Always plan the design and layout on paper first, especially if you are going to mix
shapes and designs. Take account of the fixtures and fittings in the room as the
design will have to work alongside these features.
Try to avoid patterned tiles at
internal corners where they will have to be cut and the beauty of the design could
be lost. Also try to avoid using a quarter or less of a tile on an end wall or at
ceiling level, as the small parts are very difficult to accurately cut without
breaking the small end section.
Use a wooden stick and mark the length of tiles in increments along its
length and then use it as a tile gauge. Remember to allow spacing for grouting.
Use the stick vertically to check the number of rows of tiles to be laid and the
space left at ceiling level. If necessary, move the markings up or down the wall
to allow at least half a tile to be placed along the top row at ceiling level.
Check the measurements carefully and nail a thin batten as a starting guide level
near the skirting. The part-tile below the batten should be at least half a tile
width. The part-tiles are fixed after all whole tiles are laid. Measure the wall
and mark the centre. Using the stick, plan horizontal rows of tiles on the wall,
starting at the lower batten level.
