Ceramic Tile Installation for Beginners

Dear Rob:

I want to install ceramic tile in my kitchen. How hard would it be for me to do it myself?

-Patti (With An I)

Dear Patti (With An I):

That is a great question. The answer depends on a few things: How handy are you? Do you own tools? Are you comfortable with power tools? Are you under a tight deadline to complete your project? What is your budget?

While installing tile in an empty, square room is relatively simple, installing tile can become much more complicated if your room is unusually shaped, or you have plumbing, cabinets, columns or other items you need to work around. Proper tile installation involves several steps, including prepping the subfloor, marking the layout, laying down a mortar bed, installing underlayment (backer board), taping and filling the seams, cutting and laying tile, grouting, cleaning, caulking (for transitions), and sealing.

While tile is a project many homeowners tackle with success, if you are in a real big hurry or are not that confident with using power tools, I would recommend hiring a reputable professional. Most anybody can do tile work if they are patient, willing to take a lot of time learning how to do the job right, and use the right tools.

For reference, the following is a list of tools that you will probably need to buy, rent, or borrow to do your job:

1. Electric Tile Saw
2. Bucket
3. Mortar Mixer (looks like an oversized egg beater)
4. Drill with underlayment bits
5. Spiral Saw (to cut holes for plumbing)
6. Chalk Line
7. Trowels
8. Spacers
9. Level
10. T-Square

-Rob