Is it better to tile or use a tub surround?

• <div><p>The choice of whether to tile or use an acrylic tub surround is up to you and can be based on a number of factors, including aesthetics, cost, waterproofing, ease of cleaning, and maintenance.</p><p>Tile is a beautiful, classic bathtub surround choice; while <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/tile-installation-cost.htm">tile installation cost</a> is higher, it’s customizable and offers visual appeal. Tile is also harder to clean and presents waterproofing problems because of grout lines. Acrylic surrounds can be more affordable, don’t require much maintenance, and are easier to clean. However, they aren’t usually as visually appealing and may need to be replaced if they become damaged.</p></div>

Get matched with top backsplash installation pros in Laurens, IA

Q: Can I paint over tile countertops?

• <div><p>Yes, you can use paint if you want to refresh your tile countertops. However, you must be mindful of the type of paint you use. Look for options explicitly created for tile that are also waterproof and durable. Over time, the paint will chip, so this is not considered a long-term solution for busy kitchens. </p></div>

Q: What is the best trowel for penny tile?

• <div><p>The best trowel for penny tile is a 3/16-inch-by-5/32-inch V-notch trowel. Because of the small size of the penny tile, you want a trowel with small notches that can lay a thin layer of mortar on the surface you&rsquo;re tiling. If the notches are too wide, you risk applying too thick of a layer of mortar, and it can squeeze out between the penny tiles.</p></div>

Q: Can I cut tile without a wet saw?

• <div><p>Yes, it&rsquo;s possible to cut tile without a wet saw; instead, you can use an angle grinder, a glass cutter, a snap cutter, tile nippers, or a rotary tool with a tile-cutting blade. A manual tile cutter or snap cutter works well for the larger tiles that wet saws are typically used for, while smaller projects might just require nippers or a glass cutting wheel. If you&rsquo;re working with large quantities of tile, however, power tools are best.</p></div>

Q: Can granite floor tiles be installed over existing flooring?

• <div><p>In some cases, granite tiles can be installed over existing flooring if the surface is level, stable, and free of moisture issues. However, removing old flooring is often recommended to ensure a secure and long-lasting installation, as well as to avoid height differences at thresholds. Consult with your flooring pro to determine the best approach based on your specific situation.</p></div>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your backsplash installation project in Laurens, IA?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Backsplash Installation pros in Laurens, IA

*The Angi rating for Backsplash Installation companies in Laurens, 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 Laurens, 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 June 30, 2026

Reviewed in June 2026
The 2 men that installed my Walk in Shower were very professional, informative, efficient and kept me updated throughout the entire process. I was very impressed. Wyatt Meyer and his aide, Tanner, did a great job, in one day!! Kudos to them both. I will be recommending their services to all.
Mad City Windows & Baths
Request a quote
Reviewed in July 2022
Len was very professional, friendly, conscientious and easy to work with! He did a great job and our area rug looks amazing!
Advanced Interior Care, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in November 2021
Their team did a great job communicating with me. They completed the job well and cleanup was great. I would recommend them and will use them again.
Uprooted Tree Service
Request a quote
Reviewed in February 2020
It looks good. He did a pretty good job and he cleaned up very good.
Sandvigroofing&general contractor
Request a quote
Reviewed in June 2019
Joe and his crew were a pleasure to work with. He was here when he said he would be. They worked quickly and efficiently. Rain is expected later today, so we will get to test the new gutters.
Gutters Unlimited Elite Services, Inc.
Request a quote
Reviewed in April 2019
Told him what I wanted done and when it came to biding my project, I thought he was doing my entree way to my basement plus my 6x8 wall and when he finished the entree way without doing the 6x8 wall he said here is my bill and he stated that he never bid on the 6x8 wall and I stated that was the...
Hatch Masonry & Concrete
Request a quote
Reviewed in November 2018
Very professional. Their work was thorough and even went the extra mile to ensure our home was electrically safe. Very good at keeping me informed on scheduling the appointment. Money well invested.
Toft Electric, Inc.
Request a quote
Reviewed in October 2013
In February 2013 we hired Premier Construction to undertake an extensive building project which included an addition to our house that doubled the existing square footage, a remodel of the existing space, and the construction of a detached garage. Also included in the project were a rear deck, a...
Premier Construction Services
Request a quote
Reviewed in March 2012
Delivers and removes appliances. Sets up and cleans up after they install. Always very friendly. Willing to come when called and when u call them they are there within 24 hours.
Seiler Appliance Inc
Request a quote

Find Backsplash installation pros in Laurens

777 Remodeling, Renovations & Repairs LLC

4.6(

)

Serving Laurens, IA and surrounding areas

Approved

Super Service Award Winner

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"John was very efficient in providing us with an estimate and time to do the paint job. We are pleased with the workmanship and price. I recommend this business."

Response time2 days

2 neighbors recently requested a quote

Serving Laurens, IA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2024

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

"Job was done when they said they were going to be done and great work very happy with the work that was done in my house will call them again"

+37

Response time2 hrs

Response rate100%

2 neighbors recently requested a quote

Request Quote

Dave Navarro Construction

5.0(

)

Serving Laurens, 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

Request Quote

Jill Seidner Interior Design

3.5(

)

Serving Laurens, 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

Request Quote

Shandy Home Improvements, LLC

New to Angi

Serving Laurens, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2000

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

At Shandy Home Improvements, LLC, we pride ourselves on being the best home improvement company in the area. We have built an excellent reputation for customer satisfaction by providing quick estimates, a great attention to detail, and competitive pricing. Being a screened and approved professional gives you the peace of mind you need to allow us to give your home the attention it deserves.

Response time6 hrs

Request Quote

JD MO BUILDERS

New to Angi

Serving Laurens, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

We take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality and customer service that\nwe provide to meet your needs. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship\nand complete customer satisfaction from start to completion of a project. \nIn order to understand the needs and expectations of our customers,\nwe take great care to work and communicate with every customer a professional manner.\nOur reputation is based on service, safety and quality, regardless of how large\nor small the job.

Request Quote

Backsplash Installation questions, answered by experts

Yes, you can use paint if you want to refresh your tile countertops. However, you must be mindful of the type of paint you use. Look for options explicitly created for tile that are also waterproof and durable. Over time, the paint will chip, so this is not considered a long-term solution for busy kitchens.

The best trowel for penny tile is a 3/16-inch-by-5/32-inch V-notch trowel. Because of the small size of the penny tile, you want a trowel with small notches that can lay a thin layer of mortar on the surface you’re tiling. If the notches are too wide, you risk applying too thick of a layer of mortar, and it can squeeze out between the penny tiles.

Yes, it’s possible to cut tile without a wet saw; instead, you can use an angle grinder, a glass cutter, a snap cutter, tile nippers, or a rotary tool with a tile-cutting blade. A manual tile cutter or snap cutter works well for the larger tiles that wet saws are typically used for, while smaller projects might just require nippers or a glass cutting wheel. If you’re working with large quantities of tile, however, power tools are best.

In some cases, granite tiles can be installed over existing flooring if the surface is level, stable, and free of moisture issues. However, removing old flooring is often recommended to ensure a secure and long-lasting installation, as well as to avoid height differences at thresholds. Consult with your flooring pro to determine the best approach based on your specific situation.

The choice of whether to tile or use an acrylic tub surround is up to you and can be based on a number of factors, including aesthetics, cost, waterproofing, ease of cleaning, and maintenance.

Tile is a beautiful, classic bathtub surround choice; while tile installation cost is higher, it’s customizable and offers visual appeal. Tile is also harder to clean and presents waterproofing problems because of grout lines. Acrylic surrounds can be more affordable, don’t require much maintenance, and are easier to clean. However, they aren’t usually as visually appealing and may need to be replaced if they become damaged.

The Laurens, IA homeowners’ guide to backsplash installation services

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

See all articles

Stephanie Mickelson
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does Backsplash Installation Cost? [2026 Data]
Backsplash installation costs vary by tile type, design, kitchen layout, and contractor. Find out how much your dream backsplash will cost you.
Kat Brancato
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does a Marble Backsplash Cost to Install? [2026 Data]
Marble backsplashes are beautiful and costly additions to your kitchen. Our guide lays out marble options and the labor required to install it.
Haley Nothstein
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
What Is the Average Cost of Laminate Countertops? [2026 Data]
Discover the cost of installing laminate countertops, including how their size, material, and finish impact your total price.
Amy Freeman
•
Apr 8, 2026Apr 8, 2026
Can You Put a Backsplash Directly on Drywall?
Can you put backsplash on drywall? The answer might surprise you: Yes, you can. Read on to find out more about installing a backsplash on drywall.
Deane Biermeier
•
May 2, 2026May 2, 2026
Do You Need a Backsplash in Your Kitchen? Beautify and Protect Your Remodel
Do you need a backsplash? Technically, no. However, installing one in your kitchen can add beauty and help avoid costly repairs. Here's how and why.
Elisa Greenberg
•
Apr 4, 2026Apr 4, 2026
How To Install a Kitchen Backsplash in 12 Steps
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.