Module 2: Tile Selection & Layout 

Choosing the right tiles and planning their layout is crucial for both aesthetics and functionality. Poor tile selection or an unbalanced layout can lead to material waste, installation difficulties, and an unappealing final result. This module covers tile types, quantity calculations, layout planning, and key considerations for spacing and expansion.

1. Understanding Tile Types and Materials

Different tile materials have unique properties, affecting durability, maintenance, and suitability for various applications.

Common Tile Materials:

• Ceramic Tiles:

• Made from clay and fired at high temperatures.

• Pros: Affordable, versatile, easy to maintain.

• Cons: Less durable than porcelain, prone to chipping.

• Best for: Walls, low-traffic floors, kitchens, and bathrooms.

• Porcelain Tiles:

• Denser and more durable than ceramic (fired at higher temperatures).

• Pros: Water-resistant, frost-proof, scratch-resistant.

• Cons: Harder to cut, more expensive.

• Best for: High-traffic areas, outdoor use, wet rooms.

• Natural Stone Tiles (Marble, Granite, Slate, Travertine):

• Each type has unique textures and colors.

• Pros: Luxurious appearance, durable.

• Cons: Requires sealing, can stain, expensive.

• Best for: Feature walls, floors (if properly sealed).

• Glass Tiles:

• Non-porous, available in mosaic sheets.

• Pros: Stain-resistant, modern look.

• Cons: Fragile, difficult to install.

• Best for: Backsplashes, accent walls.

• Quarry & Cement Tiles:

• Quarry tiles: Unglazed, slip-resistant (common in commercial spaces).

• Cement tiles: Handmade, vibrant patterns (require sealing).

2. Calculating Quantities and Cuts

Accurate measurements prevent material shortages or excessive waste.

Steps for Calculating Tile Quantity:

1. Measure the Area:

• For floors: Length × Width = Total Sq. Ft.

• For walls: (Length × Height) – (Door/Window Areas).

2. Add 10-15% Waste Factor:

• More for diagonal layouts or complex patterns.

3. Check Tile Size & Box Coverage:

• Example: If a tile is 12" × 12", each covers 1 sq. ft.

• If a box contains 10 tiles, it covers 10 sq. ft.

Cutting Considerations:

• Wet Saws: Best for precise cuts (porcelain, stone).

• Tile Nippers: For small curved cuts.

• Manual Cutters: Suitable for straight ceramic cuts.

3. Layout Planning and Pattern Design

A well-planned layout ensures symmetry, minimizes cuts, and enhances visual appeal.

Layout Types:

• Grid (Straight) Layout:

• Simplest method, tiles aligned in straight lines.

• Offset (Brick) Layout:

• Staggered by 1/3 or 1/2 tile length (avoids a "checkerboard" look).

• Diagonal Layout:

• Tiles set at 45° for a dynamic effect (requires more cuts).

• Herringbone or Chevron:

• Popular for wood-look tiles; creates movement.

Planning Steps:

1. Find the Center Point:

• Use chalk lines to mark the room’s midpoint.

2. Dry-Lay Tiles:

• Test the layout before adhesive application.

3. Adjust for Balance:

• Avoid small, awkward cuts at edges (shift layout if needed).

4. Working with Different Tile Sizes

Mixing tile sizes (e.g., subway + large-format) requires careful planning.

Key Considerations:

• Large-Format Tiles (≥15"):

• Require a perfectly flat substrate to prevent lippage.

• Use leveling clips for even alignment.

• Mosaic Tiles (≤2"):

• Often come in mesh-backed sheets.

• Use a small-notch trowel (3/16" V-notch).

• Mixed-Size Patterns (e.g., Moroccan fish scale):

• Pre-lay the design before installation.

5. Spacing and Expansion Considerations

Proper spacing prevents cracks due to thermal or structural movement.

Tile Spacing Guidelines:

• Floor Tiles:

• 1/8" to 1/4" for most tiles.

• 3/16" to 1/2" for large-format or outdoor tiles.

• Wall Tiles:

• 1/16" to 1/8" for small tiles (e.g., subway).

• Natural Stone:

• 1/4" or more (stone expands/contracts more).

Expansion Joints:

• Perimeter Gaps: Leave 1/4" gap near walls (covered by baseboards).

• Movement Joints in Large Areas:

• Every 20–25 ft in floors, 8–12 ft in walls.

• Use flexible silicone caulk (not grout) in these joints.

Grout Line Consistency:

• Use tile spacers for even gaps.

• Sanded grout for joints >1/8" (prevents cracking).

• Unsanded grout for joints <1/8" (smoother finish).

Conclusion

Proper tile selection and layout planning ensure a professional, long-lasting installation. Always:
✔ Test layouts before fixing tiles.
✔ Account for waste in material calculations.
✔ Follow spacing guidelines to prevent cracks.