Before You Begin: Prepare Like a Pro
Flooring isn’t just about appearance — it plays a major role in:
- Clean & Prep the Surface Before installing new tiles, clean the surface thoroughly. Vacuum away any dust or debris and wash the area with an alkaline detergent. If the existing tile is too smooth, consider chipping the surface to improve adhesion. In some cases, priming the floor will help the tile adhesive bond better.
- Level Uneven Floors A flat foundation is key! If your floor has dips or bumps, apply a self-leveling compound to smooth it out. Uneven surfaces can cause cracking and lippage issues over time.
Laying Tile on a Wooden Subfloor
If you’re laying tile over a wooden floor, follow these additional steps:
- Ensure the wood is clean and dry
- Use a primer or bonding agent
- Apply a specialized adhesive made for wood subfloors
- Finish with a flexible grout or plastic joint compound to accommodate natural wood movement
Mark Your Layout: Accuracy Matters
Before setting any tile in adhesive, mark two perpendicular axes on the floor, starting from the center of the room. This ensures a balanced layout and minimizes awkward cuts at the edges.
Try a Dry Run
Place tiles along the lines without glue—this “trial layout” helps you visualize the pattern, adjust for symmetry, and make smarter cuts before committing.
Applying Tile Adhesive Correctly
- Use a notched trowel to apply a thin, even layer of adhesive
- For tiles larger than 20×20 cm, apply glue on both the tile and the floor (double-buttering method)
- Insert spacers or plastic crosses to maintain even grout lines
- Tap gently with a rubber mallet or wood block to align tile heights
- Wipe away any excess adhesive before it dries
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to remove spacers before the adhesive sets!
Final Steps: Grouting & Setting
- Wait 24 hours before grouting
- Use a rubber float to spread grout and fill the joints evenly
- Clean off any residue with a damp sponge
- Allow grout to cure for at least 24–48 hours
- Avoid walking on the new tile until it’s fully set
Don’t Want to DIY? Call the Experts at Elegant Floors TX
While tile installation can be done yourself, a flawless finish often requires professional tools, experience, and attention to detail. That’s where Elegant Floors TX comes in. As McKinney’s trusted flooring experts, we offer:
- Professional Tile Installation Services in McKinney
- Custom design layouts
- Moisture-resistant solutions
- High-quality tile products
- Affordable pricing & friendly service
Ready to Upgrade Your Space?
Give us a call at (469) 406-0066 or visit ElegantFloorsTX.com to schedule your FREE consultation for tile installation in McKinney.
Elegant Floors TX – Turning your tile dreams into reality, one square foot at a time.
