Get matched with top backsplash installation pros in Bernalillo, NM

While you shouldn’t use thinset mortar on its own as a floor leveler, it can work alongside other products to help level floors. For instance, you could start with a self-leveling compound, let that dry, then apply backer board with thinset mortar to help fully even out the floors ahead of laying tile.

No, when done correctly, removing the tile shouldn’t damage the subfloor. However, if there was pre-existing damage to the subfloor from standard use or lack of maintenance, the subfloor may need repairs. For example, if the contractors notice mold growth on the subfloor or an uneven surface, you may need more extensive services before installing new tile.

If you DIY tile removal, remove the tiles one step at a time, individually removing the tile, grout, and mortar to prevent unnecessarily damaging the subfloor. Depending on the age of your home, consider having a professional inspect the subfloor to ensure it’s in good enough condition to lay new tile.

To make a bathroom look bigger, choose light-colored, medium- to large-format tiles. Light colors such as white, cream, or light gray make a space feel more open, while dark colors, busy patterns, and small tiles can make a bathroom feel smaller. It may seem counterintuitive, but small tiles can shrink a room visually due to the increased number of grout lines. Using medium- to large-format tiles creates a more seamless look. For the best effect, pair your light-colored tiles with a matching or similarly colored grout. This minimizes the grid-like pattern and gives the floor and walls a more continuous, uninterrupted appearance, helping the room feel significantly larger.

The lifespan of bathroom tile can be 50 years or more, depending on proper installation and regular maintenance. A well-done tile job, whether it's a new installation or a retiling project, can last for many decades. To lengthen the life of your tile, it's best to have it installed by a professional and to perform regular maintenance. This includes routine cleaning, resealing, and regrouting as needed. With proper care, you can expect your tile to last 10 years or more before needing major repairs or retiling, especially in high-traffic areas where tiles can wear out more quickly.