You've been in the tile trade long enough to know that two installers can look at the same finished floor and walk away with completely different opinions about its quality. One sees acceptable workmanship. The other spots three problems before crossing the threshold. This disagreement isn't about stubbornness—it reflects a real challenge in our industry: objectively assessing tile installation skills in field conditions is genuinely difficult.
CTEF remembers Dave Gobis, a former executive director whose commitment to education, standards, and shared knowledge helped shape the organization and the tile industry.
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Have you wondered what goes into specifying ceramic tile, stone and glass for kitchen and bath installations - especially if you want those installations to be successful? That's what Scott Carothers focused on in a presentation for NKBA, using stunning installation examples.
Here's a summary with highlights and the actual presentation included at the end of the article.
The June 2026 CTEF Online Auction is over, and we can't thank you enough for being involved and helping CTEF raise $16,004.00!
These funds are critical to supporting the invaluable work CTEF does through its tile installation certification and continuing education programs.
Layout is a big deal in a tile installation. Have you tried snapping a chalk line to ensure that your tile layout is successful?
Would you agree that mortars and grouts matter to a successful tile installation project? And, that you need them to be properly mixed?
Are you ready to stock up on tile installation tools, products, and materials? If so, please mark your calendar for the Spring 2026 CTEF Online Auction scheduled for June 8 through 14.
Do you spend time ensuring that your tile layout is centered and balanced, with no small cuts? I hope so, since this is the most effective way to ensure that a tile installation has a professionally installed appearance.
Coverings is always an inspiring event. Not only do you get to see firsthand the newest tile product introductions, but you also get to experience what makes the tile industry so unique: collaboration with CTEF to support the highest standards of tile installation knowledge and experience, CTI hands-on tests.
