FAQ

Q: How do I measure for square footage in my kitchen or entry way. Also, how do I measure for trim or border pieces?

A: It's simple. To find the square footage of any room or wall, just multiply length X width. If the area is small, like kitchen backsplashes multiply length X width in inches and divide by 144 (the number of square inches in a square foot.) This will give you square footage. Remember to subtract for areas that are not going to be tiled (doorways, windows etc.) Trim pieces, borders and liners are measured in a straight run of inches or feet. Just divide the total length by the length of the trim, border or liner piece. If you are unsure, a Tile Source Associate can assist you.

Q: I would love to use ceramic tile in my shower instead of cultured marble, but I don't like grout because of mold and mildew. Any suggestions?

A: Yes. At Tile Source we offer a fungus/mildew resistant wall grout that can be used in any showerlbath areas. This unique product has been formulated to resist the growth of fungus and mildew which stains and discolors conventional wall grout.

Q: I have a large open kitchen. How can I break up the area to make it more inviting?

A: Try using a contrasting or complimentary border in sections of your kitchen to give you the look of a ceramic tile or porcelain tile "rug". Turning the tile in the opposite direction of the rest of the floor inside the border will define and personalize that space.

Q: Can large tiles be installed in small areas?

A: Yes, actually large tiles can add to the visual simplicity of any room giving you a more spacious feel. Large tiles minimize the number of grout joints you see, giving you the optical illusion of a larger room.

Q: I like the look of natural stone, but can't afford it. What can I do?

A: As design magazines continue to point us toward the look of nature, the use of natural stone is popular. Tile Source offers numerous stone textured ceramic tile and porcelain tile that give you the look and durability of natural stone, without the maintenance headaches and at a fraction of the cost.

Q: Can I tile over existing tile, such as in my existing bathroom or backsplash?

A: Yes, just ensure that the existing tiles are firmly adhered to the wall or floor. Fix any loose tiles prior to applying the new tile. Thoroughly clean and degrease the surface. We recommend using TEC brand DOUBLE DUTY PLUS mastic, TEC brand FULL FLEX PREMIUM LATEX MODIFIED THINSET MORTAR or TEC brand SUPER FLEX PREMIUM LATEX MODIFIED THINSET MORTAR.

Q: Can tile be used in exterior applications?

A: Yes, as long as it is a through body porcelain tile. We also recommend a high quality latex modified thinset as your adhesive. We suggest TEC brand SUPERFLEX PREMIUM LATEX MODIFIED THIN SET MORTAR for all exterior applications.

Q: Can I install ceramic tile or porcelain tile over any surface?

A: Yes, ceramic tile and porcelain tile can be installed over virtually any surface if you follow these guide lines:

Secure any loose floor boards. If your sub floor is rotted or damaged, you must replace those areas with new wood.

Make sure your subfloor is sound and properly secured to your subfloor. If
squeaks are present, re-secure with nails or preferably screws.

Wood subfloors should be a minimum of 1/4" thick. A cementitious backer
board, like Durock Cement Board is recommended as the final layer.

Your subfloor should be free of oil and dirt.
Concrete floors should be free of oil, dirt and peeling paint.

New concrete floors should be allowed to cure for at least 28 days.

Vinyl flooring can either be torn off or a layer of 5/16" Durock Cement Board can
be installed over it.