What Do I Use Behind Ceramic Wall Tile

First use a level to find the lowest point of the countertop.

What do i use behind ceramic wall tile.

Ceramic tiles can be installed directly on drywall plaster or if they are in moist areas onto green drywall or even better cement backer board. According to the tile council of north america glazed porcelain tiles have a water absorption rate of 0 5 percent or less which makes them an outstanding material for shower walls. Ceramic and porcelain tile more than almost any other surface material needs a stable flat flex free substrate. Be sure to put spacers between each tile as you go.

Mark the wall at the top of the tile. Much like ceramic tile these tiles come in all kinds of colors patterns and shapes but they are an even harder and more durable material. Step 1 prepare the wall. Tile adhesive is expected to hold the tile in place not just for years but for decades without fail.

It must be easy to work with and it must adequately fill in gaps between the tile and the substrate. If you have to use regular drywall then a water barrier must be inserted behind the drywall and the wall frames. Porcelain tile looks a lot like regular ceramic tile but it s much harder. Then use a level to extend the line along the work area.

Hold a tile at this spot accounting for a 1 8 inch expansion gap. Standard drill bits don t work on tile but not to worry. These should be cleaned with a degreaser or primer if you have tough stains. When using ceramic tile try to find boxes with the same dye lot number.

It s as easy to work with as ordinary drywall but it s specially formulated to resist moisture. Wipe the wall with a soft cloth or damp sponge to ensure a clean dry surface. Determine how much tile you ll need. Have the right bit for ceramic tile.

Add up the wall areas and add 10 so you have extra tile for mistakes or future repairs. Even the slightest amount of movement in a building structure can telegraph to the tile and crack it. Measure each wall area calculating the width times height. This is done to help prevent water from damaging the structure of the wall.

Ceramic tile can be drilled with a carbide bit while glass and porcelain call for a diamond tipped bit. It cannot cure too fast. Use long sweeping motions to apply mortar to the wall and start placing your tiles in the marked locations. Cut tile is best hidden under cabinets but you may have to cut from the bottom if your countertop isn t level.

Otherwise you do. Green drywall is specifically designed for use in bathrooms. Even in the best of scenarios the tile and grout will eventually wear down leaving behind a clear route for water to seep through and soak into the drywall. In addition because showers and bathtubs are wet areas they need a substrate that will not be damaged by moisture just in case a crack in the tile or grout lets water through.

Next mix your grout and spread it into the gaps between the tiles using. To install ceramic wall tile use a level and measuring tape to mark the tile locations on the wall with chalk. Glossy surfaces are typically sanded and de glossed.