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How to Cut and Install Tiles Around FaucetsTile Cutting Tools A tile cutter is an excellent tool for those who are into do-it-yourself projects. A tile cutter is mostly used for straight cuts, with a small wheel scoring a cut line into the tile. Pressing down on the cutter handle will snap the tile neatly along the scored line, with thicker tiles needing to be scored several times before they can be cut. While tile cutters are available at most supply stores, it is advisable to just rent one if you won't be using a tile cutter frequently. A tile nipper is used for making uneven cuts. It is recommended to clearly score the cut line with a glass cutter or utility knife first and then carefully take off small bits of tile with the nipper until done. A tile nipper will cause jagged edges on the cut portions of the tile, so it is best used in less visible areas or around plumbing fixtures, where the tiles will be covered with trim. Notched trowels are used to spread and comb adhesive layers on the exposed floor surfaces. The trowel has two sides serrated with either "V" or "square-shaped" notches. V-notched trowels are used for spreading mastics on vertical surfaces, while square-notched trowels are used for spreading thin sets on horizontal surfaces. As they come in diverse notch depths, use a trowel that is about two-thirds of the thickness of the tiles you plan to set. Grout floats are simply rubber or foam-faced trowels that are used to apply grout into the joints between the tiles. The grout is usually worked into the joints by moving the float diagonally back and forth. Trim Tiles After laying out all the tiles, quarter round edge tiles and corner pieces will need to be applied on the edges. Placing trim tiles is as simple as applying adhesive on the back of the tile and sticking them in the correct position on the wall. Once the joints are filled, scrape off the excess grout with the straight edge on the side of the float. In order to properly do this, you will need to use diagonal motions and hold the float almost at a 90 degree angle. Like jagged trowels, disposable grout floats can be purchased at most tile supply stores.
, Using Ceramic Tiles.com |
