Subway Tile Patterns...

Creative ways to install a classic 3"x6" white subway tile.

Change up your installation pattern and add visual interest to your backsplash. Subway tiles can be very economical and are available in various size formats. 

photos courtesy of pinterest

Free in store consultation available as well as professional installation.

Does your front porch or step need a facelift?

Does your front porch or step need a facelift, tile it.

With the nicer weather it's time to consider some exterior projects like your front porch or step. Most often your front step is a concrete slab with very little character. The current tile selection is very wide spread and contains many products that can be installed outside. We tiled our front step a few years ago and it looks great and is easy to maintain.

Make sure to purchase a porcelain tile with a PEI rating of 5. Stop in for a free in store consultation. We offer professional installation as well. Check out the steps below before starting your exterior project.

Step One: Repair any existing steps or concrete prior to tile installation. If you have any areas where the cracks go completely through the concrete you will need to repair them.

Step Two: To help you with your tile layout or pattern it is recommended to dry lay your tile.

Step Three: Mix the thinset mortar according to the directions specified. Trowel out your mortar and use spacers for a consistent grout joint. Always allow your thinset to cure prior to grouting.

Step Four: Prior to grouting remove all spacers and any excess mortar that may have come through the grout joint. Mix grout to the specified directions and make sure to grout in manageable sections. Let grout set up for approximately 20 minutes (unless otherwise specified) prior to washing. Make sure to rinse your grout sponge repeatedly.

Step Five: Seal all grout joints. If you have chosen to install a natural stone make sure you seal the stone as well. There are various stone sealers available.

For more professional advice visit us in store or send us an email: to-nest@live.com.

Shower Niches...

Schluter-Kerdi-Board Shower Niches

Having niches in your shower are perfect for storing your soap & shampoo bottles.

They are a prefabricated shower niche made up of kerdi-board that can be installed in both schluter-kerdi & kerdi-board wall assemblies.

They feature a 1/2" thick by 2" wide integrated bonding flange and is available in 12"x6", 12"x12", 12"x20" and 12"x28" sizes.

Waterproof & vapor retardant and can withstand all chemical stresses that typically occur in conjunction with ceramic tile coverings. 

Installation:

1. Determine desired location and trace around the outside of the Schluter^®-KERDI-BOARD-SN flange, making sure the lines are level and plumb. Cut and remove the wallboard such that the niche will be supported on both sides by the studs or other wall framing.
2. Insert the niche and fasten to the studs. When installing adjacent to KERDI-BOARD, use wood or metal screws and KERDI-BOARD-ZT washers, placing the fasteners along the seam between the KERDI-BOARD and the niche. When installing adjacent to gypsum board or other tile backers (e.g., CBU), use wood or metal screws only (i.e., no washers), placing fasteners approximately 1/4" (6 mm) from the edges of the niche. Fasten all corners and limit fastener spacing to 12" (305 mm) o.c.
3. Connections between the niche and walls are made using KERDI-BAND or KERDI. When installed adjacent to KERDI-BOARD, seams are most easily constructed using KERDI-BAND. When installed adjacent to gypsum board or other tile backers (e.g., CBU), seams are most easily constructed by continuous application of the KERDI membrane. The membrane is applied up to the niche opening. Once the niche is sealed to the wall assembly, tile can be installed immediately using unmodified thin-set mortar.
4. When using the prefabricated shelf, determine the desired height of the shelf and mark with a level line. Set tile using unmodified thin-set mortar up to that line on the back and sides of the niche. Butter the sides and back of the shelf with unmodified thin-set mortar and solidly embed it in the niche, resting on the previously installed tile. The shelf may be raised at the back to create a slope, or the tile may be set on a slope during installation, to prevent water from pooling in the finished application. Continue setting tile using unmodified thin-set mortar.

Click on the link below for additional installation tips:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YIGFSVgAhpA

Niches available by custom order in store.

Leveling Clips...

QEP LASH Leveling Clips

(Level, Align, Space & Hold)

These tile leveling clips are designed for quick tile installation that virtually eliminates tile lippage on the floor surface. These clips help adjust the height of the tiles and evenly holds their edges throughout the curing process of the setting material.

Benefits:

- they are perfect to use with all tiles including large format, rectified porcelain, thin porcelain tile, marble and stone.

- durable nylon construction for a secure installation.

- high visibility yellow wedges that are easy to distinguish on a job site.

- specially designed break off points on clips for swift removal.

- produces 1/16" joint spacing.

- can be combined with regular spaces for wider joints up to 1/4".

- reusable.

Advantages for the Installer:

- easy to learn how to use.

- minimal effort to install and remove.

- virtually eliminates floor lippage.

- prevents tile from moving during install.

- speeds up tile installation.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PUBAnbAm3AI

Are you a first time tile setter?

Tips for anyone who is tiling for the first time.

1. The key to the first step is preparation & can often be the longest step. You need to decide on the area or areas you are wanting to tile & visit us here for your free in store consultation. Our design consultants will help with your tile choices along with all of the supplies you will need for your project, everything from start to finish.

Measure your area & calculate your square footage (length x width). You can bring in your measurements & we will be happy to calculate your square footage for you. Purchase & order all of your tile & supplies such as adhesive, thinset, grout, trowels, sponges & floats.

It is important to do a dry run with your tile to ensure your tile placement is the best it can be. For example it is not ideal to start at one end of the room & tile out. Oftentimes this can lead to having a bunch of smaller cuts right when you enter the space. We recommend chalking out your space & keep in mind balance is key. It is recommended to centre your tiles in the room so you have equal cuts around the perimeter of the room. 

2. Renting or purchasing a manual tile cutter or wet saw is the next step. Make sure you order a few extra pieces of tile which will allow you to make a few practice cuts with your tile cutter.

3. One of the advantages of purchasing your tile & supplies here at the Nest is the ability to gain professional advice. We are here to provide tiling advice & answer any questions you may have.

4. Floors are almost never perfectly level & walls are never perfectly square. This is why a chalk line is very important for keeping all of your tile & grout joints lined up.

5. Having the proper tools will save you time. When grouting you will need a grout float, sponges & clean water. Follow the mixing instructions that are available on the grout box. Spread grout evenly, filling all grout joints completely. Wait for the grout to haze up & then clean off excess grout with clean water & sponges.

Is a vinyl floor right for you...

If you are looking for a durable low maintenance floor then vinyl is a great option for you to consider. It offers many options that will fit into every budget & design scheme. Vinyl planking & tiles provide both style & durability. Vinyl resists scratches, dents & stains when properly installed. It is also very user friendly in the sense that you can install it yourself. 

Vinyl flooring is resistant to moisture, it will not warp or peel. It can stand up to heavy traffic & stains. You can install it in every room of your home.

Benefits of Choosing a Vinyl Floor:

1. Wide variety of colors & design options.

2. Easy to maintain - sweep regularly & use a damp mop with the recommended cleaner for a deeper clean.

3. Affordable: budget friendly, a great option for rental properties.

Vinyl flooring can be installed in every room of your home. We recently completed an addition and installed a vinyl plank floor throughout. With a teenager playing hockey & an 80lb house dog it is standing up perfectly. It is very easy to maintain & looks great all the time. Every home & business owner should consider vinyl flooring when building a custom home or renovation.

You can install vinyl flooring over both concrete & wood subfloors. If you are needing a subfloor, it is recommended to use a good one sided plywood or u-lay. You can install over a lino floor if the existing lino is still in good shape & not lifting anywhere. For prepping you will need to use plani patch to do a scratch coat over any seams and screw holes. This allows a very even flooring surface to install the vinyl to. From there you simply require the adhesive, proper trowel and a sharp knife for install.

If you are not wanting to tackle the install yourself, we have professional installation available. See in store for samples, pricing & design advice.

Choosing Tile...

General Tips for Choosing Tiles for Your Home...

1. Light vs Dark Colors:

- choose lighter tile tones to help make a darker room seem bigger & brighter.

- if your space has adequate light, use your own personal preference for color tone.

2. Don't Compromise:

- see tiles as an investment, not a cost; never compromise on quality. We offer a great selection of tiles at everyone's price point.

3. Plan Ahead:

- always purchase an additional 5-10% more tiles than you actually need. This allows for any breakage or waste due to cuts. Also, this will ensure you have enough product in the same shade to finish your tile project.

4. Blended Grout:

- most often we recommend a tile grout color that compliments & blends in with your tiles.

5. Use Mosaics or Border Tiles:

- you can add visual interest by using a border or mosaic tile to break up a pattern. This can be found in various forms such as glass mosaics, stainless steel or a nice combination of both.

6. Suitability:

- make sure you are using the proper tile for your installation (ie. if your tiling outside a porcelain tile is what you are needing. It can be used on both interior & exterior surfaces).

7. Maintenance:

- if your purchasing natural stone, make sure you purchase the proper sealer for treating the stone.

8. Advice:

- ask us for any tiling advice. We are always willing to help clients who are wanting to do the installation themselves.

How do I drill a hole through my tile?

We have had many clients ask us this question and the answer is yes you can drill a hole through your tile. Especially in bathrooms, you often need to drill a hole to allow for plumbing fixtures.

When drilling a hole through tile you need to remember to drill slowly, use water & do not apply pressure. You will need a drill & a diamond or carbide hole saw bit.

The biggest reason for cracking a tile while trying to drill a hole is uneven pressure. When you are drilling you are putting a lot of pressure on & around the area you are drilling & very little on the rest of your tile. A good way to equalize this pressure is by using a piece of 2x4. Cut a hole in one end of the 2x4, just slightly bigger than the size of your hole saw bit.

Start drilling slowly, using even pressure. Let the hole saw bit do the work & not  your drill. Putting too much pressure on your drill will only cause cracking in your tile. Just keep enough pressure to keep the bit snugly against the tile allowing the hole saw bit to make the hole. Remember to stop periodically and dip the hole saw bit in water to cool it down.

The most important thing to remember is to drill slowly.

Helpful Hints for Grouting...

Here is a list of helpful tips for grouting your newly tiled surface.

* Grout tile 24 hours after tile installation

* Mix grout to the consistency of "cool whip" for on the floor. This will make it easy to spread and reduce the chances of "washing out"

* Let the grout sit for about 10 minutes before you use it. This will help it get the perfect consistency

* Mix the grout with cold water only

* Make sure that the area to be grouted is clean

* Try and have one person mixing the grout for a larger job. This helps ensure the same grout consistency throughout the whole project and reduce the risk of efflorescence

* If grouting a wall, make grout a little thicker as it will tend to run downwards through the tile

* If grouting a large area, grout smaller areas at a time. This will ensure easy clean up

* Let grout sit for about 10-15 minutes before washing, this will allow the product to 

"set up"

* Use warm water when washing

* Do not wash grout with anything but water until it has been sealed

* Seal grout joints 10-12 days after application, this will allow for sufficient drying time

* Make sure to wipe off any excess sealer from grout and tile so it does not leave a haze

*  You will see a "dusty haze" on tile for a few days after application. Don't worry, this will disappear after a few good washes with clean water

Note: There is a complete mixing guide on your bag or box of grout

Do you need an underlayment...

EasyMat Tile & Stone Underlayment

If you are require a sound or crack prevention underlayment, Custom's EasyMat might just be what you need. With it's peel and stick option this underlayment makes for an easy installation. Some of it's benefits include:

- no mechanical fasteners are required, it cuts easily with a utility knife.

- peel and stick version is available.

- it is approved for use under floating & hardwood floor systems.

- the mortar locks in to form a bonded crack prevention system.

- will not shrink, rot or absorb water.

- has the highest level of impact & sound reduction. It reduces floor transmitted sound by up to 20 decibels.

- up to nine times lighter than other sound reduction mats.

The picture shown below shows each layer of products needed for your tile installation using the EasyMat underlayment.

1. Any acceptable subfloor including concrete, plywood & primed OSB.

2. Custom polymer modified mortar

3. EasyMat

4. Custom polymer modified mortar

5. Polyblend or Prism grout

6. Tile or Stone

This is a great product to use for apartment & condo living when sound prevention is necessary.

Shower Floors...

What tile do I use to tile my shower floor?

The stunning shower shown above has incorporated a mosaic tile on the curb, shower floor & ceiling along with a larger format tile on the two side walls with a back wall accented with cultured stone.

When choosing a shower floor tile you first need to remember that you can not use a wall tile on the floor. Wall tiles are not fired at a high enough level to withstand foot traffic. They just lack the needed strength for use on a floor. Also most often wall tiles can be glossy thus making them slippery in a wet area.

Mosaic tiles have many grout joints which helps with traction thus making them slip resistant. Also, they make installation easier when tiling around the floor drain due to the slope.

There are various sizes available in mosaic tiles. They don't have to be square, you can find them in a rectangular format as well as in round pebbles. Keep in mind with the pebbles they are a natural stone and need to be sealed regularly.

photos courtesy of pinterest

When coordinating your shower tiles consider using the same mosaic used on the floor as an accent on your shower walls. 

There are an endless number of choices when it comes to tile. We offer a great selection of ceramic, porcelain & natural stone tiles. We also provide our clients with free in store consultations. Bring in your ideas & let us help create the bathroom you've always wanted.

Mosaic Tiles...

We are seeing a lot of new glass,

 metal & porcelain mosaics 

available for our clients to use.

Ames Tile & Stone Marmo Pearl Series

Our clients are using mosaic tiles

 as an accent with a larger format tile

 or in some cases 

as a full backsplash.

When installing mosaic tile on mesh backed sheets there are some things you need to keep in mind, especially if installing yourself. 

These smaller mosaic tiles can easily shift when installing thus it's important to step back & make sure they are evenly placed on the wall. The mesh sheets are flexible & do not stay perfectly square. With using a mosaic sheet there are often fewer cuts needed but it rarely happens that they fit exactly into your space. When cutting the mosaics you can use a tile scriber or a wet saw. When cutting glass mosaics make sure you have a new blade on your wet saw to prevent the glass from chipping.

Be careful not to use too much adhesive or mortar when installing. If too much is used it will seep through the individual spaces on the mesh sheet. When installing a larger format tile you only have 4 edges to be aware of, with mosaics you can have up to 144 edges. If you have a lot of access coming through the mesh sheet that all needs to be cleaned prior to grouting. This can be very time consuming so just be aware when applying the adhesive or mortar. 

Tapping the mosaic sheets with a rubber mallet or level will help to flatten the sheets out, giving you a nice smooth surface. It also helps to ensure the mosaic tiles are fully embedded in the adhesive or mortar. We always recommend leaving the tiles set up for 24 hours prior to grouting.

There are a number of grout lines to fill so spreading the grout evenly is important. When applying the grout turn your float on a 45 degree angle & use the edge to spread the grout all over the tiles. When you have completed the grouting wait 15 minutes prior to wiping the area down. When cleaning off excess grout you need to have a bucket of clean water & a sponge. Constantly cleaning the sponge with clean water will yield the best grouting results. Once you have removed all the excess grout you can give the area a once over to remove any residue that might have been left behind.

 There are new grout products available that can be used to eliminate the need for sealing grout joints.

 Please give us a call for more information.

Mortar...

Custom Building Product's LFT Mortar:

(Large Format Tile Mortar)

With the tiling trends today & many clients deciding to tile themselves it's important to be informed of all possible supplies that can help make the process easier.

We often have clients tiling vertical surfaces with large format tile (anything greater than 15") and products such as LFT Mortar will make their installation go smoother. 

Benefits of LFT Mortar include:

- economical, general purpose polymer modified medium bed mortar.

- slip & slump resistant.

- keeps heavy large format tile & stone in place while installing.

- can be used for all interior & exterior floor, wall & countertop installations.

- perfect for vertical wall installations.

Click on the link below for more information.

http://www.custombuildingproducts.com/products/setting-materials/lft-mortars.aspx

Ames Tile & Stone 3-D Durastone Series

You too can have a stunning bathroom like the one shown above.

Always remember we offer professional installation for all tile, vinyl, laminate, hardwood & stone projects. Free consultations available in store.

Fusion Pro Grout...

Custom Fusion Pro Grout

Custom Building Products has introduced the first single component grout. It combines the color consistency & stain resistance of epoxy grout in an easy one step process.

Benefits of using Fusion Pro Grout:

- available in 24 pre-mixed colors,

- does not require sealing,

- antimicrobial protection (inhibits the growth of mold & mildew),

- can be used with most tile types,

- use for grout joint widths from 1/16"-1/2",

- no efflorescence.

- can be used on both interior & exterior residential and commercial applications,

- no efflorescence.

Available to order in store.

For a quick way to calculate how much grout is needed to complete your project, click on the link below:

http://www.custombuildingproducts.com/support/interactive-tools.aspx#materialCalc