Ceramic Tile Installation

On every ceramic tile installation project, the tile setter has to envision the pattern in his mind before making all the cuts. Even prior to making the cuts is the review of the function of the room. Many times, full tile can be used in the most visible areas. This method attempts to show as much of the tile as possible and minimize the cut lines and grout joints.

Some like the grout to show more. On houses where adobe is used, many people choose a thicker grout joint of 3/4 inch or even more. This effects the spacing and look of the material. Thicker grout joints take attention away from the material and create a strong pattern.

The floor must be checked again for rises or indentations that may obstruct the tile from being fully level. If the slab has a crater, an instant concrete solution is used to fill the hole. On certain jobs, the customer may ask to have a pitch or decline towards a particular direction for proper drainage.

At this point, the tile setter may place a few tiles in the chalk line square areas to gauge the fit and size. While he is handling the tiles, the setter may begin reviewing the individual tiles for inclusion in certain areas of the floor. For instance, on ceramic tile installation jobs that order marble, granite or natural slate, each tile is completely unique. There may be a thick white and yellow veign going through the center of it. We will review the material and make the best judgement of pattern. There are opportunities to hide the less desirable pieces in order to showcase the more perfect tiles. In a bathroom, the ugly pieces can be installed under the sink cabinets.

On every custom ceramic tile installation, we also look at the door jams. Knowing the spacing up to the door jam and threshold saves on materials and time. By looking at all these details we are able to float the floor up to meet the proper height for the threshold. Floating up the floor to match the door jams and existing trim is essential.

All of these concepts are considered before one tile is cut.