We know that different projects require different types of tile, different ways of preparing the space, and different installation methods. We can help you pick the right products for your project while creating an attractive design and staying within your budget.
Whatever your next project is, our friendly and knowledgeable staff can tell you everything you’ll need to know about choosing, installing, and maintaining your tile or stone product.
>> Looking for inspiration? Check out our image gallery and see some finished installations.
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Things to consider when starting your project...
Design
Choose your design—materials, borders, layout options (straight vs. diagonal, patterns), drops, accents, feature strips, etc.
Use tiles of various sizes, decorative tiles and border tiles to create a more engaging design.
Use tiles with texture to add visual interest: rough finishes add a casual feel while smooth and shiny surfaces are more elegant and modern.
Use high-impact items (such as glass or mosaics) minimally for lower overall cost.
Grout
Choose your grout color: a contrasting color accentuates lines and pattern while a blending color highlights the tile and creates a seamless look.
Choose your grout joint size → go as small as 1/16” or as large as 1/2” or even bigger.
Pigment from grout can change the appearance of natural stone. Preseal your natural stone to minimize color staining, or use the grout color to push your natural stone more towards a desired color.
Make sure you seal your grout! For stain-resistance, use the same penetrating sealer on your grout that you’re using on your natural stone. If you’re using a product that doesn’t require sealing (such as porcelain or glass tiles), then consider using a grout additive with your cement-based grout, or using an epoxy or urethane grout, and you’ll never need to reseal your grout!
Use distilled water when mixing grout. Minerals in tap water can cause inconsistent coloring.
Caulk between tile and surfaces that have flex or movement, i.e.: hardwood, bathtubs, vanities. Also caulk wherever two planes meet, such as between a backsplash and a counter, or a shower floor and a shower wall.
Materials
Choose the properunderlayment. Are you tiling in a wet area? Will the tiled floor be level with adjoining floors? Should the underlayment be cement-based (standard backerboard), lightweight foam (Wedi), or plastic (Schluter Ditra)? Do you need a self-leveling mortar to fill in cracks, pits, or voids in your subfloor?
Choose what tile works best for your lifestyle: maintenance friendly porcelain/ceramic vs. natural stone, rectified edge (for smaller grout joints) vs. non-rectified edge, tumbled or chiseled edge for a more rustic look.
