Category: How-To

There are three basic types of grout available for any tiling job.  It is important that you take to the time understand each type so that you can choose the right one for your specific project.  If you choose the wrong one you could end up destroying your tile and watching your grout dry up before it can be used. You can avoid the unnecessary expense of replacing materials by taking the time to educate yourself about grout in advance.

Unsanded grout is a great option to choose.  But, it should only be selected for areas that have grout lines smaller than 1/8”.  This is because the grout actually shrinks as it dries.  So, if the grout line is too wide, then the grout will shrink and no longer be filling the intended grout line completely.

For any grout lines that measure 1/8” or more wide, you should choose a sanded grout.  A sanded grout does not shrink because there is sand added to the mixture. Although it is a great option for any tiling project, you should be careful when you are using it with polished tiles as the sand in the grout can actually scratch the tile. If you are unsure whether your tiles will be damaged by using sanded grout, you can test a piece of tile in advance.  If sanded grout does damage the tile, then you should look toward epoxy grout instead.

Epoxy grout can be used in any width of grout line.  It can also be used with any type of tile without the fear of damaging the tile.  Other benefits of epoxy is that is it both stain resistant and water proof.  However, it does dry fairly quick so it must be applied immediately after mixing. And, it is more expensive than sanded or unsanded grout.

Getting your Mind-set on Thinset

Grout is not the only choice you need to make for applying your tile.  Although it is not as visible as grout, you must also choose your thinset wisely to ensure an excellent finished product.  Thinset is available in either white or grey and is the mortor that is used to apply your tile to the intended surface. It is recommended that you use white with lighter colored grouts and grey with darker colored grouts.

Just like grout, thinset is available as either sanded or unsanded.  You should select sanded thinset for projects like flooring and counters while using unsanded on walls, counters and fixtures. It is a good idea to stay away from quick setting thinset so that you are not rushed to finish your job before the thinset dries.  This will give you the time to make sure all tiles are installed and aligned properly.

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The kitchen is the center of the home, and with good reason. Communing over food is a quintessential part of the human experience, and many homeowners want to capture the feeling of this timeless tradition in the décor of their kitchen. Modern, fresh looks, designed to enrich our lives by creating invigorating spaces, can be made more inviting by including design elements inspired by vintage classics. The subtle mix between old and new creates a space loved by all.

In addition to creating an incredibly welcoming kitchen to add to the experience of being in one’s home, it makes financial sense to focus on the kitchen. By investing no more than 15% of a home’s value into a kitchen renovation, the typical homeowner can anticipate to at least make a 100% Return on Investment in a positive gain to the increase in home equity by having a beautiful kitchen remodel. While some decorating fads come and go, making choices that are variations on vintage classic design is a surefire way to insulate your investment in your remodel against depreciation.

The popularity of prime time cooking shows, people finding the need to prepare more of their meals at home, as well as the reward from sheer enjoyment of a delicious, home-cooked meal are all influencing the appreciation of a functional kitchen. One way to improve a kitchen’s functionality is to have a kitchen sink that is completely useable. A space large enough to be able to place a stockpot within the sink basin without creating a flood while trying to wash or fill such an oversized item. A sink with a clear and ready path to the garbage disposal so the home cook can easily keep the workspace clean during food preparation. Improved functionality helps make the daily chore of cooking a very pleasant task.

A great way to blend the modern and the classic, to combine function with a comforting décor, is to include a farmhouse sink in your kitchen remodel. There are many, many options for farmhouse sinks these days, from the classic, ceramic coated, clean edged pristine white basin one would find in an authentic 1900’s farmhouse, to a modern twist on this design, such as this Black Granite Double Basin Farmhouse Sink from Stone Forest. Pairing this sink with Lefroy Brooks K1-3100 kitchen bridge mixer faucet creates a very urban chic feel from this vintage inspiration.

For an overall classic feel, consider a very plain white basin, such as this Whitehaus Farmhouse sink. This sink pairs well with the very classic lines of Lefroy Brooks C1-1110 (LB 9007) Cross Handle basin bridge mixer faucet. Together they create classic vintage simplicity, a completely timeless choice. If your tastes are a little less utilitarian, and you would like a touch of elegance, a great mix is to go with a sink with a bit of styling to its front face, such as this Luberon Fireclay Farm House Sink from Herbeau. The subtle curves from the flourished edges tie nicely to the lines of the La Chapelle FH 1530 deck mounted kitchen mixer faucet (Lefroy Brooks). Curves, being a more complex and sophisticated shape, add a touch of elegance to this functional classic.

Pebble tile has become very popular among all types of designers, builders, and homeowners because it provides a perfect harmony of contemporary style with rustic and outdoor charm. It can often be found in spas, giving it a connection to luxury that many have decided to take home. Luckily, laying pebble tile is also very easy. Here are supplies and steps you will need to complete a pebble tile floor.

1. Determine how many tiles you will need.

First, measure the area which you will be tiling – whether it’s a shower, an entire floor, or an outdoor pathway. The measurements will help you decide how many tiles you will need, and it is a good idea to pick up a few extra just in case!

2. Layout your tile design.

Pebble tile has a very cool design in which the sides of two tiles will literally interlock with each other so there is no visible seam. Use this feature as you lay your tile out before you adhere them into place. As you do this, you may find some area where pebbles hang over your tile line, and some areas where there are gaps. Remove the extra pebbles, cut back the mesh to line up with your tiling edge, and then later use the individual stones to fill in the gaps.

3. Apply Thinset

Lay thin set evenly over the floor – you want it to be no thicker than 1/8” all over.  Depending on the size of the area you are working in, you may need to work in 3’ x 3’ squares of laying Thinset and then laying the tile. If your area is smaller than 5’ x 5’, you don’t have to worry about this. If Thinset gets on the tops of the pebbles, simply use a wet sponge to wipe them clean. 

4. Adhere the tiles.

As you lay the tiles, you should already have a good idea of how they fit together (from your earlier lay). Just follow this and make sure to firmly set each tile sheet in the adhesive. You may even want to use a rubber float to apply even pressure over the entire surface of the tiles to be sure they are all set firmly. Now, you can use those individual pebbles to fill in any gaps. If necessary, add a bit more Thinset directly to the back of the stones and press them into the gaps. Pay close attention to the edges, to create an even edge. 

5. Apply sealant.

Allow 24 hours for the Thinset to dry, then apply a coat of sealer to top of the stones to prevent  them  from absorbing any grout. Try to apply the sealant just to the top surfaces of the pebbles, as coating the sides will make it difficult for grouting later. The best way to do this is get an even coat on a paint roller and use it to cover the tiles.  

6. Grout

Once the sealant is dry, use grout over the tops of all tiles. Make sure you use enough so that it fills the grooves between the pebbles, and use a float and even your (gloved) hands to guide and gently push it into the cracks and grooves.

7. Clean excess grout.

Allow the grout to set for about 15 to 20 minutes, then use a clean bristle brush to softly brush away the grout on top of the stones. Don’t push too hard or you’ll start digging at the grout between the pebbles! Next, use a  wet sponge to wipe the rest of the excess grout away. Rinse the sponge often in a bucket of clean water. You will probably need to wipe the pebbles down several times before they are completely clean.  Finally, let the grout set for 24 hours and you’re done!

This year, why get dad another tie when you could get him something he might actually use? Most fathers are the do-it-yourself type, and love to get tools and materials for building or upgrading areas around your home. With a creative home improvement gift, you will be giving him that PLUS the ability to improve the look and value of his home. It is definitely a win-win! Here are just a few home improvement gift ideas for dad:

Faucets/sinks
One of the easiest ways to upgrade a kitchen or bathroom is with a new sink and faucet. This is especially true if dad happens to have a sink that leaks or is not very efficient. A new model will not only look better, but may also save him money and help the planet. Consider looking for eco-friendly versions on sale.

Flooring(One of the Best Gift Ideas for Dad in 2011!)
A recent study shows that more than 33% of homeowners planning to do renovations in 2011 have made “flooring” their top priority. In some cases, flooring is the only upgrade they plan to make. It truly is amazing what new tile can do for a kitchen or bathroom, even if you change nothing else! Why not give dad permission to replace that old, worn flooring with some brand new tile? There are so many options to choose from, that every taste and style can be accommodated.

Bathroom accessories
As the old saying goes, “It’s the little things that count.” When you think of renovating that bathroom or kitchen, you may think of big and rather costly options such as appliances and knocking out walls, which might make them a bit much when it comes to gift ideas for dad. In all actuality, however,  you can do wonders with just a few “little things.” New fixtures, doorknobs, and even lighting can make a dramatic difference in a room. Pair these with a new coat of paint and you’ve got a beautiful mini-reno even on a tight budget!

Of course, finding these gift ideas for dad doesn’t have to break the bank. Plumbtile currently has an entire line of faucets, sinks, bathroom accessories and more on clearance! Feel free to check out the selection here.

When we see those large, walk in showers, many of us can immediately imagine the instant relaxation we’d feel from stepping into one – before even turning on the water! When broken down, however, these showers are actually made of very simple elements. There is no reason that more of us can’t have walk in showers to enjoy! Here are the three essential pieces you need to create that luxurious spa experience in-home.

The Right Tile
Tumbled stone tile flooring is a very popular choice for walk-in showers. Just as with any other tile project, you need to be sure that the tile is made of the correct materials for the job – porcelain and ceramic might be disastrous on the floor of a shower! Tumbled stone. mosaic, or pebble style tiling will give the shower a natural feel and won’t be slippery when wet!

Tiles along the shower walls can be (and usually are) larger body tiles than those of the floor. If you’d really like to increase the “open” feeling of a walk-in shower, try laying these tiles diagonally. The colors and patterns you choose are up to you, but to maintain that comforting spa feel, try to stay with cool and relaxing colors.

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The Right Shower Head
Ideally, you may want to have two shower heads in a walk-in shower. It is a common misconception that a larger shower needs several shower heads and therefore to waste much more water than others. Instead, go for a larger rain dome style shower head. This will provide plenty of water for you, while actually using less of it than traditional shower heads. Also, a hand-held shower head can be included as a option for directed water pressure. This way the shower will never feel “lacking.”

The right Lighting
Finally, a larger walk-in shower will need the right kind of lighting to complete the relaxing atmosphere. The first step is to add a window close to the ceiling which will allow natural light to flow in whenever possible. For showering at night or on cloudy days, include a few recessed lights in the ceiling of the shower – as opposed to the main bathroom lights which are outside.  This creates that feeling of a personal retreat. Go for lights that simulate sunlight, and be sure the fixtures are graded for use in damp areas.

Of course, the best ways to create the perfect relaxing walk-in shower is to add your own touches. Glass doors and walls are very common, and fixtures along the wall for soaps, shampoos and other shower necessities will also add to the look and feel. These basic tips will start that walk-in shower for you, but your own personal style will make it perfect!