How to Tile a Wall With Porcelain Tile?

Covering a wall is a great way to transform the look of a room. Wallpaper, fabric are excellent media for redecorating. Although ceramic tile is often used for flooring and countertops, it can serve as a patterned surface for a wall. Italy, China and the United States are known for creating porcelain tile designs used in home decoration. You will want to take extra time when applying the tile, to ensure it is straight and well spaced. Porcelain tile is also known for being fragile, so you will need to work carefully. Find out how to tile a wall with porcelain tile.

Apply final sealer. Apply a penetrating sealer using either a sponge or spray bottle to the grout joints once the grout has completely cured. Wipe off excess sealer from the tile immediately as it will stain the tile. Clean the tile’s surface. Wipe the tile with a rag soaked in mild soap and water. Examine the cleaned surface for damage.

If the tile is cracked, you’ll need to replace it before you continue. Choose a drill bit. An ordinary steel drill bit may fail to penetrate the tile, or cause it to shatter. Search for an appropriate bit using the following guidelines: Glass or tile bits are shaped to reduce the risk of shattering brittle materials. These should be carbide-tipped.

Diamond bits are especially vulnerable to damage from fast drilling. Drill no faster than 600 rpm for diamond bits below ½ inch (1.25 cm), or 450 rpm for bits from ½ to 1 inch (1.25—2.5 cm). Lubricate with water as you drill. Friction from drilling hard materials creates a great deal of heat, which can scorch the drill bit or even break the tile. Protect your project and extend the lifespan of the drill with a constant trickle of water. You may use a small hose, or an assistant with a squirt bottle or glass of water.

“Pump” the drill every 15 to 20 seconds with a tiny up-and-down motion. This draws water to the tip of the bit, where friction is greatest. The drill bit should never feel more than slightly warm. If it gets hot, stop and wet it until it cools down. As an alternative, lubricate the drill with drilling oil.

Penetrate the backing board. You can switch back to a regular drill bit for this process if you prefer. Continue to drill slowly and patiently, as it is just as important to maintain the wood or drywall behind the tile. Damaging the backing board can make it difficult to anchor your screw or whatever you plan to insert.