- 1). Calculate the square footage of the area to purchase the correct amount of tile. Multiply the length times the width to find the square foot amount needed. Begin installation by finding the layout. For flooring, use a tape measure to find the center of a room and mark two points away from each other. This will be your starting point. For walls, find a center line both vertically and horizontally to start out at. Mark the center points and snap a chalk line, connecting them.
- 2). Mix thinset mortar in a bucket, following the manufacturer's directions. Use a notched trowel -- 1/4-inch is preferable to allow for slight variation in tile thickness -- to apply the thinset mortar to the initial immediate installation area. Apply only enough thinset mortar for the first piece of travertine. Apply pressure to the piece and verify that it is lined up correctly on the center chalk line.
- 3). Continue the process from Step 2, installing the second piece and so forth. Continue installation until all of the full pieces or "courses" are installed. Allow at least 12 hours to pass before attempting the "cutting-in" process. Allowing time for the travertine tiles to dry will enable you to walk on them as you cut in the floor.
- 4). Purchase or rent a wet saw for cutting in the Philadelphia travertine. Measure the pieces to cut and mark the pieces with a construction pencil. Do not use a permanent marker, as this will stain the stone. Place the piece on the wet saw's cutting tray, line up the pencil mark with the blade, and slowly push the piece through the blade. Dry cut pieces with a dry cloth, apply thinset mortar to the floor and install the pieces.
- 5). Wait 12 hours for the cut-in areas to dry before proceeding. Sweep or vacuum dust and sediment off the surface of the Philadelphia travertine before attempting the grouting process. Mix matching grout in a bucket to a medium or bubble gum consistency. Use a grout float to apply the grout to the seams between the stone. Do not smear the grout over the entire surface of the stone. Allow time for the grout to stiffen. Use a a bucket of clean water with a sponge to clean the excess grout from the surface of the stone. Repeat if necessary. Allow the grout to completely dry (typically 1 to 2 hours) before giving the travertine a final cleaning with clean water. Allow 24 hours to pass and apply a tile sealant, following the manufacturer's directions.
SHARE
