Tile Grout 101: Color, Maintenance, and Durability
When people think about tile installation, they often focus on the tiles themselves — their color, pattern, and texture. But there’s another element that plays a huge role in the final appearance and longevity of your tiled surface: grout. Grout isn’t just the filler between tiles; it’s the finishing touch that enhances design, ensures stability, […]
How to Choose the Right Tile for Your Home
Choosing the right tile for your home is one of the most impactful design decisions you’ll make. The right tile can elevate your space — blending beauty, function, and durability in every room. Whether you’re remodeling your kitchen, refreshing your bathroom, or installing a brand-new floor, understanding your options is key to making a lasting […]
Common Tile Installation Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t court failures: prep a clean, flat, dry substrate and verify moisture. Match mortar to tile and substrate, mix correctly, and use right trowel for 95% coverage; key-in and back-butter. Dry-lay and snap control lines to avoid slivers. Honor movement joints and perimeter gaps. Waterproof and manage vapor. Control environment, respect set/cure times, and beat […]
Why Professional Tile Installation Matters
Professional tile installation protects your investment by verifying subfloor flatness, deflection, and moisture, then correcting highs/lows and contaminants. Pros design for movement with EJ171 joints and membranes, manage vapor, and honor curing timelines. They layout control grids, balance cuts, and avoid lippage under critical lighting. Installers select ANSI A118 mortars, waterproofing, and methods per TCNA/ANSI, […]
Understanding Tile Materials: Ceramic, Porcelain, and Stone
You’ll compare ceramic, porcelain, and stone by body, porosity, and wear. Ceramic uses pressed clays with glazes; it’s economical but higher absorption. Porcelain is vitrified, <0.5% water uptake, tight sizing, and PEI 4–5 for traffic. Stone varies: marble stains, granite is harder; most need sealing. Choose sizes/thickness to suit subfloor flatness and load. Prep substrates, […]
The Complete Homeowner’s Guide to Tile Installation in Dallas
This guide explains how to choose the right tile for Dallas homes, how to plan your budget and schedule, and what steps make a strong, long-lasting installation. It uses simple language so any homeowner can follow along. Key Points You Should Remember Why Dallas Conditions Matter Dallas weather and soils can be tough on floors: […]