How to Lay Tile in Brick Pattern

If you have mastered the basics of laying tile, you can now try to position them in a brick pattern. Follow these easy steps to achieve your desired look.

Step 1: Clean and Level the Floor

Before you can start your brick pattern, you need to clean the floor surface and level it. Sweep up any debris and mop the surface to remove any remnant substances. Then, use a self-leveling agent according to the manufacturer directions and allow it to fully dry. If you do not wish to use a self-leveling agent, you will need a level to manually check the floor as you go.

Step 2: Find your Center

The brick pattern requires precision. You need the tile edges from one row to line up exactly with the center of the tiles in the next. If it is slightly off, the problem gets worse the further into the project you get. To be this exact, you must first mark the exact center of your room. Find and mark the center of each wall, and then use a chalk line to connect them.

Step 3: Install in Sections

Although there are self-sticking tiles, it is likely you need a layer of adhesive, like thin-set. Begin by applying your adhesive to about ¼ of the floor according to manufacturer instructions and using your notched trowel. Begin laying your first row of brick pattern tiles at the center of the room. Apply each tile straight down and press tightly against each other. If you reach the wall and the space it too small for a full tile, you will have to cut it to fit. Clean up any adhesive that comes up between tiles so it will not interfere with your grouting.

Step 4: Starting Your Next Row

You second row of your brick pattern has to begin at the exact center of the first tile of the previous row, moved in toward the wall. Apply tiles again moving toward the wall. You will start your third row exactly in line with the first and continue to alternate as you apply the tiles. This creates the brick pattern. Once you have placed all the tiles in that section, move to another quarter of the room and repeat the process and be sure not to leave gaps for the grout.

Step 5: Grouting

Apply grout over the tiles and work into the spaces between tiles. While you are applying the grout, you don’t want it to harden. Use a grout sponge with round edges to keep grout from drying while you apply the grout by squeezing a small amount of water onto the surface. Once you have worked the grout into the spaces, use the sponge to remove the excess and allow to fully dry. Once dry, clean up any remaining grout residue.

A brick pattern provides a nice way to break up the gridded floor; it creates interest and can even make a room appear larger. You can create even more interest by installing the tiles on the diagonal. Now that you have the steps, the possibilities are endless.