Tips for a newbie tiler?

Ok, all, I'm about to do my first bit of tiling - splashbacks in the kitchen. Any tips on what I should/shouldn't do to get a good result? I'm ready with my tiles, cutters, spacers, cement, trowel and grout...

Re: Tips for a newbie tiler?

I've never tried tiling Ania but thought these videos may help you .....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vKpaCbVjDBI

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NfnvVr4cXbQ

Re: Tips for a newbie tiler?

Orangutan,
Tiling is so easy. Just make sure you put spacers flat side down on the bench to give you a space under the tiles to fill in.

Around the wet areas (behind sink) I use a silicone based sealer, bought in tubes and squeezed into the groove. This prevents any water getting in and can be replaced as it gets older.

I also use a straight ruler on each row, holding the ruler to just make sure the tiles are sitting out at the same level. I do that across each tile and down the tiles. It's easy then to see which tiles you either need to bring out a little bit or push a bit further in thereby having everything straight. If it's not in line then you will see a gap under the ruler thereby knowing which tile you have to alter. A Long ruler or just a straight piece of wood will do.

Otherwise good luck. It's very rewarding when you have done your first lot of tiling. I started off with a small area like you and have since done my bathroom and laundry floor to ceiling in every house i have been in.

Re: Tips for a newbie tiler?

Do not use the combined 'stick and grout' stuff. It is horrid. Use a separate tile cement and grouting medium - gives a more professional finish.