Okay now that you have decided to install tile, you have decided on the type, color, design and the area to tile. You have to prepare the area for the tile, let's begin with the easy part.

1.The surface area must be clean and free of any holes, cracks,or rough spots. Fill all holes with Spackle on walls or floor leveler on floors. Sand all rough spots after filling cracks and holes.

2. Use a mastic that is recommended for the type tile you are applying to the surface. You can only work so fast so don't spread more mastic then your are going to cover in a short time. it is best to lay out in sections the area to be covered.

3. Work from a straight line.If you are covering a large area start with a straight line in the middle and work outward. That allows you to hide the cut pieces in the corners and sides. To do this strike a chalk line to use as your starting point. (lay out a dry set of tile to see how it fits so you can plan for your cuts).

4. When you are doing wall tile you will need a support line. Starting at the bottom and working from one corner lay out three or four tiles and then start the second row, then the third and work out and up. Make sure you check for alignment after each row by using a level. If you are installing a pattern of tile lay enough foundation on the first row to give room for the full pattern to develop, then begin the next section.

5. If you are putting down linoleum tile pieces the same principles applies. Some of these tile require that you role over them when finished to make a solid, even fit and glue. With Pavers and ceramic tile a tap with a rubber mallet will set the tile.

Once the tile has been set you will need to fill the gaps by spreading the mastic over the creases and let set a couple minutes before wiping the excess off. Do not let it set for more than a few minutes as it will set up and be difficult to remove. A wet sponge will remove most of the excess.

Some ceramic tile can be buffed to take off any residue left by the mastic. Use a soft cloth or a car buffer pad to bring a shine to the tile.