Natural stone has been a commonly used flooring material throughout history because it is applicable to nearly any interior and exterior space. While laying tile on a 90-degree axis of a room or space's walls may be traditional and simple, laying the tile on a 45-degree axis can add complexity and originality to the space and is no more difficult to install than 90-degree angles. Laying tile using this method can usually be completed successfully by just about anyone with general tile laying experience.

Lay Tile
1
Clear all dust and debris from the existing floor using the vacuum cleaner

2
Stretch and snap a reference line diagonally (45-degree angle) across the floor using the chalk line; set the framing square in a corner of the room (against the wall) and snap the chalk line along the 45-degree edge.

3
Mix thin-set mortar as specified on the packaging in a 5-gallon bucket using the electric drill and mixing paddle.

4
Apply thin-set mortar to the floor along the reference line made in Step 2 using the mastic trowel.

5
Cut a stone tile at 45 degrees using the tile saw; refer to tile saw owner's manual for operation and safety instructions.

6
Set 45-degree stone tile in a corner, with one edge along the reference line and the cut edge against the wall. Press the tile firmly to ensure a proper bond.

7
Set the following tiles along the reference line as done in Step 6, leaving a 1/8-inch or 1/4-inch gap between tiles (unless otherwise desired). Trim the final tile to fit (using the tile saw) as necessary.

8
Repeat Steps 4 through 7 on the remaining rows of tile, working your way from the center of the floor outward to adjacent walls, and allow the thin-set mortar to properly cure before moving on; refer to the packaging for curing requirements.