How to plan and manage your tiling project

Changing up your tiles can revitalise your home without needing a full renovation.

Laying new tiles can also make you feel there’s light at the end of the renovation, dust-filled tunnel!

But there are many things to consider, like wall condition, tile choice, layout, hiring a tiler, etc.

We’ve got you covered with a complete tiling guide. Read on to learn how to prepare a wall for tiling and more top tips. 

Tiling wall preparation and more tips

Knowing where to start with any home improvement project can be daunting.

So, how do you prepare a wall for tiling?

Before you begin, start with some essential planning.

1. Choose the right tile

Firstly, pick a tile size and material suitable for the room.

Bathrooms, wet rooms, and kitchen floors need water-resistant materials. Think ceramic, porcelain, or natural stone.

But stay away from porous stone tiles for kitchen splashback. Or, if you’re extending outside your kitchen, check your tiles are suitable for exterior use.

2. Plan your tile layout

Next, consider some planning tile layouts. Choose a tile layout or format that suits your area best.

This is the fun bit. With so many tile varieties and layouts available, you can create a space that reflects your personal style.

Try a simple but stunning subway tile for a modern and minimalist look. Or, add some dimension with a visually interesting diagonal herringbone design.

Need some inspo? We have many eye-catching bathroom tile designs and kitchen wall tile ideas!

3. Get grout and spacing right

Think about your tile choice and the width of the grout line. It can significantly affect the finished look, especially for dark and dramatic tiles.

Choose a shade of grout similar to your tiles.

Most tiles are usually spaced 2-3mm apart (for wall tiles) or 3-5mm apart (for floor tiles).

A good tiler will advise you on what works best for your tile choice. 

4. Tiling materials

Putting all your tiling materials in one basket (online or in-store) is great.

Get your grout, tile adhesive, silicone and spacers together, if possible.

Lastly, work out how many tiles you need in advance and get them in one order. This way, you can be sure they’re from the same batch.

5. Think about your trim

Usually, your tile edge will be visible when your tiling project is complete. So, decide on your trim or edges in advance.

You might consider:

• A pencil edge to match your tiles
• Chrome strips to conceal bare edges
• Going without the trim for porcelain or tidy squares

6. Work around lighting and sockets

Forgetting bathroom lighting or sockets to be incorporated into your tiles can cause a real headache.

For example, you or your tiler must cut the tiles to fit recessed spotlights or a concealed LED strip.

So, if you plan on adding lighting features, tell your tiler in advance.

How to install tile on walls and floors

To install tiles, you’ll need to:

• Clean and prep the area – remove any old tiles, but be careful, as they may be sharp
• Check if your walls need plastering underneath so that your tiles have a level base
• For floors, check if you need a new subfloor to strengthen or level the base and prevent movement or cracks
• Plan your layout (as discussed above) – mark your reference lines with a level and measuring tape
• Use a notched trowel to apply your tile adhesive in small batches, pressing firmly to secure (but not enough so they slip)
• Use a tile cutter to cut around obstacles like shower fittings and sockets
• Wait for the adhesive to set, then grout
• Use a float to apply the grout, then wipe away the excess with a damp sponge
• Get extra protection by sealing the grout

Don’t fancy the hassle? For best results, we always recommend hiring a professional.

Before you even begin any tiling project, consider your budget.

Tiling services vary vastly, depending on the size and complexity of the project.

So, always communicate your complete budget with any potential tiler. That way, they’ll know what tiles to suggest to fit your budget.

But, depending on the area and tile type, you can choose a budget-friendly or high-end option.

But to give you an idea, you can expect to pay;

• £675 for floor tile installation in 8m² kitchen
• £1,290 for ceramic tile installation per 8m²
• £2,425 for porcelain floor tile installation

Take a look at our guide on the cost to tile a kitchen or bathroom for more information.

Wall tiling guide final tips

Some last but important points to remember when planning and arranging for new tiles;

• Give your tiler a complete specification list so they can complete the job as you intend – check it includes all relevant info, measurements and materials
• Try to be at home when the tiler measures up or does the work so you can check the progress
• If you can’t be there, don’t hesitate to pop back – your tiler may also be waiting to check something with you
• Always be clear and thorough with your vision, needs and budget
• Remember to ask any questions you have before the work starts

How do you plan for tiling?

Getting your measurements right is a vital part of tiling wall preparation. It can reduce tile wastage and save you money in the long run.

An easy way to do this is to calculate how many tiles you’ll need:

1. Divide your area into small rectangular sections
2. Write or draw each one on a diagram
3. Work out the number of tiles for each section (forget about offcuts, as they may not be usable)
4. Add each section together and add 10% for wastage

Don’t worry too much about the direction you’re tiling in. Your area measurements will be the same.

For unusually shaped areas or tiles, try measuring by square metres instead.

Measure the length and width of the area you want to tile, then multiply them together.

How do you map out a tile layout?

Planning a tile layout is an easy way to determine how to set out wall tiles.

Start by measuring the area (as above), then draw a rough sketch or plan of the layout. Remember to factor in the size and shape of the tile.

Then, work out the centre of the wall or room. Start from the point and dry lay your tiles, working outwards the edges.

An easier way to do this is to get professional help. A tiler will plan the best layout for your tiles.

How do I know where to start laying tiles?

Generally, most tilers start from the centre and work outwards. This is especially important for patterned tiles that rely on the correct positioning.

Your main goal is to position the floor’s centre correctly. Start by measuring the opposing walls, marking them in the centre, and drawing a line between the two points. Repeat on the other two walls to find the centre.

When you have your centre, dry lay a row of tiles up to the walls in four directions. Always include tile spacers to ensure even joints.

Should you tile the walls or floor first?

Whether you tile the floor or wall first depends on tile choice, tile, and room type.

For example, tilers usually tile the wall first for wet areas like kitchens or bathrooms. Tiling the walls first can avoid damage from flying mortar, escapee tiles and water damage.

But, if you’re using large or heavy tiles, it could be more practical to tile the floor first. This way, you can establish a level surface for the walls and make sure the tiles line up seamlessly at the floor-to-wall junction.

Always check with your tiler – they may prefer to work in a particular order.

How to find a quality tiler

Now, you need the last ingredient – finding a trusted tiler to make your tile vision a reality.

To feel confident in the professional you hire, find a quality tiler on Checkatrade.

You can get a full list of top-rated tilers in your area. Then, check their homeowner reviews to see what others thought of their overall service.

All Checkatrade members must pass up to 12 checks, plus we verify all their reviews. So, you know you’re getting the real deal.

Pop your postcode into the box below to get started.