How to tile brick tiles: a step-by-step guide

Brick tiles provide a traditional aesthetic, with the staggered brick layout having been around for centuries.

This familiar, timeless look can enhance a wide variety of spaces, from bathrooms and kitchens to outdoor feature walls and floors.

The grout lines have a subtle rhythm, while horizontal brick tile layouts can make a wall feel wider and vertical and herringbone designs can add a sense of height and flow.

Green brick tiles are great for providing a natural, soothing aesthetic and white brick tiles are also a popular choice for their versatility and airy feel.

But when it comes to tiling brick tiles, there are a few things you need to consider – they require a slightly different approach to larger square tiles.

Learn how to tile brick tiles with this helpful step-by-step guide from Tile.co.uk’s experts.

Why tiling brick tiles is different

Tiling brick tiles poses a slightly different challenge to square tiles – it generally takes longer and demands more precision.

To achieve the staggered pattern associated with brick tiles, you’ll need to plan and set up an offset – how much of each brick tile overlaps with the brick tile in the row beneath it (usually a half or a third).

This leads to more cutting of tiles at the end of rows, and you’ll need to be extra careful when laying the tiles to make sure you don’t get any uneven lines. Even the smallest error can accumulate and lead to wonky rows. It’s crucial to be consistent with your spacing.

Then there’s the increased number of grout lines due to brick tiles being smaller and staggered, which can also add to the finishing time.

What you’ll need

Here’s a list of materials and tools you’ll typically need to install brick tiles:

Materials

• Brick tiles
• Tile adhesive
• Grout
• Anti-crack matting or tile backer board (for high-moisture areas)
• Edge trims or finishing strips
• Tile primer and sealer

Tools

• Tile cutter or wet saw
• Adhesive trowel
• Tile spacers
• Tile levelling system
• Grout float
• Mixing paddle or drill
• Rubber mallet
• Sponge & clean bucket
• Tape measure & pencil
• Spirit level or laser level
• Tile nippers

1. Preparation

First things first, you’ll need to check the surface where you’ll be laying your brick tiles.

The area must be clean and dry, so you may need to wipe the area down first to remove any debris and allow any moisture to air off.

The area also must be flat and strong enough to hold tiles. Anti-crack matting or tile backer board provides a stable, level surface and can be used if your wall or floor flexes or isn’t entirely flat. You’ll likely need to use these in high-moisture areas like bathrooms and kitchens to protect against swelling, disintegration, and water damage.

For porous surfaces, you’ll need to apply a primer to make sure the adhesive bonds properly.

After this is complete, use a spirit level or laser level to mark a level starting line. You’ll also need to decide on your offset (usually a half or a third of a tile) at this point. This is where each row of tiles is shifted relative to the one below it – creating the illusion of traditional brickwork.

It’s best to dry-lay a few rows to see how cuts will fall at the edges and make sure you’re happy with how it looks.

2. Mix and apply adhesive

Next, you’ll need to mix your tile adhesive if you’re using a powdered solution. If you’ve got a ready mix, you’ll be able to apply it straight out the tub.

Refer to the application instructions for your specific adhesive. There are a wide variety of adhesives suitable for different projects and spaces, so be sure to pick one that suits your needs.

Spread your adhesive onto the surface that you’re tiling with the notched side of the adhesive trowel, working in small sections so it doesn’t dry before you set the tiles.

3. Lay the first row

You can now place the first row of brick tiles along the reference line you marked earlier.

Press the tiles firmly into the adhesive and keep checking the tiles are straight with your spirit level.

Insert spacers between the tiles to make sure you have consistent joints. You can find various spacers with different widths and styles to best fit your project.

4. Create a staggered pattern

Beginning your second row is a crucial stage in tiling brick tiles.

You’ll need to start with a half or a third (depending on your preference) of a tile to create the offset. You can cut your brick tile with a tile cutter or wet saw.

You can then match the alternate rows to keep a consistent, staggered pattern across the area.

It’s important to keep checking that your tiles are even and aligned to the pattern you’ve started. You can gently tap the tiles with a rubber mallet to even out the distances between them.

You should also use your level to make sure your tiles are laid flat and don’t have any uneven edges (lippage).

5. Create edge pieces

When you reach the edge of the area you’re tiling, you’ll likely have an uneven space to fill.

You should measure and mark where specifically sized edge pieces are required and cut these accordingly.

You can use a tile cutter or wet saw for clean cuts, while nippers are suitable for small notches.

Then, you can apply these edge pieces to complete the laying process.

6. Drying and grouting

After this, you’ll likely need to let the adhesive cure fully. This varies depending on the specific product you’re using, but it’s typically around 24 hours.

You can then mix your grout as per the instructions and spread it with a grout float – or a grout spreader if you’re tiling a smaller area – pressing it firmly into the joints in a diagonal motion.

Work at a relatively swift pace, as the grout will begin to harden after about half an hour. Wipe away any excess grout with a damp sponge, rinsing frequently.

7. Finishing touches

Once the grout has started to set, you can polish off any haze - a thin, cloudy film of excess grout and other debris that usually remains on the tile's surface - with a clean cloth.

At this point, you can also install any trims or edging strips – which ensure clean lines and protect your tile edges - if you wish. This isn’t a necessity, but some people prefer the polished look of tile edging – particularly if the end of the tiling is in full view.

Finally, you can use a sealant on the tiles and grout if required. Some materials like natural stone and terracotta are porous and will need sealing if they’re being used in a wet area.

To find out if your specific tiles need sealing, check the product specifications, or perform a simple water test by leaving a damp sponge on the surface to see if it absorbs water and leaves a mark.

Start your project today!

You can now start tiling your brick tiles with confidence and create a striking, traditional-feel wall or floor in your home.

If you’re still undecided on which tiles are best for your space, you can browse our fantastic selection of high-quality brick-slip tiles.

Get adhesives, grout, tools, and accessories from Tile.co.uk too and kickstart your project today.