Ceramic Tile Installation in Nashville, TN

We help you visualize different ceramic tile patterns before installation begins. Our design team can show you how various layouts like checkerboard, herringbone, and subway tile patterns will look in your specific space. This visualization process eliminates guesswork and ensures you'll be happy with the final result.

Many customers find that diagonal tile installation creates an illusion of more space, while traditional grid patterns offer a clean, timeless look. We'll create digital mockups of different options so you can compare them side by side.

Our years of experience with ceramic and porcelain installations help us guide you toward patterns that will work best for your specific room dimensions and usage needs.

We begin every ceramic tile installation by thoroughly assessing your subfloor. We remove any existing flooring, adhesive residue, and debris to create a clean surface. The subfloor must be structurally sound, flat, and free of cracks.

If we find any damaged areas, we repair them before proceeding. For concrete subfloors, we check for moisture problems that could affect your tile installation later. We use specialized moisture meters to ensure levels are within acceptable ranges.

For wood subfloors, we verify that the structure can support the weight of ceramic tile. Sometimes we need to reinforce the floor joists or add an additional layer of plywood to create a stable base. We also check for any flex or bounce in your floor that could cause tiles to crack later.

The right underlayment is crucial for your tile installation's success. We typically use cement board or backer board as they provide excellent support for ceramic tiles. These materials don't shrink or expand with moisture changes like some wood products do.

We carefully measure and cut the underlayment to fit your space precisely. Each piece is secured with special underlayment screws placed every 6-8 inches. We stagger the joints of the underlayment to avoid alignment with the subfloor seams, creating a stronger overall structure.

Once the underlayment is secured, we apply tile underlayment tape to all seams. This prevents movement between boards that could cause your tiles to crack. For uneven areas, we apply leveling compound to create a perfectly flat surface. A smooth, level base is essential for a professional-looking tile installation.

In moisture-prone areas like bathrooms and kitchens, we apply a waterproofing membrane over the underlayment. This critical step prevents water from seeping through to your subfloor, which can cause serious structural damage over time.

We pay special attention to corners, edges, and areas around plumbing fixtures. These vulnerable spots get extra waterproofing protection to ensure a complete moisture barrier. For shower installations, we create proper slopes toward drains to prevent standing water.

Soundproofing is another important consideration, especially in multi-story homes or apartments. We can install soundproof underlay beneath your tile to reduce noise transmission between floors. This material also provides some insulation benefits, making your floor feel warmer underfoot during cold months.

Before applying tile adhesive, we often use a tile primer on the prepared surface. This improves adhesion and ensures your tiles will stay firmly in place for years to come.

We always select the appropriate adhesive based on your specific tile type and installation location. For floor installations, we typically use thin-set mortar which provides superior strength and water resistance. For wall applications, we might recommend a lighter mastic adhesive for vertical holding power.

Our installers use the correct notched trowel size for your specific tile dimensions - larger tiles require deeper notches to ensure proper coverage. We apply mortar in small sections to prevent premature drying, using a 45-degree angle technique that creates consistent ridges.

Back buttering is essential for larger format tiles. This means applying a thin layer of adhesive to the back of each tile before placement. This technique ensures 95% coverage and eliminates hollow spots that could cause cracking later.

We always begin with a dry layout to visualize the final pattern and minimize awkward cuts. This planning stage helps us identify potential issues before adhesive is applied.

Our team uses professional-grade tile spacers to maintain consistent grout lines throughout your installation. These small plastic pieces ensure perfect alignment and can be removed after the adhesive sets.

For larger format installations, we employ tile leveling systems to prevent lippage - the uneven edges between adjacent tiles. These systems use clips and straps to hold neighboring tiles at the same height while the adhesive cures.

We work methodically across the installation area, checking alignment frequently with a level. This attention to detail ensures your tile surface remains perfectly flat and visually appealing.

We carefully select the right grout type for your specific installation. For floor tiles with joints wider than 1/8 inch, we recommend sanded grout for its durability and crack resistance. For wall tiles or narrower joints, we use unsanded grout to prevent scratching delicate surfaces.

For high-moisture areas like bathrooms or kitchens, we often suggest epoxy grout which offers superior stain and water resistance. This premium option costs more but requires less maintenance long-term.

We precisely mix grout to manufacturer specifications using clean water and controlled mixing techniques. The consistency should be similar to peanut butter - not too dry or too runny. This ensures proper adhesion and prevents shrinkage or cracking as it cures.

You can keep your new tiles looking pristine by following some simple care guidelines. For daily cleaning, sweep or vacuum with a soft brush attachment to remove loose dirt and debris that can scratch your tiles. Follow up with a damp mop using plain warm water or a mild, pH-neutral cleaner specifically formulated for tile.

Avoid harsh cleaning chemicals, especially acidic cleaners like vinegar on natural stone tiles, as they can damage the sealer and etch the surface. We recommend purchasing quality grout cleaning tools like soft bristle brushes for periodic deep cleaning of grout lines.

For stubborn stains, use a paste of baking soda and water, allowing it to sit for 10 minutes before gently scrubbing. Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove any residue that might dull the finish over time.