Ceramic Tile Floor Layout
The easiest way to handle a ceramic tile floor layout is by using a grid. It allows you to see where each tile will be installed and also keeps the floor square.
Find the largest ceramic tiles you are going to be using. Place about 3 linear feet of this tile end-to-end. Be sure to space each tile for the grout lines. Measure from the outermost edge to the edge of the closest 2 feet of tile, including the grout joints, and write down this measurement.
Go to a corner that has the longest and straightest walls. Using the recorded figure, measure and mark the floor at each end of the wall. Pop a chalk line between the two marks. Now do the same thing on the intersecting wall.
To see if the lines are square, find the point where the chalk lines intersect. Measure 36″ from the intersection, along one of the chalk lines, and mark the spot. Now measure 48″ from the intersection, along the other chalk line, and mark that spot. The distance between the two marked spots should be 60″. If not, be sure your measurements off the walls are correct. The most likely problem is that the walls are not square. Adjust the chalk line that is out of square and check everything again. You have to get this right or you will never get the tiles to align properly.
It’s best to pop the chalk lines off of your longest wall first. Using the figure you wrote down earlier, measure and pop the the next set of lines, using the chalk line you already laid out as the starting point. Repeat this process until the entire area is covered.
Start your ceramic tile installation in the corner you laid the two original lines. Keep the first grout joint to the wall. Use a 4′ level to keep your tiles straight. Be sure to keep the grout joint spaced accurately between tiles.
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