Get matched with top backsplash installation pros in Sibley, IA

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.

Figure out how much tile you need by measuring the backsplash area. Measure the height and length in feet and multiply to get the square footage. Don’t make adjustments for outlets or small cutouts but subtract the square footage for windows or other large obstructions from the total. To account for waste, get 10% more than your calculation.

It’s best to start with tiling the shower floor before moving on to the walls for the most visually-pleasing results. When taking on any tiling project, you’ll want the wall tiles to “sit” neatly on the floor tiles rather than overlapping them. Finishing your floor tiles first will allow you to place your wall tiles without any gaps, holes, or awkward intersections.

You cannot tile directly over hot mop waterproofing because tile requires a smooth, solid surface to adhere properly. Additionally, the shower bed pan needs to be raised and sloped toward the drain to prevent water from pooling. However, you can hot mop and apply a sloped mortar bed over the top (to which the tile can then be adhered).