If you’re thinking about installing tiles on your boundary wall or renovating your home, you might have come across the idea of tiling your boundary wall. Many people assume that tiling is a simple task: the mason comes in, uses a hammer and some cement, and the tiles are placed. But that’s not how it works! There are essential steps to follow to ensure your tiles remain securely attached and last for a long time.
In this blog, I’ll walk you through the basic process of properly installing tiles on a boundary wall, ensuring durability and safety. If you skip these steps, there’s a risk of tiles falling off after a year or two, which could cause serious accidents, especially if the tiles are installed at a height.
Let’s begin with the process.
Step 1: Paint Removal
The first crucial step is removing any paint on the boundary wall. If there’s paint on the surface, it’s essential to get rid of it before applying tiles. Here’s why: If the paint remains and the tiles are placed on top, the paint will eventually form a flaky layer, and the tiles may peel off with it. To avoid this, use a grinder to remove the paint. Though it creates dust, this step is necessary to ensure a strong bond between the wall and the tiles.
Step 2: Check the Plaster
Once the paint is removed, the next thing you should check is the plaster on the wall. Sometimes, masons may cut corners to save time and money by not properly securing the plaster. If the plaster is loose, the tiles will not adhere well and will eventually fall off. Check the plaster by tapping it gently with a hammer. If it sounds hollow or loose, it needs to be fixed before proceeding with the tile installation.
Step 3: Choose the Right Type of Tile
It’s crucial to use the right type of tile for wall installation. For boundary walls, always opt for ceramic tiles, not vitrified tiles. Ceramic tiles are the best choice because they bond well with the cement and offer a variety of beautiful designs. Before installation, it’s important to soak the tiles in water so that they can absorb moisture, helping the cement bond better. Using dry tiles can cause hairline cracks within a few months as the cement heats up and pulls the tile in different directions.
Step 4: Cost Considerations
Many people think that proper tile installation will cost more. However, the only additional cost here is for paint removal, which might cost around ₹500-600 for 200-250 sq. ft. of area. The benefits far outweigh the costs, as this ensures the safety and longevity of your tiles, reducing maintenance costs in the long run.
Step 5: Cement and Adhesives
The cement mix used for tile installation is critical. When tiling a boundary wall, ensure that two bags of high-quality latex-based cement adhesive are mixed with the regular cement. This will improve the bond between the wall and the tiles, ensuring they stay in place for years.
Final Thoughts:
By following these steps, you ensure that your boundary wall tiles will stay intact, reducing the chances of accidents. Don’t skip any of these steps to save time or money; they are essential for the safety and longevity of your installation.
