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Decided to fit your own tiles and need some guidance?

 

From the glamorous design guru's of Kiln & Clay, here's the first of our short guides and this one is on how to get those tiles down with perfection, and a bit of British flair of course:

1. Prep the Playground: Before you embark on your tiling escapade, ensure your canvas is as clean as a whistle. Sweep away the remnants of your last DIY disaster – any speck of dust, old tile shards, or the tears from your last project. If the surface is as wonky as a British sitcom, level it out with a bit of self-levelling magic. Porous, you say? Slap on some primer like it's suncream on a Brit abroad.

2. Measure, Plan, and Then Measure Again: You wouldn't pour tea without knowing the size of the cup, so don't tile without measuring. Mark your territory with a chalk line, creating a majestic grid that would make the King proud. Dry-fit those tiles first – it’s like a dress rehearsal for your bathroom floor.

3. Adhesive: The Sticky Wicket. Choose your glue wisely. It's like picking the right tea for breakfast – crucial. Cement-based for the posh tiles, ready-mixed for the everyday ceramic. Spread it like you’re icing a Victoria Sponge, but remember, only enough to keep your tiles snug. 10-15 minutes should do it but always read the instructions on the adhesive you've purchased.

4. Cutting Tiles: Not as Easy as Slicing Scones. Measure thrice, cut once. Use your tools – the cutter, the saw, the nipper (sounds like a pub crawl). And suit up! Safety glasses, gloves, and a mask – think of it as your tiling tuxedo.

5. Grouting: It’s all in the wrist once your tiles are cosily in place, it's time for grout. Use a rubber float as if you’re spreading clotted cream on a scone. Wipe away the excess with a sponge – remember, gentle circles, like stirring tea. Let it dry, then buff off the haze as if you're polishing the family silver.

6. The Final Flourish: Clean and Seal. After the grout's had its nap, give the tiles a once-over with a damp cloth. It's like cleaning up after a tea party. Seal it to protect from the inevitable British spills and stains. Follow the instructions – they’re not just for decoration.

There you have it, a guide to tiling that's as sturdy as a double-decker bus and as refined as afternoon tea. Remember, when in doubt, consult your local tile whisperer. With a bit of practice and a steady hand, you'll be tiling like it's a British Bake Off challenge. Cheerio and happy tiling!

Not ordered your tiles yet? Don't forget that you can order up to 5 free tile samples to see how gorgeous they look in your home. Then you can order everything you need with confidence.

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