Advantages of Ceramic Tiles and an Easy to Follow

Ceramic tiles are a mainstay of DIY and installation is a classic do it yourself job. This article will advise you how to install ceramic tiles as well as discussing their many advantages. Ceramic is a material that has been used in building & pottery since the early days of Greece; it is renowned for its hard wearing properties which make for an ideal tile. The 10 advantages 1. Durability - Ceramic is an extremely hard wearing material which makes it ideal for floor or wall covering. In comparison to other popular tiling materials, ceramic is amongst the longer lasting. 2. Fire resistant - Ceramic is fireproof, making it an ideal wall covering. When engulfed in flames ceramic will not burn and doesn't give off any toxic smoke or fumes. 3. Water resistant - A first class choice for use in wet areas (the bathroom), if correctly installed and grouted properly a ceramic tile's moisture absorption is around 0.5%. 4. In or Out? - Given the outstanding durability of ceramic tiles they make for the perfect floor tile indoors or outdoors. Being able to cope with heavy foot fall, withstand abrasions and tread wear make the material an excellent choice for outdoor tiling. 5. Anti-slip - Many tiles will come with an in-built abrasive grit in the texture or glaze, usually in the form of studs or orange peel. In comparison to other tiles ceramic is highly rated for its anti-slip factor. 6. Frost proof - When being used in exterior designs it is essential to use a material that will not frost over and become susceptible to damage; ceramic fulfils these requirements, remaining durable in even the frostiest conditions. 7. Stain Resistant - Possibly the best feature of ceramic is how easy it is to clean. All one needs to do is wash regularly with warm water and a mop, brush or cloth. 8. Colour safe - Ceramic is impervious to the sun's rays, meaning, the colour of a ceramic tile will never fade no matter what. 9. Thermal resistance - The material will resist high temperatures without cracking and becoming deformed. 10. Hygienic - Being so easy to clean makes ceramic a top choice for areas where high sanitary standards must be met. Tools required for installing ceramic tiles Hammer Chalk Line Spirit Level Saber Saw Tile Mastic Grout Stirring Stick (or toothbrush) Tile Cutter Tiles Stanley Knife Cement Board A brief how to guide - Step 1 - Take the measurements of the room Step 2 - Cut the cement board to size (using a Stanley knife) Step 3 - Lay out the cement board, ensuring that there is a tight fit. Step 4 - Secure the cement board, this can be done by using a drill. Make sure the screws are 6-8 inches apart (cement board screws are available) Step 5 - Mark the centre of the room (This is done to work outwards from the centre) Step 6 - Spread the adhesive - Spread the adhesive evenly (it needs to be as thick as the tiles). Once again, start from the centre, working outwards. Step 7 - Set the tiles in place and press firmly into the adhesive. For the second sheet, line up the pattern and check the spacing. Step 8 - Cover the entire centre of the room. Step 9 - For the outside of the room, trim the sheets to fit. Measure and cut the tiles to fill the remaining area. This is only a basic 'how to guide'. Most tile retailers will provide customers with a more detailed guide for DIY jobs.