Common mistakes when installing ceramic tiles

Installing ceramic tile can be a complicated task! If not done correctly, a number of problems can arise such as poorly placed tiles, insufficient joints or even damage to the tiles. In this article, we will talk about common mistakes made when installing ceramic tiles and how to avoid them. Join us on this journey through the ins and outs of ceramic tile installation and learn how to do it correctly.

Common mistakes when installing ceramic tiles

1. Absence of installation joint

One of the most common mistakes when installing ceramic tile is doing so without using a proper installation grout. The installation joint is crucial to absorb the stresses generated in the floor and prevent the tiles from cracking or falling off. In addition, the installation joint allows a tile to be replaced in case of breakage without having to remove the entire floor.

It is important to use an appropriate installation joint for each type of tile. In general, it is recommended to use a minimum joint of 2 mm for unrectified ceramic tiles and a minimum joint of 1 mm for rectified porcelain tiles. If a laying joint is not used, the tiles may be too close together and not allow the necessary expansion, which can cause long-term damage.

2. Incorrect adhesive selection

Another common mistake when installing ceramic tiles is not selecting the proper adhesive based on the porosity of the materials. Each type of tile has different characteristics and requires a specific type of adhesive. If the wrong adhesive is used, the tiles may not adhere properly to the floor and may peel off over time.

It is important to ensure that you select an adhesive that is compatible with the porosity of the tile. If the tile is rectified porcelain, it is recommended to use an adhesive specially formulated for this type of tile. If it is a stoneware, it is necessary to use an adhesive that has good adhesion and resistance to humidity.

3. Placing the tiles in points

A common mistake when installing ceramic tiles is placing them in spots instead of covering the entire surface. This involves applying the adhesive only to small areas and then laying the tile, leaving empty spaces between each one. This practice can result in air bubbles forming under the tiles, which in turn can cause them to peel off over time.

It is advisable to apply the adhesive to the entire surface and then place the tiles, avoiding leaving empty spaces. This will ensure better adhesion and prevent the formation of air bubbles. For large format tiles, it is recommended to use the double gluing method, applying adhesive to both the surface and the back of the tile.

4. Narrow strips at wall-wall and floor-wall junctions

Another common mistake when installing ceramic tiles is using narrow strips at the junctions between wall and wall, as well as between floor and wall. These narrow strips can result in a lack of stability in the corners and edges of the installation, which can cause the tiles to peel or break.

It is advisable to use full-size tiles at the junctions between wall and wall, as well as between floor and wall, to ensure greater stability and resistance. If it is necessary to use narrow strips, it is important to ensure that they are properly supported and glued to avoid problems in the future.

5. Do not wet the ceramic before placing it

A common mistake made when installing ceramic tiles is not getting them wet before laying them. By wetting the ceramic, the water absorption of the adhesive is reduced and the adhesion between the tile and the floor is improved. If the ceramic is not wet, there can be adhesion problems and the tiles can peel off over time.

It is recommended to wet the ceramic at least 30 minutes before installation. This can be done by dipping the tiles in water or spraying them with water using a sprayer. It is important to ensure the tiles are completely wet before laying for best results.

6. Poorly glued tiles

Another common mistake when installing ceramic tile is not applying enough adhesive to the back of the tile. If not enough adhesive is applied, the tile will not stick properly to the floor and may peel off over time. It is important to make sure you apply enough adhesive to ensure good adhesion.

It is recommended to use a notched trowel to apply the adhesive to the back of the tile. This will create grooves in the adhesive, which will improve the adhesion between the tile and the floor. Additionally, it is important to ensure that there are no empty spaces between the tile and the floor when applying the adhesive.

Conclusion

Installing ceramic tile may seem like a simple task, but there are many details and considerations that must be taken into account to avoid making mistakes. When installing ceramic tiles, it is important to use a proper laying joint, select the correct adhesive, lay the tiles properly, avoid narrow strips at joints, and wet the ceramic before laying. By following these tips, you can enjoy a well-installed ceramic tile floor and avoid long-term problems. Good luck with your ceramic tile installation project!