From the Floors Up

Expert Advice on How to Install Backsplash (Part Three)

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Once your tile has been installed, allow the adhesive to dry.  You may want to keep outlet covers off while grouting. Know that some sanded grout can actually remove the finishing on tiles.  You may need to invest in grout without sand for your home project.  You should also check with the manufacturer for the proper grout sealer. An appropriate sealer of grout will help prevent cracking in the grout.  It can also prevent spills from absorbing into the grout and discoloring the area.  Grout sealer is an important step to make sure your home backsplash looks perfect for years to come.

Grouting

Once your tiles are set, you can remove your tile spacers.  Put on your rubber gloves when applying sanded grout.  You may need to mix your grout depending on your purchase.  Use your bucket and add water and grout to create a homogeneous mixture.  For premade grout, you are ready to go without mixture.  Once your grout is prepared, apply the grout onto tiles.  Use your grout float at a ninety-degree angle and sweep grout into the crevasses.  Next, use a wet sponge to remove excess grout from the top of tiles.  You may need to repeat this process several times.  Make sure you do not remove grout from where you want it to be while cleaning the tiles.  Now use a dampened rag to remove the remaining grout from the tile surface. This must be done before the grout hardens, so be wise with your time.  Once your grout has set, you can apply the recommended sealer.  Using a paintbrush, apply your sealer to your grout.  Allow your sealer to dry.  Most sealers do not appear glossy when applied, so read the manufactures recommended drying time.

It is best to hire a professional for this type of installation. If you do decide to install backsplash yourself, be careful and do your research. Measure all cuts before making them and have fun.  This project can be a day-long project so prepare for it.  For more tips from the floors up, visit our blog hub here. 

Expert Advice on How to Install Backsplash (Part Two)

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Having the right tools for the job will set you up for success. Like any project, your preparation is crucial before installation. Learn how to properly prep and install your tiles below to have a better understanding of the installation process:
Prep
First, you need to measure and decide how you would like to layout your backsplash. Decide if you want your tiles on a forty-five-degree angle or straight across.  Wipe down your wall with a wet sponge and remove all dust and dirt.  If there is prior adhesive, you may need to sand to get your wall to an even coat.   Remove all outlet covers as well as light switch covers.  You will want to loosen your outlets as well, so they can sit on top of your tiles you are installing.  Use your notched trowel and spread out your tile adhesive. Next, take your level to make sure your tiles are level.  You may also want to pencil in all the spots you are tiling, so your adhesive is not spread in access areas.  Spread your adhesive in the regions that you can tackle in thirty-minute increments. Do not put adhesive over the whole wall immediately. Some wall tiles will come with built-in spacers, but if not, make sure to have your spacers ready.
Installing Tiles
By now, you should know how you want your design to look.  If you are doing a brick layout or a herringbone, measure your tiles and make your cuts using a tile cutter.  Start from the bottom up and use your spacers to keep the tiles even and from sliding.  You can now use your grout float as well to press the tiles and make sure that they are evenly spaced from the wall.  For your outlets or cuts that may need an “L” cut, use a pencil or washable marker and draw out your cuts.  Take your tiles to your wet saw and make the appropriate cuts.  Whenever making any cuts, remember to put on your safety glasses and be extremely careful.  The wet saw is not forgiving and can severely hurt you.  Remember, loose particles can also fly into your eyes even without power tools when cutting.  Continue installing your tiles and making cuts as needed.  Build the pattern of your tiles as you go and do not try to jump ahead.  Use your rag or sponge to remove any access glue that may have come through the grout lines.  Allow tiles to set depending on the time length your tile adhesive suggests.
Cut your tiles slowly and carefully. Try to be meticulous on your cuts and sand and rough edges. The time you invest in the project can show in the end-product. Check out Expert Advice on How to Install Backsplash | Part 3 to find out the final stage of grouting your tiles.

Expert Advice on How to Install Backsplash (Part One)

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Your kitchen is the heart of your home. It is where you prepare your food, and it can also serve as a casual hangout. Amongst the many stylish additions in a kitchen, backsplash serves multiple purposes in your kitchen and may be worth the investment. Backsplash not only gives your kitchen a completed look as well as adds character to your home, but it is easy to clean and prevents splashing onto your walls. With thousands of styles available, picking the perfect backsplash for your home can be a fun and perfect way to personalize your style. To help you in the process, we put together the step by step installation if you are looking to tackle this project yourself. Let’s take a look and see how:

Supplies

The right supplies will help make this task go a lot smoother. Installing backsplash takes some artistic skills as well as handwork skills. It is recommended to hire a professional for this home improvement, but if you would like to do it yourself, you will need to pick up or rent a couple of tools.

You will need:

1. The tile of your choice
2. The grout of your choice (Note: some sanded grout may take off the finish of your tile)
3. A sponge
4. Some rags
5. A bucket
6. Tile Adhesive
7. Drill with a mixing attachment
8. Tile Cutting hand tools
9. Level
10. Grout Float
11. Wet Saw
12. Tile Spacers
13. Notched Trowel
14. Pencil or Washable Marker
15. Rubber Gloves
16. Caulking Gun
17. Caulk
18. Paintbrush
19. Safety Glasses

Having the right tools and equipment is essential. Your kitchen’s backsplash can be tricky, and it is best to hire a professional for the job. If you do decide to do this project yourself, make sure to invest in all the correct safety equipment as well. Some power tools can be extremely dangerous and even life-threatening. Installing your own backsplash is a great way to become united with your home and invest time into home projects. Your custom style and design can show throughout your installation. Continue reading Expert Advice on How to Install Backsplash | Part 2 to learn how to properly install your tile.

Brilliant Tips for Dealing with a Bathroom Remodel

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After a long decision process, you have decided to remodel your bathroom and may not know what exactly to expect. Fear not, because we have created a quick and easy guide for dealing with a bathroom remodel. Let’s take a look.

Tips for Dealing with a Bathroom Remodel:

Tip #1: Before You Begin. . .

Starting a remodel can be an exciting process, and as much as you may want to get started, we recommend waiting until all of your materials are delivered. Once you have received everything for the project, you can begin the remodel. If you start the remodel without having all of your materials on site, you may be delayed and have unforeseen events happen with your deliveries.

Tip #2: Cover Floors Attached to Your Bathroom.

In any remodel and renovation, there will be a lot of dirt, dust, and debris. While one room is undergoing a remodel, you may not want the rest of your home to resemble they same amount of dust. To help control all of those unwanted particles, we recommend covering your floors outside of your bathroom. This will help deal with all of the foot traffic and leave your home looking like a home.

Tip #3: You Will Need a New Bathroom.

During any remodel, you will need a makeshift room to take on the responsibilities of the old room. With bathrooms, things can get a little more challenging, especially if your home only has one bathroom. If you do not have access to another bathroom, you will want to ask your contractor to set up a temporary bathroom with a shower and toilet. The setup will need to be added to the overall budget; therefore, if you have the chance to use another bathroom, we highly recommend it.

Tip #4: Expect The Unexpected.

Unfortunately, construction can come with a lot of unforeseen circumstances. From delayed materials to scheduling errors, your dream bathroom could be further out than you planned. To help make sure that you are ready, we recommend having some wiggle room in your budget and schedule. Try and expect the unexpected before it happens to you.

Tip #5: Make Memories.

Sure, remodeling can be overwhelming and stressful, but only if you let it be. Try and embrace everything that this journey has to offer. Take pictures of the renovation and remember that you will have your dream bathroom soon.

We hope you enjoyed these tips. Be sure to check out our other expert advice at From The Floors Up. Thanks for reading!

Your Guide to Everything Bright

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Light plays a huge factor in a room’s overall feel and energy.  Different lighting can change the entire atmosphere.  It is essential to tailor your light fixtures to enhance your space rather than diminish your room’s worth.  There are three primary purposes for lighting in a room: general, ambient, and task.  Balancing all three in a room can be challenging, but it can tremendously improve your design.

General Lighting

First, you will want to decide what your room’s general lighting option will be.  This is your deliberate attempt to illuminate your space. Overhead lighting is, generally, a great place to start.  This lighting option should be the room’s focal point of illumination and should fill the whole room.  You can go with different overhead lighting options or incorporate something elegant like a chandelier.  A chandelier will be a bold, statement lighting option that gives the room most of the energy.

Ambient Lighting

Next, you will want to incorporate ambient lighting.  This can be spotlights projected on to pictures and dimming spotlights along a rail. They will help set the room’s feel and help drive the eye towards the focal point in the room.  Ambient lighting is essential to help amplify the room’s aesthetic and design style.

Task Lighting

Lastly, make sure to include the use of task lighting.  This is lighting you may have above a workstation or a desk.  You may also want to have light beside your bed as night lights or even a lamp on the side table of your couch.  Task lighting is vital to help amplify the room’s light in particular areas.
Understanding different illuminating options is pivotal to picking the right lights.  Too little of lighting can make a room feel dark and small. Windows and natural lighting are great at opening up a space, but sometimes your room does not give you those amenities. Adding the right lights to your home is essential to creating a lively, energetic atmosphere.  Your lighting options should complement your design style of the room and accentuate the room’s ambiance.  Picking the right light choices can be challenging, but with a better understanding of options and styles, you should be well equipped for the task ahead of you.

From the Floors Up

From the Floors Up blog was created with the goal of providing a destination for consumers, designers and those interested in the flooring, design, and kitchen and bath industries. Here you’ll find, current, accurate and informative information that is always just a click away!

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