Almost every Sydney Home has tiles in the bathroom and kitchen. And there are probably tiles in a spa, pool, patio or some other area of the house. Tiles are by far the best choice for wet areas, managing to be both highly waterproof and attractive in appearance, if we go to the trouble of choosing the right tiles and layout. Good tile work is a long-term investment that supports the functionality of a bathroom or kitchen whilst giving it a more stylish appearance. The success of tilework depends on quality, professional installation. It helps the homeowner to make informed decisions if they know what to expect from the installation process. Professionals are capable of a smooth, durable, high-quality tile finish. Homeowners can decide on the design they prefer and accommodate the tile installation process more easily if they know about the process in advance.
Who are Tilewave, Sydney
Tilewave is the supplier of home kitchen and bathroom tiles Sydney residents prefer. We have an extensive range of premium wall and floor tiles, wall panel, bath ware, for commercial and residential applications. Whether you are looking to renovate a home or outfit a commercial setting our Sydney tile store can provide the high-quality tile materials to suit your needs.
Shop online at Tilewave for competitive prices, service, and quick delivery.
The Professional Tile Installation Process
1. Consultation & Assessment
The very first step is to inspect the site where the tiles are to be installed. In this early stage the installer will:
- Make Measurements, evaluate the workspace, and identify any potential problems such as uneven subfloors or moisture issues.
- Discuss the design options, the client’s preferences, and the desired layout. We want to ensure that the final result matches your expectations in both appearance and functionality.
2. Surface Preparation
There is an old adage that says proper preparation is half the battle. This is quite true. We prepare the site for the tiling, so any issues are removed, and the surfaces are clean and ready for the tiles.
- Removal of old materials: Existing flooring, trim, or other interfering materials are taken out.
- Subfloor preparation: The surface is cleaned, levelled, and repaired if necessary. Depending on the space, an underlayment or waterproofing membrane may be installed to create a stable, moisture-resistant base.
This stage is especially important in wet areas such as bathrooms and kitchens, where water protection prevents future damage.
3. Layout and Planning
A professional installer will carefully plan the layout before setting any tiles:
- A Dry-fitting is where the tiles are arranged without adhesive. This allows us to visualise the final layout. And we can accurately determine where any cuts will be needed.
- Marking reference lines: The tiler identifies the centre point and draws guidelines to ensure tiles are placed evenly and symmetrically.
The right planning will ensure a neat and balanced design. This reduces the need for small or uneven tile cuts along walls or fixtures.
4. Tile Installation
With the plan in place, the actual installation begins:
Applying the Mortar: Thin-set mortar (adhesive) is mixed and applied to the subfloor using a notched trowel for even coverage. Many years ago the mortar was applied sparingly, often just to the corners of each tile. But now the complete underside of each tile is completely coated with mortar, making for a more durable, longer lasting tile project.
Tile Placement: Tiles are pressed into the mortar, aligned with reference lines, and separated with spacers to maintain consistent grout lines.
Cutting and Fitting: Tiles are cut with a wet saw or manual cutter to fit around corners, fixtures, or doorways. In many cases, door jambs are undercut so tiles can slide neatly underneath for a seamless finish.
This main tile installation process requires precision in order to avoid misalignment problems or uneven floor surfaces.
5. Grouting and Finishing
Once the tiles are securely set:
Grouting: once the mortar has cured, the grout is applied to the spaces between tiles. This locks them in place and creates a finished look.
Cleaning and Sealing: Excess grout is wiped away, and after drying, grout lines may be sealed for protection against moisture and stains. For natural stone tiles, sealing may also be required on the tiles themselves.
Indications of a Good or a Poor Job.
When reviewing the final installation, some signs of professional work include:
- Even spacing: Consistent grout lines throughout the project.
- Level surfaces: No “lippage” where one tile sits higher than another.
- Balanced layout: Cut tiles are similar in size and strategically placed for visual balance.
- Clean cuts: Neatly cut tiles fit snugly around edges, doorways, and corners.
Typical Timelines for Tile Projects
The duration of a tiling project varies depending on the size and complexity:
- A Small backsplash: 1–2 days
- Small bathroom floor (5–8 sqm): 2–4 days
- Standard bathroom floor and walls: 7+ days
- Large kitchen floor (20+ sqm): 5–10 days
- Outdoor patio (30+ sqm): 7–14 days (weather dependent)
The initial condition of the project site, the complexity of the design, the materials used, and the availability of the installation company are all factors that affect the completion timeline of a tiling project.
Conclusion.
Having tiles professionally installed is the most reliable way to ensure quality results. Quality meaning both a fine décor design for the tiles, and a long lasting, durable installation. The professional process is a little complex, the consultation, planning, preparation, installation, sealing and finishing perhaps taking several days. But a good result is an investment into your home or business property, that will last for many years to come.
