How to Install Stone Pebble Flooring

Installing stone pebble flooring in your home has been made easier by the introduction of pebble tile systems with a mesh backing. Stone pebble tile offers an organic, natural-looking floor surface for any room of the home. The method of installation when laying a stone pebble floor is similar to regular tiling. The do-it-yourself homeowner can create custom looks by choosing from a wide variety of stones and pebbles.

• 1

  Measure the floor with a tape measure to determine how many pebble tiles to purchase. Pebble tiles commonly come in 12-by-12-inch squares with interlocking shapes. Purchase at least 5 percent more pebble tiles than you figure you need, to compensate for cutting or factory mistakes.

• 2

  Starting in the farthest corner of the room, spread thin-set mortar onto the floor with a trowel, raking a grooved surface with the side of the trowel. Work in a 2-foot-by-2-foot section at a time. Place the first piece of pebble tile on the thin-set mortar. Fit the next piece of pebble tile against the edge of the first one, making sure that the edge shapes flow together for a cohesive, seamless floor.

• 3

  Continue to interlock pebble tile pieces until the small section of thin-set mortar is covered.

• 4

  Spread more small sections of thin-set mortar and place the interlocking pebble pieces on top until the floor is covered. Use a clean grout float to tap the pebble tiles lightly into the mortar as you work. Allow the mortar to dry overnight.

• 5

  Apply an even coat of stone-penetrating sealer to the pebble floor using a clean sponge. Allow the sealer to dry according to package label. If desired, sponge a coat of shine onto the pebble floor after the sealer has dried.

• 6

  Mix sanded grout in a bucket according to the package label. Use a grout float to push the grout into the spaces between the pebbles, working in no more than 2-foot-by-2-foot sections. Allow the grout to dry for 30 minutes.

• 7

  Remove excess grout by rubbing the pebble floor with a stiff-bristled brush. Dampen a clean sponge and wipe excess grout off the pebble floor until the desired look is achieved. Allow the grout to dry overnight.

• 8

  Spread a thin, even layer of sealer on the pebble floor, and allow it to dry overnight before walking on the pebble floor.