When it's time for tile installation, Knoxville homeowners often assume it's a pretty simple process that they can handle without any prior experience. The truth is, it's one of those tasks that seem simple but require years of practice to get the best results. If they are looking for the tile installers Knoxville, TN deserves, residents can count on their local handyman to install a smooth, even surface with perfectly spaced grout lines for a beautiful-looking Knoxville tile installation that is also highly functional.
Our local experts handle a wide range of types for tile installation in Knoxville, including ceramic, porcelain, glass, granite, marble, natural stone or engineered stone.
Expert Services for Tile Installation: Knoxville
- Old Flooring Removal: In some cases, it is possible to simply install new tile flooring over top of your existing flooring installation, but usually, it's best to remove the old material first. We'll get it ripped up and hauled away as part of our services for tile installation. Knoxville professionals will inspect your subfloor and see if you need subfloor repairs.
- Preparation: Depending on the current state of your floor or wall structures, it may be necessary to prepare your concrete subfloor or wall by adding an underlayment or cement backer board so your tile has a sturdy surface to adhere to when it comes to tile installation. Knoxville locals should know that if the installation process occurs in their basement, additional waterproofing services may be required.
- Layout Planning: Starting to lay down tiles in a random location is the last thing you want to do. However, it is important to pre-plan their project to make sure their pattern looks right when it's finished.
- Thinset Application: Knoxville tile installation professionals will mix up small batches of thinset mortar and go section by section, applying a ridged layer to the subfloor.
- Tile Installation: For your actual tile installation, Knoxville professionals from Mr. Handyman cover the back of each individual piece with a ridged layer of thinset and gently drop it into place on the layer already applied to your subfloor.
- Grouting: Next, our team will overfill joints between each piece with grout and use a damp sponge to wipe away excess grout to form even and slightly indented grout lines for your tile installation. Knoxville professionals are one step closer to completing the job.
- Grout Haze Removal: When the grout dries for your tile installation, Knoxville residents will want to know that there's a filmy layer called grout haze left on the surface of their pieces. Our local specialists use grout haze remover to get your tiles bright and clean again.
- Finishing Up: Once the work is complete, we'll clean up the mess and handle finishing touches, such as replacing baseboards and other trim.
Different Types of Tile for Tile Installation: Knoxville
Tile isn't only a beneficial option for your kitchen and bathroom remodels because of its water-resistant, hypoallergenic qualities. It also comes in a wide range of materials. This ensures you have the right tile type for your needs, as well as your aesthetic inclinations. So, what are some of the types of tile we can introduce for your tile installation? Knoxville residents can find out below.
Ceramic: If you're looking to enhance your space without breaking the bank, ceramic might be just the material for your needs. Mr. Handyman can install this tile type in your kitchens, bathrooms or entryways, and they come in a wide range of styles and colors so you can make each room your own.
Glass: When opting for glass tiles for your Knoxville tile installation service, it's best to install these in low-traffic areas. This is because glass is more fragile than other types of tile. Its elegance can't be overstated, however. If you're looking to give your backsplash a modern, artistic flair, we are the team to call.
Natural Stone: Though it's one of the more expensive materials on the market when it comes to tile installation, Knoxville residents will find that natural stone in their homes delivers a more luxurious look. If you're eager to give your home the feel of an English stone cottage or your bathrooms a spa-like quality, there's no better choice than natural stone for your Knoxville tile installation project.
Marble: Easy to clean and giving your home an elegant, vibrant look, marble is also a popular choice for many modern homeowners. It reflects light and can also help open up those smaller spaces.
Porcelain: Are you looking for a material for both your indoor and outdoor tile purposes? Porcelain is an incredibly durable material, which is why many homeowners opt for this long-lasting tile type. It's great for high-traffic areas and tends to have a longer life span than other materials.
For expert advice on which tile is best for you, simply reach out to us today. Our tile installers in Knoxville, TN will be more than happy to assist you.
Why Choose Mr. Handyman for Tile Installation Knoxville Homeowners?
When you call Mr. Handyman for tile installation, Knoxville professionals on our team will arrive on time for your scheduled appointment, in uniform and driving a branded vehicle with all the tools and materials they need to get the job done. We value customer satisfaction, which is why our Knoxville tile installation experts take the time to address your concerns, answer all your questions and do everything in our power to deliver outstanding service on every job.
Each member of our team is highly trained, bonded and insured, bringing years of industry experience that guarantees workmanship and customer satisfaction to every job, including tile installation. Knoxville property owners can rely on our expert handyman services to take care of property maintenance, home repairs and various home improvement projects to enhance your comfort and maintain your curb appeal.
We provide many services alongside tile installation. Knoxville homeowners can also depend on us for professional drywall repair, small kitchen remodels, door repair, flooring installation and repair, siding repair, deck repair and more.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tile Installation Knoxville
Can Tile Installation Be Done Without Grout?
While it may technically be possible to do it without grout lines, it's not a good idea and the results won't be up to industry standards. Homeowners in Knoxville sometimes ask our team this question because they don't like how grout looks or don't want to deal with cleaning it. While that's understandable, a grout-less tile installation in Knoxville just wouldn't work. It would leave behind tiny cracks between pieces that would attract dirt and be impossible to clean properly. The other problem is that all buildings shift and settle over time, and grout gives a bit of "wiggle room" to allow that movement. Without it, your pieces would grind into each other and crack or crumble apart.
How High Should Tile Installation Go for a Backsplash?
That depends on your personal preferences. If we're talking about a kitchen backsplash installation, the standard is for it to extend from the countertop to the bottom of the upper cabinets, and there's often a more elaborate or decorative glazed tile system above the stove. However, there's no set correct height, and some backsplashes only rise about four inches above the countertop, while others cover pretty much the entire wall.
When working on the design of a new tile installation, Knoxville residents should keep in mind that backsplashes aren't just for decoration. They protect your wall from splashes of water, oil, cooking grease and other food substances that could stain or soften the drywall, so it makes sense to ensure the walls near food preparation and cooking areas and near the sink are fully protected. The same applies to backsplashes and custom shower tiles in a bathroom.
Can You Walk on a Knoxville Tile Installation Right Away?
While we understand that you're eager to try out your new tile installation, Knoxville, TN professionals recommend that you resist the temptation and avoid stepping on the new tile floor surface for a full 24 hours. Please give the thinset time to fully dry and cure. If it's walked on before the thinset cures, the pressure can press corners or edges of individual pieces down, creating a bumpy, uneven surface with plenty of tripping hazards and undoing the work our tile installers in Knoxville, TN have already put in.
How Do I Know What Size Tile Should Be Used for My Knoxville Tile Installation?
Knoxville residents should know that tile size will vary from room to room. When you enlist our services for tile installation, Knoxville's professional experts will assess the dimensions of the room in question and take into account the desired aesthetic and pattern you wish to create. For example, larger tiles can give a room the illusion of looking bigger but will leave less room for error, which may result in a longer installation process.
How Can I Maintain My Tile After Knoxville Tile Installation?
Knoxville professionals suggest the following guidelines to keep your tiles in optimal condition:
- Regular Cleaning: Now that they have a brand-new tile installation, Knoxville residents will want to ensure they keep their tile in great condition. It's important to sweep and mop or wipe your tiles every day. This will help with any buildup of debris, dirt and dust.
- Avoiding Harsh Chemicals: You don't want to use any chemicals on your tile that may harm it or cause it to wear down quicker. Avoid bleach and ammonia-based cleaning materials.
- Tackling Stains or Damages Immediately: If there are any stains on your tile after a tile installation, Knoxville residents will find using a baking soda paste can help clean the affected area. If you notice any damages, it's best to get our Knoxville tile repair team in for assistance right away.
Interested in Tile Installation? Knoxville Homeowners—Mr. Handyman is Here for You
Are you in need of ceramic or porcelain tile installation? Knoxville or a nearby part of our corner of Tennessee, such as Claxton, Farragut or Oak Ridge, you can get the best quality of service from the pros at Mr. Handyman of West Knoxville.
Check out these 5-star reviews to hear about the work we've already performed from our local tile installers. Knoxville, TN and surrounding areas couldn't be in better hands when it comes to all our home improvement services.
Call our friendly customer service representatives today to find out more about what we have to offer when it comes to Knoxville tile installation. Knoxville homeowners can also book an appointment for service today.