Do I need to waterproof shower walls before tiling?

• <div><p>Yes, it would be best if you waterproofed your shower walls before tiling. The cement backing board behind the tile is not waterproof; it’s only water-resistant. On top of your tile backing board, be sure to use a waterproof shower membrane before you start installing your shower tiles.</p></div>

Top 10 Best Backsplash installation pros in Donnellson, IA

Q: Can you put tile in a dumpster?

• <div><p>Yes, construction materials like tile, lumber, drywall, and hardware can be disposed of in a dumpster, just not in your regular garbage. As you&rsquo;re planning your project, just make sure to rent the correct size of dumpster based on the scope of your needs and be aware of weight limits. Tile weighs a lot (along with other construction materials), and your costs could increase if you exceed the weight limit in your contract with the dumpster provider. </p></div>

Q: Can I tile over painted walls?

• <div><p>No, tiling over painted walls or wallpapered surfaces is generally not recommended. Textured surfaces and paints will affect the adhesive, possibly causing tiles to lift or fall off. Painted walls with a semi-gloss or high-gloss finish are particularly difficult for adding tiles. It&rsquo;s wise to strip the paint first if you install the tiles to drywall, although it&rsquo;s still best to opt for a cement backer board.</p></div>

Q: Which is better: porcelain tile or ceramic tile?

• <div><p>When choosing between porcelain and ceramic tile, the best option depends on your specific needs, budget, and project application. Porcelain tile is generally more durable, denser, and harder than ceramic, making it a good choice for busy, high-traffic areas. It also offers superior moisture resistance, making it ideal for moisture-retaining spaces. However, porcelain is typically more expensive, and its hardness can make it brittle, potentially causing it to crack if a heavy object is dropped on it. In contrast, ceramic tile is a more budget-friendly option with lower material and installation costs. It is softer and easier to work with, making it a great choice for DIY projects. While not as durable as porcelain, ceramic is still a quality material suitable for many home applications, particularly small, decorative projects.</p></div>

Q: What dissolves tile adhesive?

• <div><p>Solvents dissolve tile adhesive, but the right solvent for the job depends on what type of adhesive you are trying to remove. For instance, dispersion adhesive requires stronger removers, like bile soap or even paint stripper, but some adhesives, like cement-based products, can come off with water and soap or mortar remover.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Backsplash Installation pros in Donnellson, IA

*The Angi rating for Backsplash Installation companies in Donnellson, IA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Backsplash Installation needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Backsplash Installation companies in Donnellson, IA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Backsplash Installation needs.

Last update on January 29, 2026

Reviewed in January 2026
Extremely cold minus degrees for days .my furnace went out, I Called cordray as I always do. It turned out to be a repeat issue that I was told was under a lifetime warranty, parts and labor. I was told eventually that only the part was under the warranty. I was told that they would install the...
CORDRAY HEATING & COOLING
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Reviewed in April 2025
the customer hired them to junk removal and to make a concrete floor, the pro only install wood on the yard, the customer make a payment of $1000.00 with a check
Lunde Handyman and Contracting
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Reviewed in May 2024
Install of my new walk in shower went great! Nick and the crew were friendly and explained and answered all my concerns
Mad City Windows & Baths
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Reviewed in February 2023
Called Cole to take a look at my back door that I didn’t install correctly. He came over at the agreed upon time, he worked efficiently and had the door opening and closing like it should in no time. He even went above my expectations of sealing around the door even when I said I could take care...
Colestruction LLC
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Reviewed in May 2018
The install was very professional, easy and finished job looks good!
Schwind, Inc.
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Reviewed in January 2017
Luke was on time for fireplace/chimney inspection and service. He was thorough and professional. During inspection he determined no additional chimney work was required. Price was exactly as quoted. He also provided me with installer's contact information.
Clean Sweep Chimney Care LLC
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Reviewed in June 2013
After our initial estimate we made an appointment to start the work on 4-29. About a week before that date they called us and said they could do it on 4-25. We were happy since our basement is flooded. 4-25 came and noone showed up. I called about noon and they said oops they messed up. The...
Basement Solutions Inc
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Reviewed in February 2012
They did a really good job. I was impressed how they left the area cleaner than before they came. We have not had any issues with the furnace since they installed it.
Cordray Heating & Air Conditioning, LLC
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Find Backsplash installation pros in Donnellson

KL NELSON HARDWOOD FLOORS

4.3(

)

Serving Donnellson, IA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Customers say: Quick response

"Amazing! 5/5. If you have a tile job this is your guy. Super easy to work with and really went the extra mile to make the job right. 100% would hire again"

Repairing floorboards and recarpeting stairs

Hardwood Flooring Sales and Installation Project

+27

Response time5 days

Response rate88%

1 neighbors recently requested a quote

Serving Donnellson, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Great service and done on time"

Response time6 hrs

Response rate95%

Recommended by66%of homeowners

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Dave Navarro Construction

5.0(

)

Serving Donnellson, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2010

Free estimates

We are a General contracting company. We perform all services involved in the completion of unfinished space. We do hire sub contractors when needed. We also stand by their work as well. Though we have only been in buisness for a short time. we have a combined 37 years construction experience.

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Jill Seidner Interior Design

3.5(

)

Serving Donnellson, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2006

Credit card accepted

"The design was totally useless to me. I was extremely disappointed.
"

Recommended by55%of homeowners

Serving Donnellson, IA and surrounding areas

Free estimates

"They did very well. They have manners and are respectful. I look forward to their return."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Donnellson, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2001

Free estimates

Here at LJI Handyman we pride ourselves on doing quality work with haste. With over 13 years of handyman experience we are fully confident that we can handle the job that you are in need of. Call today for your free estimate.

Response time10 mins

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Jason Lee Morris

New to Angi

Serving Donnellson, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 1994

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We are a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity and treats your home as if it were our own. We offer a variety of stone and tile services that are customizable to each individual project. We specialize in ceramic, porcelain, and a variety of natural stone tile installation. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work as well as our commitment to outstanding results. We look forward to building lasting relationships and guarantee your satisfaction!

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Ari's Woodworking

New to Angi

Serving Donnellson, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2016

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

Ari's Woodworking has over 15 years of experience. We make sure that each and every customer that we work with are completely satisfied when we complete your project. We look forward to helping you with all your renovation needs. Call us today for your free estimate.

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James Flooring

New to Angi

Serving Donnellson, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 1980

We pride our company on reliability, great communication, integrity, and quality work.\nWe strongly believe in giving our absolute best in all the work we perform. We are\nexperts and will always keep you educated about the work process. We look\nforward to earning your business.

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Backsplash Installation questions, answered by experts

Yes, construction materials like tile, lumber, drywall, and hardware can be disposed of in a dumpster, just not in your regular garbage. As you’re planning your project, just make sure to rent the correct size of dumpster based on the scope of your needs and be aware of weight limits. Tile weighs a lot (along with other construction materials), and your costs could increase if you exceed the weight limit in your contract with the dumpster provider.

Yes, it would be best if you waterproofed your shower walls before tiling. The cement backing board behind the tile is not waterproof; it’s only water-resistant. On top of your tile backing board, be sure to use a waterproof shower membrane before you start installing your shower tiles.

No, tiling over painted walls or wallpapered surfaces is generally not recommended. Textured surfaces and paints will affect the adhesive, possibly causing tiles to lift or fall off. Painted walls with a semi-gloss or high-gloss finish are particularly difficult for adding tiles. It’s wise to strip the paint first if you install the tiles to drywall, although it’s still best to opt for a cement backer board.

When choosing between porcelain and ceramic tile, the best option depends on your specific needs, budget, and project application. Porcelain tile is generally more durable, denser, and harder than ceramic, making it a good choice for busy, high-traffic areas. It also offers superior moisture resistance, making it ideal for moisture-retaining spaces. However, porcelain is typically more expensive, and its hardness can make it brittle, potentially causing it to crack if a heavy object is dropped on it. In contrast, ceramic tile is a more budget-friendly option with lower material and installation costs. It is softer and easier to work with, making it a great choice for DIY projects. While not as durable as porcelain, ceramic is still a quality material suitable for many home applications, particularly small, decorative projects.

Solvents dissolve tile adhesive, but the right solvent for the job depends on what type of adhesive you are trying to remove. For instance, dispersion adhesive requires stronger removers, like bile soap or even paint stripper, but some adhesives, like cement-based products, can come off with water and soap or mortar remover.

The Donnellson, IA homeowners’ guide to backsplash installation services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

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•
Apr 8, 2026Apr 8, 2026
Can You Put a Backsplash Directly on Drywall?
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•
May 2, 2026May 2, 2026
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•
Apr 4, 2026Apr 4, 2026
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When installing a kitchen backsplash, you’ll need the right tools, materials, and knowledge. Our guide will show you how to install a kitchen backsplash.