Installing 2 x 2 tile can greatly enhance the look of your kitchen or bathroom, and give it a distinctive feel. Some 2 x 2 tile comes with a mesh backing already attached to it, however some 2 x 2 tiles are sold and packaged individually. Purchasing the 2 x 2 tile with the mesh backing to keep sheets of tiles together (typically it will keep nine 2x2 tiles together) will be most beneficial if you are installing the tiles as a backspash in a kitchen, or installing the tile on a wall such as a shower/tub. In addition, you can also install 2 x 2 tiles on the floor area of a kitchen, bathroom or other room in your home in the same way. By utilizing some basic tile tools found at your local hardware store, this is a project that can be easily completed by many novice handymen.
Instructions
1. Measure the area where you will be installing the tile. Multiply the length of the area by the width of the area to determine the square footage of the area that will need to be tiled. Then, determine how many tiles you will need to purchase. Be sure to purchase a few extra tiles in case of breakage.
2. Wipe down the area with a wet sponge, being sure to clear the area of any debris or dust. Apply a waterproof sealant to the wall. This is especially important in a bathroom area because of the additional moisture. Spread the sealant over the surface evenly with a paintbrush and allow it to dry for at least two to three hours.
3. Lay the tiles out in the design you want on the floor or another surface. This will help you visualize it better, especially if you have a design with various colored tiles. This will help eliminate any mistakes.
4. Mix the grout in a bucket according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Then spread the grout in a thin layer (less than 1/4 inch) over a small area. It is easier to work with a small portion of the installation surface to prevent the grout from drying out.
5. Begin laying the tiles on the grouted area, starting from an outside edge of the surface. Leave 1/8 of an inch in between each tile as you install them and be sure that they are even on the surface. Gently press each tile into the grout so that they stick firmly.
6. Cut any tiles that need to be trimmed with a diamond blade on your circular saw. Several tiles may need to be cut to accommodate for doorways or other structures, and because the 2 x 2 tiles may not fit perfectly across the surface.
7. Continue installing all the tiles over the surface and allow the area to set and dry.
8. Mix an additional amount of grout. Use the trowel to install additional grout to fill in between the tiles. Wipe off any excess grout from the tile with the wet sponge before the grout is allowed to dry.
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