- 1). Install the full-sized tiles to the surface. Mix a batch of thinset mortar according to the manufacturer's instructions in a large bucket or wheelbarrow. Use an electric drill equipped with a mixer bit attachment to mix the thinset thoroughly.
- 2). Spread the mortar across the surface using the flat of a notched trowel. Tilt the trowel 45 degrees and go over the mortar with the notched edge to raise a series of ridges in the thinset.
- 3). Place the full-sized tiles into the thinset, using a slight twist motion to place it in final position with the mortar spread evenly across the tile back. Place spacers between tiles to create even rows of tiles. Continue to place the full-sized tiled until you reach a point where you'll need to place a partial tile.
- 4). Place a piece of paper into the partial tile area and create a template of the partial tile shape. Mark a cutting line onto the tile using the template as a guide.
- 5). Score the surface of the ceramic tiles along the marked line using the single-rail cutter. Place the scored tile atop the guide rail on the tile cutter and snap it at the cut to create the partial tile. Scoring the ceramic tile is a cutting method using the less expensive tile cutter rather than the wet saw. Use the wet saw to cut completely through stone tiles, which are too thick for the scoring method. Wet the tiles prior to cutting and maintain water flow along the blade when using the wet saw to avoid overheating. Cut vinyl tiles using a straight edge placed along the cutting line and then scoring the tile with a utility knife until the tile is cut through.
- 6). Make curved cuts using a tile nipper. Tile nippers are scissor-shaped clippers that cut small pieces from the tiles. Cut the tile along the marked line using the nippers to remove discarded pieces. For especially long curves, cut vertical lines through the tile using a saw up to the cutting line and then nip the tiles along each small section until completing the full curve.
- 7). Place the partial tiles into the mortar as you did the full-sized tiles.
- 8). Wait four hours for the mortar to set and then remove the tile spacers and grout the tile joints. Place the grout across the top of the tiles and push it into the joints using a grout float. Wait 15 minutes and then remove excess grout from the tile surface using a damp sponge. Wait two hours and remove dried grout residue from the tiles using a lit-free cloth. Allow the mortar to complete drying for seven to 10 days and then seal the surface of the tile and grout to prevent staining by brushing on a tile and grout sealant. Wait a final 24 hours before using the tiled surface.
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