Installing tiles is one of those jobs that is easy if planned well, and frustratingly difficult if planned haphazardly.  Make sure you select the correct type of tile for the job.

You should treat each surface, or section of a surface, as a separate layout. This way you can choose the best layout for visibility.  The basic principle of any tile installation is to layout full tiles in the open areas of a wall or floor, and hide cut tiles in less visible areas.  Use chalk lines to create visual references to keep you layout parallel and level.

Start by doing a dry-fit layout of the tiles, before beginning installation.  You can judge the overall affect, make changes, measure tiles to be cut to fit and identify missing materials before you have cemented the tiles in place.  If you are working on a floor, place your first tile in the center of the middle of the most open area of the floor. Next, layout the rest of the tiles on the floor. 

If you are working on a backsplash or bathtub enclosure, put your first tile in the center of each wall section along the top edge of the countertop or bathtub.  The tiles will then be centered on the wall and cut tiles will be hidden in the corners.

Tools you will need: a level, chalk line, ruler, tile spacers, tile, cement trowel, grout trowel, tile cement, tile grout, a sponge and a bucket.

Kitchen renovations or upgrades are among the best ways to increase the value of your house.  Whether you intend a minor or major remodelling project, good planning is the key to success.  This article will help you formulate a sound plan and avoid some of the more common pitfalls of kitchen remodelling.

Your first task is to create a list of objectives for your renovation.  Ask yourself some questions.  Are the cupboards broken?  Is there enough storage room?  Does the layout make it easy to prepare meals?  What about the appliances?  Are they the correct size, in the correct location?  Are you looking to add an appliance, such as a dishwasher?  Do you want to add eating space in your kitchen?

Your objectives list tells you how extensive your project will be.  Replacing cupboards and making big changes to layout are major projects.  Updating the color, the handles, the flooring and the backsplash can each be done in a weekend.

Budget may play a part in your final choices.  You may want a major renovation, but only have the budget for a facelift.  A great deal can be done to improve a kitchen without a major renovation.  Upgrading the countertop, adding a backsplash, replacing dated hardware and changing the color of the walls can go a long way to adding new life to a tired kitchen.
Kitchen renovations or upgrades are among the best ways to increase the value of your house.  Whether you intend a minor or major remodelling project, good planning is the key to success.  This article will help you formulate a sound plan and avoid some of the more common pitfalls of kitchen remodelling.

With a sound plan, good preparation and a little imagination, your kitchen project can be a success.

XYZ Home Improvements specializes in assisting with consumer home repairs and renovations. Established in 1997, we have worked on everything from landscaping, painting, and kitchen facelifts to managing new construction and major additions to homes.