Special tricks for special tile

Learn how to tile up a notch. Learn the best techniques for dealing with complex diagonal layouts, large tile, walls that are uneven clean-up of dried mortar, and many other tiling issues.

Create a pyramid to make diagonal tiles

• Diagonal layout

The standard method for laying tiles diagonally is by marking an angle of 45° on the floor or wall. If the angle isn't 45° like the diamond-shaped tile, finding precise lines can be a challenge. Therefore, we'll demonstrate an alternative method: mark one layout line, then place the tiles on it by aligning the corners of the tile to the line. Make a pyramid with a centre on the line. Use both sides to line up every diagonal line. Be sure to inspect each side of the pyramid frequently using the aid of a straightedge.

• Special mortar for big tiles

Specialty, thin-set mortar

The thin-set type of mortar makes the most effective bedding adhesive for most tiles. However, if you're planning to set tiles that are bigger than 12 by 12 inches, look for words such as "medium bed," "large tile," or "large format" on the label. Larger tiles require a more dense layer of mortar, which is why, unlike thin-set mortar, medium-bed doesn't diminish its bonding capacity when laid large amounts of it. It's also stronger and shrinks less, meaning tiles are more stable when the mortar is set. Medium-bed mortar is sold at tile stores, as well as home centres.

• A niche size that is appropriate to the tile

Layout the tip

If you're thinking of the wall niche, then lay the tiles and take measures to figure out the dimension of your niche. If you can customize the niche so that it can be placed between the full tiles, you'll be able to get an attractive installation and will cut down on cutting. If you use a diagonal layout, you'll receive half tiles as well as full tiles. If the trim is going to frame the niche, you need to incorporate it into the design.

A symmetrical niche

When you design features like this wall niche that are based on the dimensions and layout that the tiles are laid out, it is possible to design designs that appear balanced and balanced.

• Eliminate lippage

Align tile edges

"Lippage" can be described as the technical term used to describe uneven edges on tile (though "@%&#" is more commonly used). Lippage can be difficult to avoid with large tiles and is easily visible with grout lines that are narrow or tile with square, rather instead of rounded, edges. If you're in any of these circumstances, the leveling wedges and clips help lay the tile in a flat position. Simply slide the clip underneath the tile and then push it into the wedge. Once the thin-set has set and the clip is broken, you can remove the clip. LASH clips of the brand are available at tile shops and homes centres.

• Cuts that are clean in porcelain

Make small cuts across the tile, about 1/8 inch deep. This reduces chipping.

Porcelain tile is extremely hard and extremely fragile. This means that it is often chipped on cracks or in cuts prior to the cut is finished. Three steps to follow solves these issues. The first step is only compatible with saws that let you alter the cut's depth. If your saw doesn't allow this, you may still be able to make the third and second cuts to be sure to avoid cracks.