If you think that warped tile isn't acceptable, we're here to help you understand what is and what isn't acceptable. You see, there are two categories to consider: inherent (actual) warpage and excessive warpage.
Actual warpage is a function of the tile manufacturing process. It's something qualified tile installers and Certified Tile Installers take into consideration.
Excessive warpage may indicate a bigger issue.
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?
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 is square or stacked design.
Perhaps tiling an elevator isn't at the top of the average homeowner's list of tile installation questions, however it is one that matters to owners, architects, designers and tile contractors involved in multi-story buildings - including residential ones - with elevators.
In this article, we specifically address a question about using tile for an elevator floor, sharing with you how Mark Heinlein CTI #1112 and Robb Roderick CTI #727 respond in their role as National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) Technical Trainers.
How do you handle tile shade variation? Do you make a point of bringing it up with customers before starting a tile installation project? If you don't, I urge you to do so. Not only is it a great opportunity to educate your customers about tile installation methods, standards and best practices, but it also helps you avoid what I refer to as the "Five-O-Five Surprise."
Wood plank tile: it's beautiful and offers so many advantages over hardwood floors. What kind of grout joint offsets should you work with?
Here we have a pyrite wall failure. What do you think it teaches about proper tile installation?
On this blog, you read about best practices for quality tile installations and how Certified Tile Installers (CTIs) go about installing tile. You've also heard them refer to having their work taken apart and inspected as part of the CTI hands-on test.
That same approach is how Mark Heinlein CTI #1112 and Robb Roderick CTI #727 troubleshoot tile installation issues in their role as National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) Technical Trainers. In this article, they respond to a failed installation of pyrite tile on a wall.
Lippage occurs entirely too often, making three specific hazards way too prevalent, and definitely ones you should avoid. More specifically,
If you understand that all tile assemblies move and that movement (expansion) joints are mandatory, you also know that they are the only way to ensure success.
However, do you think installing movement (expansion) joints in tile installations are a pain in the #?&? If so, here are two quick and easy ways to install high-quality and long-lasting movement joints.
Have you encountered situations where a tile installation called for a 50% offset and credit card grout joints? And, then, once installed it led 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?
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 that is recognized by the tile industry.
