The first step was to measure the entire square footage of the area to be retiled and attain the materials needed to complete the job. 10% was added to the amount of tile needed as there were a lot of corners which result in multiple cuts, sometimes to the same tile. Tiles were cut on a wet saw.
Demolition was next. This included removing the old linoleum and carpet by peeling it off the floor. To ensure an even surface, the excess glue and backing of the linoleum was scraped off along with any left over carpet padding and adhesive. Any small particles that remained were swept up and discarded leaving the floor ready for the application of the mortar.
As it is very important to keep everything symmetrical and even, the tiling should be started from the area which will be viewed the most. In this case, the main concerns were against the tub and the end of the hallway that is viewed from the only entrance, as in this specific bathroom, they were the places most likely to be noticed.
The first line of tile was measured out from both sides of the wall, a chalk line was snapped to help keep the tiles straight and then the tiles were dry fitted starting in the middle. Once the measurements proved to be accurate and the layout was true, the mortar was mixed. Applying the mortar to no more than one or two tiles at a time, the fresh flooring was put into place and left to dry. All excess mortar was wiped up so it would not dry onto anything that it should not be permanently on.
Once the mortar was dry, walking upon the tile was acceptable and the grout was applied. The grout was left to harden overnight. Sealant was applied the next day, completing the job.
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