Updates to your home make it more comfortable while you are living in it and add value in the event that you want to sell or draw equity. You can change the entire look of a room and add durability to your floor with properly installed tile. Making the remodel decision is easier than actually installing the tile, but following the right steps simplifies the process.

1. Gather your tools- Here are some of the things you will need:

1. Scrapers
2. Wedging tool
3. Sandpaper
4. Spacers
5. Level
6. Chalk string
7. Tile cutter
8. Knee pads
9. Measuring tape
10. Sponge
11. Grout
12. Tiles
13. Tile cement

2. Prepare the area- The underlying floor itself will need some work. Remove any old adhesives that may be left from the previous floor. Sealing cracks in concrete may also be necessary. You want your floor to be level all the way across, so that your new tile floor will be even and last for years. Also be aware of parts of the room that will require you to cut tiles. Thinking about this during the preparation stage will make the work more efficient during installation.

3. Find the center- The exact center of your floor is where you will begin laying the tile. First measure the center points of the walls of the room. Then stretch your chalk string from wall to wall, stretched from center point to center point. Now “snap” it down and it will leave chalk lines giving you an accurate center point of the floor.

4. Do a practice run- Lay tiles down without any adhesive. Use your spacers and make sure that you like the look and that the center has actually been found. A dry run is important because it easy to fix mistakes when you haven’t used any adhesive.

5. Install the tile- Once your floor is prepped, you know where center is and you have completed your practice run it is time to get started. You will be working on one small section at a time. Space out the section you will be working from (starting from the center of the room of course) and apply your chosen adhesive. Then carefully place tiles in straight lines. Use your spacers to help keep your floor uniform. Work quickly so that the adhesive dries against the back of the tiles, but don’t go so fast that you lay the floor unevenly. The corners of the tiles should be next to each other to obtain the look you want for your finished floor. When laying the tiles, place them in a downward motion in the place you want them to be. Do not slide them or wiggle them into place. Place them gently, apply some pressure to spread the adhesive and move on to the next tile.

6. Lay the grout- After you have installed the individual tiles, you will need to let the adhesive set. Your best bet is to let the tile set for 24 hours before you begin grouting.

1. Start by removing the spacers you put down during installation.
2. Next vacuum the crevices between the tiles to remove any excess dirt or pieces of flaked adhesive.
3. Next mix your grout according to the instructions.
4. Spread the grout evenly over the open portions between the tiles. Make sure you are using enough to completely fill the gaps. Like with the tile installation, work in one section at a time.
5. Once you have spread the grout, use a damp sponge or cloth to wipe any grout that may be on the tile itself. Do this right away so that the grout does not have time to dry. You only want grout in between tiles, not on top of them.
6. Look over the whole floor when you are done grouting to make sure you have been consistent in all areas. This will be the best time to fix mistakes because once the grout sets it is very difficult to fix mistakes.

Consulting with a professional is a good idea before you begin any home improvement project. We are available to provide tips for projects you decide to undertake yourself. We can also reduce your workload and do the installation for you, ensuring a professional finish.

Handyman Connection is proud to serve the home improvement and home repair needs of Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Lakeland, Orlando, Bradenton, Sarasota, Naples, Ft. Myers, Melbourne, Merritt Island & Titusville.

Remodeling a bathroom is one of the best ways to add function and value to a home. Whether you are an ambitious do-it-yourselfer ready to undertake a complete remodel, or prefer to let the pros handle it, knowing the right steps can make the process go more smoothly. Follow these simple steps to take your bathroom remodeling project from concept to reality.

1. Draw up a budget—and commit to it. Be realistic about the cost associated with a bathroom remodel. Replacing fixtures, flooring, and other materials can really cost you. Make a bathroom “wish list,” do some research on cost, and then decide on the scope of your project.
2. Consult the experts. Even if you plan to do the work yourself, talk to a licensed independent contractor and get an estimate for the work. He’ll be able to estimate how much labor is really involved and point out any items you may not have considered, such as replacing that ancient plumbing.
3. Check on permits. If a contractor is doing the remodeling, he should take care of all the permits for you. Avoid a contractor who says he is unable to pull permits, or asks you to pull your own permits. Putting the permits in your name makes you liable for any errors or damage, even if the contractor made the mistake.
4. Choose your new materials. Keeping your budget in mind, decide on a new look for the bathroom, and choose materials accordingly. While it’s important to consider current trends in home design, your family’s needs are just as important. If the bathroom will get lots of use, go for durable materials that are relatively easy to clean.
5. Do the demolition. For many people, this is the most exciting part of any renovation project. But be careful not to damage underlying plumbing, along with any materials, such as flooring, that may be sticking around after the remodeling.
6. Install the new fixtures. Put in the items that require plumbing first: the tub or shower; sink; and toilet. These should go in before any tile, so that tile can be cut properly to fit around it. It’s advisable to let a professional do this step, because some seemingly minor details—like the shower drain—can cause major problems if installed incorrectly.
7. Lay the tile and flooring. Laying tile is a painstaking process. Be sure to complete each step properly, carefully cutting tiles with a wet saw if necessary. Plan on a few broken or mis-cut tiles when purchasing supplies. Meanwhile, be sure to space tiles precisely and allow plenty of time for the adhesive to dry before applying grout.
8. Paint the walls. Some people recommend painting before installing new fixtures and tile, to avoid paint spills. But carefully painting around these items can save on paint and create a more finished look. It also prevents the need to touch up walls that get scratched or marred during other installations.
9. Put in new light fixtures. Choose fixtures that match the overall look and feel of the bathroom, but provide sufficient light for tasks like applying make-up and shaving. Consider adding spotlights in the shower or in other areas that might get dim.
10. Add those finishing details. Install crown molding, baseboards, and hardware. These touches make the bathroom look complete and polished. If you plan on eventually reselling the home, go for a clean, understated look that will appeal to a broad spectrum of buyers.

Remodeling a bathroom is a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. By working through the process one step at a time, anyone can create a beautiful bathroom.