HOW TO TILE A FLOOR – A COMPLETE GUIDE

How To Tile A Floor – A Complete Guide

How To Tile A Floor – A Complete Guide

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Tiling a floor can completely transform any space in your home. Whether you're upgrading your kitchen, bathroom, hallway, or even a utility room, a professionally tiled floor offers both durability and style. At Pros Nearby, we specialise in delivering expert flooring and tiling services to homes and businesses across the UK. But if you’re thinking of tackling a small tiling job yourself, here’s our complete, easy-to-follow guide on how to tile a floor like a pro.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Materials

Before you start, make sure you have all the essentials:


  • Floor tiles of your choice

  • Tile adhesive

  • Grout

  • Notched trowel

  • Tile spacers

  • Spirit level

  • Tile cutter

  • Rubber float

  • Sponge and bucket

  • Tape measure and pencil


If you're unsure which type of tile to use, our team at Pros Nearby can help you choose the right material for your space and foot traffic needs.

Step 2: Prepare the Floor Surface

A clean, dry, and level surface is key to a professional finish. Remove old flooring, nails, or adhesive residues. Fill any holes or cracks, and use a self-levelling compound if necessary. This preparation ensures your tiles stay flat and securely in place.

Step 3: Plan Your Layout

Start by marking the centre of the room and laying out a dry run of tiles. This will help you decide the best layout and reduce small tile cuts at the edges. Use tile spacers to visualise the grout lines.

Top tip: Avoid having tiny tile slivers at the walls—cut tiles evenly from both sides for symmetry.

Step 4: Apply the Tile Adhesive

Using your notched trowel, spread tile adhesive on a small section of the floor—working in manageable areas to prevent it drying out. Press the tiles firmly into place, using spacers to keep gaps consistent. Use a spirit level to ensure all tiles are even.

Continue working across the floor, adjusting tiles as needed. Leave the adhesive to dry for at least 24 hours before walking on it.

Step 5: Cut and Fit Edge Tiles

Measure and cut the edge tiles to fit the remaining spaces using a manual tile cutter or electric wet saw for tricky shapes. Always wear safety goggles when cutting tiles.

Fit them as you did before, making sure all gaps and levels match the surrounding tiles.

Step 6: Grouting

Once the adhesive is completely dry, remove tile spacers and begin grouting. Use a rubber float to press the grout into the gaps. Wipe away excess grout with a damp sponge, cleaning the surface gently without removing grout from the joints.

After the grout has dried (usually within 24 hours), buff the tiles with a soft cloth to remove any haze.

Step 7: Final Touches

Seal the grout if necessary (especially in bathrooms or kitchens) to prevent stains and moisture absorption. Allow the floor to settle for at least 48 hours before placing furniture or rugs.

Leave It To The Experts

While DIY tiling is rewarding, it’s not always easy—especially in larger rooms or uneven spaces. If you’d prefer a hassle-free, perfect finish, let the experts at Pros Nearby handle it for you. Our skilled team offers high-quality flooring and tiling services tailored to your needs.

Get in touch today to book your tiling project—we’re just around the corner and always ready to help.

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