Tiling is a skilled trade involving the installation of ceramic, porcelain, stone, and other materials on floors, walls, and other surfaces. This training module covers the complete process of tiling installation, from surface preparation to finishing, ensuring quality workmanship and aesthetic appeal.
Training Duration: 1 week
Prerequisite Skills: Basic knowledge of construction materials, measurement tools, and surface preparation techniques
Floor tiles must withstand foot traffic, impact, and wear. They need greater durability and slip resistance compared to wall tiles.
- Vitrified Tiles: High density, low water absorption, and good stain resistance
- Ceramic Floor Tiles: Durable and easy to maintain
- Porcelain Tiles: Extremely hard, dense, and water-resistant
- Natural Stone: Granite, marble, slate, and limestone for unique appearances
- Terracotta: Traditional clay tiles with earthy appearance
- Cement Tiles: Handmade patterned tiles with colorful designs
Wall tiles are typically lighter and may have more decorative finishes. They are not designed to withstand foot traffic.
- Ceramic Wall Tiles: Lightweight with glazed surfaces
- Glass Tiles: Reflective surfaces for decorative applications
- Mosaic Tiles: Small pieces arranged in patterns
- Subway Tiles: Rectangular tiles in brick-like patterns
- Metal Tiles: Stainless steel, copper, brass for accent areas
- Stone Veneer: Thin cuts of natural stone for walls
| Parameter |
Floor Tiles |
Wall Tiles |
| Water Absorption |
$\le 0.5\%$ (Vitrified) |
$3-6\%$ (Glazed Ceramic) |
| Thickness |
$8-12$mm |
$5-8$mm |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) |
$7-8$ |
$4-6$ |
| Breaking Strength |
$\ge 1300$N |
$\ge 600$N |
| Slip Resistance (COF) |
$\ge 0.5$ (dry), $\ge 0.6$ (wet) |
Not applicable |
Important: Never use wall tiles on floors as they are not designed to withstand foot traffic and may crack or cause slipping hazards.
Proper surface preparation is crucial for successful tiling. The substrate must be clean, level, dry, and structurally sound.
- Inspect surface for damage, cracks, and loose materials
- Check for levelness using a spirit level
- Test for moisture using moisture meter (especially for new concrete)
- Identify high or low spots that need correction
- Measure surface dimensions and compare with tile layout plan
- Test adhesion of existing finishes if not removing them
- Remove existing floor coverings completely
- Clean surface thoroughly to remove dust, grease, and contaminants
- Repair cracks and damaged areas with suitable patching compound
- Apply self-leveling compound for uneven floors
- Allow proper curing time for all repair materials
- Prime porous surfaces (concrete, screed) before tiling
- For wooden subfloors, install cement backer board
- Remove existing wallpaper, paint, or loose material
- Repair damaged plaster or drywall
- Check wall for plumb (vertical straightness)
- Apply waterproofing membrane in wet areas (bathrooms, kitchens)
- For highly uneven walls, install cement backer board
- Prime gypsum or highly absorbent surfaces
- For glass or porcelain tiles, ensure surface can bear the weight
Critical: IS 2114:1984 specifies that the maximum permissible deviation in surface flatness should not exceed $3$mm when measured with a $2$m straight edge.
- Measure the area to be tiled (length $\times$ width for floors, height $\times$ width for walls)
- Calculate tile quantity: Area $\div$ Single tile area
- Add $10-15\%$ extra for cuts, breakage, and future repairs
- Estimate adhesive requirement: $3-5$ kg/m$^2$ for floors, $2-3$ kg/m$^2$ for walls
- Calculate grout quantity based on tile size, joint width, and depth
Grout Calculation Formula:
Grout (kg) = (Tile Length + Tile Width) $\times$ Joint Width $\times$ Joint Depth $\times$ Area $\times 1.5 \div$ (Tile Length $\times$ Tile Width)
- Straight/Stack Bond: Tiles aligned in grid pattern
- Running/Brick Bond: Each row offset by half a tile
- Herringbone: Rectangular tiles arranged in zigzag pattern
- Diagonal: Tiles rotated $45^\circ$ to the room layout
- Basketweave: Alternating orientation of rectangular tiles
- Windmill: Large square tiles with small square tiles at corners
- Hexagonal/Octagonal: Using non-rectangular tile shapes
- Determine the focal point of the room (entryway, center, feature wall)
- Dry lay tiles to check pattern and transitions
- Plan to avoid narrow cuts at visible edges
- For floors, measure and mark center points of opposite walls
- Snap chalk lines to create reference grid
- For walls, start from bottom row, ensuring it's perfectly level
- Account for fixtures, outlets, and architectural features
- Plan transition points between different flooring materials
Pro Tip: For visual balance, plan layout so cut tiles at opposite walls are of equal size. This creates symmetry and a more professional appearance.
Selecting the right adhesive is critical for long-term tile performance. Factors include tile type, substrate, and environment.
| Adhesive Type |
Application |
Advantages |
Limitations |
| Cement-Based (Thin-set) |
General purpose, most tile types |
Economical, strong bond |
Longer setting time |
| Polymer-Modified |
Porcelain, large format tiles |
Flexible, better adhesion |
Higher cost |
| Epoxy-Based |
Wet areas, chemicals exposure |
Waterproof, chemical resistant |
Expensive, difficult application |
| Ready-Mixed (Mastic) |
Small wall tiles, dry areas |
Easy to use, no mixing |
Not for wet areas or floors |
| Rapid-Setting |
Quick renovation projects |
Fast curing ($3-4$ hours) |
Shorter working time |
- Read manufacturer's instructions carefully
- Use clean container and mixing tools
- Add powder to water (not water to powder)
- Mix to smooth, lump-free consistency
- Allow to slake (rest) for $5-10$ minutes
- Re-mix briefly before use
- Only mix quantity usable within open time (typically $20-30$ minutes)
| Tile Size |
Trowel Notch Size |
Coverage (kg/m$^2$) |
| Up to $100 \times 100$mm |
$6 \times 6$mm square notch |
$2-3$ |
| $100 \times 100$mm to $200 \times 200$mm |
$8 \times 8$mm square notch |
$3-4$ |
| $200 \times 200$mm to $300 \times 300$mm |
$10 \times 10$mm square notch |
$4-5$ |
| $300 \times 300$mm to $400 \times 400$mm |
$12 \times 12$mm square notch |
$5-6$ |
| Larger than $400 \times 400$mm |
$15 \times 15$mm square or U-notch |
$6-8$ |
Critical: For tiles larger than $300 \times 300$mm, use the back-buttering technique (applying adhesive to both substrate and tile back) to ensure full coverage and prevent hollow sounds or cracks.
- Start from the center point or according to layout plan
- Apply adhesive to a manageable area ($1-2$ m$^2$)
- Spread with notched trowel at $45^\circ$ angle to consistent depth
- Place tile with slight twisting motion for better adhesion
- Insert spacers between tiles for consistent joint width
- Tap tiles with rubber mallet to ensure full contact
- Check level frequently using straight edge
- Remove excess adhesive from joints immediately
- Cut edge tiles as needed using wet saw or manual cutter
- Allow adhesive to set before walking on tiles ($24$ hours minimum)
- Install temporary batten board at bottom to support first row
- Start from bottom (or according to layout plan)
- Apply adhesive to wall in small sections (approximately $1$m$^2$)
- Back-butter tiles if necessary (large format or uneven substrate)
- Press tile firmly into place with slight twisting motion
- Place spacers at each corner
- Check level and plumb of each tile and adjust as needed
- Work upward, supporting tiles as needed to prevent slipping
- Cut tiles for outlets, plumbing fixtures as required
- For external corners, use purpose-made trim or miter tiles
- Straight Cuts: Use manual tile cutter or wet saw
- Curved Cuts: Score outline and use nippers, or use wet saw with multiple cuts
- Circular Holes: Use diamond hole saw with water cooling
- L-Shaped Cuts: Make two straight cuts meeting at corner
- Notches: Use combination of straight cuts and nippers
- Edge Finishing: Smooth cut edges with rubbing stone or file
Pro Tip: When measuring for cuts, always double-check measurements. Remember the old carpenter's saying: "Measure twice, cut once." For complex cuts, make a paper template first to verify fit.
| Grout Type |
Joint Width |
Application |
Advantages |
| Unsanded Cement Grout |
Up to $3$mm |
Wall tiles, polished surfaces |
Smooth finish, won't scratch delicate tiles |
| Sanded Cement Grout |
$3-12$mm |
Floor tiles, larger joints |
Stronger, more durable, less shrinkage |
| Epoxy Grout |
All widths |
Wet areas, chemicals exposure |
Waterproof, stain resistant, durable |
| Urethane Grout |
$1-12$mm |
Residential and commercial |
Pre-mixed, stain resistant, no sealing needed |
- Allow adhesive to cure fully (minimum $24$ hours)
- Remove spacers and clean joints of adhesive residue
- Mix grout according to manufacturer's instructions
- Allow grout to slake for $5-10$ minutes, then remix
- Apply grout diagonally across joints using rubber float
- Press firmly to fill joints completely
- Remove excess grout from tile surface
- Allow initial set ($15-30$ minutes) until grout is firm to touch
- Clean tile surface with damp sponge, working diagonally to joints
- Change water frequently during cleaning
- Final buff with clean, dry cloth once grout has dried ($2-4$ hours)
- Allow minimum $24$ hours before heavy use
- Apply grout sealer to cement-based grouts after $72$ hours of curing
- Install silicone caulk at internal corners and junctions
- Apply appropriate sealers to natural stone tiles
- Install threshold or transition strips at doorways
- Clean entire surface thoroughly after completion
- For shower areas, allow minimum $7$ days before water exposure
Important: Epoxy grout has a limited working time and requires thorough cleaning before it sets. Work in small sections and follow manufacturer's instructions precisely to avoid difficult clean-up.
Title: Specification for ceramic tiles
This standard defines requirements, sampling methods, and test conditions for ceramic tiles. It classifies tiles by water absorption, surface finish, and intended use.
- Classification by Water Absorption: Group I ($\le 3\%$), Group II ($3-10\%$), Group III ($>10\%$)
- Sub-classifications: Ia ($\le 0.5\%$), Ib ($0.5-3\%$), IIa ($3-6\%$), IIb ($6-10\%$)
- Surface Finish: Glazed, unglazed, polished
- Dimensions and Surface Quality: Specified tolerances for length, width, and thickness
- Mechanical Properties: Requirements for breaking strength, modulus of rupture
Title: Ceramic tiles — Methods of test
This multi-part standard outlines test methods for various properties of ceramic tiles.
- Part 1: Determination of dimensions and surface quality
- Part 2: Determination of water absorption and bulk density
- Part 3: Determination of modulus of rupture and breaking strength
- Part 4: Determination of impact resistance
- Part 5: Determination of resistance to surface abrasion
- Part 6: Determination of resistance to deep abrasion
- Part 7: Determination of chemical resistance
- Part 8: Determination of frost resistance
- Part 10: Determination of moisture expansion
- Part 12: Determination of resistance to thermal shock
Title: Ceramic unglazed vitreous acid resisting tiles — Specification
Covers specifications for unglazed vitreous acid-resistant tiles used in industrial environments.
- Physical Requirements: Water absorption $\le 0.5\%$, chemical resistance
- Dimensions: Tolerances for length, width, thickness, and straightness
- Testing: Specifies tests for acid resistance and durability
Title: Adhesives for use with ceramic tiles and mosaics — Specification
This standard covers requirements for adhesives used with ceramic tiles and mosaics.
- Classification: Type 1 (Normal), Type 2 (Improved)
- Properties: Specifies open time, slip resistance, tensile adhesion strength
- Testing Methods: Provides standard tests for adhesion and durability
Title: Code of practice for laying in-situ terrazzo floor finish
Though specific to terrazzo, provides valuable guidelines for substrate preparation applicable to tiling.
- Surface Preparation: Maximum deviation of $3$mm when checked with a $2$m straight edge
- Curing: Guidelines for proper curing of substrate and finish
- Quality Control: Inspection and testing procedures
Effective on-job training is crucial for developing skilled tilers and ensuring consistent quality.
- Demonstration: Experienced tilers demonstrate correct techniques for cutting, mixing, spreading adhesive, and laying tiles.
- Supervised Practice: Trainees perform tasks under direct supervision, receiving immediate feedback and correction.
- Mentorship: Pairing new workers with experienced mentors for ongoing guidance and skill transfer.
- Tool Familiarization: Hands-on training with all relevant tools and equipment, emphasizing proper and safe usage.
- Problem-Solving Scenarios: Presenting common tiling challenges (e.g., uneven surfaces, complex cuts) and guiding trainees through solutions.
- Quality Check Drills: Training workers to perform self-checks and identify common defects (e.g., hollow sounds, lippage).
Continuous supervision and systematic inspection are vital to maintain high standards throughout the tiling process.
- Pre-Installation Inspection: Verify surface preparation (cleanliness, level, dryness, plumb) before any adhesive application.
- Adhesive Application Check: Ensure correct notch trowel size, $100\%$ adhesive coverage (especially for large format tiles), and proper open time adherence.
- Tile Laying Inspection: Check tile alignment, joint consistency, flatness (no lippage), and proper tapping for full contact.
- Grouting Inspection: Verify full joint filling, proper cleaning of excess grout, and consistency of grout color.
- Post-Installation Review: Conduct final visual and physical checks (hollow sound test, level check) on completed areas.
- Documentation: Maintain daily logs of work progress, quality checks performed, and any issues encountered with remedial actions.
- Feedback Loop: Provide constructive feedback to workers based on inspections to facilitate continuous improvement.
| KPI |
Description |
Target |
| Defect Rate |
Percentage of tiles with lippage, hollow spots, or inconsistent joints per area. |
$\le 2\%$ |
| Adhesive Coverage |
Minimum percentage of tile back covered by adhesive (checked by random removal). |
$\ge 90\%$ (dry areas), $\ge 95\%$ (wet areas) |
| Surface Flatness Deviation |
Maximum deviation from a $2$m straight edge. |
$\le 3$mm |
| Joint Uniformity |
Consistency of grout joint width. |
$\pm 0.5$mm from specified width |
| Material Wastage |
Percentage of tiles and materials wasted during installation. |
$\le 10\%$ |
Continuous Improvement: Regularly review quality inspection data to identify recurring issues and implement corrective actions, such as additional training or process adjustments.
- Alignment: Check grid lines and patterns are straight
- Lippage: No more than $1$mm difference between adjacent tiles
- Joint Consistency: Uniform width and depth
- Surface Cleanliness: No grout haze or adhesive residue
- Edge Finishing: Smooth, finished edges at terminations
- Grout Fill: Joints completely filled without voids
- Overall Appearance: Balanced layout with minimal cut pieces
- Hollow Sound Test: Tap tiles with wooden handle to identify hollow spots
- Level Check: Use $2$m straight edge to verify surface flatness
- Water Test: For bathroom installations, check waterproofing before use
- Adhesion Spot Checks: Remove occasional tile to verify coverage
- Light Reflection: Use raking light to check for lippage and surface irregularities
| Defect |
Possible Causes |
Remedy |
| Hollow Sounding Tiles |
Insufficient adhesive coverage |
Remove and reinstall with proper coverage |
| Lippage |
Uneven substrate, improper leveling |
Use tile leveling system, better substrate prep |
| Cracked Tiles |
Movement in substrate, impact damage |
Replace tiles, address substrate issues |
| Grout Discoloration |
Inconsistent mixing, excessive water during cleaning |
Remove and regrout, consistent mixing ratio |
| Efflorescence |
Moisture migration through substrate |
Clean with specialized cleaner, address moisture source |
Documentation: Maintain records of material batch numbers, test results, and installation photos for future reference. This is especially important for commercial or large-scale projects.
- Eye Protection: Safety glasses/goggles when cutting or mixing
- Respiratory Protection: Dust mask when cutting tiles or mixing powders
- Hand Protection: Cut-resistant gloves when handling tiles
- Knee Protection: Knee pads for floor tiling
- Foot Protection: Steel-toe boots on construction sites
- Hearing Protection: Ear plugs/muffs when using power tools
- Cutting Safety: Secure tiles during cutting, use wet methods to reduce dust
- Electrical Safety: Use GFCI protection for all power tools
- Lifting Technique: Bend knees, not back; get help for heavy loads
- Chemical Safety: Read SDS (Safety Data Sheets) for all materials
- Workspace Organization: Maintain clean, organized work area
- Tool Safety: Inspect tools before use, use as intended
- Fatigue Management: Take regular breaks, especially for repetitive tasks
Silica Dust Hazard: Cutting ceramic tiles creates silica dust that can cause serious lung disease. Always use wet cutting methods or effective dust extraction. Never dry sweep - use vacuum with HEPA filter instead.
Tiling installation is both a technical skill and an art form. Following proper procedures for surface preparation, layout planning, adhesive selection, tile setting, and grouting ensures a beautiful, durable finish that will last for many years.
Adherence to IS Codes and quality standards is essential for professional tiling work. Remember that the foundation of great tiling is in the preparation stages - proper planning and surface preparation are as important as the visible finished work.
With practice and attention to detail, skilled tilers can create surfaces that are not only functional but also enhance the aesthetic value of any space.
Key Takeaway: Quality tiling is a result of meticulous planning, skilled execution, and continuous quality assurance throughout the process.