Get matched with top ceramic tile pros in Tutwiler, MS

The grout shade you choose comes down to personal taste and preference. A darker grout will give you a more dramatic and noticeable contrast with the tile around it; however, lighter grout helps create a more uniform look when blending the colors together. Additionally, a darker grout combined with a patterned tile could be overwhelming to the eye, while lighter grout makes the pattern stand out as the main focus.

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.

You can technically install tile over tile, but we don’t suggest it. Installing tile over any surface that isn’t a completely flat and prepared subfloor will result in a shoddy overall job, uneven flooring, tiles that don’t adhere, extra weight, gaps, cracks, and room for moisture and dirt to enter. For the best results, only install new tile on a flat, sanded surface like subflooring or concrete that is prepared for tile.

If you have asbestos tile and would rather tile over it than remove it, or if your existing tile is completely flat and bonded tightly to the floor, you may be able to tile over existing tile. But experts recommend thinking twice before you do.

Like glass tiles, you will not need to seal most porcelain tiles, particularly if the porcelain is already glazed. It depends on quality. Porcelain is very water resistant, but it is not 100% waterproof. To avoid staining, some homeowners use a penetrating sealer. It is also a good idea to seal your grout. Unless you use epoxy grout, grout is very porous and can harbor bacteria, mold, and mildew.