Monday Design Tip: What You Should Know About Underlayments

In the past, a lot of time has been spent in the discussion of the various means to bond tile but no enough consideration has been given to the underlayment material with which these tiles adhere to. But what really is an underlayment? They do many things but their main purpose is to give a foundational support for installations of tiles.

Despite the fact that some types of underlayments have their great strengths, for instance concrete, the actual support should be given by the structure. With slab-on-grade treatments, this is a problem that is rarely encountered. But with suspended slabs, a number of factors can have an effect on their suitability. Greater strength underlayments like backer boards, compounds that are self-levelling and even those mortar beds won’t be able to compensate for the deficiencies on the structure – in its lack of particular support. While some stuff or methods of installation may be likely to cover the deficiency in the structural support for a short period of time but these inadequacies will later on be revealed.  Sellers, contractors, users and installers are inclined to depend on the underlayment’s strength as advertised to them. Every kind of underlayment item should have the characteristics that will give a strong foundation of support for the installation of tiles which is the case of how one product could have strength of 30 PSI can outperform one product with 7000 PSI.

There are many methods mentioned in the Tile Council of North America Handbook in the use f membrane systems. A number of traditional products for underlayment have their standards recorded under the American National Standards (ANSI) A118 Material Specifications. The tile industry depends upon these documents. These documents are not intended to be market documents. In truth, you won’t be able to find even one manufacturer recorded there. In order to achieve an underlayment method to be in the handbook necessitates extensive independent testing and documentations along with a process of approval. The condition for the product to pass the American National Standard is painstaking and meticulous. So does this entail that products not included in the TCNA methodology or not under ANSI are of lesser quality? Not automatically. It will take years of demonstrated performance for a product to be listed in either document.

How’s your remodeling project coming along?

Ultimate Whirlpool Experience

You can have the ultimate in relaxation whirlpool experience custom built for your home.  Hydro Systems Air and Whirlpool bathtubs can be built to your specifications with dozens of options like mood lighting. So, you can be sure to get exactly what you are looking for.

And, these amazing tubs come in a variety of styles and finishes so they can be customized to match any design. Imagine coming home from a long day at the office and submerging yourself in peace and tranquility – well with the Silent Air controls, you can!  And, the best part is you will have all of the control right at your fingertips with the “Soft Touch” electronic control panel.

View our great selection of Hydro Systems Air and Whirlpool products to learn more.

Beautiful Backsplash

Whether you are looking to do a complete kitchen remodel, or looking to make a fast and inexpensive update to your space, installing a beautiful backsplash should be on your renovation “to-do” list.  A backsplash can be neutral and used to enhance an exhisting design or it can be used to stand out and be the focus of the room.  Unsure where to begin when planning your backsplash update?  Talk to a design specialist at Plumbtile for some design tips and advice for your space.

Backsplash Ideas

Here are some great tile ideas by Busby-Gilbert tile to get you started:

Begin with a unique design on your backsplash, and finish off the beautiful design with a neutral ceiling tile.

Design can be found in neutral colors too.  Plumbtile offers a wide selection of tiles that come in a variety of shapes and sizes.  Check out how this distinctive neutral tile brings character to this kitchen’s backsplash.

Make your kitchen really stand out with this matchless design.  An arched stoned tile is used to enhance this vibrant blue backsplash to give the area behind the range the look and feel of an Italian pizza kitchen.

The same tile from your backsplash can be used to cover your countertop as well.  Just be sure to break up the design with decorative tiles in the backsplash pattern.  Check out this beautiful tile  backsplash and counter top in green tones.

To begin piecing together your new beautiful backsplash, talk to a design specialist and Plumbtile.

8 Great Bathroom Designs

When beginning a bathroom model, there are hundreds of designs and styles to choose from.  You may choose to select fixtures and accessories that create a serene and peaceful environment, or ones that create a sleek and modern style.  Check out the photos below of some of our favorite bathroom designs.

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Design Software Gives You a Planning Edge

It is fun to shop for new plumbtile products for your home.  But many people have a hard time making a decision on the right product because they can’t envision exactly what it will look like in their home.  This means they may not happy with their choice once they actually see it in the space.

But using design software can be a big help when it comes to making product choices for your remodel project.  The software allows you to put in your dimensions and choose from many different styles and patterns to give you a sneak peek at possible designs and outcomes.  So whether you’re wondering if your current space can accommodate a sleek custom made tub from Ameritech, or if your floor would look better with some Walker Zanger tiles, design software can put some ease into the project planning. Continue reading →

Kitchen Transformation on a Tight Budget

It doesn’t have to break the bank to bring new life to an outdated, dreary kitchen.  Bright colors, fresh paint and jazzy latches and pulls paired with the willingness to jump in and do it yourself is an economical way to create a space that draws friends and family in to a warm, welcoming focal point of your home.  Plumbtile carries a lot of great products to help you revamp your space and stay in budget.

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Bathroom Remodel Made Simple

Home renovations can be very daunting.  This is because any home remodel project has the potential to become a stress filled, overwhelming, money sucking task.  But, if you carefully plan your remodel from start to finish, you will be better prepared to handle any issues that may come up.  So take a moment to plan your project and you will soon be enjoying your transformed space with a sense of self satisfaction and pride. Plumbtile offers some great products to help make your renovation project go smoothly.  Continue reading →