Easy Installation of Travertine
- 1). Lay the tiles in a trial arrangement, beginning at the main entrance to the room and working backward. Don't throw away the broken tiles. You may be able to use these for corners or edges.
- 2). Measure and cut tiles for corners and edges using a wet saw before you begin. Although this is not necessary, it will save you a lot of time and possible mistakes once the thinset is down and you've already placed your tiles.
- 3). Mix your thinset mortar with water according to the label's directions. You want a thick, creamy consistency.
- 4). Apply the thinset to a four- to five-square- foot section, using the flat side of your trowel. Then use the notched side to comb the mortar.
- 5). Lay your first tile and check for levelness using a carpenter's level.
- 6). Lay your second tile and insert spacers between the tiles for a tight and uniform fit. Typically in floor tile installation the spacers used are between ¼ and 5/16 inches, depending on how you want the overall floor to look.
- 7). Continue laying the tiles, checking for levelness and inserting spacers until all of the tiles are laid.
- 8). Leave the finished floor for about 72 hours to allow the thinset to cure. Do not walk on the tiles during this period.
- 9). Remove the spacers and sweep away debris. Seal the tile using at least two coats of tile sealant. Typically, a professional installer will spray the sealant on, but you can roll it on as well. Be careful to apply a thin and even coat.
- 10
Leave the tiles to dry for at least four hours before grouting. - 11
Mix the grout according to the label directions. - 12
Apply the grout to the joints of your tile, using a grout float to wipe it on over the entire surface of the tile. - 13
Wipe away excess grout with a damp tile sponge before the grout has dried. - 14
Leave the grout to dry overnight before walking on the floor. After about two days, sweep the room to remove any debris that may have settled, and then apply another coat of sealer.
Source...