- 1). Clear any dirt or debris from the brick with a stiff bristled brush, switching to a wire metal brush for ingrained dirt.
- 2). Mix a batch of thinset mortar in a bucket using an electric drill and a paddle bit attachment to incorporate the water fully into the dry mortar mix. Mix the thinset thin, to the consistency of a thick batter. Apply the mortar to the bricks using a brush and trowel to level the brick and mortar lines in for placing the tiles over. Smooth the mortar with the flat of the trowel, and then allow the thinset layer 24 hours drying time.
- 3). Mix a second batch of thinset, this time creating a mixture with the consistency of peanut butter to serve as an adhesive for the tiles.
- 4). Spread the mortar over the bricks, covering a section about four feet square. Place the tiles onto the mortar, using tile spaces to create uniform spacing and consistently running joints among the tile rows. Press the tiles firmly into place into the mortar, using a slight twisting motion to spread the mortar evenly along the tile rear. After covering the first section, apply mortar to an adjacent section and work on tiling that area as well.
- 5). Check each section upon finishing for level by placing a carpenter's level across the placed tiles. Make leveling adjustments when needed by pressing high tiles further down into the mortar, and adding additional mortar beneath low tiles.
- 6). Allow the mortar 24 hours setting time after tiling.
- 7). Remove the tile spacers from between the tiles and apply tile grout to the joints by pushing the grout between the tiles with the edge of a grout float. Wipe excess grout from the tiles with a damp sponge, then wait two hours and wipe again with a lint-free cloth to avoid creating tile haze. Wait another two weeks to allow all adhesive and grout components enough time to cure completely.
- 8). Cover the tile and grout surface with tile and grout sealant to protect the materials from water and stains. Brush the sealant in place with a paintbrush then wait 72 hours for the sealant to dry.
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