Common Tile Installation Problems

Every tile installation project will have its set of problems. Most of these problems are however as a result of inexperienced installers who attempt to install the tiles on surfaces that have not been prepped properly for the installation. Sometimes, they are in the oblivion of the particular materials ideal for use in different kinds of conditions. Watch out for the following common tile installation problems and learn how to navigate past them for fast and efficient installation process:

Difficult Surfaces

Problematic surfaces are usually a big challenge when it comes to tile installation projects. Such surfaces come about when the old floor is removed to prepare a new surface for the new installation. Some surfaces might have cracks or damages while other might uncover yet further uneven surfaces beneath.

Excessive mold growth may also make the surfaces problematic for the smooth installation of tiles. The best ways to deal with these kinds of problems is first to repair any damaged surfaces and flatten them out to ensure even surfaces before you embark on the installation process.

Odd Layouts

Apart from problematic surfaces, uneven layouts are another big problem that is usually encountered during tile installation. Tile installation is a fairly simple process when done on symmetrical areas. But when the layout becomes uneven, it is imperative that you first determine the correct number of tiles and start the installation process from the correct point.

Choosing a random start point might lead to some places having small sized or narrow cut tiles. Such won’t just affect the visual appeal of the section but also predisposes the tiles on the smaller sections to other problems like getting dislodged or cracking. To avoid all these, map out your layout correctly and begin installation from the most appropriate spot.

Poor Grouting

Poor grouting is another common problem usually encountered during most of the tile installation projects. Just like the mortar, the grout will crack or deep if not mixed properly. Again, if less grout is placed between the tiles, dipping may be observed after some time. The solution to this is to use more grout than you might think is necessary then gently remove the excess without scooping out from the regions between the tiles.

Wrong Underlayment

Your choice of tile underlayment is very important for successful tile installation process. A good underlayment will not only enhance the strength of the tiles but also improve their longevity. However, many people tend to get it wrong when it comes to choosing the right underlayment.

Ideally, you need to check the layout as well as the environment you are working on so that you use the correct underlayment. For instance, if you are working on an environment with a high amount of moisture content, consider using an impermeable grout together with a waterproof underlayment to prevent the tiles surfaces from getting wet and encourage the growth of mold.

Wrong Mortar Mixing

For most of the tile installation projects, mortar is usually used as a base for the tiles to keep them in place. Many people are however unable to mix the mortar properly, and this is likely to hinder the successful installation of the tiles. A poorly mixed mortar will make the tiles to shift thus ruining the desired layout of the tiles. Always observe the recommended ratios when mixing the mortar to avoid such problems.

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