Wall tiles

First decide on the layout of the tiles. There are lots of different ways to lay out the field tiles and complementary decorative items. The classic way is with the tiles fixed vertically and a line of strips at dado height. But you can also turn the tiles so that they are landscape format and then offset them as if you were laying bricks. Blocks and bands of contrasting colours can also highlight features and look very effective in some rooms. We have included some interior design ideas and examples of different layouts in Inspirations, to help you decide what best suits your room.

Preparation for tiling

Before fixing your wall tiles it is important that you have a clean, dry, flat surface to work on. Remove all wall coverings, paint, old adhesives or other debris to ensure a sound base for tiling. The surface should be as flat as possible.

Cutting Guidelines

We recommend the use of protective goggles while cutting tiles.

Straight cuts

Using a tile cutter, score the glazed side of the tile. Place the scored line over a matchstick keeping the glazed surface up. Press both sides firmly to ensure a clean break. (1)

Round Cuts

Score the tile as above. Using a tile nibbler carefully break small sections away until required shape is achieved (2). To smooth rough edges use a tile file. Always file away from the glazed surface.

Setting out your tiles

Use a spirit level and baton to ensure a level base. Using a baton as a guide apply tiles from the centre of the wall out, resulting in the corner tiles being the same size; alternatively, if the corner is of visual importance, use the corner as a starting point and tile away from it. Leave an equal gap between tiles for grouting. (3)

Fixing your tiles

Apply sufficient adhesive to the wall (4) with a suitable notched trowel (5) that will allow you to place the tiles whilst the adhesive is still fresh. To check the adhesive is still fresh, touch it with your fingers. If they come away clean the adhesive will need to be removed and reapplied. Use tile spacers to ensure an equal joint between tiles (6). Allow the adhesive to dry, normally 24 hours before grouting, unless you are using a rapid setting adhesive.

Grouting the tiled surface

Mix your grout as specified by the manufacturer and apply with a grouting tool. Work the grout firmly into the joint diagonally across the tiles. Ensure that the grout fills the joint to the full depth. Remove excess grout with the grouting tool and finish the joint with a suitable wet sponge. Finally, polish with a clean dry cloth (7-8).

Movement joints

All corner joints and abutments to baths, shower trays, kitchen work tops, etc. should not be grouted but filled with silicone sealant, which will act as a flexible movement joint.