How to Install Quarry Tile
Quarry tile is one of the most common commercial kitchen floor finishes, and for good reason. It is durable, clean, and looks great. Installing this tile properly involves several key steps to ensure durability and a professional finish. Here’s a general guide to help you through the process:
Materials and Tools Needed:
Quarry Tiles: Purchase enough quarry tiles to cover your floor area, plus extra for cutting and mistakes. We recommend 10% extra.
Thinset Mortar: Use a latex-modified thinset mortar suitable for heavy floor tiles.
Grout: Choose an epoxy grout that complements your quarry tiles and is appropriate for the tile joints.
Tile Spacers: These ensure even spacing between tiles. 3/8” spacing is typical for quarry tiles.
Notched Trowel: Used to spread the thinset evenly.
Grout Float: For applying grout into the joints.
Tile Cutter or Wet Saw: To cut tiles to fit around edges and corners.
Level: To ensure your substrate is level before tiling.
Sponge and Buckets: For cleaning and mixing.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide:
1. Preparation:
Prepare the Subfloor: Ensure the subfloor is clean, dry, and free from debris. It should also be level and structurally sound. If needed, repair any cracks or uneven areas.
Layout Planning: Plan the layout of your tiles, starting from the center of the room and working outward. This helps ensure even cuts along the edges.
2. Mixing Thinset Mortar:
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to mix the thinset mortar. It should have a consistency similar to peanut butter.
3. Applying Thinset:
Spread Thinset: Use a notched trowel to spread a layer of thinset onto the subfloor, starting from the center where your first tile will be laid. Only apply enough thinset that you can comfortably tile over before it dries out.
4. Laying Quarry Tiles:
Place Tiles: Press each quarry tile firmly into the thinset mortar, twisting slightly to ensure a good bond. Use tile spacers to maintain consistent joint widths between tiles.
Cutting Tiles: Use a tile cutter or wet saw to cut tiles to fit around obstacles or along edges. Measure twice and cut once to ensure accuracy.
5. Grouting:
Wait for Mortar to Cure: Allow the mortar to cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions before grouting (usually 24-48 hours).
Apply Grout: Mix the grout according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use a grout float to press the grout into the joints at a 45-degree angle.
Clean Excess Grout: After 15-20 minutes, wipe off excess grout with a damp sponge. Rinse the sponge frequently in clean water to avoid smearing grout onto the tiles.
6. Finishing Touches:
Seal Grout: Once the grout has fully cured (after a few days), apply a grout sealer to protect the grout from stains and moisture.
Clean Up: Clean any remaining haze from the tiles with a soft cloth.
Tips for Success:
Work in Sections: Especially if you’re new to tiling, work in small sections to ensure the mortar doesn’t dry out before you can lay the tiles.
Double-Check Level: Use a level regularly to ensure your tiles are even as you lay them.
Safety: Wear safety goggles when cutting tiles to protect your eyes from shards.
By following these steps and tips, you can install quarry tile effectively and achieve a professional-looking floor that will withstand the test of time.