You're asking a very simple question: "What size trowel do I need for my tile project?" The reply should be very simple. However, the correct answer is "It depends." The problem is that it's not the right question to ask. Here's what you should be asking: First, a refresher on why notch … [Read more...] about Mortar Coverage Basics: “What size Trowel…?” is the Wrong Question
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Herringbone Tile Pattern Basics: How to Get Started
Yes, tile herringbone patterns look great. But how do you get started with them? This post will cover these three things: First, I'm going to assume you are using modular tile. More on this towards the end of the post. A simple way to get started installing a herringbone tile … [Read more...] about Herringbone Tile Pattern Basics: How to Get Started
How to Calculate Square Feet for Tile | Easy Way to Measure
You're trying to calculate the cost of your upcoming bathroom renovation. But how do you know how much tile to buy for the floor? What about the kitchen backsplash? How do you even go about measuring this? This post will decode how to calculate the square footage for your tiles. It will … [Read more...] about How to Calculate Square Feet for Tile | Easy Way to Measure
How to: Measuring Your Shower for Tile
Tile showers and bathtub surrounds are some of the most commonly tiled areas of a home. But how do you measure your shower for tile to calculate how much you need? This post is going to show you exactly how I measure: If you are looking for more general ways of calculating square footage for … [Read more...] about How to: Measuring Your Shower for Tile
Tile Leveling Systems: The 5 Different Types of Clips Explained!
Tile Leveling Systems have exploded into the marketplace. These tiling clips are all over Instagram and in an assortment of different brands, styles, and colors. Consequently, you may be wondering: This post will take you on a deep dive into these funny little plastic things and you can … [Read more...] about Tile Leveling Systems: The 5 Different Types of Clips Explained!
Shampoo Shower Niches: 10 Do’s and 2 Don’ts to Consider
For most people, a recessed shampoo shower niche is an afterthought. And it shows. This list of Do's and Don'ts covers the most common sins that I see. Hopefully, you'll read this before you begin constructing your shower. DO: Show Off your Shampoo Shelves Recessed shower niches can be … [Read more...] about Shampoo Shower Niches: 10 Do’s and 2 Don’ts to Consider
Quartering: A Little-Known Tile Layout Trick to Avoid Small Cuts
You're installing subway tile, or perhaps 12x24 tiles, and you've put them on a center line and now have small cuts on each side. Further, because it's an offset pattern, there's nothing you can really do, right? Every other row is going to have the sliver cut and that's the way that it … [Read more...] about Quartering: A Little-Known Tile Layout Trick to Avoid Small Cuts
Kitchen Backsplash Tile Layout
A kitchen splash is a great DIY tile project. But backsplash tile layouts can be a challenge. For example: What you are going to find out is that there aren't a lot of rigid, hard-and-fast rules. Instead, there are a lot of principles and guidelines but ultimately you will use your … [Read more...] about Kitchen Backsplash Tile Layout
Three Tips for Installing Hexagon Tile with Ease
Hexagon tiles are as popular as ever and they look great! But you should know a few things before undertaking a tile installation project that features these unique shapes. This post covers three aspects of installing hex tiles. These are: These three tips will get you started and applies to … [Read more...] about Three Tips for Installing Hexagon Tile with Ease
How Big Should Your Grout Lines Be? (A Comprehensive Guide)
How do you know what size a grout line should be? Are grout lines even necessary? When should you use 1/16-inch or 1/8-inch grout joints? Well, sometimes there is a reason or a 'rule' that you should adhere to. Whereas other times, it's up to your personal judgment. This post will explore … [Read more...] about How Big Should Your Grout Lines Be? (A Comprehensive Guide)