The base surface is the foundation of tile adhesion; improper preparation will directly cause hollowing and falling off:

• Clean the wall: Thoroughly remove dust, oil stains, hollow putty/paint to expose the solid cement base;
  
• Surface roughening/interface treatment: Apply interface agent or roughen smooth walls (e.g., concrete, old tile surfaces) to significantly enhance adhesion;
  
• Flatness check: Use a 2-meter straightedge to detect; if the error exceeds 5mm, level with cement mortar first.

Line snapping is key to ensuring tiles are level and aesthetically laid out:

• Pop reference lines: Use a chalk line to snap horizontal and vertical lines to determine the starting position for tiling;
  
• Pre-layout tiles: Plan tile arrangement in advance to avoid narrow strips (less than 1/2 tile width) at doors, windows and external corners for better overall appearance;
  
• Mark control points: Mark the position of each row/column of tiles on the wall for alignment during installation.

Different tile materials require different preprocessing methods, which directly affect bonding effect:

• Ceramic tiles (high water absorption): Soak in clean water until no bubbles emerge, then air-dry until the surface is dry (avoid tiles absorbing mortar moisture);
  
• Porcelain tiles/full-body tiles (low water absorption): No soaking needed, apply tile adhesive directly or brush back glue to enhance adhesion;
  
• Large-format tiles (≥600×1200mm): Must apply back glue to prevent falling off due to insufficient adhesion.

Strictly follow product instructions to mix to ensure bonding strength:

• Traditional mortar: Mix cement and medium sand at a ratio of 1:2~1:3, add appropriate water to a viscous state (no sagging);
  
• Tile adhesive (recommended): Mix with water in strict proportion, let stand for 5 minutes then stir again; do not add extra cement/sand;
  
• Consistency control: The mixed adhesive should be able to adhere to the trowel without sliding off easily.

Choose the right installation method based on tile size and wall conditions:

• Thin-bed method (recommended): Apply tile adhesive to the wall with a notched trowel (create grooves), apply a thin layer on the back of tiles, press to fit, and tap flat with a rubber mallet;
  
• Thick-bed method: Apply mortar to the wall, spread full mortar on the back of tiles (thicker in the middle, thinner at edges), align with reference lines and install, leave 2~3mm gaps;
  
• Thickness control: Keep mortar/adhesive thickness at 3~5mm to avoid sagging for vertical installation;
  
• Spacer use: Insert plastic spacers between tiles to ensure uniform gap width.

Proper grouting prevents water seepage and improves durability:

• Gap cleaning: Clean dust and debris in gaps 24 hours after installation;
  
• Grouting: Fill gaps with grout/sealant, smooth with a scraper, and wipe off excess immediately with a damp cloth;
  
• Waterproof focus: For wet areas (bathroom/kitchen), use waterproof sealant instead of ordinary grout to avoid water seepage;
  
• Curing time: Keep the surface dry for at least 24 hours after grouting.

Proper curing ensures installation quality:

• Initial curing: Avoid stepping on or impacting tiles within 48 hours after installation, keep the wall dry;
  
• Finished product protection: Cover with protective film after grouting to avoid contamination and collision;
  
• Post-installation: Do not hang heavy objects on tiled walls within 7 days.