How to Prepare a Wall for Tile

• 1). Remove any moldings from around the wall. This includes ceiling and floor moldings and any decorative moldings around windows in the wall.
  
  
• 2). Remove existing wall coverings. Paneling, wallpaper or wallpaper murals, and any existing tiles need to be removed from the drywall or backer board.
  
  
• 3). Check the drywall to ensure it is secure to the framework of the house. The drywall should be secured to the studs with screws or nails.
  
  
• 4). Remove drywall if you are installing the tile in a shower stall or around a bathtub. Install water-resistant backer board to replace the drywall. This will ensure your wall does not rot from moisture and fall down.
  
  
• 5). Make sure the surface of the drywall or backer board is smooth. Remove any dirt, dust, dried putty or glue from the surface. Sand lightly if necessary to ensure a smooth surface. Repair any cracks or holes in the drywall and sand to smooth.
  
  
• 6). Sand the surface lightly if you did not have to remove any wall coverings or replace the drywall. If you are starting with a painted surface, sand the wall lightly and wipe free of dust.
  
  
• 7). Find the center of the wall by measuring the height and the width of the wall and mark at the intersecting points.
  
  
• 8). Snap a chalk line in the center from top to bottom and again from side to side. This divides the wall into quadrants.
  
  
• 9). Proceed with tile installation.