Intro - Materials - Prep/Layout - Joists - Squaring Rows - Installing Tiles
Margin of Error: 1/8"
You will begin installing your tiles in the corner of the room where the two strings intersect. You will need to cut border ties to fit. Cut the tile face up with a sharp utility knife. Cut the tile so that the edges next to the wall are the cut edges with no tongues or flanges. The edges pointing toward the interior of the room will be the factory edge.
After cutting your first few tiles, snap a clip into the first two tracks and push the clips flush against the wall. Place the first tile in the corner and push the cut edge of the tile into the clips. Secure the other edge of the tile by snapping on clips into the tracks and pushing them onto the flange. Be sure your hands are clean, or wear clean gloves, so that you don't soil the tiles.
Install the next three tiles that surround this first corner tile. Make sure your tiles fit snugly into the corner and line up with the border reference string lines. This is very important, so take your time. Adjust until they are perfectly aligned.
Once these first four tiles are in place, continue with the installation progression. When you reach the opposite side wall, cut the border tiles 1/2" short of the wall to leave a gap for any expansion due to moisture. Install the remaining diagonally across the room.
To install the last tile in a row, snap a clip on the end of each track and push it flush up against the wall. Cut the last tile to fit so that it is 1/2" short of the wall. Position the tile in place, then slide the clip into the edge of the tile with a screwdriver.
Finally, nail on any molding. Paint or stain the molding before installing it. Be sure to nail the molding every 24" into the wall studs, not the ceiling.
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