Preparation

We always remove the existing flooring to allow the new floor maximum adhesion. While many people view it as acceptable to install tile over a vinyl or linoleum floor, it is a shortcut that could compromise the quality of your new floor.

We remove all baseboards and install the tile "wall-to-wall" to give your room a completely finished look, this makes the floor look like part of the original home rather than an add-in. We then reinstall your baseboards or we will install new baseboards if you prefer (you just need to buy them and we will cut and install them at no additional charge).

We remove the toilet and install tile up to drain hole. This prevents costly tile replacement should you ever need to replace the toilet (toilet bases do not come in standard sizes).

On all second story floors, we install ¼ inch concrete backer board, to prevent shifting and provide an appropriate base for the tile to adhere to. The backer board is secured with mortar and screws in a eight-inch square grid.

Installation

We use FlexBond® Premium Flexible Bonding Mortar, a polymer modified mortar to secure your new floor and help prevent cracking due to small surface movements (common to all homes).

The joints are filled with a high quality sanded grout in the color of your choice. We recommend a medium to dark color, since it will not show dirt as easily.

All baseboards and moulding that may have been removed during preparation are reinstalled. In bathroom applications, the toilet is reinstalled and tested to ensure that there are no leaks.