Slate tile flooring has become very popular in kitchens and bathrooms. These natural tiles have a unique texture, created when the tile was broken off from the face of the rock it came from. You can create a repeating pattern from groups of tiles with similar looks or simply get a bunch of different tiles. You can also get slate in various colors.
You can install slate tile yourself if you have the right tools. You will need tile grout and a grout float, as well as the mortar, a trowel, and underlayment material. You will also need a variety of saws. A wet saw is a must and you should also have a handsaw for cutting under doorjambs.
Here is a basic overview of the process of installing slate tile floors yourself. If you are not experienced in home improvement matters you should do extensive research on this subject, and not take this as the end all be all for a guide. The purpose of this article is to give you an idea about what this project will look like, so you can decide if you want to take on the task yourself.
The first thing you should do is inspect your tiles. If you find any broken or cracked boxes, set them aside to return to the dealer. Make sure you get replacement tiles from the same lot as the originals to ensure all your tiles match perfectly in terms of color or design.
Next, strip the floor of previous flooring materials. Then install your underlayment. This step is vital; your slate tiles require proper support. Follow all manufacturer’s directions and check the underlayment to make sure it does not flex or move.
Mark the floor so that you know where to place tiles. Measure and mark lines coming from each wall to the center of the floor. The intersection of the lines is the true center. You should place your first tile here. However, prior to installing the tiles, you should lay them out in the pattern you want. After you have laid out the tiles to your satisfaction, put a tile under each doorjamb to make sure it fits. If it does not, cut the doorjamb bottom with a handsaw.
Now it’s time to use mortar to install the tiles. Mix only a small batch of mortar at a time so that it does not harden before you can use it. Use your trowel to apply mortar, then twist and push each tile into place. Lay your tiles according to the lines you marked on the floor.
When you get to the wall area, you will have to use your wet saw to cut the tiles and make them fit. When using the wet saw, always wear safety goggles, and be careful of cut tile edges, which are extremely sharp.
After the mortar dries, put grout in between tiles using a grout float. Then use a paint roller to put sealer over the entire floor.
Slate tile installation is time consuming and laborious, but you will end up with a floor you can be proud of–especially because you installed it yourself.