The 1/2 x 1/2 inch square notch trowel is one of the most popular notch trowel sizes for large format tiles. The notches are big and deep with this trowel. That's a good thing as you need more mortar for bigger tiles. So, what's the problem with it? The 1/2-inch square notch trowel has a … [Read more...] about 1/2 x 1/2 inch Square Notch Trowel: The Worst Trowel for Large Format Tile?
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Notched Trowel Buyer’s Guide
Notch trowels for tile are one of the tools that generate the most questions. I'm a professional tile installer that started setting tile in 1996. These are the trowels that I and other tile installers use. We use different-sized trowels for different purposes. Down below, you'll see … [Read more...] about Notched Trowel Buyer’s Guide
Mortar Coverage Basics: “What size Trowel…?” is the Wrong Question
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
Does your floor meet minimum structural requirements for tile?
You want to install new tile on your floor but you're not sure if your floor is rated for it. Maybe you had tile previously and they were cracked and coming loose? Perhaps, you had a vinyl or carpet floor and wonder if the floor is engineered for tile? This post will help you understand the … [Read more...] about Does your floor meet minimum structural requirements for tile?
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
Yes, you can tile over drywall under these 3 conditions
With so many specialized tile backer boards and underlayment out there, it's not crazy to wonder if it's OK to tile directly over drywall. I'm here to tell you it is OK. As long as you follow these three rules: If you can meet these three conditions, tiling over drywall is perfectly OK. Also, … [Read more...] about Yes, you can tile over drywall under these 3 conditions
4 Best Bonding Flange Drains for Looks and Performance
Drains have come a long way. It used to be that Ebbe was the only one that paid even a little attention to them. Nowadays, there's almost no excuse to have an ugly-looking drain cover. This post covers 4 options for the bonding flange shower drains. These are the types of drains that you use … [Read more...] about 4 Best Bonding Flange Drains for Looks and Performance
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
4 of the WORST Tiles for Kitchen Backsplashes (plus what TO choose)
When choosing a tile for a kitchen backsplash, many homeowners pick the wrong thing. I don't think they do it on purpose (most of them, anyway). Rather, they select what they think looks good rather than consider what it will look like 3-5 years down the road. This post covers four … [Read more...] about 4 of the WORST Tiles for Kitchen Backsplashes (plus what TO choose)
