Are you a contractor, homeowner or just a DIY'er? Check out the FREE informational video below from The NTCA (National Tile Contractors Association) which demonstrates the right and wrong way of setting a tile. The video illustrates the proper methods used on all tile sizes including 12" x 24" & 6" x 24" size formats. Some of the things mentioned is:
- • Trowel Size
- • Use of Large & Heavy Tile Motar
- • Back Buttering
- • Floor Flatness
- • Tile Warpage & more!
We've also included some key information and requirements when hiring a tile installer for your projects.
Don't Do These Things When Hiring A Tile Installer - By Daltile.com
DON’T TAKE UP OFFERS FROM YOUR HANDYMAN, CARPENTER, OR OTHER NON-EXPERT.
It’s nice to have someone around who can handle odds and ends of home repair and improvement. But your tile doesn't come all into this category. Find someone with at least three years of experience installing tile and a proven track record in both floor and wall tile.
DON’T ASSUME YOUR INSTALLER IS LICENSED, CERTIFIED, OR INSURED.
Always check to see that your prospective installer is certified, licensed, and has current insurance. Membership in the NTCA (National Tile Contractors Association) is a necessity for a pro-grade job. Also check out whether your prospective installer has training through the Ceramic Tile Education Foundation (CTEF). The CTEF provides training and assessments for installers and certifies they are equipped with the latest techniques for a growing and changing tile world.
DON’T SKIP ASKING THE IMPORTANT QUESTIONS.
You know what they say about enquiring minds. A few well-placed questions can help you find out a lot about prospective installers. Don’t forget to ask key questions:
• How long will the project take?
• How much tile is needed?
• How many people will be working on the project?
• Have you worked on projects like this before (large format tile, wood look, etc.)
DON’T MOVE FORWARD WITHOUT SEEING THE INSTALLER’S WORK.
A picture is worth a thousand words. Ask to see pictures of completed work with an eye for quality. Look closely through the portfolio and you’ll be able to tell the work of a good installer from a great installer.
There should be even spacing between tiles and perfectly straight grout lines. Look to see that the layout is balanced and that any cut tiles are the same size even if they are on opposite ends of the room. Pay attention to windows, doors, and corners. These are the trickiest places to work around and should be a good indication of the skill level of the tile installer. Walk away if you see large gaps, too much grout, or any ill-fitting tile.
DON’T FORGET TO LEARN FROM OTHERS’ EXPERIENCE.
Keep an ear to the ground when checking out a potential installer. Ask for testimonials, search for reviews online. Give special attention to reviews with pictures so you can verify his or her work. Follow up with references and get familiar with the installer’s M.O.
DON’T FORGET TO GET IT IN WRITING.
Once you’ve found a tile installer that meets your expectations, ask for a bid in writing. You might need to ask an architect to draw up the exact specs of your room and the pattern and layout you want. You’ll get a more accurate estimate and show your installer that you’re serious about a job well done.
A good installer isn’t afraid to guarantee his or her work. Get a written guarantee that the work will be free from leaks and other issues. You should expect a guarantee that covers you for about two years.
DON’T DEVALUE PROFESSIONALISM.
Even in this increasingly casual and do-it-yourself world, professionalism is still a hallmark of an excellent business. It is important that a prospective installer delivers that bid on time. A simple thing like whether the installer gets involved in the community can say a lot about how your project will be handled. The way they appear, speak, and interact all hint at the experience ahead for you and your project.
Avoid a tile disaster and call in the professionals. With some careful consideration, you can find a stellar tile installer who’ll complete your project with finesse.
Sources:
- The NTCA - http://www.tile-assn.com
- Daltile - http://www.daltile.com