Get matched with top ceramic tile pros in Sioux Center, IA

You can lay tile directly on a plywood countertop, but if it’s a high-traffic surface in a kitchen, it’s better to add a moisture-resistant base. Plywood is susceptible to moisture, so if dampness seeps through from the surface around the sink or where you prep food, it can cause the plywood to warp, leading to grout damage, cracked tiles, or mold growth under the surface. 

Different types of tile cutters may work best depending on the type of tile you are cutting and the size of your project. There are two main types of tile cutters: manual and electric. Manual tile cutters are quick and easy to use for small projects and softer tile materials, but they can only make straight cuts. Electric tile cutters make light work of big projects and can cut through harder materials.

Replacing tile flooring can take a few days for a pro, but larger rooms will need more time. It takes eight to 12 hours for a tiling pro to remove old grout and tiles across 100 square feet. Then, it will take about four hours to prep the subfloor for tiles and another eight to 10 hours for a pro to install new tiles. Your tiling project may take up to a week, depending on the size of the room.

Porcelain tiles can last 60 years or longer. With high-quality tiles and proper installation, your porcelain tiles may even outlive you, making them well worth the initial investment.

To help your porcelain tiles last longer, you should clean and maintain them regularly. You don’t need any harsh chemicals to get the job done. Rather, use a cloth, hot water, and mild detergent. And don’t forget to learn how to clean floor tile grout, as that’s just as important as tile maintenance.