Tile Installation for your home
With years of experience Gazelle Residential is here to help!
Tile Layout
With so many tiles available it is hard to choose. There are tiles with a mesh back that are used for shower floors and backsplashes. Extra large tiles that are 2 ft by 4 ft. The are great for walls or floors, 12 in by 24 in which are great for floors, or subway tiles that come in a myriad of sizes and colors. Then there is many variations in tile. For example there are porcelain tiles, ceramic tiles and natural stone tiles like marble or travertine. Once you choose the appropriate tile for your space, then you need to decide how to lay it. The photo to the right is called a Versailles patter. There are multiple sizes arranged in a specific pattern. More recognizable patterns include herringbone, basket weave, brick, stacked and the list goes on.
How to Install a Tile Floor
The first thing that must be checked is that the floor is level and flat. When this is determined and a floor is uneven, a cement float mixture is applied to level out the uneven portions of the room. Once the tile is selected, then it is time to choose a grout color. The width of grout lines has been reduced over the years to as narrow as possible, just 1/8 inch. The grout itself has had major improvements. You can now buy grout that has color consistency that was not available in the past. This grout also has a sealer in the mix so none needs to be added after installation. Even though the grout may cost more, these advances will be economical over the long run. Lastly, shoe molding needs to be added around the perimeter or perhaps new base boards are installed. The finished product is ready to use given a day to dry.
