Expert Advice Blog

New technology continues to transform the tile installation process – some products practically install themselves. Cutting edge high-flow self-leveling underlayment is one of those products. It is a game-changer for surface preparation. Many of the current trends in tile require a nearly perfectly flat substrate to achieve the intended aesthetic and durability of the flooring. High-flow is the next generation of self-leveling underlayments (SLUs) for delivering the smooth, flat surfaces needed to meet today’s tile setting challenges.

Pool installations are expected to trend upward through 2027^†, fueled by rising disposable incomes. Though the pool industry is still recovering from its pandemic dip, pools continue to be a highly valued amenity and a great way to experience the social and health benefits they offer. Tile offers construction versatility, stunning design options and outstanding durability with less maintenance than other materials. Whether for residential or commercial use, tile pools require meticulous attention to detail for proper installation. Fortunately, manufacturers of today’s advanced installation systems are making quality tile pool construction and maintenance easier than ever.

Though grout may seem to be a secondary-to-the-tile functional necessity, it is also the essential design element that finishes the look of a tile installation. Neutral grout colors are still the most common choice, but current trends have elevated grout to make more of a statement. The latest style trends have grout both blending in and boldly standing out. A grout line can be very thin or very wide to make a big impact. The many contrasts in grout aesthetics make perfect sense when looking at the trends that influence grout. Trends in technology, tile and color are driving the current changes in grout installation, style and color palette.

Just three states maintain average temperatures above 50*F in the winter months. The widespread colder weather has a significant impact on tile installations throughout most of the U.S. and all of Canada. Besides the physical challenges of installing tile when temperatures dip, installers must manage the cold’s effect on building surfaces and materials.

When installing tile in cold weather, you must consider the temperature of the water, the product, the room and the surface you are installing on. This article provides tips and best practices to ensure successful tiling in the colder months.

Have you encountered a situation where your grout became soft, powdery, discolored or cracked shortly after installation? Perhaps you were installing with a very absorptive tile such as an unglazed ceramic, terracotta, or porous stone. 

Glass tile can bring a unique aesthetic to a variety of commercial and residential projects. However, achieving a successful installation with glass tile requires careful product selection and installation techniques. Follow these 5 steps, and you’ll be on your way to a beautiful and long-lasting installation:

With all the different mortars out there, it can be confusing to understand all your options. Types
of mortar for tile setting include dry-set (unmodified), polymer-modified, and epoxy grout and
mortar. The polymer-modified type of mortar evolved from dry-set mortars after technology
advanced to the point where polymers became powdered and included in each bag. This
allowed more challenging installations such as larger tiles, heavier tile, glass, and more to be
completed with confidence.

Innovations in mortar technology have made it easier to meet the specific demands of a variety of jobs. However, mortar is only as good as its installer, and forgetting installation fundamentals can result in callbacks and job failures. Help avoid costly mortar missteps with the following four basic – but crucial – techniques.

No longer do 12-inch square tiles reign over the tile world. Common tile sizes have been increasing, and now 12-inch by 24-inch tiles or the 48-inch-long planks are now normal. The misconception is that these larger tile sizes do not affect the methods or equipment needed for the installation. Large format tiles require a bit more planning ahead due to their size.

Tiling a pool is a great way to enhance a property and adds value by showcasing intricate detail and design.  In fact, according to Bankrate, a pool can increase a home value by 5-8%. Not only are tiled pools beautiful, they require very little maintenance compared to plaster or aggregate pools. An accent band can be added to the waterline, or the entire tank shell can be tiled with stunning results.