Tile FAQ’s

The list below contains some of the most commonly asked questions I get about tile and installation methods. For each one I have included a (very) short answer. I already have, or will have in the future, a post about every one of these. If that post already exists there will be a link at the end of the answer.

I will continue to add to this page as the questions come up. If you have a question just leave a comment at the bottom and I’ll include it on this page.

Just click on the question to view the answer.

`Grout`

`▶ What type of grout should I use for my tile?`

It depends on the tile and the size of the grout lines. Read this: Using the correct type of grout

`▶ How large should my grout lines be?`

It depends on the tile size and the look you want. Read this: How large should grout lines be?

`▶ Can I fill my cracking grout with more grout?`

Maybe. Read this article for a more complete answer: Filling grout lines with more grout

`▶ Are there any “magic” products available to remove stains from your grout and tile?`

No there are not. One of the closest things to magic that you can buy is oxygen bleach. It is not bleach! It's a slight misnomer. This is the main ingredient in products like oxyclean. It works very, very well to clean grout. More information: How to clean grout

`Miscellaneous`

`▶ Can I install floor tiles on my shower walls?`

Yes you can. Read this: Floor tiles on a wall

`Sealers`

`▶ Will sealing your tile and grout make it waterproof?`

No! It absolutely will not.

`▶ Should I seal (or re-seal) my tile and grout?`

If you would like it to be easier to clean then yes, you should.

`Setting Materials`

`▶ What should I use to set my tile?`

It depends on where you are installing the tile. Read this: Proper setting materials for tile

`▶ Are mastic and pre-mixed “mortar” acceptable to install tile on a floor or in a shower?`

No they are not. Read this: Proper setting materials for tile

`Substrates`

`▶ Does my floor have to be level before I install tile?`

No it does not. Read this: Does my floor have to be level for tile?

`▶ Do I need a waterproof membrane for my shower walls?`

Yes, a membrane of some sort is required. Read the article for the different types. Read this: Preparing a shower wall for tile

`▶ Can I simply stick tile to the drywall in my shower or the plywood on my floor?`

You can but it won’t last – so no. Read this: Preparing a shower wall for tile or this: Installing backerboard for floor tile

`Transitions`

`▶ Should I use grout or caulk in the corners of my shower?`

Technically? Caulk. Realistically? It depends. Read this: Caulk or grout in corners?

If you have any suggestions or questions please feel free to leave a comment.

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Chris Burzo May 19, 2012 at 2:56 pm: Hi Roger,
Bought the traditional shower ebook. Floor is done, am installing the hardiebackers for the walls. I don’t see anywhere how close to bring the hardiebacker to the floor, and whether or not I need to silicone the back of the hardiebacker to my shower liner.
I can guess that the same 1/8 gap is required at the bottom, i.e. the hardiebacker comes down to an eighth above the floor tile. But do I need to silicone the back of the hardiebacker at the bottom to the shower liner?
I’m gonna redgard the walls, so I don’t have a moisture barrier under the hardiebacker.

Thanks
Chris

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Chris May 18, 2012 at 8:52 am: Hi Roger,

Is there anything particular I should know prior to tiling, grouting, and sealing the wall tile for my shower. I have installed the hardiebacker boards and applied the AquaDefense liquid membrane already. I have the corners and transitions silicone’d.

I am ready to tile and have purchased the tile book (very helpfuly ), I just was planning to read directions on the thinset recommended by AquaDefense and read the directions given with the grout and sealant and go to work. Anything special I need to be aware of?

Thanks

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