Unlock the Beauty and Elegance of Natural Stone Floor Tiles – Step-By-Step Installation Guide
Installing natural stone floor tiles requires planning and patience. The materials, tools and techniques used will determine the success of the project. When installing stone tiles, it is important to take measurements, determine your starting point and decide how to proceed. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to install natural stone floor tiles.
Before beginning the installation process, it is important to measure the square surface of the floor and plan the design of the tiles. With natural stone floor tiles, there is less uniformity in shape, which allows for a more creative look. You may want to begin with a straight edge for a more formal look, or lay larger stones in a pattern for a rustic, natural look. As you lay your stones, make sure to measure each area carefully, so that you can trim and fit the tiles appropriately.
It is also important to consider the nature of the material you are using. Natural stone floor tiles have different levels of porosity and will absorb moisture at different rates. Tiles such as flagstone, which have a more porous surface, will require sealers to prevent absorbing unnecessary moisture and make them easier to clean. On the other hand, polished marble and granite tiles will not require a sealer.
Once you have an understanding of the material and measurements of your project, you can begin to assemble your materials and tools. You will need supplies such as tile, sandpaper, grout, sealer, trowels, mortar, and a chisel and hammer. If you plan on laying down a tile floor over a wood floor, you will need to install a water-resistant backer board first.
When you are ready to start laying the tile, you should begin with the corner closest to the entrance of the room. From there, you will be able to determine the most straight edge and work your way outward. If a straight edge is less important to you, you can start in the middle of the room and work towards the edges. As you are laying the tiles, ensure that you leave enough space in between them for grout. When placing the tiles, use mortar as a leveler so that the thicker tiles can be pushed into the mortar for an even look. If a gap is left between the tiles and the wall, it is ok as this can be filled with grout.
Once all the tiles have been laid, you will need to begin sealing their surface. Depending on the type of stone tile you are using, you may or may not need to use grout. Porous tiles, such as flagstone, should be sealed in order to prevent them from absorbing moisture. Finally, once all the surface has been sealed, you can grout the area and move onto the next step.
In this part of the article, you have learned how to measure the floor and choose your material, assemble the supplies and tools, and lay the tiles. In Part 2, you will learn how to seal and grout the floor and finish the installation process. With natural stone floor tiles, you can provide your home with a unique, timeless look. With the help of this article, you can successfully install natural stone floor tiles in no time.
