TILE CITY DIY
BEFORE YOU START.
TOOLS YOU WILL NEED
SOME SIMPLE TOOLS ARE REQUIRED TO
SUCCESSFULLY TILE.

Deciding to do your own tiling can save you plenty, but make sure you have basic DIY skills, the time, and the confidence before you start.

If you have a difficult area to tile, it may be better to employ a professional tiler. Please contact your local TILE CITY store if you would like us to recommend a tiler.

Tiles can be laid over almost any level, firm, and structurally sound surface. As long as the correct adhesive is used.

Surface preparation is vital. The surface to be tiled must be as even as possible, free from contaminants such as oil, grease, soap, and dust. Davco Ultraprime should be used on porous surfaces.

If you wish to tile over vinyl tiles, previously painted surfaces, or old carpet adhesive, Davco Ultrabond should be applied before tiling.

OTHER DIY LINKS

Measuring up.

Floor tiling.

Wall tiling.

Tips and handy hints.

Monthly Specials.

Download THIS
DIY fact sheet (pdf).

Download ALL
DIY fact sheets (pdf).

A notched spreader for the adhesive. A 6mm or 8mm is recommended for wall tiles and a 10mm or 12mm for floor tiles.
A bucket to mix the adhesive.
A trowel or mixing paddle.
A Tape measure, Straight edge, String line, Plumb line, and a Setsquare.
A Tile Cutter.
A Rubber squeegee or grout float.
A pair of tile nippers.
A bucket of clean water, clean sponges and plenty of clean, soft rags.
A felt tip pen for marking the tiles for cutting.
An angle grinder with a diamond blade is very useful for those awkward cuts.
And some plastic spacers. Usually 1.5mm for walls, and 3mm to 5mm for floors (remember to remove these before grouting).