FAQs

Large format tiles (any tile with one edge longer than 15”) present unique installation challenges:

Major Challenges:

1. Substrate Flatness Requirements

• Must not exceed 1/8” variation in 10 feet
• Requires self-leveling compound for most floors
• More critical than with smaller tiles
• Cost: Additional $2-$5/sq ft for leveling

2. Weight and Handling

• Difficult to maneuver and position
• Requires 2-3 people for very large tiles
• Special tools needed: suction cups, tile carriers
• Higher risk of breakage during transport

3. Lippage Prevention

• Use leveling systems (clips and wedges)
• Maximum 33% offset recommended (not traditional 50%)
• Requires experienced installer
• Back-buttering essential for proper coverage

4. Special Materials Required

• Medium-bed mortar (not standard thin-set)
• Larger notch trowels (1/2” x 1/2” or larger)
• 90-100% mortar coverage mandatory
• Higher material costs

5. Cutting Challenges

• Need professional-grade wet saw
• Difficult cuts around fixtures
• Higher waste factor (order 15% extra)
• Risk of cracking during cuts

Installation Best Practices:

• Always back-butter tiles
• Use appropriate trowel size
• Work in smaller sections
• Have helpers for positioning
• Allow extra time for installation

Cost Impact: Large format tile installation typically costs 20-30% more in labor than standard tile sizes.

Project duration varies significantly based on scope and complexity:

Typical Timeframes:

Small Bathroom Floor (50-100 sq ft):

• Prep work: 1 day
• Installation: 1-2 days
• Grouting: 1 day
• Total: 3-4 days

Kitchen Backsplash:

• Prep and installation: 1-2 days
• Grouting and cleanup: 1 day
• Total: 2-3 days

Full Bathroom Remodel (walls and floor):

• Demolition: 1-2 days
• Waterproofing: 1-2 days
• Tile installation: 3-5 days
• Grouting and finishing: 1-2 days
• Total: 6-11 days

Large Floor (500+ sq ft):

• Substrate prep: 1-2 days
• Installation: 3-5 days
• Grouting: 1-2 days
• Total: 5-9 days

Factors Affecting Timeline:

1. Substrate condition - Repairs add time
2. Tile size - Large format takes longer
3. Pattern complexity - Intricate patterns slow installation
4. Curing times - Waterproofing and mortar need drying time
5. Custom features - Nichés, borders, medallions add time

Important Notes:

• Don’t walk on floors for 24-48 hours after installation
• Full cure takes 28 days
• Shower use typically safe after 72 hours
• Professional installers work 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM typically

While DIY can save money upfront, consider all factors:

DIY Costs:

• Materials: $5-$35/sq ft
• Tools (one-time purchase): $300-$1,000
•   - Wet saw rental: $40-$80/day
•   - Other tools: $200-$400
• Your time: 2-3x longer than professionals
• Potential mistakes: Can be costly
• **Total DIY: $9.50-$51/sq ft**

Professional Installation:

• Labor: $3-$15/sq ft
• Materials: Same as DIY
• No tool costs
• Warranty included
• Faster completion
• **Total Professional: $13.50-$83/sq ft**

Hidden Costs of DIY:

1. Mistakes: Incorrect waterproofing can cause thousands in damage
2. Time: Professionals work 3x faster
3. Physical toll: Tile work is hard on knees and back
4. No warranty: You’re responsible for any issues
5. Tool investment: Quality tools are expensive

When DIY Makes Sense:

• Small, simple projects
• You have experience
• Standard ceramic tile
• Not time-sensitive
• Enjoy physical work

When to Hire Professionals:

• Showers (waterproofing critical)
• Large format tiles
• Natural stone
• Complex patterns
• Time constraints
• Physical limitations

Bottom Line: Professional installation typically costs 40-60% more but provides expertise, warranty, and peace of mind.

Grout sealing is essential for maintaining beautiful, stain-resistant grout lines:

Why Seal Grout:

• Prevents stains from penetrating porous grout
• Reduces mold and mildew growth
• Makes cleaning easier
• Extends grout life
• Maintains color consistency

Types of Grout and Sealing Needs:

1. Sanded Grout: Always needs sealing
2. Unsanded Grout: Usually needs sealing
3. Epoxy Grout: No sealing required
4. Pre-sealed Grout: May need resealing over time

When to Seal:

• New installations: 48-72 hours after grouting
• Existing grout: After deep cleaning
• Resealing: Every 1-2 years (more in wet areas)

Sealing Process:

1. Ensure grout is completely clean and dry
2. Apply sealer with foam brush, roller, or spray
3. Work in small sections
4. Wipe excess from tile surfaces immediately
5. Apply second coat if recommended
6. Allow full drying (2-24 hours)

Testing Seal Effectiveness:

Drop water on grout - if it beads up, seal is good

If water absorbs, resealing needed

Cost:

• DIY: $30-$50 for average bathroom
• Professional: $150-$300
• Sealer: $15-$30 per quart

Maintenance Tips:

• Use pH-neutral cleaners only
• Avoid harsh scrubbing
• Reapply annually in showers
• Address stains immediately

Asbestos identification and safe handling are crucial for homes built before 1980:

Identifying Asbestos Tiles:

Visual Clues:

• 9”x9”, 12”x12”, or 18”x18” sizes common
• Often dark colors with marbling or specks
• Oily or waxy appearance
• Black adhesive (mastic) underneath
• Manufactured before 1980

Never Assume - Testing is the only sure way:

• DIY test kits: $9-$30 plus lab fees ($20-$50)
• Professional testing: $230-$780
• Test both tile and adhesive

If Asbestos is Present:

Option 1: Encapsulation (if tiles in good condition)

• Cover with new flooring
• Seal with epoxy coating
• Cost: 15-20% less than removal
• Leaves asbestos in place but safe

Option 2: Professional Removal

• Average cost: $5-$20/sq ft
• Total project: $1,100-$3,900
• Requires licensed abatement contractor
• Includes containment, removal, disposal

Safety Protocols:

• NEVER break, sand, or disturb tiles
• Don’t attempt DIY removal
• Keep area wet to prevent fiber release
• Notify contractors before any work

Legal Requirements:

• Most states require professional removal
• Specific disposal procedures required
• Permits often needed
• Documentation required for property sales

Health Risks:

• Asbestos causes lung cancer and mesothelioma
• Risk only when fibers become airborne
• Intact tiles generally safe if undisturbed

Understanding grout types helps ensure proper selection for your project:

Sanded Grout:

Composition: Cement, sand, and color pigments

Best for: Grout joints 1/8” to 5/8” wide

Characteristics:

• More durable and crack-resistant
• Rougher texture
• Better for floors and heavy-use areas
• Less expensive
• Available in more colors

Pros:

• Stronger and more durable
• Better for wider joints
• Resists shrinking
• Good for high-traffic areas

Cons:

• Can scratch delicate tiles (polished marble, glass)
• Rougher texture harder to clean
• More porous (requires sealing)

Unsanded Grout:

Composition: Cement and color pigments (no sand)

Best for: Grout joints less than 1/8” wide

Characteristics:

• Smoother texture
• Stickier consistency
• Better for walls
• More expensive

Pros:

• Won’t scratch delicate surfaces
• Smoother finish
• Easier to work into narrow joints
• Better for vertical surfaces

Cons:

• Prone to cracking in wide joints
• More shrinkage
• Less durable
• Limited to narrow applications

Other Grout Options:

Epoxy Grout:

• Most durable and stain-resistant
• No sealing required
• Difficult to install
• Most expensive ($8-$12/lb)
• Best for commercial or heavy-use areas

Pre-Mixed Grout:

• Convenient for small projects
• No mixing required
• More expensive per square foot
• Limited open time

Selection Guidelines:

• Measure joint width accurately
• Consider tile material
• Factor in location (wall vs. floor)
• Think about maintenance requirements
• Match aesthetic preferences

Understanding common mistakes helps ensure project success:

Top Installation Mistakes:

1. Poor Surface Preparation

• Not checking substrate flatness
• Installing over unsuitable surfaces
• Skipping crack isolation membranes
• Impact: Cracked tiles, lippage, failure

2. Wrong Adhesive Selection

• Using mastic in wet areas
• Standard thin-set for large format tiles
• Expired or improperly mixed products
• Result: Tiles coming loose, water damage

3. Inadequate Coverage

• Not back-buttering large tiles
• Wrong trowel size
• Poor troweling technique
• Consequence: Hollow spots, cracking

4. Improper Spacing

• Inconsistent grout joints
• No expansion joints at walls
• Joints too narrow for tile type
• Effect: Cracking, buckling, poor appearance

5. Waterproofing Failures

• Incomplete shower waterproofing
• Wrong products or application
• Not testing before tiling
• Cost: Thousands in water damage

6. Layout Errors

• Not planning cuts and patterns
• Starting in wrong location
• Ignoring focal points
• Result: Small cuts, poor aesthetics

7. Rushing the Process

• Not allowing proper cure times
• Grouting too soon
• Walking on tiles early
• Impact: Loose tiles, weak grout

Prevention Tips:

• Read all product instructions
• Don’t skip preparation steps
• Use proper tools
• Allow adequate time
• Consider professional help for complex projects

Selecting appropriate tile requires considering function and aesthetics:

Kitchen Floors:

• Best choices: Porcelain, ceramic
• Properties needed: Stain-resistant, easy-clean, durable
• Avoid: Soft natural stone, high-gloss (slippery)
• PEI rating: 3-4 for residential
• Consider: Textured surfaces for slip resistance

Bathrooms:

• Floors: Small tiles or textured surfaces for traction
• Walls: Any tile type suitable
• Showers: Porcelain, ceramic, or sealed stone
• Key feature: Low water absorption rate
• Grout: Epoxy for best water resistance

Living Areas:

• Options: Large format porcelain, natural stone
• Consider: Sound absorption, comfort underfoot
• Popular: Wood-look tiles, polished porcelain
• Sizes: Larger tiles create spacious feel

Entryways:

• Requirements: Extremely durable, easy-clean
• Best: Porcelain, slate, textured ceramic
• PEI rating: 4-5
• Avoid: Polished surfaces (slippery when wet)

Outdoor Spaces:

• Must have: Frost-proof rating
• Slip resistance**: Critical
• Materials: Unglazed porcelain, natural stone
• Avoid: Glazed tiles, materials that absorb water

Technical Considerations:

• Water absorption: Lower is better for wet areas
• PEI rating: Higher for high-traffic areas
• COF rating: 0.42+ for floors
• Frost resistance: Essential for outdoor/unheated spaces

Budget Guidelines:

• Entry level: Ceramic ($1-$5/sq ft)
• Mid-range: Porcelain ($3-$10/sq ft)
• High-end: Natural stone ($5-$30/sq ft)
• Luxury: Large format, imported ($10-$50/sq ft)

Proper maintenance extends tile life and maintains appearance:

Immediate Post-Installation (First 30 Days):

• Wait 24-48 hours before walking on floors
• No heavy furniture for 72 hours
• Keep area dry for first 24 hours
• Light cleaning only for first week
• Full cure takes 28 days

Regular Maintenance Schedule:

Daily/Weekly:

• Sweep or vacuum to remove debris
• Damp mop with pH-neutral cleaner
• Wipe down shower walls after use
• Clean spills immediately

Monthly:

• Deep clean grout lines
• Check for loose tiles or cracked grout
• Clean and dry under appliances
• Inspect caulk lines

Annually:

• Professional deep cleaning (optional)
• Reseal grout
• Re-caulk as needed
• Inspect for needed repairs

Cleaning Best Practices:

1. Use pH-neutral cleaners
2. Avoid abrasive tools
3. Rinse thoroughly
4. Dry to prevent water spots
5. Never use acids on natural stone

Grout Maintenance:

• Seal annually (more in wet areas)
• Address stains promptly
• Repair cracks immediately
• Consider epoxy grout for minimal maintenance

Common Issues and Solutions:

• Efflorescence (white residue): Clean with special remover
• Grout haze: Buff with cheesecloth or use haze remover
• Stains: Use appropriate stain remover for tile type
• Loose tiles: Professional repair recommended

Products to Avoid:

• Ammonia-based cleaners
• Bleach (except on white grout)
• Oil-based products
• Wax (creates buildup)
• Acids on natural stone

Shower installations require special techniques and materials:

Complete Process Overview:

1. Demolition and Prep (1-2 days):

• Remove old surfaces
• Inspect and repair framing
• Install blocking for fixtures
• Ensure proper slope to drain

2. Waterproofing (1-2 days):

• Install vapor barrier
• Apply cement board
• Install waterproof membrane
• Seal all penetrations and corners
• Flood test for 24 hours

3. Tile Installation (2-4 days):

• Start with back wall
• Install tiles from bottom up
• Cut tiles around fixtures
• Install shower floor last
• Maintain proper slopes

4. Grouting and Finishing (1 day):

• Apply grout carefully
• Clean thoroughly
• Seal grout
• Install fixtures

Critical Components:

Shower Pan:

• Pre-slope: 1/4” per foot to drain
• Waterproof liner
• Weep hole protection
• Final mortar bed

Walls:

• Cement board (never drywall)
• Waterproofing to ceiling
• Proper fastening schedule
• Sealed penetrations

Special Considerations:

• Niche construction and waterproofing
• Bench/seat requirements
• Linear drain installations
• Curbless shower challenges

Cost Factors:

• Standard shower: $7-$25/sq ft
• Complex designs: $25-$50/sq ft
• Waterproofing adds: $500-$1,500
• Total project: $2,000-$10,000

Common Upgrades:

• Multiple shower heads
• Built-in niches ($200-$500)
• Bench seating ($300-$800)
• Accent tiles or mosaics
• Frameless glass doors

Accurate measurement prevents costly delays and returns:

Basic Calculation Method:

For Floors:

1. Measure length × width of room
2. Calculate square footage
3. Add 10% for waste (15% for diagonal patterns)
4. Add 5% for future repairs

Example: 10’ × 12’ room = 120 sq ft

120 + 12 (10% waste) = 132 sq ft needed

For Walls:

1. Measure height × width of each wall
2. Subtract doors and windows
3. Add all walls together
4. Add 10% waste factor

Special Considerations:

Pattern Layouts:

• Straight: 10% extra
• Diagonal: 15% extra
• Herringbone: 15-20% extra
• Random patterns: 20% extra

Tile Size Impact:

• Large format: May need more waste
• Mosaics: Less waste but sold by sheet
• Borders/accents: Calculate linear feet

Professional Tips:

1. Round up to full boxes
2. Check dye lots match
3. Order all tile at once
4. Keep receipts for returns
5. Save extras for repairs

Online Calculators:

Many retailers offer calculators, but always verify:

• Input accurate measurements
• Include waste factor
• Consider pattern complexity
• Account for borders/accents

Common Mistakes:

• Forgetting waste factor
• Not accounting for pattern
• Measuring incorrectly
• Ignoring niche/special areas
• Different dye lots

Understanding material properties helps make informed choices:

Ceramic Tile:

Pros:

• Most affordable ($1-$7/sq ft)
• Wide variety of styles
• Easy to cut and install
• Good for DIY projects
• Water-resistant when glazed

Cons:

• Less durable than porcelain
• Can chip easier
• Not frost-proof
• Limited to indoor use

Porcelain Tile:

Pros:

• Extremely durable
• Water absorption <0.5%
• Frost-proof options
• Can mimic natural materials
• Through-body color

Cons:

• More expensive ($3-$15/sq ft)
• Harder to cut
• Heavier than ceramic
• Requires special tools

Natural Stone:

Pros:

• Unique, natural beauty
• Increases home value
• Very durable (granite, slate)
• Cool underfoot
• Timeless appeal

Cons:

• Expensive ($5-$30/sq ft)
• Requires sealing
• Can stain (marble, limestone)
• Professional installation recommended
• Limited slip resistance

Glass Tile:

Pros:

• Beautiful, reflective
• Stain-proof
• Easy to clean
• Eco-friendly options
• Great for accents

Cons:

• Expensive ($20-$100/sq ft)
• Can be slippery
• Shows water spots
• Difficult to cut
• Not for floors

Vinyl/Luxury Vinyl:

Pros:

• Budget-friendly ($2-$10/sq ft)
• Comfortable underfoot
• Water-resistant
• Easy DIY installation
• Quiet

Cons:

• Less durable
• Can’t be refinished
• May show wear patterns
• Not as valuable for resale

Making the right decision saves money and ensures lasting results:

When to Repair:

Minor Issues:

• 1-3 cracked tiles
• Small grout cracks
• Surface stains
• Minor grout discoloration
• Loose tiles (if substrate sound)

Cost-Effective Scenarios:

• Damage less than 10% of area
• Matching tiles available
• Substrate in good condition
• Recent installation (<5 years)
• Isolated problems

Repair Costs:

• Individual tiles: $150-$300 per tile
• Grout repair: $250-$650
• Professional cleaning: $250-$500