“Rather than a regular doormat, this clever woman cut into her floors to do THIS”
When it comes to home improvement, our furry friends can sometimes lead us down unexpected paths. Take Lucky the cat and the entry rug that never stood a chance. If you’ve ever dealt with a pet’s playful disregard for floor coverings, this story will feel all too familiar. Lucky’s antics not only caused a laminate flooring dilemma but also inspired a creative solution that turned the entryway into a striking focal point.
Entryway Rug Alternative
In this guide, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step process to transform your entryway using hexagon floor tiles. Entry spaces need to be both functional and inviting—capable of handling wet, muddy shoes while enhancing the aesthetic of your home. We’ll show a budget-friendly approach using durable porcelain tiles and the artistic appeal of hexagonal patterns.
If you’re ready to say goodbye to ruined rugs and embrace a flooring project that combines style and practicality, let’s dive in.
Supplies
| Supplies | Quantity / Type |
|---|---|
| Hexagon floor tile | Mission Stone & Tile |
| Waterproofing membranes | AquaDefense / Schluter Kerdi |
| Rapid-setting thin-set mortar | – |
| Grout | – |
| Caulk | – |
Tools:
- Oscillating saw
- Circular saw (optional)
- Tile saw (for cutting tiles)
- Caulk gun
- Sponge
- Disposable brush
- Paint stir stick
- Baby wipes
Instructions
Step 1: Plan tile layout
- Arrange hexagon tiles to visualize the layout.
- Clean the area and place tiles over the damaged section of the floor.
- Trace the tiles’ placement on the floor with a marker.
Step 2: Remove old flooring
- Use an oscillating saw to cut along the traced line and remove old flooring.
- For straight cuts, a circular saw can be used, but set the depth to avoid cutting the subfloor.
- Dispose of the old flooring properly.
Step 3: Apply waterproofing
- Spread Schluter Kerdi membrane over the cleaned floor.
- Paint AquaDefense liquid membrane on top of the Kerdi membrane.
- Ensure the area under the door is also waterproofed.
Step 4: Mix mortar and lay tiles
- Mix rapid-setting thin-set mortar in a bucket.
- Spread mortar evenly over the floor.
- Place hexagon tiles one by one, starting with the edge tiles.
- Adjust spacing and wipe away excess mortar.
Step 5: Grout
- Mix grout as instructed.
- Fill gaps between tiles, wiping off excess with a sponge.
- Use baby wipes to remove remaining grout film from the tiles.
Step 6: Caulk edges
- Apply caulk along the edges between the tiles and existing flooring with a caulk gun.
- Smooth the caulk with a baby wipe for a clean finish.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully transformed your entryway with a durable and stylish tile “rug.” This project not only solves the problem of ruined flooring but also adds a unique and eye-catching touch to your home.
