Timber look tiles have become a popular alternative to hardwood. There are a number of reasons that homeowners are making the switch to this flooring material. Wood flooring gives homes a sleek and polished look. However, they require a lot of maintenance. If the material is not refinished regularly, then it will get scratched and develop an ugly wear pattern.
Timber look tiles, on the other hand, are waterproof, don’t dent, and won’t creak. They’re not without fault though. Installing this type of flooring comes with its own set of unique challenges. While the specifics of laying this type of flooring varies depending on design and specification, the following is a general guide on how to lay timber-look tile and make it look like real timber tiles.
Reduce Lippage
One of the first things you’ll notice about wood-like material is that the tiles are not flat. When you look at them closely, you’ll realise that the centre is higher than it should be. This can often result in lippage, aka uneven flooring, if not installed correctly. So how do you avoid lippage when timber look tiles have high centres?
- Prepping the Floor Surface. Ensure that the floors have no more than a 1-cm deviation within 3 metres of each other.
- Find Any Dips or Peaks. The groundwork for your flooring also has to be even. Use a chalk line to sketch out the room to see if there are any variations in the floor’s height. Mark them with tape or pencil.
- Fix Those Dips and Peaks. Once you’ve found all the floor’s holes, cover them with a thin set. Use your trowel to spread it either. Any peaks you find should be ground down.
- Clean the Surface Area. Clear your floor by using a water and sponge to get rid of any drywall, debris, and dirt.
Use a Tile Levelling System
Even with all dips and peaks gone, your final result may still leave your floors with some lippage. A tile levelling system can be the ultimate solution for those worried about too much lippage from their timber look tiles. These systems ensure that the surface of your floors is flat thanks to its interlocking design.
Pay Attention to the Orientation of the Tiles
Another simple way to ensure your timber look tiles are installed properly is to run the flooring material across the room first. Begin with the first two rows. Utilise an aforementioned tile levelling system to ensure that each row fits perfectly.
Once you’ve made sure that these first couple of rows are flat and aligned, continue your work by completing one row at a time. Be sure to take your time.
The Bottom Line
Laying down timber look tiles can be a very demanding process. Hopefully, the advice above can make your installation process easier. For high-quality ceramic timber look tiles in Perth, look no further than Ceramic Tile Supplies. We have been providing a variety of kitchen, bathroom, and floor tiles for over 50 years. Our tiling expertise can also help you with all your timber look tile needs.