Posted by Bob Bulmer on Thu 19th June 2008 at 06:00 AM, Filed in Tiling
Mosaic tiling can be the most beautiful way to decorate a bathroom. However, it’s very very easy to make a hash of it. I speak from experience....
My top tips for using mosaic tiles successfully are:
Read more...
Posted by Bob Bulmer on Wed 24th October 2007 at 06:00 AM, Filed in Tiling
Ceramic floor tiles are really undergoing a renaissance in bathrooms. Clean, stylish and water proof means that they tick all the boxes that carpet never did.
How to prepare a concrete floor for ceramic tiles
If you’re floor is concrete, it is important to ensure that it is thoroughly cleaned. Use washing detergent a sponge and clean cloth to dry up. If there are any dips or divets in the floor, fill these in using a filler.
If you have existing vinyl tiles that are firmly stuck down - you can lay ceramic tiles over the top. However, you will need to apply a special primer before applying your ceramic tiles.
How to prepare a timber floor
Due to the weight of ceramic tiles, a timber floor will usually require some strengthening. This can be done by laying a 10mm thick exterior grade plywood over the existing timber. It’s important to use this type of plywood as it will withstand the moisture in the adhesive.
The plywood should be fixed using 25mm Number 8 screws at 300m spaces.
Posted by Bob Bulmer on Thu 18th October 2007 at 06:00 AM, Filed in Tiling
Good quality plaster is the perfect surface for applying ceramic wall tiles.
However, it is essential to ensure that your plasterwork is dry, smooth and level. Undulations in the plaster will really stand out when using glazed ceramic tiles.
If you have any damp or crumbling plaster it is crucial to rectify this before you begin applying tiles to the wall.
Tiling over plasterboard is just as easy so long as there are no ridges or gaps between panels. Plasterboard located around baths and showers needs to be sealed by using drywall topcoat - two coats should suffice.
Removing old ceramic tiles can be very difficult and often results in damage to the wall.
Where possible, it is always far better to recolour existing tiles (use specialist tile paints), replace damaged tiles or tile over the top of older tiles.
If tiles have to be removed, you will need the following tools:
Safety goggles, dust mask, wide steel masonry chisel, paint scraper, hot air stripper, protective gloves.
You can then follow the procedures set out below:
Read more...
Posted by Bob Bulmer on Thu 4th October 2007 at 06:00 AM, Filed in Decor, Tiling
Imitation tiling is the type of wall covering that can be devilishly difficult to remove. Resembling thin rolls of linoleum, imitation tiles are often attached to walls using very strong adhesive that makes removal extremely hard.
How to Remove Imitation Tiling
• Using a chisel, gently ease off the top layer of tiles. The remaining backing should then be saturated with hot soapy water. This will soften the adhesive, making it easier to scrape off.
• Removing the backing of the tiles can cause damage to plaster. If this is the case, try using a steam wallpaper stripper - this should reduce the amount of plaster damage.
