What to expect before

Written estimate

Some estimates are itemized and some are a comprehensive paragraph of the scope of work with a total. Just remember that estimates are just that - estimates. All things that are promised should be included in the final contract to you.

Cost of job

This will vary depending on the products used and the job that will be done. Research your needs first and educate yourself on the products and then get quotes from a couple of contractors that use those products.

Expectations

Warranties and guarantees should always be included in the final contract. All questions regarding what to expect should be discussed in detail between the customer and contractor to avoid discrepancies.

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What to expect during

Work hours/expected length of time in the home

This should be discussed in the "Expectations" portion of the bid. Make sure you feel educated about the process and the products that will be used. Feel comfortable and confident about the investment you are making.

Potential noise

If Oregon Custom Flooring INC is doing any demolition or remodeling there will be load noises associated with the scope of work being performed.

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What to expect after

When can I walk across the floors again?

As soon as the grout has fulled cured for traffic.

How much clean-up will be needed?

Clean-up is extremely minimal. Since the installation of tile is nearly dust-free, virtually all the airborne dust generated during the process is eliminated, so there is no wasted time spent hanging and taking down plastic in the home. In addition, everything must be picked up and cleaned before the grouting portion, so you are not left with any mess in your home.

What kind of maintenance is required after the process?

This depends on the amount of traffic you have in your home. If you have children and pets, you will want to clean more regularly. We recommend dusting your floors with a dust mop daily or every other day.

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Here are some additional things to keep in mind during a tile installation:

Step 1: Set the backer board

The backer board provides a solid surface for the tiles to adhere to. It can be made of cement board, plywood, or oriented strand board (OSB). The backer board should be installed over the moisture barrier. The thickness of the backer board will depend on the type of tiles that you are installing. For example, thicker backer board is recommended for ceramic tiles that will be installed in high-traffic areas.

Here are some of the things you can do to set the backer board:

• Cut the backer board to fit the size of the room.

• Overlap the seams by at least 1/2 inch.

• Secure the backer board to the subfloor with screws or nails.

• Make sure that the backer board is level.

 

Step 2: Start installing the tiles

The tiles are typically installed starting in the corner of the room and working your way out. They are adhered to the backer board with thin-set mortar. The tiles should be installed with the grout joints aligned.

Here are some of the things you can do to install the tiles:

• Start by installing a starter tile in the corner of the room.

• Use a chalk line to mark the installation line for the next tile.

• Apply thin-set mortar to the back of the tile.

• Press the tile into place.

• Use a level to make sure that the tile is level.

• Continue installing the tiles in this manner until you have covered the entire floor.

 

Step 3: Cut the tiles to fit

You will need to cut the tiles to fit around obstacles such as doors, windows, and baseboards. You can use a tile saw or a wet saw to cut the tiles. Be sure to wear safety glasses when cutting the tiles.

Here are some of the things you can do to cut the tiles:

• Mark the location of the cut on the tile.

• Use a tile saw or a wet saw to make the cut.

• Smooth out the cut edges with sandpaper.

 

Step 4: Grout the tiles

The grout fills the gaps between the tiles and provides a watertight seal. The grout can be mixed from powder and water or purchased pre-mixed. It should be applied with a grout float.

Here are some of the things you can do to grout the tiles:

• Mix the grout according to the manufacturer's instructions.

• Apply the grout to the tiles with a grout float.

• Use a grout sponge to wipe away the excess grout.

• Allow the grout to dry completely.

 

Step 5: Seal the grout

The grout should be sealed to protect it from moisture and stains. The sealer can be applied with a roller or a sprayer. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully when applying the sealer.

 

Step 6: Clean up

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