Get matched with top ceramic tile pros in Collinsville, MS

Thinset mortar is the best adhesive for ceramic tiles on concrete. It is easy to work with and has a slower dry time than mastic or epoxy mortars. This longer dry time gives the installer more time to adjust tiles, which is especially useful for DIYers who may not have tile installation experience. It can also be built up to help level any depressions or gaps in the concrete subfloor.

There are a few different tools you can use to score tiles. Manual tile cutters or tile scribes work well for scoring in straight lines. Tile nippers are one of the best options for scoring because they can make small and irregular cuts that larger tools may not be able to handle.

Travertine is a natural stone, while porcelain is ceramic. You can enjoy the best of both worlds with porcelain travertine tiles. Some people prefer porcelain to travertine because it doesn’t require regular maintenance and it’s easier to clean. Porcelain travertine looks like the real thing but only costs $3 to $6 per square foot.

When working on your bathroom floor tiling, you should always tile the floor first and then refit the toilet afterward. This has both practical and visual advantages—the tile will have a better seal, and the installation will look cleaner.

On the other hand, when you try to cut the tiles to fit around the toilet, you’re putting yourself at a disadvantage. It’s a lot more work, it’s hard to be precise, and mistakes or miscalculations can lead to future moisture damage to the tiling, grout, and subfloor.