Many homeowners know how to install ceramic tile. However, installing natural stone tile may seem a little intimidating. The good news is that installing natural stone tile is very similar to installing ceramic tile. The biggest difference between installing ceramic tile and natural stone tile is that you will need to use a diamond blade wet saw instead of a wet saw with just a carbide tipped blade.

1
Measure the floor and mark the measurements on a cement backer board. Installing cement backer board is recommended in areas that are to receive a lot of water. Cut the backer board by scoring it with a utility knife on one side and snapping it on the other side.

2
Install the cement backer board with thin set mortar. Spread the mortar with a notched trowel. Screw the backer board into place with a screwdriver and screws. Lay mesh tape over the seams in the backer board. Use the flat edge of the trowel to smooth a small amount of thin set mortar over the mesh tape.

3
Establish an appropriate layout for the tiles. Lay the tiles out on the floor and arrange them until they look good. Try to balance the tiles in the center of the room so you are not cutting and installing a small sliver of tile on any one wall. Doing this will help to minimize the amount of cuts you will need to make later on. Place tile spacers between each of the tiles while doing this to account for the grout line. Mark a good starting area and remove the tiles and spacers.

4
Install the tiles with thin set mortar and a notched trowel. Spread the mortar with a notched trowel that is angled at a 45 degree angle. Press the tiles into place and put a tile spacer between each tile. Use a tile saw to cut the tiles. For natural stone tiles, you will need to use a diamond blade wet saw to make the tile cuts. Install the entire tile floor, making cuts when necessary. The floor should have 24 hours to dry before grouting.

5
Grout the natural stones. Use unsanded grout for joints 1/8 inch or less and sanded grout for larger joints. Place the grout into the tile joints with a grout float. Once the joints have been filled, run the grout float over the tiles in a diagonal direction. This will remove any extra grout on top of the tiles. A grout sponge and water should be used to clean the top of the tiles without removing the grout. Wait for the grout to dry overnight.