How To Lay Wood Plank Tile Flooring

How to Lay Wood Plank Tile Flooring: A Comprehensive Guide

Wood plank tile flooring has become increasingly popular in recent years, offering the natural beauty of wood in a durable, easy-to-maintain material. If you're considering installing wood plank tile flooring in your home, here's a comprehensive guide to help you through the process.

Materials and Tools

Before starting, gather the following materials and tools:

Wood plank tiles
Thin-set mortar
Notched trowel
Grout
Grout float
Spacers
Level
Rubber mallet
Caulk gun

Preparation

Prepare your subfloor by ensuring it's clean, level, and dry. Remove any existing flooring, and make necessary repairs to any unevenness or damage.

Laying the Tiles

Spread the thin-set mortar evenly over a small area of the subfloor using the notched trowel.

Align one edge of a wood plank tile with an adjacent wall or target line. Use spacers to maintain even gaps between the tiles.

Press the tile firmly into the mortar bed, ensuring it's level. Use a rubber mallet to gently tap on the tiles to secure them.

Continue laying the tiles in rows, working your way across the floor.

As you lay the tiles, offset the joints between rows to create a staggered pattern.

Grouting

Once the tiles are laid, allow the thin-set mortar to cure completely (typically 24-48 hours). Then, mix the grout according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Using a grout float, apply the grout into the spaces between the tiles, pressing firmly to remove any air pockets.

Cleaning and Sealing

Allow the grout to set for a few hours, then wipe away any excess with a damp sponge. Allow the grout to cure completely (typically 72 hours).

To protect the flooring, apply a tile sealer according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Trimming and Edging

Use a tile saw to trim the excess tiles around the edges of the room. Apply caulk around the edges of the tiles to seal any gaps and prevent moisture damage.