How to install tiles with grain?

[Lee777]

Hi Guys,

I'm looking at laying the below tile in my living room.

Duratile 60 x 60cm 1.08m² Grey Marble Gloss Porcelain Tile - 3 Carton - Bunnings Australia

Is there a procedure for selecting each tile when laying, specifically the grain in each tile, and direction of grain?

Further, does Bunnings Workshop have publications on creating tile plans, selection of notched trowels and spacers for 600x600 floor tiles, and laying of floor tiles?

Thanks,

Lee

[EricL]

Hello @Lee777 

The Duratile 60 x 60cm 1.08m² Grey Marble Gloss Porcelain Tile comes with a default configuration and that is at an angle going from left to right. I've placed an image below to give you an idea of how they are usually arranged. 

When you open the tile box, I propose laying them out first to make sure that the tiles are all facing in the same direction before you lay them down permanently.

Now it is possible to mix and match the pattern, but this will be up to you how you want the layout to go. You can do a bit of experimenting, just keep in mind that your pattern must cover the entire flooring area.

Here are some handy step-by-step guides:

• How To Lay Floor Tiles
   
• How To Mix Grout
   
• How To Grout Tiles

In regards to the tools, I suggest using QEP 10mm Square Notch Handyman Adhesive Trowel and the QEP Lash Tile Levelling Clips. This time saving system helps adjust the height of the tiles and evenly holds their edges throughout the curing process of the setting material, so you can achieve a professional finish.

My best advice is to calculate the area you are covering and adding one extra box to your purchase for errors and damage. 

If you need further assistance. please let me know.

Eric

[Lee777]

Thanks Eric,

That is very helpful.

[Lee777]

Eric,

Does this tile require to be laid from the same batch number? 

[JacobZ]

Hi @Lee777,

Generally speaking, it's best to use tiles that are all from the same batch and these tiles are no exception.

This is because there can be slight variations in colour between batches.

Let me know if you have any other questions.

Jacob

[Lee777]

Thanks Eric,

The tile levelling tools appear to achieve a grout gap of 1.5mm.

Is this sufficient for 600x600 tiles? Is there a way to increase the grout gap? 

[EricL]

Hello @Lee777 

If you need a larger gap, I suggest using QEP 3mm Cross Spacer. Please note that if you use this spacer, it's best to use a spirit level to make sure your tiles are all level.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[Lee777]

Thanks Eric,

What is the best glue to use for these tiles?

Also, if I use the floor leveling spacers, what grout would be best for the 1.5mm gap? 

[EricL]

Hello @Lee777 

I suggest using Davco 20kg Ultraflex Ceramic Tile Adhesive, this is a versatile adhesive and can be used for both wall and floor application. For the grout, I recommend Dunlop 1.5kg Flexible Coloured Grout - White, it comes in several colours and can be applied to gaps from 1-8mm.

My best advice is to use Dunlop 250ml Grout Sealer once the grout cures. It seals the surface of the grout protecting it from dust and debris making it easier to maintain.

If you need further assistance, please let me know.

Eric