Method Statement on Glazed Tile Installation
A. Scope of Works
This method statement describes the procedure for the installation of floor and wall tiles,
ensuring the process meets the required quality, safety, and environmental standards.
Unit of Measurement: Square meter
Output per hour: 1.365 Sq.m/hour
B. Materials
C. Labor / Crewing
Construction Foreman: 1
Tile Setters: 5
Unskilled Laborer: 5
Tile Setters (Masons): Skilled workers responsible
for tile installation. They cut, lay, and level tiles,
as well as apply grout.
Helpers (Assistants): Assist skilled workers by preparing surfaces, mixing materials, and handling tools.
Supervisors/Foremen: Monitor the progress and ensure the quality of work is maintained as per
specifications.
D. Tools & Equipment:
Notched trowel Grout float
Tile cutter Measuring tape
Spirit level and straight edge Safety equipment (PPE: gloves, goggles,
Rubber mallet safety shoes)
Sponge and bucket
E. Methodology
1. Preparations
Inspection of Surface
• Ensure the substrate (floor or wall) is clean, dry, level, and free from any contaminants like dust,
grease, or paint.
• For uneven surfaces, apply a leveling compound as needed.
• Ensure proper curing of the substrate, especially for new concrete, as per specifications.
Waterproofing (for Wet Areas)
• Apply a waterproofing membrane as per manufacturer’s recommendations in areas prone to water
exposure (e.g., bathrooms, kitchens).
• Allow adequate curing time for the membrane.
Setting Out
• Measure the area and plan tile layout, ensuring that edge tiles are of even size to avoid slivers.
• Mark gridlines or centerlines using chalk to guide tile placement.
2. Installation Process
Application of Adhesive
• Mix the tile adhesive according to the
manufacturer's instructions.
• Use a notched trowel to apply adhesive evenly
on the substrate.
• Apply adhesive for a small area at a time to
avoid it drying out before tile placement.
• For large format tiles or exterior installations,
apply adhesive to both the substrate and the
back of the tile (back buttering).
Laying the Tiles
• Press tiles firmly into the adhesive, ensuring
they are level.
• Use tile spacers to maintain consistent joint
gaps between tiles.
• Regularly check levels using a spirit level.
• For wall tiles, start from the bottom and
work upwards.
Cutting Tiles
• Cut tiles as necessary to fit edges or
around obstacles using a tile cutter or
wet saw.
• Smooth edges with a tile file or
sandpaper.
3. Grouting
Mixing the Grout
• Prepare grout as per manufacturer’s instructions,
ensuring a smooth, lump-free mixture.
Application of Grout
• Apply grout to the joints using a grout float at a
45-degree angle to the tiles.
• Ensure joints are fully packed and there are no air
gaps.
Cleaning Excess Grout
• After about 15-30 minutes (when grout starts to
firm up), clean excess grout from the tile surface
using a damp sponge.
• Take care not to remove grout from the joints.
4. Finishing
Final Cleaning
• Once the grout has set (after 24 hours), perform a final cleaning using a clean, damp cloth to
remove any haze left by the grout.
• Polish the surface with a dry cloth if necessary.
Sealant Application (if required)
• Apply a sealant to the grout or natural stone tiles if specified, following the manufacturer’s
guidelines.
F. Possible Defects in Tile Installation and Solutions
Tile installations are prone to certain defects if not executed carefully. Below are some common defects along with
their causes and solutions.
3.1. Tile Lippage
• Definition: Uneven tile edges where one tile is higher or lower than adjacent tiles, causing trip
hazards or aesthetic issues.
• Cause: Poor leveling of substrate or incorrect troweling of adhesive.
• Solution: Ensure the substrate is properly leveled before laying tiles. Use a leveling system,
especially for large format tiles. Check the tile alignment with a spirit level regularly during
installation.
3.2. Hollow Tiles (Debonding)
• Definition: Voids under the tiles that lead to hollow sounds or eventual detachment.
• Cause: Insufficient adhesive coverage or improper trowel technique.
• Solution: Apply adhesive uniformly using the appropriate notched trowel. Ensure proper back
buttering for large tiles. Tap tiles gently with a rubber mallet to ensure full adhesion.
3.3. Cracked Tiles
• Definition: Cracks in the tiles either during or after installation.
• Cause: Poor handling of tiles, uneven substrate, excessive movement, or lack of expansion joints.
• Solution: Handle tiles with care and ensure the substrate is properly prepared. Use expansion joints
to allow for movement. Replace cracked tiles immediately.
3.4. Grout Discoloration or Cracking
• Definition: Grout joints that change color or crack over time.
• Cause: Incorrect mixing of grout, use of too much water, or excessive shrinkage during curing.
• Solution: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when mixing grout. Clean grout joints properly and
protect them from excessive moisture during curing. Use flexible grout in areas prone to movement
or temperature changes.
3.5. Uneven Grout Lines
• Definition: Inconsistent grout line width, causing uneven spacing between tiles.
• Cause: Lack of tile spacers during installation or uneven tile cutting.
• Solution: Use tile spacers consistently to ensure even grout joints. Ensure tiles are cut accurately
and placed correctly during installation.
3.6. Water Seepage or Moisture Retention (In Wet Areas)
• Definition: Water seeping through grout joints or around tiles, leading to mold or mildew growth.
• Cause: Poor waterproofing, inadequate grouting, or using non-waterproof materials.
• Solution: Ensure proper waterproofing in wet areas. Use waterproof grout or apply a grout sealant.
Check that tiles are installed tightly with no gaps or cracks for water to seep through.
G. Quality Control Measures
To minimize defects and ensure a successful installation:
• Surface Preparation: Ensure the substrate is clean, dry, and level before beginning tile installation.
• Adhesive Application: Use the correct trowel size and method to apply tile adhesive uniformly.
• Tile Alignment: Regularly check for tile alignment, levelness, and spacing during installation.
• Grout Application: Use appropriate grouting techniques and tools. Clean excess grout promptly.
• Post-installation Inspection: Inspect the tiles after installation for hollow sounds, alignment, and
overall quality.
• Curing Time: Allow proper curing time for adhesives and grout before exposing tiles to traffic or water.
