the room. Next, snap chalk lines between the center points of opposite walls to pinpoint the
center of the room. The intersection of these lines should create perfect squares.
Starting at the center point, lay a row of loose tiles along the center lines in both directions,
using tile spacers as you go to for even, uniform joints. Laying out the tile in advance helps to
ensure a non-repeat look and can help to ensure that you have enough tile to complete your
project before you begin. Once you reach the walls, you'll most likely need to cut tiles for a
proper fit. If the cuts needed are smaller than half of a tile, you can adjust the center line by
snapping a new line a half-tile size closer to the wall. That will help to ensure that your design
looks even and professional. If necessary, repeat this step along the intersecting center line.
For large rooms, you can make the job easier by dividing each section into smaller 2' x 3' grids
by snapping additional lines parallel to the centerlines.
Step 3: APPLYING ADHESIVE
Always mix only enough of the adhesive to be used within 30 minutes, you don’t want the
adhesive to begin to harden before you can get it applied. Using the flat side of the trowel
(following the recommendations on the adhesive package), spread a 1/4" coat on the surface of
one grid area without covering the guidelines.
After doing so, hold the trowel at a 45-degree angle and use the notched side to comb adhesive
into standing ridges. When you remove the excess adhesive, you leave behind a uniform,
ridged setting bed for your tile. Do not spread a larger area of your adhesive than can be set in
15 minutes.