Materials Needed

Tiles, Spacers, Tile Adhesive, Bucket (and Water), Sponge, Screws, (if you need to use a baton).

Step 1 : Measuring Up

Measure the length of the wall you’re going to tile and divide this in two to find the centre. Using your level, mark a vertical line at the centre point of your wall. Then, mark the centre of the wall vertically and draw a line horizontally across the wall so you end up with a large cross in the centre of your wall.

Step 2 : Applying the Adhesive

Take your notched trowel and scoop some adhesive onto your wall, starting at the centre point and spreading away from your lines. Try not to spread over the top of your marked lines as you will need to see these when you come to add the tiles. Don’t spread too large an area, as the adhesive will start to set before you apply the tiles.

Step 3 : Fixing the Tiles

Starting at the centre, place your first tile so that both edges meet the pencil lines you drew earlier. Push the tiles gently into the tile adhesive. Place a few tiles horizontally along the wall, making sure they are on the line. Take some tile spacers and place the between the tiles, both at the top and bottom. This will create a consistent gap between them. If your tiles are large and heavy, they may slip down the wall. If so, get yourself a straight edged piece of timber and screw it to the wall along your horizontal line, underneath the tiles. This will hold them in place until the adhesive has set. Carry on until all of the adhesive area has been covered. Repeat this procedure until you come to a point where you need to start cutting tiles.

Step 4 : Tile Cutting

Offer the tile to be cut up to the edge of the wall. Account for your spacer and mark the tile with a pencil. Place the tile in the tile cutter and score along the tile gently. Pull the handle down firmly to cut the tile and then fix onto the wall.

Step 5 : Cleaning the Tiles

Leave the tiles for 10 – 15 minutes then, take your damp sponge and gently wipe off any adhesive that may be on the face of the tiles. Be careful not to push too hard as you could move the tiles out of place. Now you’re ready for grouting.