16 Tiling Flashcards
1
Q
What are the characteristics of tile surfaces?
A
Beautiful, durable, and fairly easy to install if patient
The durability of tile installations depends on the integrity of the substrate beneath.
2
Q
List some types of tiles mentioned.
A
- Slate
- White porcelain hexagonals
- Mexican pavers
- Tumbled marble
- Glass mosaic
- Brick veneer
- Cast cement
- Limestone quarry tile
Tiles can also be painted and kiln-fired.
3
Q
What is the first step in assembling a materials list for tiling?
A
Sketch the area to be tiled, including dimensions and fixtures
This sketch should account for corners and adjoining surfaces.
4
Q
What should you consider when selecting a tile store?
A
Choose a store with knowledgeable staff who can answer questions
Visiting on a weekday may provide more assistance.
5
Q
What should you verify about a tile before installation?
A
The manufacturer’s specifications for suitability
Ensure the tile is appropriate for its intended use.
6
Q
Why is it important to reconcile tile choices with budget?
A
Some tiles can be very expensive and availability may vary
Check if specially ordered tiles can meet renovation timelines.
7
Q
What is trim tile used for?
A
To finish edges and corners in tile installations
Trim tile is especially important for counter installations.
8
Q
What should you test with a tile sample at home?
A
Its suitability for the intended location
Simulate actual use by scuffing, banging, or dribbling water on it.
9
Q
How does tile color affect room perception?
A
- Light-colored tiles make a room seem larger
- Dark tiles make a room seem smaller
Light colors show dirt more readily, while vivid colors can overwhelm large areas.
10
Q
What is grout?
A
A specialized mortar that seals the joints between tiles
Grout color impacts the overall look of the tiled surface.
11
Q
What are the differences between manufactured and handmade tiles?
A
- Manufactured tiles have a clean look and uniform size
- Handmade tiles offer unique color but require more skill to install
Handmade tiles often need adhesive applied to each back.
12
Q
What are the four official categories of tile based on water resistance?
A
- Nonvitreous
- Semivitreous
- Vitreous
- Impervious
Nonvitreous is the most absorptive, while impervious is the most water-resistant.
13
Q
What type of tile should be used in wet areas?
A
Vitreous or impervious tiles
These tiles are less hospitable to bacteria and mold.
14
Q
What is the basic tool kit for tile installation?
A
- Safety equipment: rubber gloves, goggles, respirator mask, voltage tester, knee pads
- Measuring and layout: straightedges, framing square, spirit level, pencil, chalkline, tape measure, story pole, scribe
- Setting and grouting: notched trowel, margin trowel, plastic spacers, rubber mallet, grout float, sponge, clean rags
- Cutting: snap cutter, tile nippers, utility knife, wet saw
- Cleanup: sponges, rags, plastic buckets, shop vacuum
- Miscellany: hammer, wire cutters
This kit covers safety, measuring, setting, cutting, and cleanup.
15
Q
What is the purpose of a straightedge in tiling?
A
To check if surfaces are flat and align tile edges
It helps in marking layout lines on substrates.
16
Q
What safety equipment is recommended for tile cutting?
A
Goggles, rubber gloves, and a respirator mask
These protect against dust, shards, and skin irritation.
17
Q
What is a snap cutter used for?
A
Making straight cuts on vitreous tile
It scores the tile in one pull and snaps it along the line.
18
Q
What is the function of a wet saw in tile installation?
A
To cut almost any type of tile cleanly
It is particularly useful for nonvitreous or irregular tiles.
19
Q
What is a carbide-tipped hole saw used for?
A
Cutting holes for faucet stems and pipe stubs
It should be used with a cordless drill for safety.
20
Q
What tool should be used to cut curved lines in tile?
A
A handheld grinder with a diamond blade
Make a series of shallow passes for best results.
21
Q
What is the purpose of a notched trowel?
A
To spread adhesive and create parallel ridges for tile setting
Notch height should be about two-thirds the thickness of the tile.
22
Q
What is the function of a grout float?
A
To apply grout into the joints of tiles
Requires at least two passes for effective application.
23
Q
What do plastic spacers and wedges do in tile setting?
A
Enable alignment of tile edges to layout lines
Essential for ensuring uniform grout lines.
24
Q
What is the role of a beater board in tile setting?
A
To gently seat tiles in adhesive
Not all tilesetters use a beater board.
25
Fill in the blank: Setting means ______ tile to a substrate.
[positioning and adhering]
26
What materials are typically used in a durable tiling job?
A layered approach, including:
* Floor joists
* Plywood substrate
* Waterproofing membrane
* Cementitious backer board or mortar bed
* Thinset adhesive or organic mastic
* Tiles
* Grout
* Sealer
## Footnote
This layered approach is often compared to a layer cake.
27
What is the best practice for controlling mess during tile setting?
Cover floors with builder's paper or plastic, mask off cabinets, and line the tub with a drop cloth
## Footnote
Vacuum debris as it accumulates.
28
What is a mortar bed?
A setting bed created by screeding mortar to create a flat surface
## Footnote
Ideal for walls that aren't plumb or floors that aren't flat.
29
What are the characteristics of backer board?
Durable, stable, unaffected by moisture, and easily cut
## Footnote
Also known as cementitious backer units (CBUs).
30
True or False: Unpainted drywall is an acceptable setting bed for wet installations.
False
## Footnote
Never bond tile directly to drywall in damp or wet installations.
31
What are the three major groups of adhesives used in tile installation?
* Mastics
* Thinset adhesives
* Epoxy thinsets
32
What is the key disadvantage of organic mastics?
They are the weakest adhesive option and inappropriate for wet or heavy-use areas
## Footnote
They require nearly flat setting beds.
33
What is the bucket life of most thinsets after mixing?
About two hours
## Footnote
They begin to set in 15 to 20 minutes.
34
What is the purpose of a waterproofing membrane?
To prevent water damage in damp or wet areas
## Footnote
Should be installed before tile and grout.
35
What is the recommended overlap for installing waterproof membranes?
4 inches
## Footnote
This applies to both lower courses and vertical seams.
36
What should you do with leftover grout after tile installation?
Wrap it in a plastic bag, label it, and store it in a dry place
## Footnote
It is also advisable to buy matching caulking.
37
What is bullnose edge trim used for?
It is used to finish the edges of tiles.
38
What should you do with extra grout after installation?
Wrap it in a plastic bag, label it, and store it in a dry place.
39
What are the main components of grout?
* Sand * Cement * Coloring agent
40
What is the purpose of additives in grout?
To stabilize color, increase water and stain resistance, and increase strength and flexibility.
41
How should grout be prepared before use?
Mix with liquid and allow to stand for 10 minutes before final stirring.
42
When should sandless grout be used?
For joints narrower than 1/8 in.
43
When should sanded grout be used?
For joints 1/8 in. and wider.
44
What is a waterproofing membrane?
A barrier that prevents water from penetrating surfaces.
45
What is Fortifiber’s Super Jumbo Tex 60 Minute?
A fiber-reinforced barrier that is tougher and more water-resistant than regular building paper.
46
What is the purpose of using an impervious membrane in shower pans?
To protect the wood substructure from water damage.
47
What material is commonly used for shower pan membranes?
30-mil, fiber-reinforced chlorinated polyethylene (CPE).
48
What should be done if existing surfaces are not sturdy and stable?
Assess and potentially repair or replace the surfaces.
49
How can you check if walls are plumb?
Use a long spirit level or a plumb bob.
50
What should you do if surfaces are out of plumb?
Correct the condition or do not tile.
51
What is the maximum acceptable variation for level floors in a 10 ft. span?
1/8 in.
52
What is the recommended method for checking for deflection in walls?
Thump walls with your fist or jump on the floors.
53
What should be done before tiling to ensure a smooth installation?
Remove fixtures and other obstructions.
54
What should be done with the toilet before tiling?
Remove it to avoid unsightly tile cuts around its base.
55
What is the ideal height for a toilet flange?
The same height as the finished floor.
56
What type of installations require exact framing and level surfaces?
Thin-bed installations.
57
What are the tolerances for mortar-bed installations compared to thin-bed installations?
Mortar-bed tolerances are roughly double those for thin-bed.
58
What should be used to attach backer board?
Corrosion-resistant screws or nails.
59
What should you do if the height of the floor increases significantly?
Replace the closet flange and set it higher.
60
What type of screws should not be used with backer board?
Drywall screws.
61
What is an electrical box extender?
A plastic sleeve used to extend electrical boxes flush with new tiled surfaces.
62
What is the purpose of sealing gaps around valve stems and pipe stubs?
To prevent water from getting behind the wall.
63
What should you use to cover cut tiles around plumbing fixtures?
Escutcheons.
64
What should you do before removing a sink?
Shut off the water and disconnect supply lines and drainpipes.
65
What should be done to ensure new faucet assemblies fit after tiling?
Buy new faucet assemblies with longer valve stems.
66
What should not be used to attach backer board?
Drywall screws
## Footnote
Drywall screws can shear off and corrode in damp applications.
67
What is a box extender?
A plastic sleeve that screws to an existing electrical outlet box
## Footnote
It makes the box face flush to a new tiled surface.
68
What is the recommended clearance when cutting door bottoms for tile installations?
1/4-in. clearance
## Footnote
This is to ensure doors can open without obstruction after tiling.
69
What are the common types of setting beds mentioned?
* Backer board
* Mortar beds
* SLCs
* Drywall
* Concrete slabs
## Footnote
Setting tile directly on plywood is not recommended.
70
What are backer boards made of?
Cementitious backer units
## Footnote
They are strong, durable, and moisture-resistant.
71
What must be installed first in wet applications using backer boards?
A waterproofing membrane
## Footnote
This protects wood substructures from damage.
72
How often should screws or nails be spaced when installing backer board?
Every 6 in. to 8 in.
## Footnote
This spacing helps secure the panels adequately.
73
What is the optimal thickness of self-leveling compound (SLC) when used to level floors?
About 1 in.
## Footnote
Two 1/2-in. pours can achieve this thickness.
74
What should you wear when cutting and drilling backer-board panels?
A respirator and eye protection
## Footnote
Cutting produces dust that can be harmful.
75
What is the recommended gap between backer-board panels?
1/8-in. gap
## Footnote
This gap allows for expansion and contraction.
76
What is the proportion of materials for floor mud (deck mud)?
1 part portland cement, 5 parts sand, 1 part water
## Footnote
This mix creates a dry and crumbly consistency.
77
What type of drywall is acceptable for dry installations?
Unpainted drywall
## Footnote
Never adhere tile directly to drywall in damp or wet installations.
78
What is a safe practice before sanding older resilient flooring?
Take a sample to a flooring specialist
## Footnote
This checks for asbestos presence.
79
What technique is suggested for installing backer board to minimize waste?
Cut pieces lengthwise if possible
## Footnote
This reduces seams and increases strength.
80
What is the recommended thickness for plywood substrates?
At least 11/8 in.
## Footnote
This is best achieved by laminating layers.
81
What should be done to masonry surfaces before tiling?
Ensure they are clean, dry, and free from cracks
## Footnote
Active cracks may lead to tile damage.
82
What type of thinset should be used when covering old laminate countertops?
Epoxy-based thinset
## Footnote
This provides a strong bond for tiles.
83
What is the purpose of leaving a 1/4-in. expansion gap during tile installations?
To allow for material expansion
## Footnote
This gap will be filled with flexible sealant later.
84
True or False: Plywood is recommended as a setting bed for tile installations.
False
## Footnote
Plywood is not recommended but can be used if properly prepared.
85
What should be done to the surface before tiling over an existing tile?
Scuff the tile with carbide-grit sandpaper, vacuum the surface well, and wipe with a damp rag.
86
What is the purpose of snapping secondary layout lines in tiling?
To indicate where cut tiles begin and to help align tile joints correctly.
87
What should be done if the old tile is cracked or not well adhered?
Tear out the old tile and prepare the substrate properly.
88
What type of thinset should be used for tiling?
Epoxy thinset.
89
True or False: You can tile over existing tile in a shower stall.
False.
90
What is a story pole used for in tiling?
It is used to measure the number of full-size tiles needed to get from point A to point B.
91
What should be done to painted walls before tiling?
Sand them with 100-grit sandpaper and ensure the paint is well attached.
92
Fill in the blank: If installing a single layer of resilient flooring, it must be _______ to be acceptable for tiling.
well adhered to a stable subfloor.
93
What should be added to the calculated square footage for tiling to account for waste?
8% to 10%.
94
What is the recommended percentage of extra tiles to order for handmade or exotic tiles?
5% above your tile count.
95
List the components to be ordered separately from field tiles when tiling.
* Trim pieces
* Compatible adhesives
* Color-matched grout
* Caulk.
96
What is the primary purpose of layout lines when setting tiles?
To keep tile joints straight.
97
What should be done with cut tiles to ensure they are placed correctly?
Place them where they’ll be least noticed.
98
What is a good practice when cutting tiles around a focal center?
Try to cut tiles an even amount on both sides of the focal point.
99
True or False: It is acceptable to use tile pieces that are half size or smaller.
False.
100
What should be checked to ensure the room’s corners are suitable for tiling?
Check that the corners are square and parallel.
101
What should be done to thinset adhesive before setting tiles?
Spread it with a notched trowel and comb ridges into the adhesive.
102
What should be done if adhesive oozes up between tiles?
Use a notched trowel with smaller teeth.
103
How should the first tile be placed in relation to the control lines?
It should be aligned with the control lines to serve as a template for the grid.
104
What should be done before grouting the surface after tile installation?
Allow the adhesive to harden for a day.
105
What is the benefit of offsetting tile joints?
To add visual interest.
106
What is the recommended method for setting tiles?
Set all full tiles first, then attend to partial tiles.
107
What is the primary method for laying out tiles?
Using two primary control lines set at right angles.
108
What should you do first when setting tiles?
Set full tiles before partial tiles.
109
What is the benefit of offsetting tile end joints?
Creates a more interesting pattern.
110
True or False: Offsetting tile end joints requires less attention to detail.
False.
111
What must you check periodically while installing tiles?
Tile alignments using a straightedge, measuring tape, and framing square.
112
What should be done to ensure tiles are level during installation?
Check tile faces against the two primary layout chalklines.
113
What is the focal point when tiling a countertop?
The front edge of the counter.
114
What is the first step for tiling a straight counter with no sink?
Use a framing square and a story pole to survey the countertop.
115
Fill in the blank: Use a _______ to check the alignment of tile joints.
framing square.
116
What is the purpose of buttering the backs of tiles?
To ensure better adhesion when tile thicknesses vary.
117
What should be used to flash the countertop edges?
Self-sticking flashing such as Polyken Foilastic.
118
What is the minimum height for the flashing above the finish-tile level?
1 inch.
119
What layout consideration should be made for a straight counter with a sink?
Make symmetrical tile cuts on either side of the sink.
120
How many control lines are needed for an L-shaped counter?
Two major control lines running perpendicular to each other.
121
What should you do to ensure even tile widths along the sides of a kitchen sink?
Shift the layout or move the sink.
122
What should be checked to ensure tub walls are suitable for tiling?
Check if they are plumb using a 4-ft. level.
123
What is the minimum gap to leave between the bottom of the tile and the tub?
1/4 inch.
124
Why should you use a spirit level when laying out a tub back wall?
To locate the lowest point of the tub.
125
What should be done with the first course of full tiles in a tub surround?
Rest them on wooden strips nailed to the wall.
126
What should be used to check if tile courses are level?
Plastic shims.
127
What is the purpose of nippers when tiling around pipes?
To make curved cuts.
128
What should be done if grout is moldy?
Rejuvenate the grout joints.
129
What are spacers and shims used for in tiling?
Spacers are uniformly thick; shims are tapered.
130
What tool is recommended for making curved cuts around pipes?
Use nippers for the curved cuts around pipes.
131
What should you wear when using nippers?
Wear goggles when nipping.
132
What is a good practice for cutting tiles?
Measure each tile to ensure a better fit.
133
What tool is suggested for scrubbing moldy grout joints?
Use a soft-bristle plastic brush.
134
What solutions can be used to clean grout joints?
* Household cleaner
* Weak bleach solution
* Tile-specific cleaner
135
What should be done if grout is intact but dingy?
Scrub, rinse, and allow it to dry before applying a grout colorant.
136
What indicates that the substrate has deteriorated?
Loose tiles, flexing surfaces, or water damage around fixtures.
137
What tool can be used to cut out old grout?
Use a grout saw or an oscillating multitool.
138
What is the recommended waiting time before sealing grout joints?
Wait 72 hours before sealing the grout joints.
139
What is the method for removing hardened caulk along the tub?
Use acetone to dissolve caulk.
140
What safety precautions should be taken when using acetone?
* Wear rubber gloves
* Use a respirator
* Leave the bathroom window open
141
What should you do before starting to tile?
Establish level and plumb control lines on each wall.
142
What is a tiling unit?
A tile width plus one grout joint.
143
How should tiles be placed on the sidewalls?
A full column of tiles should be placed along the outside edges.
144
What is the best practice for taping specialty tile pieces?
Tape specialty tile pieces in place until thinset has hardened.
145
What is the typical composition of grout?
* Sand
* Portland cement
* Colorants
* Additives
146
What is the recommended liquid-to-powder ratio for mixing grout?
Refer to the labels on grout bags for specific ratios.
147
What consistency should grout have when mixed?
Like hummus or thick toothpaste.
148
What should be done after packing grout into joints?
Remove excess grout.
149
What type of sponge is recommended for cleaning grout residue?
Use a round-shouldered, tight-cell sponge.
150
What should be done after the grout has begun to set?
Wipe the tile with a clean, damp sponge.
151
What is a recommended sealant for grout?
* TileLab® penetrating sealant
* TEC™ sealants
