When someone hires a contractor, they expect honesty, expertise and consistency. Today’s subject was a bathroom with a sweet homeowner that trusted the contractor would do the job well. The event prompted me to write an article on  tile and asking contractors about the process because the job I refer to is Tile-setting. When someone begins to shed tears over a project that did not turn out so well, it’s hard to not make it my own tragedy. It’s upsetting to see people pour their heart into a space and have it turn out entirely something less than desireabled. This causes them so much grief that it takes away from their emotional, mental and physical well-being. We all know what it costs to remodel a space and anything attached to the house is permanent. This is where the loss of sanity comes into play. Tiles fall into the category that it’s semi-permanent to permanent. I say semi-permanent because it can be changed but at great expense, versus an exterior wall which could be astronomical in price once it’s done. Tile is something that should be discussed. The tile setter should also be interviewed by a knowledgeable person whom allows them to bullet the steps while one listens very closely. A knowledgeable person that is looking to hire that tile setter would know every step and so, the purpose for this interview is to learn how the job will be executed. If there is one step missed at the time of said interview, the interviewer should indeed question the missing step.

This was not the case in this instance.

There was no one to discuss or interview and when the space was reviewed, the homeowner was upset, in tears, devastated, untrusting, and concerned over the cost of demolition and re-setting. You see, tile is not re-usable once it has been installed.The product is rendered useless due to the harsh removal and demolition process. This is why tile falls into a permanent category. It’s either there or a complete loss to the homeowner.

From material type and its usage to design, application, grout and sealing practice, this is a costly process that requires everyone be on the same page and no unanswered questions be up in the air.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

*Not every vendor at the local home improvement store is educated on materials you are looking to use.

*Not every tile is intended for every area of the home.

*Every tile has a rating that describes its hardness, use and application method.

*Some tiles require a certain mortar be used, other than your typical gray medium.

*Some tile settings require a waterproofing membrane to prevent mold growth i.e. anywhere water may spill or pour down the wall or anywhere with high humidity.

* A darker grout color is not always the best option. Think about how dark it will be once it dries and how it will affect the appearance of your finished space.

*Some tile products need to be sealed BEFORE applying grout. Yes, you read that right. Some tile products need to be sealed before applying grout in order to keep the tile looking the way you saw it before installation. Slate  falls into this category. Go here to read more about the process.

*Seal, seal, seal. Before you use it. And seal it again. My general rule of thumb is to spend a little more on the better sealant with the longer life and spend the extra time sealing it. The grout should be sealed one layer at a time and until it no longer absorbs the sealant. This means it is completely sealed. [My own backsplash has four applications and 16 years later, it looks brand new. Thanks, Dupont!]

So, before you start that project and trust the vendor that’s convinced you that tile you’re considering is a great choice without knowing the specifics on its future application site, read a little more on the job you’re about to tackle and if need be, consult a pro. It never hurts to ask if they can give you an hour’s worth of informed advice for a flat fee to make sure you’ve made the right selections. I mean, what exactly do you have to lose by not asking?

“There are no dumb questions, other than the ones never asked because they are left unanswered and without necessary information.”

Ask questions. As many as you need to. It’s the best way to protect yourself.

*This post was updated Feb 10th, 2025