Transform Your Home With These Expert Tips for Laying Granite Floor Tiles

Granite flooring is a timeless look for any room in your home and can last for years if properly maintained. It is an expensive installation, but you can save money by doing the project yourself. Before you get ready to install the tiles, you should take some measurements and determine how many tiles will be needed. With the right tools, you can lay granite floor tiles with ease.

To get started, you’ll need to determine how much space you’re going to be covering. Use a measuring tape to determine the width and length of the room. Once you’ve measured the area in square feet, you can then determine how many granite tiles you’ll need. The typical size of granite floor tiles is one foot by one foot, so divide the square footage of your space by the size of one tile to get an idea of how many tiles you’ll need. Don’t forget to include a 15 percent buffer for any tile and grout wastage.

Before you get to the installation portion, you’ll also need to locate the middle of the room. Using a chalk line, mark the middle of the room from wall to wall. Once the four lines intersect, that’s where you’ll want to start laying the granite tiles.

Applying the mortar is the first step. You’ll need a trowel to spread it evenly across the beginning spot, and then press the tiles into the adhesive with medium pressure to ensure that it’s level. While you’re working, keep your tiles spaced with spacers, so that the grout lines are even. Depending on the size of the room and the tiles, you may need to cut a few to fit with a tile cutter. Continue to work your way outward until the entire floor is covered with tiles. Give it about a day for the adhesive to dry before you move on to the grout.

Once the adhesive has set, it’s time to apply the grout. You’ll be using a grout float to spread the grout evenly on the floor. Remember to push it into the spaces between the tiles and wipe away any extra with a damp sponge. Allow the grout 24 hours to completely dry before you remove the spacers and begin the cleaning process. Use a damp sponge to wipe away any grout that’s still left on the surface.

With a few simple steps, you can lay your own granite floor tiles. With the proper preparation and attention to detail, you’ll be able to enjoy your granite floor for years to come.