How to tile a wall

In this wall tiling guide, we’ll walk you through the process of wall tiling, whether it’s for a kitchen, bathroom, or even a shower wall.

For best results, we always recommend hiring a professional.

Beginners guide to wall tiling

If you’re wondering how to tile a kitchen wall or how to tile a bathroom wall the first step is choosing the right tiles for your wall.

Next, you’ll need to gather all the necessary tools: a tile cutter, adhesive, grout, a notched trowel, and a sponge.

Make sure to prepare the wall beforehand, ensuring it’s clean and dry. Let’s take a look at these steps in more detail.

Choosing the right tiles

Imagine walking into a tile shop, eyes darting from the shiny porcelain tiles to the rustic ceramic ones. As a beginner, you’d be forgiven for being a little confused. It’s crucial to choose tiles that reflect your style and suit the functional needs of your space. But how do you decide which tiles are right for you? Here are some tips:

1. Consider the tile material. Porcelain tiles are durable and water-resistant, making them perfect for kitchens or bathrooms
2. Think about the finish. Glossy tiles reflect light and make a room seem larger, while matte tiles offer a more understated, modern look
3. Don’t forget about size. Larger tiles can make a small room appear more spacious, while smaller ones can add interest and details Rectangular tiles can create a contemporary look, while square tiles tend to be more traditional
4. Finally, choose a colour that complements your décor. Neutral tones can create a calming effect, while bold colours add a pop of personality

The type of tiles you choose will significantly influence the overall look and feel of your wall. Each material has its own unique properties and aesthetic, so it’s important to choose a type that suits your personal style and the décor of the room.

Top tip: Make sure you choose tiles from the same batch, else they could look slightly different.

Preparation of wall surface

Once you’ve settled on your perfect tiles, it’s time to prep your surface for installation.

1. The first step is to ensure the wall is clean, dry, and smooth. If there are any bumps or dips, they need to be filled in and sanded down. If the wall is painted, it’s best to strip it back to bare plaster. This gives the adhesive something to grip onto, helping the tiles to stick better
2. Next, you’ll need to apply a primer. This is especially important if you’re tiling onto a porous surface like plaster. The primer seals the surface, preventing the adhesive from drying out too quickly
3. Once you’ve applied the primer and allowed it to dry, your wall is ready for tiling

Application and grouting process

After you’ve finalised your design, it’s time to get your hands dirty with the application and grouting process – an exciting milestone in your DIY journey. Mastering the art of tiling isn’t just about slapping some adhesive on the back of a ceramic square; it’s a delicate dance of precision, patience, and technique.

1. Start by spreading a layer of adhesive on the wall using a notched trowel. Carefully press each tile onto the adhesive, maintaining the layout you’ve planned. Use tile spacers to ensure even gaps for the grout
2. Once all tiles are in place and the adhesive has dried, it’s time to grout. Mix the grout following the manufacturer’s instructions, then apply it using a rubber float. Press the grout into the gaps, making sure everything’s filled
3. Remove excess grout with a damp sponge, then let it dry for a day before sealing. This process may be challenging, but it’s also highly satisfying

After the grout dries, a damp sponge helps remove the grout haze, leaving a clean, shiny surface. All that’s left now is to admire your handiwork.

Maintaining tiled kitchen walls

Keeping your kitchen’s mosaic masterpiece in top shape shouldn’t be a chore. Regular maintenance will keep your tiles looking as good as new.

The key to preserving the beauty of a tiled kitchen wall lies in daily cleaning and preventative measures.

• Daily wipe-down with a soft cloth or sponge prevents the buildup of grease and grime
• Use a mild detergent or a vinegar-water solution can be used for weekly deep cleaning
• Use a soft bristle brush for tough stains (avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners)
• Seal the grout every year to protect it from staining and moisture damage

With these steps, your kitchen’s tiled wall will continue to shine for years.

Bathroom tile maintenance tips

Just as in the kitchen, maintaining your beautiful tiled surfaces in your bathroom is a labour of love that rewards you with a fresh, gleaming look every single day. However, it’s not just about keeping them clean. It’s about preserving their longevity and lustre, too.

Here are some simple tips to help you out.

• Wipe your tiles regularly with a damp cloth to prevent dirt build-up
• Use a mild detergent for occasional deep cleaning
• Avoid harsh chemicals as they might damage the tiles
• Seal your grout lines every year to prevent staining and moisture absorption
• Fix chipped or cracked tiles promptly. Ignoring them can lead to water seepage, causing bigger problems

Remember, a little effort goes a long way in maintaining your tile’s beauty and durability.

Tiling a wall yourself can be done. However, for best results, we’d always recommend hiring a professional.