Tiling

Plan layouts, select tiles, prepare substrates, waterproof wet areas, grout correctly, and fix common failures.

BathroomsFloorsSplashbacksGroutOutdoor

Learn it properly

Tiling guides

2 published

Choose the guide that matches the decision in front of you:tile a kitchen splashback step by step · diagnose recurring cracked tiles or grout · check whether tiling over old tiles is appropriate

01T

Tiling · 1–2 days

How to tile a kitchen splashback: step-by-step guide

Tile a kitchen splashback with a level layout, neat socket cuts, the correct adhesive, consistent grout joints and flexible seals at every change of plane.

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02T

Tiling · 30–45 min assessment

Why do floor tiles or grout keep cracking?

Cracks often reveal movement below the finish, missing movement joints, weak bond or installation errors—not simply defective grout.

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A sound starting point

What to check first

Tiles are a finish, not a structural repair or waterproofing shortcut. Flatness, movement control, coverage and substrate preparation determine whether the installation lasts.

Assess the substrate

Confirm it is sound, clean, flat enough, dry enough and suitable for the tile size and location.

Plan movement joints

Keep required perimeter, structural and field joints free of rigid grout or adhesive and use the specified flexible detail.

Check coverage

Choose the correct trowel and periodically lift a tile to verify adhesive transfer, especially outdoors and in wet areas.

South Africa · Australia · New Zealand

Regional context

Tile installations face different moisture, heat, frost, salt and movement conditions across inland, coastal and alpine regions. Select the substrate, adhesive, grout, membrane and movement-joint design as one system for the location rather than choosing components independently.

Plan the work

A better project brief

Confirm performance first

Record wet-area, exterior, slip, frost, heat, chemical, load and cleaning requirements before choosing a tile for appearance.

Set out the complete field

Use actual tile and joint dimensions to balance cuts, align focal points and continue required movement joints through the finish.

Inspect as work proceeds

Check substrate, batch, adhesive transfer, joint depth and alignment before large areas cure. Photograph concealed membranes and movement details.

Common questions

Tiling quick answers

Can tiles be installed over old tiles?+

Sometimes, if the existing finish is firmly bonded, properly prepared, dry and compatible with the approved primer and adhesive system.

Why does grout keep cracking?+

Movement, deflection, poor joint design, weak mixing or insufficient depth may be involved. Regrouting alone will not fix structural movement.

How much extra tile should be ordered?+

Allow for cuts, breakage, pattern matching and future repair. The appropriate quantity depends on layout complexity, tile variation and whether the product may become unavailable.

Should grout be sealed?+

Some cementitious grout and porous tile benefit from an appropriate sealer, while other products do not require it. Sealer does not replace waterproofing or movement joints.

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