lippage

Effects of Improper Ditra Installation

I am not writing this to tell you why your tile is cracking or why your grout is cracking – I have other posts that may tell you that. (Click on the pretty little links ) If you happen to have Schluter Ditra as your substrate, this post will tell you why either one of [...]

Read the full article →

How to install a control joint in a tile installation

In my previous post I beat you to death with the reasons why you absolutely need a soft joint (control joint) in certain tile installations. Sorry about that, I have a hard time expressing how important they are without being a dick. They”re important – really. So now that I’ve properly reprimanded you it’s time [...]

Read the full article →

What is a ‘Soft Joint’ and When to use One

That title right there is absolutely ripe for me to go off on a sophomoric, mildly humorous rant about the viability of inferior illegal plant use. But I’m not gonna do that. (Okay, maybe later…) A soft joint, or control joint,  is simply one grout line, all the way down the length of your installation, [...]

Read the full article →

How to Install Absolutely Flat Floor Tile

I constantly reiterate the need for a tile installation to be flat. Not necessarily level, but always flat. This is the mark of a true professional and the thing that turns an ‘okay’ installation into a spectacular installation. (Did I just type ‘spectacular? Jesus…) Anyway, the method I use on floor tile to get it [...]

Read the full article →

Does my Floor have to be Level to Install Tile?

Before installing tile on your floor you must make sure your floor is properly prepared.  A properly prepared floor does not have to be level. It must, however, be flat. The only time the levelness (is that a word?) must be taken into consideration is when drainage is an issue, such as on a porch [...]

Read the full article →