Here are 5 alternatives to common bullnose tile edge trim. One of the mistakes that I see a lot of homeowners and DIYers make with tile installations is that they sometimes don't use any tile trim on the exposed tile edges. Many times they think the edge of the tile looks OK or they simply … [Read more...] about Tired of Bullnose Tile Trim? Here are 5 Tile Edge Trim Alternatives
How to Modify your Recessed Foam Shower Niche
In this post we cover: Situations where you would consider modifications A technique to check if your foam niche is still waterproofMethod and tools to customize a foam shower nicheStaying out of trouble The Ultimate Guide to Building a Preformed Recessed Shower Niche Part 3: How to … [Read more...] about How to Modify your Recessed Foam Shower Niche
How to Build a Recessed Shampoo Shelf
In this post we discuss: How to cut an inset niche into the wallWhat tools to use to build the recessed shampoo shelfBlocking (framing) for a recessed nicheHow to make sure your niche is waterproofTile inside and around your shower insert The Ultimate Guide to Building a Preformed Recessed … [Read more...] about How to Build a Recessed Shampoo Shelf
How to Design a Preformed Foam Recessed Shower Niche
In this post we discuss: What types of prefab recessed shower niches are out thereWhich preformed shampoo niches are bestShower niche design ideasWhy you should plan for a shower insert before you install any tileHow to lay out a shower nicheAdding shelves to your recessed niches The … [Read more...] about How to Design a Preformed Foam Recessed Shower Niche
Do Uncoupling Membranes Really Prevent Cracked Tile Floors?
You want to tile your concrete floor. But there's a problem. The concrete has cracks in it. You know that if you tile right over the crack that you soon will have floor tile that's cracked in the exact same spot. So what can you do to keep the tile from cracking? Do Uncoupling Membranes … [Read more...] about Do Uncoupling Membranes Really Prevent Cracked Tile Floors?
No Waterproofing: Will this cause shower leaks?
A leaking shower. The last thing anyone wants when they build a new shower. Yet I hear the following questions quite often: Isn't cement board waterproof?The tile and grout will keep the most of the water out, right?My contractor didn't put any waterproofing in our shower. Will this cause a … [Read more...] about No Waterproofing: Will this cause shower leaks?
Ditra Heat Mat Installation: Ignore these two rules
Typically I encourage people to follow the manufacturer's instructions. Especially when the company has clear, detailed, and easy-to-understand instructions. But when it comes to both Ditra Heat and Ditra Heat TB [edit: now called Ditra-Heat Duo] there are two things that I just don't feel are … [Read more...] about Ditra Heat Mat Installation: Ignore these two rules
The trick for getting better thinset coverage under your tiles
I've worked with some fussy tile setters in the past. Everything has to be a particular way with them. The boxes of tile have to be opened a certain way, their spacers have to be positioned just so, and their tools have to be organized in a certain manner. Good thinset mortar coverage … [Read more...] about The trick for getting better thinset coverage under your tiles
The One Thing Every Tile Installation Needs: Movement Joints
If I were to ask “what is one thing that every tile installation needs?” I would get answers like TileMortarTrowelPatience Nobody would answer with “Movement Joints”. Nobody. Most people wouldn’t understand what they are. And installing them sounds like it would be technical and … [Read more...] about The One Thing Every Tile Installation Needs: Movement Joints
The Little Known Cause of your Loose Floor Tiles
Loose floor tiles can be very frustrating. Why is it happening? What's the cause? What went wrong? I have a textbook for contractors called the NTCA Reference manual. One of the features of this book is that it has tables and charts that list different tile problems. Then it gives a cause. … [Read more...] about The Little Known Cause of your Loose Floor Tiles
