Four Things to Know for Your Bathroom Tile Installation

One of the most important decisions you will make during your bathroom remodel is choosing your flooring.  It serves as the foundation for the rest of the design and must provide style and function if it’s going to work.  There are multiple products you can use in this space but one of the best options is tile.  Here are a few things to consider when deciding to install this material in your washroom. 

1. Be sure to choose tile that will hold up well in wet areas.  All tile are not created equal when it comes to the bathroom.  The most popular and water-resistant choice is porcelain or ceramic tile.  They are also made in a textured style different from what you would use on the walls to create a non-slip surface for safety.  Travertine is another popular choice, but this material must be sealed to provide protection from standing water.  Keep in mind that tile will feel cool underfoot so you might want to consider using radiant heat beneath the flooring.
2. Be prepared to remove existing bathroom fixtures to ensure that the tile can be properly installed wall to wall in the space.  This usually means that the toilet and vanity will be temporarily unavailable during the renovation.  Be sure to have an alternative washroom to use while work is being done in this room.   If you are installing a new vanity or toilet with different dimensions than your pre-existing fixtures, remember that this may change the amount of materials needed for purchase.
3. Establish that the floor you are working with is level to prevent issues when installation begins.  If the surface is not completely flat, the tile may not be able to be laid properly, which can cause cracking in the future.  Use a marble to ascertain whether you are working with a slanted floor by placing it in the corner of the room.  If it immediately starts rolling away, you know that a correction is needed before work can commence.
4. Consider the size of the room you are working with before choosing your design.  While you may have your heart set on a certain look, ask yourself if it is appropriate for the space.  Try not to use anything too dark in a washroom with no natural light, or use tile that is too small for a tiny bathroom.  Large tiles are always a safe choice for smaller areas.  Smaller tiles are better suited for accent areas in a large bathroom, but use no more than 3 different sizes to prevent the area from looking too busy. 

Now that you know what to prepare for with your bathroom remodel, come visit us at our showroom to pick out the best tile patterns and styles for your space today!