Tiling onto plaster is pretty straightforward. The same can be said in the case of new plaster, provided you have the right skillset and tools. Nowadays you can find a fantastic range of Budget Tiles for your walls and floors. Always make sure you plan your way by carefully measuring each step to avoid any mistakes. You may also tile on walls if the backing supports its weight and especially if the surface is even, clean and dry. A good practice here being, if you wish to tile a pattern, organize the layout before starting so that no time is lost and mistakes can be avoided.

Preparation is key here. Make sure to leave your wall for 14 days if it has been plastered recently before tiling on new plaster. If the plaster you wish to tile on is old, check for any crack or loose material. Also, tap to check if there are any hollow points. Do not proceed with tiling if you hear hollow sounds and if there are visible cracks. Repair these cracks and gaps with a filler or you may even replaster if necessary.

Always start by working out how many tiles will fit in a certain area. Your desired height, width, etc. Now mark where you will be placing your first tile. Do not start from places where your tile needs more than required adjusting or even cuts and modifications. A good starting point is always from the middle or at the center of the room. Always remember to use a spirit level for precision.

If you intend to tile in a wet room. Ensure you install a layer of cement board. This will make the area completely waterproof. You may also coat the plaster directly with a sealing primer for a decent base. Just make sure to give it 24 hours to settle.

It is important to note here that plaster is a weak material. Unlike brick and cement, there’s only a certain amount of weight it can take. When applying tiles to the plastered surface do not overload it more than 20kg/m2. This is roughly equivalent to a 9mm thick ceramic tile.

Make sure your new plaster is fully dried before you start tiling. Drying depends on temperature conditions but 4 weeks should be enough time for it to be fully cured. If not properly dried, water can get in and cause failure to appropriate tiling.

Applying adhesive to your neat plaster should be done carefully. Gypsum based products and cement do not go well with each other. They cause de-bonding and form a weak ettringite layer. To prevent this from happening plaster surfaces must be primed with a diluted acrylic primer or SBR. This forms a barrier between the two stops them from reacting. Also remember not plaster in a way to form a smooth, silky, and shiny surface with the new plaster. The surface should be roughed up with a brush before priming.