For a beautiful and long-lasting tile installation, you need to ensure that every facet of the job is completed properly according to tile industry standards and best practices. The key element here is the foundation of the installation, and that's where underlayment for tile solves a multitude of problems.
Does the word flat have the same meaning as the word level when it comes to floors and, more importantly, tile installation? If we look in various dictionaries, flat and level can have almost the same definition, which can be confusing.
Let's talk about floor prep. How seriously do you take it?
Realize that the success or failure of most tile projects is largely determined by the amount of floor preparation provided and the attention to detail. When you or anyone else cuts corners to save time and or money on a job, the result is almost always failure.
To make my point, here are specific examples highlighting seven perils of improper floor prep. You may have encountered others that we can add to the list.
How often are you including tile edge protection in your tile assembly specifications? Although not required for all installations, edge protection absolutely provides better results.
Ultimately, if you're serious about delivering only high-quality installations of ceramic, porcelain, and stone tile, you must have the hand-skills to put the entire tile assembly into place along with the knowledge of what products are available to finish the project successfully.
Thinking about protecting tile edges is a perfect example.
Perhaps it seems self-evident that the tile patterns you select need to be balanced when installed. And yet, simply based on photos readily available, balance and common sense don't always go hand-in-hand.
Especially when your tile choices come in so many more sizes, shapes, patterns, and colors than in the past. Along with this availability comes creativity with endless possibilities.
Today we will focus on one of these options – the pattern. Combining these tiles, whether square or rectangular, with an offset pattern creates a unique visual many times not realized in its square or stacked design.
Have you encountered situations where a tile installation called for a 50% offset and credit card grout joints? And, then, once installed, did it lead to lippage problems, misaligned grout joints, and/or an unhappy customer?
I'm pleased to inform you that you can officially find guidance and justification for avoiding a 50% offset in the TCNA Handbook.
Ready to learn more?
Wood plank tile: it's beautiful and offers so many advantages over hardwood floors. What kind of grout joint offsets should you work with?
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.
Should tile installers become certified? If you are serious about your calling as a tile installer, yes, you should become a Certified Tile Installer (CTI).
If you aren't, chances are high that you aren't reading this article or even asking yourself the question.
