Adjustable tile installation tool and method of use

An adjustable tile installation tool for aligning tiles of varying sizes, comprising:

• a frame having a plurality of frame segments, each frame segment forming a portion of a wall;
• the frame segments attached to one another such that the wall formed by the frame segments defines at least one tile aperture having a predetermined size and shape;
• means for selected frame segments to extend from or retract to adjacent frame segments such that the size or shape of the tile aperture is increased or decreased, further comprising:
• an adjustment rod channel in the ends of at least two of the frame segments;
• at least one adjustment rod, sized to slidably fit within the adjustment rod channels of the two frame segments, such that the ends of the frame segment are in substantial alignment with one another;
• and
• means to secure the adjustment rod to the frame segments such that the frame segments are adjustable from a retracted to an extended position;
• whereby the tile aperture sizes are adjustable such that they accept tiles of varying sizes.

A method of installing tiles of varying sizes with a single adjustable tile installation tool, including the steps of:

• using a frame having a plurality of frame segments, each frame segment forming a portion of a wall;
• shaping the frame segments such that they are substantially flat and are sized to the approximate thickness of a grout joint;
• forming an adjustment rod channel in the ends of the frame segments;
• slidably inserting an adjustment rod into the adjustment rod channel;
• attaching the frame segments to one another at their ends by securing the frame segments to preselected locations on the adjustment rod such that the wall defines at least one tile aperture having a predetermined size and shape;
• extending or retracting the frame segments from one another by changing the location on the adjustment rod where the frame segment is attached such that the size or shape of the tile aperture is increased or decreased;
• whereby the tile aperture sizes are adjustable to accept tiles of varying sizes and the wall formed by the frame segments spaces the tile apertures such that a predetermined amount of grout space exists between each tile aperture.