Poorly installed tiles will cause problems
Installing tiles may seem simple, but it’s a process that requires precision and attention to detail. A mistake in installation can affect not only the aesthetics but also the durability and functionality of the tile. To avoid future problems, here’s a list of the most common mistakes and how to fix them.
Poorly Prepared Surfaces
Error: Installing tiles on an uneven, dirty, or unstable surface is one of the most common causes of a faulty installation.
✅ Solution:
✔️ The base must be completely level, dry, and clean.
✔️ If the surface has cracks or unevenness, it must be filled, sealed, and sanded or polished before laying the tiles.
✔️ On walls, it is recommended to apply a coat of primer to improve adhesion.
✔️ For floors, if there are unevenness, a self-leveling mortar should be used.
Use of the wrong adhesive or poor application
Error: Not using the right adhesive for the type of tile or applying it poorly.
✅ Solution:
✔️ The worker must choose the correct adhesive:
- For indoor ceramic and porcelain tiles: Standard tile adhesive.
- For large-format or outdoor porcelain tiles: High-adhesion flexible adhesive.
- For wet areas such as bathrooms and kitchens: Waterproof or epoxy adhesives.
✔️ Correct application: Use a notched trowel to spread the adhesive evenly.
Apply the adhesive to both the base and back of the tile (double bonding) for large-format tiles.
Do not leave empty spaces under the tile, which could cause cracking over time.
Not respecting expansion joints
Error: Laying tiles without leaving space between them, which causes cracks or detachment due to temperature changes.
✅ Solution:
- ✔️ Use spacers to maintain a uniform distance between tiles.
- ✔️ Leave a perimeter expansion joint on large floors (every 3-4 meters).
- ✔️ In outdoor areas, bathrooms, and areas subject to temperature fluctuations, use flexible joints to prevent cracks.
Not following a design or pattern before installing
Mistake: Starting to lay tiles without a plan can result in uneven cuts or a messy design, disrupting the harmony of the final design.
Solution:
- ✔️ Lay out the tiles before laying them to visualize the design.
- ✔️ Determine where the cuts will go so they’re in less visible areas.
- ✔️ If the tile has a pattern or grain (such as wood or marble), make sure it follows a consistent aesthetic.
Not calculating the quantity of tiles correctly
Mistake: Buying the right amount and running short can cause problems if there are breaks or missing pieces from the same batch.
✅ Solution:
- ✔️ Measure the area to be tiled and add 10-15% extra for cuts and possible damage.
- ✔️ Buy tiles from the same batch, as there may be slight color variations between different productions.
Not waiting for the proper drying time
Mistake: Walking on newly laid tiles or filling joints before the adhesive has fully set.
✅ Solution:
- ✔️ Observe the drying times indicated by the manufacturer (generally between 24 and 48 hours).
- ✔️ Avoid walking on or wetting the surface until the material has hardened properly.
Not using a suitable grout
Error: Applying poor-quality or non-waterproof grout in wet areas.
✅ Solution:
- ✔️ Use quality grout specific for each type of room.
- ✔️ For bathrooms and exteriors, opt for waterproofing or epoxy grout.
- ✔️ Apply the grout with a rubber float and wipe off the excess before it hardens.
Not properly cleaning cement or grout residue
Error: Leaving mortar or grout residue on the tiles, which causes stains that are difficult to remove.
✅ Solution:
- ✔️ Clean the tiles with a damp sponge while the grout is still fresh.
- ✔️ For dried-on residue, use a special cement cleaner without damaging the tile surface.
Not considering the type of tile and its proper use
Mistake: Using indoor tiles outdoors or in high-traffic areas.
✅ Solution:
- ✔️ For exteriors, choose weather-resistant and slip-resistant tiles (minimum R11).
- ✔️ In high-traffic areas, opt for porcelain tiles, which are more resistant to wear.
- ✔️ In swimming pools or showers, use waterproof tiles with a rough finish to prevent slipping.
Conclusions
Avoiding these mistakes will ensure a long-lasting, safe, and aesthetically impeccable tile installation. From surface preparation to the correct choice of adhesive and grout, every detail counts to achieve a professional result.
- 🔹 Plan before installing
- 🔹 Use quality materials appropriate for the environment
- 🔹 Observe proper drying times and techniques
- 🔹 Check levelness and design before attaching the pieces
Following these recommendations will ensure a perfect finish without unpleasant surprises. A well-done installation can last a lifetime!