Ceramic ceiling tile provides beauty as well as functionality in the bathroom. Aside from enhancing the appearance of the room, ceramic tile is very easy to care for and not easily blemished. Steam and shower spray can damage regular painted ceilings, but ceramic tile actually acts as a protector. Ceramic tile is fairly easy to install, as long as time is taken to ensure a good application.
Instructions
1. Prepare the ceiling by installing the cement board or green drywall; score it with a utility knife to snap it into pieces to fit the area to be tiled, and attach to existing ceiling using galvanized screws set 6 inches apart. Finish seams with the fiberglass tape.
2. Plan your tile pattern by finding the center of the area to be tiled and use the level to figure the intersecting vertical and horizontal lines. Mark this spot with a pencil. "Dry fit" the first row by starting at the center mark and working outward, because both end tiles need to be close to the same size. The vertical center mark may have to be adjusted to accomplish this.
3. Begin installation of the tile by applying a coat of tile adhesive to a 3 inch by 3 inch area, on one side of the center mark, being careful not to cover lines. The smooth side of the trowel should be used to spread the adhesive, then create ridges with the notched side.
4. Press each tile firmly in place with a bit of a twist to be sure it adheres well. Use tile spacers on each corner of each tile for uniform grout lines. If end tiles need to be cut, score the line to be cut with the tile cutter and snap along the line, smoothing the edges with sandpaper to reduce the chances of being cut. Use nippers to remove small pieces, allowing tiles to fit around arches or curves, and let the tile set overnight.
5. Use sanded grout for spaces between tiles that are larger than 1/8 inch. After mixing the grout, apply it with the float to the grout lines, using a 45-degree angle and making sure that the grout reaches the bottom of the seams. Wipe the excess off using a sponge dipped in clean water.
6. Buff the grout with a cloth after letting it dry for 1/2 hour, and then again after 24 hours, removing any dull residue. Seal edges that meet with the tub or vanity with silicone caulk. Use a spray-on shower cleaner with mildew-resistant agents to keep the ceramic tile and grout looking like new.
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