Frequently Asked Questions

We measure the total square footage of the area being tiled and add a waste factor, typically 10 to 15 percent depending on the pattern. Diagonal patterns and herringbone require more waste because of the angled cuts at the perimeter. Large-format tile can also waste more if your room dimensions do not divide evenly into the tile size. We handle this math during our site visit so you order the right amount and have a small overage for future repairs.

In most cases, yes. Installing over existing tile is sometimes possible on floors if the old tile is firmly bonded and the added height does not create a problem at door thresholds or transitions. On shower walls, we almost always remove existing tile to inspect the substrate for moisture damage and ensure the waterproofing layer is intact. We can handle demolition as part of the job. Let us know what is currently in place when you describe your project.

A tile leveling system uses plastic clips and wedges inserted between tiles during installation to hold adjacent edges at the same height while the adhesive cures. This eliminates lippage, which is the term for a tile edge that sits higher than its neighbor. It is most useful on large-format tile (anything over 12x12 inches) and on floors where slight variations in the mortar bed or substrate would otherwise cause uneven edges. On smaller mosaic or subway tile it is less necessary. We use leveling clips on most of our floor and large-format wall work.

A standard bathroom floor ranges from one to two days, depending on size and pattern complexity. A full shower surround with waterproofing typically runs three to five days when you account for membrane cure time before tile goes up. A complete bathroom gut-and-retile with floor, shower walls, and niche work can run a week or more. We give you a timeline when we quote the job, and we update you if anything changes during the work.

For floor-only work, you can usually use the bathroom with some care once the tile is set, before grouting. For shower work, the shower is fully out of service until the tile, grout, and caulk have all cured. Grout typically needs 24 to 72 hours before light use, and shower silicone caulk needs at least 24 hours. We will tell you exactly when the space is ready to use again before we leave.

Grout fills the joints between tiles on flat surfaces. It is rigid when cured and bonds to the tile edges. Caulk is a flexible sealant used wherever two surfaces meet at a change of plane, such as the corner where the shower floor meets the wall, or where the wall tile meets the tub deck. These joints move slightly as the building settles and as materials expand and contract with temperature. Grout would crack in those locations. Using caulk at all plane changes is standard practice in a properly installed shower and is often specified in tile industry guidelines.

Both are fired clay products, but porcelain is made from a denser clay body fired at higher temperatures. This makes porcelain harder, less porous, and more resistant to moisture absorption. Porcelain is generally preferred for floor applications and wet areas like showers. Ceramic is a good choice for wall applications where moisture exposure is lower and lighter weight is useful. Porcelain typically costs more per square foot. We can walk you through the tradeoffs for your specific application when we look at the job.

Either way works. Some clients prefer to choose and purchase their own tile from a supplier or home improvement store, and we install what they provide. Others prefer us to source the material. If you are purchasing your own tile, we will tell you exactly how many square feet to order, including the waste factor, before you buy. We can also recommend local tile suppliers in the Atlanta area if you want to see samples in person before committing.

We stand behind our work. If a tile cracks, lifts, or a grout joint fails due to an installation issue, we come back and address it. What we cannot warrant against is tile failure caused by subfloor movement, structural settling, or damage from improper cleaning products. We will be clear about what is and is not within our control when we discuss the job. Call us at (470) 912-1656 if something does not look right after we finish.