Setting Out

This means that there are two options:

1. either the centre of the tile in the centre of the wall, or
2. the centre joint between the two tiles positioned either side of the centre line.

As a general rule, tiling should be set out from the centre of the wall.

A measuring gauge will help you plan the position of your tiles.

To make the measuring gauge, take a length of timber and mark the width of your tiles including the spacers along it.

Check each option to see which gives the most advantageous cuts to the ends at each side of the wall, the window and the border design. Fixing battens will help you to keep the tiling straight.

Find the lowest point you are tiling to, e.g. a skirting board, position the nearest full tile at this point, mark above the tile, and using a spirit level, draw a level line.

Nail a batten to the wall below the line to work to. Ensure that the batten is level because your first row of tiles will rest on it. Or use Tilego.

Draw your centre line as a start point with the help of a spirit level to check the vertical line is straight. Either fix a vertical batten as a guide or use your pencil line to tile up to. Start your tiling where the two vertical and horizontal lines meet, in the centre point chosen on your wall.

Looking for wall tile ideas? Wall tile is typically used for kitchen backsplashes, shower and bathtub surrounds, or for entire walls within bathrooms (due to tile’s superior ability to withstand moisture).

Note that wall tile installs and behaves differently than floor tile: the emphasis is on aesthetics and moisture-resistance. It’s not necessary to consider wear ability, because no one will ever walk on wall tile.

Also note that if you have ever installed floor tile, you might think that wall tile is a piece of cake. Gravity is the gremlin of wall tile installation, as tiles that are not securely adhered will begin slipping downward. In particular, heavier ceramic tile and natural stone may prove difficult for DIY tilers to install as wall tile.