Have you encountered tile discoloration in a shower?
Showers, because they are inherently and intensely wet, tend to be harsh environments. They also tend not to be forgiving of uninformed installations. That's why employing Certified Tile Installers is so important. They know to anticipate situations such as tile discoloration in a shower because they take very seriously the TCNA Handbook, the ANSI Standards and manufacturer instructions.
It's a brand-new year and an ideal time to make tile installation resolutions for 2021.
If you're already in the know, consider these a refresher. And, if you're new to the Ceramic Tile Education Foundation and the Certified Tile Installer Program, then consider this your introduction to a bold, new standards-based, methodical approach to installing ceramic tile.
Did you know that there's an easy way to financially support CTEF without it costing you anything? That's where AmazonSmile comes in.
If you're asking how to trowel mortar when installing tile, realize that you are asking a fundamentally critical question. It's so critical that readers like you have made this CTEF Blog article the one with the highest readership since we originally published it on June 7, 2016.
You see, when thin set mortar is incorrectly applied, the installation will many times fail. More likely than not, the tile will break - as you see in the image below.
Not a good situation for the customer and a terrible one for everyone involved in installing tile correctly.
Let's focus then on how to properly apply the mortar.
Today, December 1st is #GivingTuesday. Will you support CTEF?
We're celebrating #TransformTheTrade and #BecomeaCTI, and honoring all those who make CTEF's work possible.
Will you participate? Will you join this Global Generosity movement with us to raise funds and awareness for tile installation certification and education?
Ceramic tile installation and design must work together.
In fact, as designer Alena Capra, principal of Alena Capra Designs and the Coverings Industry Ambassador, explains it's critical. There must be synergy between the two. She should know given her involvement in the Coverings Installation Design Showcase, how frequently she features tile in her designs, and her long association with Coverings.
You do, right? Honoring expansion joints in a concrete floor is critical to the success of a ceramic tile floor installation.
Have you saved December 1st for #GivingTuesday? It's a great way to support organizations such as CTEF...
How prepared are you for installing Large Format Tile (LFT) or Gauged Porcelain Tile Panels (GTPT) and ensuring you have a surface that is adequately flat?
It's a big deal and worth considering before you get started.
Are you getting ready to stock up on tile installation tools, products, and materials? If yes, then please mark your calendar for the October CTEF Online Auction.
Certified Tile Installer Mike Corona says,
You don't become a tile installer or a business owner overnight. It takes time, enthusiasm, pride, reliability, respectfulness, a willingness to learn, and dedication. No two jobs are the same; each one has its own unique nuances. As a qualified installer, you need to be able to communicate how to deal with those nuances and qualify yourself to not only meet but exceed expectations. Being qualified will exponentially increase your value and you will have endless opportunities.
Mike Corona CTI #923 Corona Marble and Tile
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The Ceramic Tile Education Foundation (CTEF) provides education and installer certification for professionals working in the ceramic tile and stone industry.
The CTEF Certified Tile Installer (CTI) program is the only third-party assessment of installer skill and knowledge which is recognized by the tile industry.
