Tiling Walls

Step 2: Applying the adhesive

Work outwards and upwards from the corner formed by the two battens. Use a notched spreader to apply the adhesive or grout in even ribbons over about half a square metre of the wall.

Step 3: Placing the tiles

Place the tiles onto the adhesive and use small sliding movements to position each tile in the correct position.

Step 4: Tiling the wall

Continue tiling across the wall, working in half metre square sections so that the adhesive doesn't dry out before the tiles are fixed.
Use plastic spacers to keep the joints even and hold a spirit level across the tiles to check the surface is level.
Leave to dry.

Step 5: Cutting tiles to fit

Now remove the timber battens and fill in the areas that need cut tiles. A tile cutting jig scores the tile and breaks it neatly to from straight cuts. Use a tile saw to form curved or shaped cuts. Hold the tile upright in a portable workbench to keep it steady as you cut.

Tip: If you plan to tackle more than one wall, it may be worth hiring or buying an electric tile cutter that uses a water-cooled diamond disk.