Simple Steps to Measuring a Tile Project Yourself

When confronted with all the issues that arise when determining material quantities for a tile project, there are a few easy steps to lessen the confusion. For instance, when one has chosen to remodel a washroom, there are certain ways square footages are determined. The process is quite simple, yet can prove to be challenging when ascertaining accurate calculations.

First, it’s easier if you measure in lineal feet as opposed to inches. If a wall is 60 inches wide by 72 inches tall, the measurements are recorded as 5 feet by 6 feet. If the aforementioned measurements were calculated, you would have to divide the product by 144. This is due to the fact in one square foot; there are exactly 144 square inches. Rather than performing the extra math needed when measuring in inches, its much easier to measure in feet. Also, when measuring lengths, it is quite common to have a wall or floor measure “x” feet “y” inches. An example would be a floor measuring 12’8” by 13’5”. This calculation needs to be figured 13’ by 14’ plus 10% for waste. By rounding up to the nearest foot and adding extra material, the estimator is accounting for waste and partial material usage. Here the calculation would be 13’ x 14’= 182sq ft plus (18) = 200 square feet.

Other potential issues can be the extras that are often forgotten when measuring. An example would be the necessity for a bullnose tile. When tiling a bathroom, there are areas where the tile needs to have a smooth edge and this is where a bullnose tile is necessary. Simply using a field tile is quite often not within the perimeters of the design. Here, one would measure the bullnose in lineal feet as opposed to square feet. An example would be if you had a tub surround where the tile ended. Unless you are working with Natural Stone that is capable of being polished, ceramic and porcelain installations usually have a coordinating bullnose piece available. Again, it is crucial to add for waste to make sure the installer has enough product to complete the job.

Other factors are coverages for adhesives and thinsets. Depending on the type of tile being installed, the installer will use the appropriate trowel to spread the adhesive. Larger format tiles need extra adhesive, thus bigger trowels are utilized. Typically, there are ratios available to help determine how much thinset or adhesive is needed. This information can be found on the labels of adhesives and thinsets alike.

Finally, the last factor that needs to be determined is the quantity and type of grout. Again, the size of the tile, pattern used, and thickness of grout joint are all factors that will inevitably dictate the amount of grout needed. For the most part, there are two sizes available when purchasing grout. Ten and twenty-five pound bags are the most common. Regarding the type of grout, it is necessary to consult with the installer or sales associate. There are two different types of grout available: sanded and unsanded. Each has its usage recommendations that should be adhered too.

Tags: diy , tile , bathroom , natural stone , porcelain , ceramic , installation , adhesive , grout

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