Laying tiles diagonally is a laborious and complex process. Despite this, the method is used more and more often due to its ability to visually expand the space. In this article, we will describe each technological stage - from marking the room to grouting.
Features of the diagonal layout
The advantages of a diagonal layout include:
- aesthetic effect. The layout of the picture diagonally looks much more interesting in comparison with the usual one. And thanks to various color combinations, it allows you to create non-standard interior solutions and hide the seams.
- Space expansion. The room in which the tiles are laid in this way visually always looks larger than it really is. And the right combination of shades can increase the effect achieved.
- Defect masking. Using this method, you can mask the unevenness of the extreme elements.
But, despite the many advantages, such masonry also has disadvantages:
- Consumption. The consumption of building materials increases by at least 5-10%. This is due to the fact that you have to glue a lot of undercut elements.
- Complexity. This method is not intended for non-professionals who are new to tiling. It is characterized by complex markings, the need for cutting and the installation of elements. Each of these stages requires at least a minimum experience.
- Slicing. Technologically, this not only takes a lot of time, but also increases the risk of damage to building materials.
What materials are needed?
The process of calculating and mounting a diagonal layout is greatly complicated due to the use of a large number of threaded elements. In order to calculate the required amount of building material, draw the intended location on a piece of paper in scale. Then, count the whole elements and those that will be cut in half and, finally, small fragments. The resulting number must be increased by 10-15%. This will allow you to avoid problems due to calculation errors, marriage or damage to building materials during work.
Before you begin, make sure you have the following tools: spatulas, containers for diluting mortar, fugue, glue, chalk, thread, level, spacers, tape measure, tile cutter and mallet.
How to prepare the floor?
The first thing to do is prepare the surface. It must be perfectly flat. To achieve the best result, it is better to give preference to self-leveling filler floors. The mixture for their manufacture includes only two components: dry cement and water. After pouring, the solution is distributed over the surface using spiked rollers. And after a few days you can continue to work.
But, preparing walls for diagonal laying is not so easy. All irregularities must be pre-aligned, otherwise even the slightest defect will be noticeable. To eliminate small flaws, you can use a putty mixture.
If the irregularities cannot be eliminated by simple methods, then it is necessary to flash the room with drywall sheets. Despite the complexity of the procedure, any finishing material will fall on drywall much better than on poorly prepared walls.
To improve adhesion to a horizontal surface, experts use the following technology:
- a primer is applied;
- after it dries, it is necessary to pour a thin layer of a liquid solution of tile adhesive (no more than 1 mm).
At this stage, you can perform markup. The method chosen must match the installation method. First, find the center of the room and select an even perimeter. Then spread the tiles on the floor without fixing with glue. This will determine the control points for their location.
Laying technology
The usual laying of tiles and diagonal tiles differ in many ways from each other. In the first case, the rows can move in almost any direction, and in the second, it is important to constantly adhere to the diagonal. As a rule, experts choose one of two schemes: glue from the corner or from the center.
In order to correctly mark the room, it is necessary to determine the center of the room, which will become a guide. The central tile is laid at the intersection of lines between the corners of the room. As a result, the space will be divided into 4 conditional triangles. The laying of the pattern is carried out within each sector, which gradually merge into one.
If you decide to apply the method from the corner, then it is worth starting work with triangular parts. To implement it, it is necessary to cut the tile in half diagonally. The resulting halves will be the beginning of each new row.
Using a comb trowel, apply the adhesive to the tile or floor. It is important to stick to the same level. If you did everything right and carefully prepared the surface, then the layout you conceived will lie with the same pieces of tile along the edges.
Diagonal installation of rectangular floor tiles
Rectangular tiles, including, as a rule, are turned to the walls at an angle of 45 degrees. This ensures the proportional laying of each row. If you change the angle of inclination, then the entire markup will change. The rectangular shape allows you to transform the space:
- when laying in the direction of a natural light source, you can make the room brighter;
- elongated shape visually expands the space;
- using elements of different colors, you can create an interesting pattern, etc.
"TILE FROM THE PLANT" is the official representative of the Kerama Marazzi brand. Our online store offers a wide range of ceramic tiles and porcelain tiles. We have everything you need to get the job done right. And in order for you to be completely sure of the correctness of your choice, our employees will develop a 3D project especially for you. This service is provided absolutely free of charge and does not oblige you to purchase.
The method of laying floor tiles diagonally allows you to create an original interior. We will understand the intricacies of this laying method and tell you how to calculate the number of tiles.
There are two ways to lay tiles on the floor: orienting the rows along one of the walls or turning them 45 °. Laying tiles diagonally is considered a difficult task that only an experienced master can handle. However, despite the high complexity of the work, many would like to lay tiles in this way, because diagonal laying provides noticeable advantages. We will understand the intricacies of the process, as well as calculate the consumption of tiles.
Why lay tiles diagonally
The traditional way of laying tiles on the floor involves orientation to one of the walls. This is a relatively simple to implement, and therefore - a widespread technology. Despite its merits, the result of such a calculation looks rather inexpressive. Therefore, a method was invented in which the tiles face the walls and the doorway not on one of the sides, but at an angle. It was called "Diagonal Laying".
The method of laying tiles with a diagonal orientation has a number of advantages:
- Tiles laid in this way visually increase the area of the room. This solution will be especially relevant for small rooms, as well as for highly elongated floor areas - corridors, passages, technical rooms, etc. To enhance the effect, select a pattern consisting of tiles of two or more colors.
- Effective look. Unlike the traditional method, diagonal laying is not perceived as a template solution.
- If the room has uneven walls, the traditional way of laying will only emphasize this flaw by creating parallel lines in the room. The diagonal way of placing tiles, on the contrary, will mask these shortcomings.
- Cropped elements placed along the edges of the room will look neater when placed diagonally.
All the advantages of the diagonal method of installing tiles will appear only with the correct marking. Do not start work without a clear project and do not rush to draw reference lines.
The diagonal layout method also has some disadvantages. First of all, this is an increased consumption of tiles. If it takes 100 tiles to completely cover the floor in the traditional way, it will take 120-130 tiles to install the same tile diagonally in the same room. The increased consumption is associated with a large number of elements that need trimming.
The operating time is also increased. It is required to check the correctness of the markup more often, cut tiles more often, make elements of a more complex shape if it is necessary to bypass pipes and other obstacles. The risk of error also increases.
All this makes the diagonal laying method more difficult, so it is usually not recommended for beginner tilers. But with due diligence and understanding of technology, you can cope with it, even for the first time taking up laying tiles. To learn how to lay tiles on the wall, read this article.
Preparatory work
Work should begin with design. It is best to make a drawing of the room on a scale of 1 to 10, marking on this drawing the position of the reference diagonal and the rows of tiles extending from it. This will allow you to understand how many tiles will be needed to lay out the floor as a whole, and how many - in the cropped one. In addition, following the drawing, it is easier to deal with the markings on the floor.
When drawing up a drawing, mark every obstacle on it: wall niches and ledges, the position of heating risers and other communications, furniture and equipment that cannot be removed from the room (toilet, bath, etc.).
Calculating the number of tiles is an important task. It is solved in one of two ways:
- Drawing up a detailed drawing indicating each tile. Such a project requires accuracy, precision and high labor costs. But if you plan to lay out a panel of several types of elements (tiles of different shapes or colors), you cannot do without a detailed diagram.
- Mathematical calculation. It is done like this: the area of the room is divided by the area of \u200b\u200bone tile, the result is rounded up to the nearest integer. Then the result is increased by another 20%
It is necessary to purchase tiles with a margin in order to compensate for losses from marriage, damage during transportation, etc. To ensure that the tiles are enough for sure, buy 10% more than what came out according to the calculations.
When purchasing a tile, pay attention to whether the boxes belong to a particular batch. It is best to buy all the tiles from one batch. Otherwise, there is a risk that elements from different batches will differ in size. Before laying, you need to sort through the tiles and make sure that all elements have the same color and size. Otherwise, the finished floor will look messy.
The final stage of the preparatory work is the leveling of the base. It is necessary to remove all debris from the floor, the old coating, baseboards. If there are cracks, potholes, height differences in the screed of more than 2 mm, you should think about repairing the screed. Remember that in many ways the beauty and durability of a tiled floor depends on how even and strong the base is. The last step is to treat the floor with a primer for tiles.
Necessary materials and tools
A master tiler, like another specialist, needs a certain set of tools to work. These are marking aids, a tool for stirring and applying tile adhesive, tile trimmers, protective clothing, etc. Here is a short list of tiler tools in these categories:
- For marking, you will need a tape measure, a bubble-type building level, a coil of masking cord. For the convenience of work, we select the tape measure so that its length is enough to get it from the corner of the room to the corner located diagonally. The desired length of the level is 1 m (if it is less, it is difficult to guarantee the accuracy of the measurement, and the excess length will interfere in corners, narrow places, etc.).
- To knead the glue, you need a container with a volume of about 10 liters. To mix the required volume quickly, you need a construction mixer or a special attachment for an electric drill.
- To prime the surface, you need a roller and a bath for the solution. To apply glue, you will need a set of plastering tools: a trowel with a serrated edge, serrated and flat spatulas with a wide blade.
- The tiles are cut using a tile cutter. If this specialized tool is not available, a small grinder will do.
- To knock the tiles to the desired level, you need a rubber mallet.
- To grout the seams, you will need a spatula with a rubber blade.
Each master supplements the described set, based on personal preferences and needs, as well as financial capabilities. For example, operations related to marking will significantly speed up and facilitate the laser level. But if this tool is not on the farm, it is quite possible to do without it.
Having picked up the tools, purchased tiles and glue, also take care of some protective equipment. For work, you will need gloves and rubber knee pads. To protect your eyes and respiratory organs from the dust that is inevitable when cutting tiles, purchase goggles and a respirator.
How to lay tiles diagonally with your own hands. Step-by-step instruction
So, the materials have been purchased, the tools are ready, the base has been cleaned of the old coating, leveled and primed. Work on laying tiles begins with markings. It can be done in two ways:
- From the center. This option is chosen if the room has the shape of a square (or close to it). In this case, mark the middle along the walls and beat off two perpendicular lines with a cord. A diagonal is drawn from their intersection in the center of the room. You should not try to ensure that the diagonal comes exactly into the corner (this is only possible in a perfectly square room). It is much more important that the diagonal divides the right angle between the lines exactly in half.
- From the corner. This option is best used in rectangular rooms with a small area. In addition, it is more suitable for stacking the same elements. In this case, the most right angle in the room is taken and a triangle is laid in it (either from one casting, cut diagonally, or from two).
After marking, the tiles are laid out along the lines without glue, setting the width of the seams with calibration crosses. Such a "fitting" will make sure that the marking lines are drawn correctly. Also at this stage, elements for laying along the walls are cut.
After making sure that the markings are done correctly and the starting row fits perfectly, proceed to gluing. Glue is applied to the floor and carefully leveled with a notched trowel. After laying the tile, using the level, check its horizontalness. If necessary, the tiles are knocked out with a rubber mallet. First, whole elements are glued, then cropped ones.
When the first row is ready, the next rows are mounted. The width of the seams is set with crosses. Excess glue is immediately removed from the tiles with rags. At the end of the installation of the coating, the glue is allowed to dry for the time set according to the instructions. Then the crosses are taken out, and the seams are filled with grout.
Wipe off any excess grout immediately before it sets!
WE offer several videos so that you can see how the floor markings are made for diagonal laying. In addition, the proposed video contains useful tips from experienced tilers that will help you cope with laying tiles diagonally:
Although diagonal styling is considered difficult to master, it is quite possible to learn it. Follow all steps meticulously, take your time and take the time to check and double-check how evenly each tile lay. And then the finished floor will delight your eyes for many years.
Laying tiles on the floor diagonally allows you to beautifully beat the room, especially in conditions of small dimensions. Consider what subtleties and nuances are taken into account in such a scheme.
Common tile layout
Pros and cons of the diagonal layout
Pay attention to the fact that both square and rectangular elements are used in the work.
Advantages of the diagonal layout:
- Space expansion. Due to the swivel arrangement, the room visually becomes larger. The effect of moving the walls away from each other is created, especially if you correctly choose the color of the coating and its design.
- decorative effect. Diagonal tile looks much more interesting. Thanks to this, an unusual design is created by combining colors.
- Masking the irregularities of the perimeter. On straight parts, the difference in the width of the extreme elements is more noticeable. Here, however, this impression becomes more blurred.
Disadvantages of diagonal layout:
- The complexity of the work. It will be difficult for a beginner to cope with the task, since the process of marking, cutting and the installation itself is more difficult than with a direct scheme.
- Big expense. To maintain the diagonal, threaded parts are laid. Therefore, the amount of material increases by at least 5-10%.
- Tile cutting. This procedure takes a lot of time, besides, the risk of damage to the tile increases.
Laying diagonally has both pros and cons
Necessary materials and tools
The main difficulty with diagonal laying is the use of a large number of threaded elements. This is reflected both in the installation process and in the calculations.
To calculate the number of tiles, draw a layout plan on paper to scale. First, count the whole fragments. Then mark the details that will be cut in half or more. Consider them as a whole tile. Then pay attention to the number of small threaded parts. Some will count as one tile. Increase the final number by 10-15% to avoid a deficit due to errors in the calculation or the presence of marriage.
You will also need the following materials:
- solution container;
- spatulas;
- glue;
- grout;
- level;
- thread and chalk;
- roulette;
- crosses and spacers;
- mallet;
- tile cutter or grinder.
List of tools and materials
Floor preparation and marking
Before laying tiles, the surface must be leveled. Use self leveling screeds. The dry cement mixture is diluted with water and evenly distributed over the horizontal surface with a spiked roller. After a few days, proceed to further work.
In order to level the floor before laying the tiles, it is best to use self-leveling compounds.
The real problem is the unevenness on the walls. On the diagonal layout, the presence of bumps is especially noticeable. To eliminate minor defects, it is enough to apply a putty mixture.
If the distortions are serious, one cannot do without sheathing the perimeter of the room with plasterboard sheets. But this way you make it easier for yourself to wall cladding with any of the materials.
To improve the adhesion of tiles to the floor, a special primer is applied to the surface. To fill small pores, use an additional method: after the base primer has dried, a liquid solution of tile adhesive is poured onto the floor and spread in a thin layer of less than 1 mm.
Then do the markup. The specific method depends on the chosen installation method. As a guide, find the center of the room and draw an even perimeter. Then lay out the tiles without glue and calculate the control points.
Laying technology
Diagonally, the tiles are glued according to a special principle. If in the case of using a direct scheme they move in rows in almost any direction, it is important to constantly observe the diagonal. Two main options are available: from the center of the room and from the corner.
Interior design is a rapidly growing industry, in no small part due to the abundance of finishing materials and accessories. Tiled or ceramic tiles are one of the most popular items on the list of cladding essentials.
One of the unusual ways is laying tiles on the floor diagonally. What do you need to know about it?
There is a popular opinion that even a novice decorator can lay out a kitchen “apron”, subject to straight walls. Therefore, in addition to choosing and acquiring tiles, the issue of skill in work is important. Consider how to choose the right tile depending on the functional purpose, what to look for and what positions you can choose in the budget option. We will analyze the known laying methods, their advantages and disadvantages. Let's stop on the choice of the necessary consumables. This will help you decide whether to proceed with the project on your own or make a choice in favor of a specialist.
Let's deal with the terminology. Ceramic tiles - a product designed for interior and exterior decoration. A mixture of quartz, clay and other natural ingredients is pressed and fired in special kilns. A tile is one of the types of finishing material, for the manufacture of which clay of light grades is used.
Ceramic tiles are included in the list of materials suitable for use in finishing rooms in which there are people. And of course, its properties are strictly regulated by GOST. For example, a standard that contains requirements for the manufacture of ceramic floor tiles. It applies to products that can be used in the decoration of residential and public buildings, including domestic areas in production.
Important! This GOST does not apply to rooms in which tiles are exposed to concentrated acids and alkalis.
Choosing a tile, it is necessary to pay attention not only to its decorative component. It is necessary to use information about its resistance to external aggressive factors, to abrasion, loss of color. Savings on quality may lead to the need for additional investments.
It was said above that it is worth considering the functional properties of the product - in which room it will be used, on which surface the finishing material is intended.
Let's start in order. When choosing a finishing material, you need to pay attention to the following factors.
- The reputation of the outlet where you intend to purchase the product. Even without special knowledge, you can pre-check the quality of products. Pay attention to the edges so that there are no chips or damage. Poor-quality enamel is given out by cracks, defects in the coating. Comparison of several samples should convince you that they are the same in size (there are requirements for grade), shade, pattern.
- Functional purpose of the room. For example, if you need material for decorating exterior walls or floors, you should pay attention to frost-resistant products. These, without a doubt, include porcelain stoneware.
Clinker tiles are distinguished by their strength and durability, which is a consequence of the manufacturing process. High-quality clay is fired in special kilns at a temperature of more than a thousand degrees Celsius. The tile withstands low temperatures, direct sunlight, high humidity.
Important! Even in harsh winters, hot summers and long rainy seasons, the material does not crack or fade.
If you are going to finish the kitchen, bathroom, bathroom, it is better to choose a matte satin glaze. In these rooms, the elimination of pollution is constantly required. These tiles are easier to care for. Its smooth surface is cleaned faster and better than a rough one.
Thus, when choosing a ceramic tile, be prepared to evaluate its qualities: the strength of the base and glaze, shades of the same color, resistance to wear, chemicals, humidity, size, possible color solutions.
Materials and tools
Previously, a rather time-consuming step was laying tiles on cement mortar. Now adhesive mixtures are used for fixing. The range of products is quite wide and in order to understand it, you need to pay attention to the following.
The choice of tiles and glue is huge. The best option is to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for choosing an adhesive base. But there are general principles for selecting composition for various jobs.
The composition of the cement-based adhesive has not lost its relevance. But it is recommended to use it when fixing small tiles. Most often on sale it is represented by dry mixes, which must be prepared independently. This position of goods is distinguished by a modest price.
Epoxy adhesive is purchased for laying large tiles, in rooms with maximum load: industrial workshops, metro, airport. The connection is durable, which does not depend on weather conditions and abrasive action. For domestic use, the downside is the rather high price.
Important! If the composition does not correspond to the chosen purpose, its base is deformed, cracks appear, chips and the tile flies off.
The choice of adhesive greatly depends on the substrate on which it will be applied. For example, when laying tiles on a wooden floor, it is recommended to use polyurethane adhesive, which is highly plastic. This is especially important when finishing underfloor heating.
For interior work, cement-based glue is suitable. For exterior finishes, a special composition is offered that does not crack and does not lose its properties in frost, heat, and high humidity.
What else needs to be prepared for work?
Work clothes should protect against dirt, dust, glue. If necessary, use a respirator, protective gloves. Comfortable overalls with pockets.
The required set of tools includes:
- container for 10-15 liters under the solution;
- electric tools (drill, tile cutter), extension cord, drill bits;
- spatula, mallet, hammer, chisel, chisel, wire cutters, pliers, knife, tape measure, square, level, building syringe;
- nails, self-tapping screws, plastic dowels;
- crosses and spacers;
- grout;
- glue;
- clean damp cloths.
Sequence of work
Features of diagonal laying do not affect the sequence of work. But with this method of finishing, a larger amount of consumables is required. When laying diagonally, the percentage of use of threaded parts increases. To calculate the number of tiles, you need to draw a layout with details to scale.
The easiest way is to count the number of tiles that will be laid as a whole. Then the parts that will be cut in half or more. When counting, each of them is taken as a whole. Depending on the overall pattern, the pattern of each tile, count the trim parts. The number of required tiles will be 10-15% more than the amount received. Such an allowance will avoid the lack of material, even taking into account possible marriage and mistakes made during cutting.
All work is carried out in the following sequence:
- sketching to scale;
- marking on the working surface;
- soil application;
- application of the adhesive base;
- directly laying ceramic tiles according to the sketch;
- creating a frame, if it is included in the sketch;
- grouting.
There are various ways of laying ceramic tiles. The basic method is more accessible even for inexperienced workers. It consists in laying out individual elements in even rows. There are ways of brickwork, "herringbone", "carpet" pattern.
Today we will consider the features of diagonal laying technology.
Mandatory stage - leveling the surface (wall, floor) with special tools. If this is not done, the result of long work may be lost after a short time. The tile will lie unevenly, a defect will be visible, with a significant load it may peel off.
The markup also has features. On the sketch, which is made in advance, pay attention to the coincidence of the overall pattern. To prevent its distortion, it is imperative to use a level.
Important! Depending on the possibilities, this can be a simple thread or a laser device.
The diagonal markings are based on a geometric figure - an isosceles triangle with 45° angles. To determine the first row from the selected starting point, draw lines horizontally and vertically. According to them, a given size is set aside.
The first row can be any row according to the sketch. The choice of envy depends on the complexity of the drawing. Most often they are guided by rows of different colors or shades.
The next rows are up and down from the first.
When finishing work on the wall, the bottom row is supported with a plank so that the drawing does not subsequently “slide” down.
A feature of diagonal masonry is that the pattern must be observed on all four sides of the tile. This leads to an increase in costs.
The next step is applying a primer. The composition is designed to improve the contact between the adhesive and the tile surface. Before applying it, it is necessary to carefully prepare the surface: clean it of debris, wet cleaning, followed by drying. If the surface contains traces of grease, a degreasing agent is required. Depending on the absorbent properties of the wall, the primer is applied once or twice. The exposure time is indicated in the instructions for the primer mixture.
Important! In any case, it is at least an hour after the application of the last layer.
Sometimes the primer is replaced with an adhesive composition. There are a number of conditions for this. The wall or floor is pre-puttied. The concentration of glue is increased. The drying step is skipped. The tile is immediately laid on the adhesive.
Laying technology
Diagonal laying requires practical experience.
Diamonds are laid not from the center, but from the wall. It can be framed or not. The method requires careful preliminary calculation, reconciliation according to the sketch. Therefore, this method can only be entrusted to a specialist.
Laying with a common contour involves the alternation of different elements (by color, texture). Along the perimeter, the pattern is decorated with rectangular elements. The marking begins with a perpendicular line, which is drawn from one wall to another. To do this, use a thick thread or cord. This is the basis for laying out the tiles of the first row. The job also requires skill and practice.
Important! Variety in laying makes the use of tiles of different colors and patterns. The basis should be a sketch made by a specialist.
So, when the markings, leveling the surface and the primer are already behind, you can proceed directly to laying the tiles. Let's look at the table for a detailed process.
| Sequencing | Description |
|---|---|
| In order to apply glue with high quality, it is worth using a notched trowel (with a tooth of 10 mm). They apply glue first to the floor, and then to the tile itself. Such an order will ensure the quality of styling, its durability. | |
| When laying tiles on the floor, you need to focus on the outlined lines (the very sides of the isosceles triangle that we talked about earlier). When the tile is laid, you need to tap it well evenly with a rubber mallet - so that excess glue comes out from under it. This is a guarantee that there are no voids under it. After that, you can proceed to laying the next tile and so on. Periodically it is necessary to check whether the diagonal laying is carried out correctly by means of a level. In which case, now you can correct the irregularities. | |
| The rest of the tiles are laid according to the same principle, and the process should already be easier, since you can focus on previously laid tiles. Still, do not forget about using the level to check the result. Some masters recommend laying tiles along the edges of the room immediately, some - after a day. Here the decision is yours. | |
| After a day or two, you can do grouting (the period depends on what is recommended by the manufacturer of tile adhesive). The dry grout mix is diluted in water and, using a rubber spatula, close the seams. It is recommended not to do all the work at once - it is better to grout 1.5-2 square meters of tiles, remove excess grout, and then continue. |
Although diagonal tile laying is considered a difficult process, following the technology, you can cope with such a task.
Which way to choose?
Diagonal laying has features at all stages of work with tiles, from the selection of materials, cost calculation and ending directly with laying. An important detail is that this method is best left to a professional. The work requires experience, accuracy, accuracy when marking and installing tiles. In order to decide whether diagonal styling is needed, consider the advantages and disadvantages of the method.
Advantages of the diagonal layout:
- visual increase in space, due to its "stretching" diagonally;
- the expansion effect can be increased by correctly distributing the color over the entire area;
- a pattern oriented diagonally looks more attractive, artistic;
- a less clear pattern allows you to hide defects, irregularities of the decorated surface, especially in small rooms.
Disadvantages of diagonal layout:
- practical experience is needed, the risk of error, unforeseen damage to the material is high;
- fitting the pattern on all four sides of the tile requires an increase in costs;
- the sketch includes a lot of threaded parts;
- requires a special skill and tool for cutting tiles.
Features of work on the wall and on the floor
The working surface can be a wall or a floor. What features may arise when laying tiles on a vertical surface:
- the wall is pre-aligned with a level or a conventional cord with a load at the end (when the cord is released from the ceiling to the floor, it should be parallel to the wall, without deviating);
- the direction of applying the glue is important - for this, special spatulas with teeth are used;
- adhesive grooves are applied perpendicular to each other;
- for a perfect seam, 3-4 mm crosses made of flexible material are used.
When decorating with floor tiles, you should pay attention to the following features:
- when choosing tiles for the floor, it is necessary to take into account its wear resistance;
- the ideal surface preparation is a screed;
- do not lay a fresh layer of tiles on top of the old one;
- for seams, 2 mm crosses are optimal;
- after laying, the tiles are tapped with a wooden mallet from the center to the edge (glue is better distributed);
- to improve the quality, PVA is added to the glue;
- when a gap is formed in the wall area, it can be eliminated with a plinth.
Important! When installing wall and floor tiles, they also pay attention to the selection of consumables.
What should you know about tiles?
Tile as a creation of human hands was known in ancient Egypt. Fragments made of clay were richly decorated with intricate drawings and patterns. Therefore, the first purpose of this building element is decorative. This direction remains the leading one in modern design solutions.
There is a huge selection of products in colors, patterns, shapes, sizes. Modern tiles can imitate marble, wood, and other popular materials in texture. The originality of the composition is given by the author's reading - a combination of tiles of different configurations, patterns. Using fantasy, you can create a unique interior that reflects the individual tastes of the owners, their preferences.
Research by psychologists on the impact of color or even its various shades on the human condition no longer surprises anyone. When creating an interior, an experienced designer must use favorable color schemes.
Important! Thanks to a huge selection of ceramic tiles, you can decorate rooms in which its users will feel comfortable, quickly recuperate, work efficiently, and communicate fruitfully.
It should be noted that modern solutions make it possible to expand the list of rooms that can be decorated with this facing material. As often happens, at the beginning of the use of the material, the external side attracts. Later, numerous benefits are revealed. Such is the history of the use of ceramic glazed tiles for facing fireplaces. The attractive decorative material has proven to be beneficial in terms of physical properties. Stove tiles accumulate thermal radiation well, and slowly release it into the surrounding space. A significant position in the assortment of today's manufacturers of facing ceramics is occupied by stove tiles.
Even the ancient builders noticed more utilitarian properties of clay tiles - their strength, the ability to protect buildings from the adverse effects of temperature and humidity. The most traditional use of tiles - bathroom, kitchen, toilet. This choice is explained by the durability of the product in rooms where the temperature often changes, high humidity is created, and there is a high risk of damage to facing materials. Laying tiles creates a waterproof protection for the walls, even in the absence of special waterproofing. Fired clay can withstand the load in the form of external exposure for decades.
Important! For example, it not only protects the coating from moisture, but also does not absorb it itself, even with unlimited immersion in water.
The next property that supports the popularity of tiles is its high hygiene. This finish does not create problems for maintenance. It can be easily cleaned from grease, dust and other contaminants. There are no stains on glazed tiles. This quality is especially important when decorating rooms that require compliance with hygiene standards. Processing with simple care products allows you to remove fungus, mold. It is also important that the coating of the material is resistant to chemical attack.
This also applies to color retention. The tile is not exposed to ultraviolet radiation for a long time.
The reliability of the properties of the tile allows it to be used in rooms that are subject to strict sterility requirements (dressing rooms, treatment rooms, operating room rooms).
Important! A significant role is played by the safety of using the tile, as it is fire resistant and does not deform from high temperatures. This is important for using the material next to the hob.
The degree of fire resistance of tiles in case of fire is more significant. Experts believe that the material exhibits inertness at high temperatures, fires. Surfaces finished with the product do not spread fire, do not emit toxic substances. There is evidence that the degree of collapse is reduced by reducing the thermal impact on the structure of the room, finished with ceramic tiles.
Another important aspect of the safety of the premises is that the tile is a dielectric, in other words, it does not conduct, does not accumulate electric current.
The attractive side of the finishing material is its cost-effectiveness, relative to other materials. A wide range of products allows you to choose the position that is economically available. In other words, everyone will find for themselves a product that suits the price - from budget proposals to tiles made by the author's order. The tile is durable, resistant to external influences. This should also be attributed to the pluses - even a solid investment will be long-term.
Important! If necessary, it is possible to restore part of the laying fragments (considered individually).
The disadvantages of ceramic tiles experts include its relative fragility during transportation, poor sound insulation. When compared with other flooring materials, slipperiness and a cold surface are noted.
Conclusion
Diagonal laying of ceramic tiles is a worthy element of decor for a room of any purpose and area. The key to quality work is the right choice of tiles. To draw up a sketch, choose the perfect color solution, you should use the services of a designer. The next step is the installation of ceramic tiles. The technology presupposes the presence of practical skill, accuracy in calculations, accuracy, and the ability to work with special tools.
The quality of the material and the skill of the performer will allow you to enjoy the result of finishing work for a long time.
Video - How to lay tiles on the floor diagonally
Classic layout - with this method of flooring, it is characteristic that all horizontal rows are located exactly in relation to each other. Facing according to the classical scheme is suitable for rooms with the correct geometry, that is, all angles in the room are approximately 45 °, and the discrepancies in the diagonals do not exceed 5 cm.
Diagonal layout - with this method, they are laid on the floor with a rhombus. That is, they deliberately lay the tiles so that oblique rows are visually obtained. Diagonal flooring is the only right solution if the room has an irregular or complex geometry. For example, when combining a balcony and a kitchen into a single loggia or when combining a toilet with a bathroom into a single bathroom, they almost always get a floor surface with irregular geometry.
Attention! The easiest way to decide on the layout is to take and accurately measure the diagonals, at the corners of the room from the inside. If the size is practically the same (difference up to 5 cm) - you can veneer according to the classical scheme. If the run-up is about or more than 10 cm, then definitely, it is necessary to choose a diagonal installation.
Non-standard tile layout from the Concret collection of the Natucer factory
Marking for laying porcelain stoneware according to the classical scheme
With ideally correct geometry, floors are almost never found. In any case, there are divergences diagonally in the room and the first thing to do is to decide where the wedge will be located. That is, it is necessary to lay out several horizontal and vertical rows without glue on a prepared even screed, while taking into account the following points.- The wedge should not be on the entry threshold. Where there is a threshold into the room - there should be a whole even tile.
- Standing at the entrance to the room, visually determine the areas open to the eye and hidden areas of the floor. Areas hidden from view - the area behind the door, areas where the sink or heavy furniture will be located, and simply areas “where it is not visible”.
- Having laid the tiles exactly along the threshold and having determined the zones hidden to the eye, the tiles are laid out so that the wedge or cutting does not stand out too much. On the screed, indicative marks are made, according to which the laying of porcelain stoneware will begin.
Diagonal markings for porcelain stoneware cladding
For marking, you will need a rebound marker thread and a 90 ° construction square. It is necessary to perform the following series of actions in sequence.- The marker thread is stretched between parallel corners along the diagonal of the room above the screed. Pulling and sharply releasing the thread, a straight line is made on the screed diagonally between opposite corners.
- In the center of the room, a 90 ° square is applied to the line on the screed. Focusing on the second shelf of the square, above the screed, between the other two corners, the second line is beaten off with a marker thread.
- The resulting intersection point of the two lines on the screed will mean the center of the room and the area from which to start laying porcelain stoneware.
Diagonal installation of Baltic tiles by Cithetiles
Preparation of tools and necessary materials
For flooring you will need tools:- Level, square and tape measure;
- Small spatula and trowel;
- Special spatula - comb with a tooth height of 6-10 mm;
- Small angle grinder (angle grinder, she is a grinder) with a win disc;
- Stationery knife and pencil.
- Rubber mallet;
From what site does the laying of porcelain stoneware on the floor begin?
With classic cladding, the principle is as follows:1. Laying the facing material on the glue starts from the threshold. That is, longitudinally to the future threshold, 1 row of a whole tile is laid out on glue;
2. Further from the horizontal row on the threshold, a complete vertical row is laid out along one of the walls;
3. Tiles are no longer laid in the threshold area, the laid porcelain stoneware is carefully stepped over, and all laying is carried out from the far corner into the room;
4. If you correctly use the square, the level and constantly navigate by the marks on the screed, then over time they go exactly to the first row of tiles at the threshold;
5. On the first day, only whole slabs of porcelain stoneware are laid on the glue, all other extensions and cut parts are laid after 2 days.
When facing the floor diagonally:
1. Laying porcelain stoneware on the adhesive starts from the center of the room, where a cross was drawn on the screed with a marker thread. The center of the cross is the point of contact of the first 4 tiles;
2. After laying the first 4 tiles in the center of the floor, later you can lay porcelain stoneware in any convenient direction, the main thing is to leave a small space so that you can move without stepping on the tile;
3. In the early days, lay out as large an area as possible only from whole porcelain stoneware. Further, after a pause of 1-2 days, extensions are laid on the glue - porcelain stoneware cut around the perimeter of the room.
Attention! No one can say for sure when it will be possible to step on porcelain stoneware laid on glue and move along it. Much depends on the air temperature in the room, the brand of tile adhesive and the thickness of its layer.
Classic tiling
In order for porcelain stoneware to be laid on the floor with high quality, it is imperative to ensure that no voids form under the tile and that the entire space is filled with tile adhesive. To achieve complete filling, the tile adhesive must be applied both to the surface of the screed and to the back of the porcelain stoneware. Moreover, it is desirable to apply the working tile adhesive in different directions.Initially, with a trowel, the adhesive composition is applied to the surface of the screed and its mass is distributed “by eye”. After that, the adhesive mass is distributed over the screed and its uniform thickness is formed using a comb spatula. Further, in a similar way, glue is applied to the back side of porcelain stoneware and a single layer thickness is set to it with a comb. At the next stage, the tile is laid in its place and the upper part of the porcelain stoneware is lightly pressed with the palm of your hand.
From above, on the surface of the facing material, a bubble level is placed on the edge and weak point blows are made on the porcelain stoneware with a rubber mallet. The main task here is to level the ceramic tiles laid on the adhesive as evenly as possible. Having completed the leveling of the first tile in a similar way, the adjacent porcelain tile is placed on the adhesive, while the same thickness of the seam between the tiles is formed by inserted PVC crosses.
Advice! If you are going to tile the floor with your own hands for the first time in your life, we recommend that you preview the video with step-by-step instructions or chat with professional builders.
