Things to consider when working on...                                 253.872.0449

The viable options for a fireplace surround are nearly limitless! Fireplaces aren't subject to the traffic that floors are, and don't have to be water-tight like a shower wall. Most any material will work, and the heat generated by the fireplace isn't an issue when selecting tile. You also have the option of setting tiles tightly together and forgoing grout.

Consider integrating color and texture on the fireplace that you might not elsewhere in the room. Slate is a very popular material for fireplaces, as it provides a rustic, earthy look that works well in such a small area.

Many different materials work great for countertops, be they in a kitchen, a bathroom, on a wet bar, or elsewhere; but you have to consider what the counter space will be used for when choosing materials. For example, soft stones like marble are not recommended for kitchen counters because of the high acidity of some foods (lemon juice and vinegar, for example, will quickly damage marble). Smooth surfaces are ideal; quartz, granite (needs to be sealed), and porcelain are all excellent options for countertops.

If you choose a natural stone product for your countertop, make sure the surface is sealed with a high-quality sealer. Leaving stone unsealed allows germs, dirt, and stains to accumulate. A low-quality sealer has the potential for toxicity, and could pose a health hazard if used in a kitchen where food is prepared. Consider porcelain or ceramic tile for your counters if you never want to worry about using a sealer (they're also great for easy clean up).

Solid surface countertops are popular because they are smooth, easy to clean (no grout joints for crumbs to get stuck in), and look great; but they require professional installers to measure, cut, and fit them. If you like the cleanliness of slab countertops but not the cost, consider some alternatives: we have several large tile and mini slab options, both of which allow for fewer grout joints.

Choose materials that complement your floor; use a constrasting color or a similar material set in a different pattern. Using long tiles can lenghten a room, so take the pattern into careful consideration.

Since the tiles will be set on the wall, you don't have to be concerned about the wear that a floor would receive, the watertight nature of a shower stall, or the food residue that would hit a kitchen backsplash. Consider integrating glass or interesting mosaic pieces to add color, texture, or pattern.

The edge detail at the top is very important if you want your wainscoting to look finished. Think about using a chair rail, v-cap, or pencil liner to create a strong dividing line between the wainscoting and the rest of the wall. Add a listello, mosaic, glass or metal drops to dress it up.

The materials you use on your patio or other outside spaces should be very dense and non-porous to prevent freezing and cracking during wet-weather seasons, especially if exposed to the elements.

If you're tiling an outdoors floor or patio, try to pick materials with good slip-resistance and texture, particularly if they'll be in or near a wet area (such as a pool).