Wood plank tile: it's beautiful and offers so many advantages over hardwood floors. What kind of grout joint offsets should you work with?
Have you encountered tile discoloration in a shower?
Showers tend to be harsh environments because they are inherently and intensely wet. 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.
How do you deal with expansion joints in an installation that is non-linear? You can't ignore them or you'll wind up with a nasty surprise. You can't necessarily change your tile layout so your movement joint is linear. So what can you do?
Have you had a chance to explore WhyTile.com? Since we updated this article in 2018, the site has added several new features that are sure to inspire you! So, if you haven't yet, you'll definitely want to. And, if you haven't recently, then you'll enjoy what's new.
Are You Inspired by Tile?
We are and that's why we're excited to join in on the National Tile Day celebrations by sharing with you highlights from current tile trends.
What does it take to ensure that you have a quality tile installation? Based on our experience, knowledge, and work with the Tile Council of North America (TCNA) Handbook, we have identified ten requirements.
Note that these aren't all industry requirements. However, they all contribute to a quality tile installation.
Here they are.
Photo by Custom Spaces Design - Look for bathroom design inspiration
If you're installing large format glass tile (per ANSI A137.2, any tile larger than 3” x 3” or nine square inches) in a shower, do you know what steps to follow and questions to ask? As mentioned in previous articles, installing tile in showers requires careful preparation given the extreme environment working showers create. Large glass tile can add to the complexity.
>> See How to Deal with Tile Discoloration in a Shower
In this article, NTCA Technical Trainer Mark Heinlein CTI #1112 shares his advice on how to prepare for this project which involves 3x12 glass tile (aka subway tile) which is considered a large format for glass.
Trying to install tile in wet areas is a big deal. That's because wet areas present substantial challenges that must be addressed prior to the tile installation. And, if you don't carefully consider the location of your installation, then the beauty, functionality, durability, and longevity of ceramic tile are of little value.
Let's explore then what's involved and what you need to install tile in wet areas.
Happy New Year! Are you ready to make tile installation resolutions for 2025?
If you're already in the know, consider these resolutions a refresher. And, if you're new to the Ceramic Tile Education Foundation and the Certified Tile Installer Program, here's your introduction to a bold, new standards-based, methodical approach to installing ceramic tile.
Today, December 3 is #GivingTuesday. Will you support CTEF?
We're celebrating tile installation training, education, and certification, 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?
