Coming to this section pretty much assures that you’re seriously interested in ceramic tile as a flooring solution for the way you live. Congratulations!

But don’t start celebrating just yet. Because there’s another important step smart flooring shoppers need to take: preparing for the installation of your ceramic tile.

Believe us, it will make the entire process easier, faster, and hopefully eliminate any last minute surprises and “oh ohs!”

Being prepared will be a lot less stressful on you -- and your home.

So be aware of the information below, be prepared and anticipate, then look forward with confidence to the day your new ceramic tile flooring arrives.

Install this rule for the best possible results: let the pros install your tile.

Installing this type of floor is difficult work, labor intensive and extremely exacting.

We strongly recommend you call upon a reliable, seasoned, dedicated professional to install your ceramic floor.

That way you can be assured of a beautiful, efficient and correct installation.

Which is precisely what our goal is for you.

However, while installing ceramic tile flooring is a skill that is developed through years of experience, your understanding of the basics of installation will increase your knowledge of the process and enhance your confidence in the professionals working in your home.

So please allow us to cover some of the basics with you.

Ceramic tile installers are craftsman with age-old skills. Expertise has been handed down from one generation to the next over dozens of centuries.

There’s no substitute for a good substrate.

Over the years, new methods and materials have been introduced, but tile setting remains the same hand-operated, labor-intensive process that it has been since ancient times.

That process begins with the preparation of the tile foundation, or what’s called the substrate.

Common materials used as tile substrates in home installations include concrete, plywood, and drywall.

Your installers will prepare the substrate by different methods, depending on the substrate material, and where the installation occurs.

Each substrate has its own unique set of issues, yours included, and is prepared according to industry and manufacturer guidelines. So you can rest assured it’s done to recognized standards.

The first step in your ceramic tile installation involves the cleaning of the substrate. Dirt, moisture, and oil can interfere with the adhesion of the tile, so care is taken to remove all foreign debris prior to beginning.

Next the installers will level the surface of the substrate. Why is this step necessary? It’s to provide a strong support base for the tile, and to ensure that the individual tiles will appear flat when installed.

Flat, obviously, is the goal. If the substrate is not level or flat, the result could be tiles not being set correctly that can cause chipping or cracking when weight is applied.

Once the substrate has been leveled it may have a waterproofing layer applied to it. This is important in installations where the tile is frequently exposed to moisture, like kitchens, bathrooms, and exteriors.

Carry on shopper! Keep reading through thick and thin.

In the past, ceramic tile was installed using what is called the thickset or mud set method.

In this method, a thick layer of mortar was applied to a waterproofed and steel reinforced substrate. This provided a strong, flat base onto which the tile was installed.

The thickset method is effective, but it’s an involved and labor-intensive process. An alternative method was searched for – and found.

Today, many tile installers have opted for the industry accepted and more efficient thinset method, where the tile is adhered directly onto a backer board that is nailed to a plywood or concrete substrate using a much thinner layer of mortar.

This backer board is called a CBU, or cement backer unit, which provides a supportive and water resistant layer between the porous substrate and the mortar and tile applied on top of it.

You don’t need to understand all that, just that it works, and works well.

The plan takes shape. Once the substrate has been prepared, the next step is to create a layout plan.

This plan shows the dimensions of each room, and will help determine the amount of ceramic tile and other materials needed for the installation. Now that makes sense.

The installer will use this plan to estimate the amount of product needed, and to anticipate any installation issues that may be caused by architectural features like stairs, transitions, and cabinets.

The installers will also use the layout plan to determine the pattern and orientation of the installed tile.

Chalk one up for accuracy.

A chalk line is commonly used to lay down a guide for the installer to work from.

This leaves a temporary line that can be used as a straight guide.

Every step is executed to a “T”.

Next, a single row or column of tile is laid directly on the substrate without adhesive.

This step gives the installers a better sense of how the tile will fit into the room.

Another row or column is then added perpendicular to the first, forming the shape of a ‘T’, giving the installer a starting point for their tile setting. Do you get the picture? Great!

Once the installer has determined the correct layout, the next step is to apply the adhesive mortar to the substrate.

Grout is the next route.

Once the tiled floor has been set into place and left to fully cure, usually 12 to 24 hours, the grout is applied.

Grout is available in a wide range of colors, and in sanded and unsanded forms.

Sanded grout is commonly used for grout joints that are wider than 1/8 th of an inch. This type of grout joint is typically used with floor tile because it helps strengthen tile joint and it will not sag after it is cured.

Unsanded grout is used with narrow grout joints typically found with wall tile and many natural stone installations.

So, you may be wondering, how long before I can walk on my new floor?

The mortar and grout need 24 hours to cure before walking on the tile.

This ensures that the tiles won’t shift or become loose before the adhesive thinset mortar and grout have a chance to set.

In some installations the tile may be mopped daily for several days to prevent the grout from cracking, pulling moisture from the underlying mortar, or curing unevenly.

And that is how your new ceramic floor would be professionally installed.

What to do before the day of installation

Begin prepping with your big three: furniture, appliances and toilets.

Remove all your furniture and other objects and materials from the areas where the installation will take place.

Some installers will move your furniture, but there may be an additional charge for doing so. Before moving, you’ll also need to empty the contents of china cabinets, closets, refrigerators and the like. And yes, it’s a hassle.

You should check with your retailer regarding the disconnection and removal of appliances. Some installers may disconnect and move your electrical appliances and furniture for an additional charge.

But prior arrangements should be made with your salesperson. For your safety, and that of your family, we recommend that the gas company or appliance company disconnect and reconnect all gas appliances.

Ask your retailer about the possibility and cost of disconnecting and reconnecting such items as icemakers, stereo equipment and computers; and the removal of heavy items like pianos.

Also, consult with your retailer to determine if there is a charge for the removal and replacement of toilets in bathrooms if that is necessary.

Be aware that the area of installation must be climate controlled (heated or air conditioned). Indoor humidity should be maintained between 45-65%.

Out with the old – remove your present floor covering.

Please consider how your old floor covering will be taken up and disposed of. This can be a time consuming task. We recommend that you check with your retailer about the cost and the method of disposal. So there are no surprises for you.

If you prefer to remove your present floor covering, do it at least one day prior to arrival of your ceramic tile product to allow for cleanup and floor preparation. If removing old carpet, please remove all materials, the tackless and the pad, including staples.

Don’t be left out on a limb about your trim. You should know that, in many cases, moldings and baseboards need to be removed for ceramic tile installation. Your installer may do this but at an additional charge and they will probably not be responsible for damage or breakage due to dry or brittle wood.

Painted baseboards, woodwork and paint may need retouching after the installation is complete. If necessary, this is your responsibility.

There’s no substitute for subflooring.

Your existing subfloor may need to be prepared to receive the ceramic tile, or a new subfloor may be required. We suggest you discuss this with your retailer and, if subfloor work is necessary, that it be done by qualified professionals. It is important that the subfloor be as clean and level as possible. That helps insure your new ceramic floor will be as beautiful and well supported as possible.

Do this to insure an open door policy.

When ceramic tile is installed, there’s always the possibility that the doors, especially closet doors, basement and bedroom doors, may not clear the new tile and swing free.

Some installers will remove doors in order to install the ceramic tile and re-hang them if possible. They probably won’t shave or cut down doors to insure clearance. You should check with your retailer/installer as to their policy and the cost. You may need to arrange for a qualified carpenter to provide this service after the installation of your new ceramic tile floor.

Check-up on the clean-up.

Installing new ceramic tile will produce waste.

Usually these materials are collected by your installer and disposed of for a fee. Check with your retailer before the day of installation so you’re clear about the clean up, if there are added costs to do so, and ask about the plan for ceramic tile remnants.

What to do during installation

Install yourself at home on installation day.

Be prepared to be at home the day of installation and be available in case the installation crew has questions. Your presence will insure that the correct ceramic tiles are installed in the right areas. Because it is difficult to estimate the length and circumstances of each job, some installers may not be able to give you an exact time of arrival. We suggest you be flexible and keep in touch with your retailer/installer.

Your safety, first and last.

Your installers will use a variety of tools and techniques that can make the work area hazardous. Please make sure that your children and pets are kept out of the work area on installation day.

The walk-thru is your final step.

We recommend that, prior to the completion of the installation, you walk thru the job with the chief installer. This will give you the opportunity to ask questions and be clear on any final details.

What to do after installation

Give yourself breathing room.

If you are sensitive to dust and odors, good ventilation should be established for 48 to 72 hours after installation.

Prepare today for tomorrow.

When it comes to your ceramic installation, we want you to be as well prepared as possible. It will make installation day easier on you and your home and provide you with an enjoyable floor covering experience for years to come.