4 Tips for Installing Pebble Tile Flooring Like a Pro

Pebble tile floors are gaining momentum as a minimalistic interior and exterior decorative trend across the country. 

Besides the fact that it looks striking, natural stone tiles are also relatively low cost compared to other shower floor tile options. You can even install it on your own (of course, always call a professional or pebble tile shop if you have doubts) without heavy-duty equipment or technical skills.

If you’re thinking about installing pebble shower tiles in your bathroom, outdoors, or in the garden and you want to turn it into your very own DIY project, there are a few tips and tricks to make the process smoother.

Let’s get right into it, shall we?

1. Laying the Thinset

Thinset is the layer of adhesive that will help tiles stick to the floor underneath. Using a trowel, slather on a layer of Thinset that is no more than ⅛” in thickness. 

2. How to install pebble tile

Next, gently lay each pebble tile down on top of the Thinset, positioning them so that the sides match up and the edges interlock.

Pro Tip: If you want to make sure that the seams don’t show after installation, instead of interlocking the pebble tiles, leave a thin space between each tile- just enough to place loose pebbles in between. This will erase any visible seams.

3. Fix the gaps

After laying down the tiles, are there visible gaps that need to be filled? You’re probably thinking it’s time to learn how to cut pebble tile. That’s not the case! If you cut pebble stone shower tiles, it creates an uneven appearance. Instead, collect loose pebbles from spare tiles and use them to quickly and easily fill in any gaps.

4. How to grout pebble tile floor

Before getting out the grout for your freshly laid pebble floor tiles, apply a layer of sealant. This will help make it easier to clean grout off the pebble tiles so they don’t absorb the grout color.

Now, mix your grout to the desired consistency, and starting from the corner of the floor, spread it evenly on top of the pebble tiles. Be generous here, and make sure to really pack it in between the pebbles.

Pro Tip: Avoid urethane grouts and opt for standard cement or high-performance types. Just be careful and closely monitor high performance, because they tend to set quickly.

Let the grout set for 20 minutes, then use a damp sponge to wipe the area several times until the excess grout is gone and the pebbles are completely clean. Let it sit for 24 hrs, then apply your final coat of sealant.