Rule of thumb starting a tile job / layout

[handyflooringpros]

Hey guys ,

I know how to mix thinset , lay tile , mix grout , even do layout in one room. But I have an unreliable tile setter and a job coming up. My job includes tile base , which I am not sure how large they should be . The whole tile is 13*13 . How large are most tile bases ? Lastly the job has three rooms all going into the hallway. Do I center the hallway and start there or start in a room and work my way out ? Hmmm what are your thoughts ?

 

[Ernesto]

Balance out the hallway first, go out from there. I usualy do base about 3 1/2 to 4 inches tall.

 

[havasu]

Balance out the hallway first, go out from there. I usualy do base about 3 1/2 to 4 inches tall.

This is also how I do it. The hallway will always be the most visible so having it balanced with make the entire job easier on the eye.

 

[FloorMaven]

A good layout pays particular attention to focal points and unusually difficult cuts.

 

[Incognito]

Just snap a line and GO!

You're not done yet?

 

[FloorMaven]

If you can grid the entire space you can start anywhere you like or set any tiles you like.

 

[Ernesto]

If you can grid the entire space you can start anywhere you like or set any tiles you like.

Yea, if your tile is rectified. I would not try that with any old tile being as most off the shelf tile from a box store is off a 1/16 sometimes.

 

[FloorMaven]

Yea, if your tile is rectified. I would not try that with any old tile being as most off the shelf tile from a box store is off a 1/16 sometimes.

The grid method provides an advantage when working with inconsistently sized tile.

 

[Ernesto]

The grid method provides an advantage when working with inconsistently sized tile.

Really? I'd like to hear more about that. Grids are relient on a tile that is consistant in size so one does not run off the grid.

 

[FloorMaven]

This 4 tile grid pictured maintains a consistent width grout joint at the lines and internalizes tile size inconsistencies within the frame.

 

[FloorMaven]

If you're working with a grid like this and inconsistently sized tile you most likely will have a problem.