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How to tile a wall

Freshly tiled wall with neat dark grout lines

Overview

Tiling a wall is a great way to give your space a fresh, modern look. Whether you’re updating a kitchen splashback tile or adding a feature wall in the bathroom, the right technique will ensure a professional finish. Follow this step-by-step guide to learn how to tile a wall.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Steps

1Prepare the wall

Before you begin tiling, make sure the wall is clean and free from dust or grease, as these can prevent the tile adhesive from bonding properly. If you’re tiling over plasterboard, check that the surface is even. Minor imperfections can be corrected using tile adhesive, but if the wall has large humps or uneven areas, you may need to remove the plasterboard, straighten the timber studs, and install new plasterboard. For added support, locate the wall studs and secure the plasterboard with plaster screws every 200mm, then fill the screw holes with filler and allow it to dry.
Wipe the wall to ensure it's free of dust and grease

2Calculate how many tiles you need

To work out how many tiles you’ll need, measure the height and width of the area you’re tiling and multiply these numbers together to calculate the total area in square metres. Check the coverage on the tile packaging and divide your total area by the coverage per box. It’s always a good idea to round up and add at least 10% extra to allow for cuts, mistakes, or spares for future repairs. If your design includes intricate patterns, you may need more tiles to account for extra cuts and wastage.
Measures the area to calculate how many tiles are needed

3Mark the midline

Before applying tiles, mark the midline of your wall to ensure a symmetrical layout. Use a tape measure and a spirit level to find and draw a vertical midline. This will help keep your tiles straight and ensure that any cut tiles at the edges are even, creating a balanced and professional finish.
Mark the midline using a spirit level on the wall

4Protect the surrounding area and apply primer

To avoid accidental spills or damage, cover nearby surfaces with a drop sheet and apply masking tape to any areas you want to protect. Once everything is covered, apply a primer to the wall to help the adhesive bond properly. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and allow the primer to dry completely before moving on.
Apply primer to the wall to help the adhesive bond properly

5Apply the adhesive

Start by spreading the adhesive onto the wall using a notched trowel. Work in small sections, beginning at the bottom and moving upward. Applying too much adhesive at once can cause it to dry before you have a chance to place the tiles. Ensure the adhesive is spread evenly to create a strong bond and a level surface for the tiles.
Apply the adhesive using a notched trowel

6Lay the tiles

Once the adhesive is applied, start installing tiles from the midline and work outward and upward. Press the first tile firmly into the adhesive, ensuring it sits evenly and securely. Continue placing tiles one by one, using tile spacers to maintain consistent gaps for grouting later. As you work, regularly check the alignment of your tiles with a spirit level to keep everything straight and even.
Installing white tiles on the wall using adhesive and spacers for even gaps

7Cut tiles to fit

As you reach the edges of the wall or encounter obstacles like power points or corners, you may need to cut the tiles to fit. Measure and mark each tile carefully before using a tile cutter to make a clean, precise cut. Double-check the fit before applying the cut tile to the adhesive. Take your time with this step to ensure a professional-looking finish.

Once all the tiles are in place, allow the tile adhesive to dry as per the manufacturer’s instructions, usually around 24 hours. Avoid disturbing the tiles during this time to ensure a strong bond.

Cut tiles using a tile cutter

8Apply the grout

Once the adhesive has dried, remove the tile spacers with pliers. Prepare the grout according to the manufacturer’s instructions, then use a grout float to press it into the gaps between the tiles. Work in small sections and wipe away any excess grout with a damp sponge before it dries on the surface.
Apply the grout using a grout float

9Finish with cleaning and sealing

Once the grout has set, give the tiles a final clean with a dry cloth to remove any residue. Check for any missed spots and touch up as needed. To complete the project, apply a colour-matched silicone sealant to any corner joints using a caulking gun. This will create a clean, professional finish and help prevent water damage.
Finish with grout sealing and cleaning with a dry cloth to remove any residue

10Looking for more inspiration?

Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.