Get matched with top backsplash installation pros in Oakland, IA

Q: Do you start tiling in a corner?

• <div><p>Technically, you can start tiling in a corner and work your way out. However, it's not traditionally how tiling is done. Instead, work from the bottom middle of the wall. Tile out the entire row with whole tiles before moving on to the next row. Once you finish installing all of the whole tiles, then you focus on tiling the corners.</p></div>

Q: What is the best tile for a dog shower?

• <div><p>There isn&rsquo;t a one-size-fits-all best tile for a dog shower. Consider your budget, tile durability, aesthetics, and, most importantly, practicality. Avoid tiles your dog will slide around on. Pebbles are a great non-slip option, but are pricey and tricky to install. Glass might look modern, but it&rsquo;s not scratch-resistant. Small, floor-rated <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/porcelain-vs-ceramic-tile.htm">ceramic or porcelain tiles</a> are economical and have many grout lines that make the surface more slip-resistant. Pick a matte finish rather than a shiny tile if you want it to hide stray mud and hairs better.</p></div>

Q: What size tile is easiest to install?

• <div><p>The easiest tile size to install is large tiles, and they&rsquo;re easier to install than small tiles&mdash;the job is faster and simpler when there&rsquo;s less placing, adhering, and grouting to do. However, when tiles get really big, they&rsquo;re more difficult to handle, cut, and fit. Standard floor tile sizes are 12-by-12 inches, 18-by-18 inches, and 12-by-24 inches.</p></div>

Q: Can you put tile directly on drywall?

• <div><p>Yes, but you should only put tile directly on drywall in smaller areas that don&rsquo;t experience excess moisture. For example, a small kitchen tile backsplash could work, but installing tile directly on the drywall in a bathroom or other chronically damp area is not a good idea. Either way, a cement backer board is a far more reliable solution, as drywall is susceptible to moisture and can warp or cause your tiles to crack.</p></div>

Q: Should tile touch the tub?

• <div><p>Tile shouldn&rsquo;t be set tight against the tub. Bathtubs can expand when filled, and they can shift slightly with the weight of occupants. For this reason, it&rsquo;s important to leave a slight gap between the bathtub and the first row of tile. Aim for a narrow gap of approximately 1/16 of an inch, filled with caulk, to allow for this expansion and movement while still allowing for <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/your-shower-tile-really-waterproof.htm">tile shower waterproofing</a>.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Backsplash Installation pros in Oakland, IA

*The Angi rating for Backsplash Installation companies in Oakland, 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 Oakland, 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 March 08, 2026

Reviewed in March 2026
From start to finish, the communication, customer service, and installation was professional. Highly recommended!
Epp Foundation Repair
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Reviewed in December 2024
Great work, very kind, and good quality product and installation
DC Bros LLC
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Reviewed in June 2022
The installer Chet,worked efficiently and performed quality workmanship. The service was provided as told without delays.
Bath Planet of Des Moines
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Reviewed in December 2021
The team at Window World of Omaha can't be beat. The customer service and product quality is excellent. On installation, Mike and Ryan were prompt, meticulous and cared about perfection. So glad we chose this chomping to spend our dollars with. A big thank you to all the folks at Window...
Window World of Omaha Facebook
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Reviewed in June 2017
Extremely well! The salesman was on-time, informative, polite, patient, and answered every question I had. The installer worked non-stop, by himself, and replaced all the windows, trimmed them out, cleaned up EVERYTHING, and was gone in 2 days. He was polite and friendly and obviously had a lot...
American Exteriors
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Reviewed in March 2017
Hoskins did everything as agreed. Installed windows, gutters, and siding. Tim provided recommendations for my needs. Very happy with results. His crew was outstanding. Highly recommend him and his crew. I have referred his services to others already. Great job guys.
Hoskins Roofing Systems
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Reviewed in September 2014
<p>The instructions given to the contractor could have been more detailed. He had questions that should have been answered in the work order. Because we used two colors of siding on a couple of sides of the house that were quite tall, we were not clear what the salesman had in mind. We had to...
K DESIGNERS HOME REMODELING
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Reviewed in August 2013
Marathon came out to my location the next day after calling them, to give me an est. for installing seven new windows, putting on shingles, soffet & fascia, gutters, insulation and siding. My windows were going to take 2 weeks to get, siding 3 weeks to order and get, so they had the est and...
Marathon Services Inc
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Reviewed in August 2012
Kyle is very experienced and his love for dogs shows through. Our underground fence was installed quickly and there was barely a visible line where the ground had to be dug. Kyle worked with our goldendoodle on training him with the fence. He has a wonderful disposition with animals. Our dog...
ECG Computer & Electronic Repair
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Reviewed in February 2012
They had the exact same make and model of the equipments that I wanted to replace. We got 2 fluorescent light fixtures, microwave, stove and two radios; one was like a small Bloombox and the other was a clock radio. I installed all the appliances myself. I also had the furnace fixed. They were...
SEARS HOME IMPROVEMENT PRODUCTS
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Find Backsplash installation pros in Oakland

Top Notch Renovations Facebook

4.6(

)

Serving Oakland, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2014

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

"They built a very nice deck for me in only 2 days and I was quite happy with the price. Really good guys, they worked through some very cold and windy weather to get it finished."

Response time3 hrs

Response rate100%

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Serving Oakland, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2013

Free estimates

Warranties offered

"Steve & associate came in as professionals & courteous gentlemen finished the job in one day & then they were gone drop clothes & all. Would highly recommend to anyone needing tile work."

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Dave Navarro Construction

5.0(

)

Serving Oakland, 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 Oakland, 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 Oakland, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2021

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

"Great work, very kind, and good quality product and installation"

Response time3 days

Response rate92%

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A Cut Above The Rest Contractors

1.3(

)

Serving Oakland, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2012

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

Welcome to A Cut Above The Rest Contractors. We are the premier professional home improvement company. We offer the highest quality and most attentive customer service. We are known to pay exquisite attention to detail, while making customer satisfaction our top priority. Whether your project involves minor repairs or a completely new replacement or installation, we are glad to be your number one choice. \n\nPlease call us today to schedule your appointment!

Response time4 hrs

Response rate100%

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MB Cleaning

New to Angi

Serving Oakland, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2023

Free estimates

We have the experience and dedication to get the job done right! Specializing in floor and carpet cleaning services; We guarantee your satisfaction, and we won't leave until the job is done right. We pride ourselves on the quality work we provide, while delivering great customer service! Call or click for your FREE estimate today!

+21

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SOLARIS BUILDING AND EXTERIORS

New to Angi

Serving Oakland, IA and surrounding areas

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

Offers commercial services

At Solari’s Construction we bring affordable home solutions to whatever project it may be your wanting to tackle!

+11

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Backsplash Installation questions, answered by experts

Technically, you can start tiling in a corner and work your way out. However, it's not traditionally how tiling is done. Instead, work from the bottom middle of the wall. Tile out the entire row with whole tiles before moving on to the next row. Once you finish installing all of the whole tiles, then you focus on tiling the corners.

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all best tile for a dog shower. Consider your budget, tile durability, aesthetics, and, most importantly, practicality. Avoid tiles your dog will slide around on. Pebbles are a great non-slip option, but are pricey and tricky to install. Glass might look modern, but it’s not scratch-resistant. Small, floor-rated ceramic or porcelain tiles are economical and have many grout lines that make the surface more slip-resistant. Pick a matte finish rather than a shiny tile if you want it to hide stray mud and hairs better.

The easiest tile size to install is large tiles, and they’re easier to install than small tiles—the job is faster and simpler when there’s less placing, adhering, and grouting to do. However, when tiles get really big, they’re more difficult to handle, cut, and fit. Standard floor tile sizes are 12-by-12 inches, 18-by-18 inches, and 12-by-24 inches.

Yes, but you should only put tile directly on drywall in smaller areas that don’t experience excess moisture. For example, a small kitchen tile backsplash could work, but installing tile directly on the drywall in a bathroom or other chronically damp area is not a good idea. Either way, a cement backer board is a far more reliable solution, as drywall is susceptible to moisture and can warp or cause your tiles to crack.

Tile shouldn’t be set tight against the tub. Bathtubs can expand when filled, and they can shift slightly with the weight of occupants. For this reason, it’s important to leave a slight gap between the bathtub and the first row of tile. Aim for a narrow gap of approximately 1/16 of an inch, filled with caulk, to allow for this expansion and movement while still allowing for tile shower waterproofing.

The Oakland, 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
•
Jul 15, 2026Jul 15, 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
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 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
•
Jul 9, 2026Jul 9, 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
•
Jul 10, 2026Jul 10, 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.