Frequently Asked Questions About EC Tile’s Custom Tile Services (FAQ)
How much does it cost to get an estimate? Do you do free estimates?
EC Tile is happy to let you know that estimates are free. Just give us a call and we’ll be there with a smile.
Are there any ways I can save money on my custom tile project?
There are many ways to save. When shopping for tile look for let the sales department what your willing to spend per sq ft and most sales representative will guild straight there. 2nd when choosing your trim go for surface bullnose which are 12 inches long and you’ll get an extra 6″ per lineal ft compared to a 6 inch quarter round trim. As a labor base company EC Tile passed all saving to you the customer.
Where can I go to pick out tile for my home or business project?
I would recommend the local stores here in redding. Tile City has great customer service and has a nice selecton to choose from. Dal Tile also carries a great selection.
Does EC Tile work with granite?
Yes, we do! We frequently work with pre-fab granite.
How long does a home custom tile project take?
Every job is unique, but we’ll do our best to give you an accurate time frame upon completing an estimate.
On average, project times are approximately:
- Full tile remodel in a shower shower: 7-10 days.
- Full tile kitchen countertop remodel: 4-6 days.
- Dining and kitchen tile floor: 3-5 days
- Tile backsplash: 2 days.
Can you replace a broken tile in my floor, wall or shower?
We can remove and repair tile. Repair options will depend on replacement tile availability or whether you have any tile left over from the original construction project.
Planning the Perfect Custom Tile Home Improvement Project
Do I need to hire a plumber when working with tile in my bathroom or kitchen?
If your remodel consists of adding new sink, shower valve or drains then you will need a plumber to perform the plumbing portion of the project.
Do I need to hire an electrician when working with tile in my bathroom or kitchen?
You will need an electrician if you are planning on relocating any electrical outlets or lighting fixtures during your remodel.
Do I need to hire a painter for my home project?
EC Tile does not directly offer painting services. If we can’t cover up the area where old materials were removed then paint touch up will have to be performed. 9 times out of 10 we can cover up the old area completely and do not require any touch up!
Do I need a general contractor for my custom tile project?
Typically as a general “rule of thumb”, you as the homeowner can act as homeowner/builder. It’s your choice. But in most cases you don’t necessarily need a general contractor. There are times when there is a need for a general contractor. Based on your project needs, EC Tile will be happy to help point you in the right direction.
What is the best tile to use in my home or business?
For interior applications, typically porcelain or ceramic is best suited. For exterior applications we often recommend porcelain or slate tiles.
Does it cost more to set my tile diagonally?
Often it does cost more for a diagonal tile set – typically about an additional 10% of the overall straight set price due to more required cuts. You also need a greater overage on your material because it generates more cut-away waste.
Is it better to use smaller tile than bigger tile?
Recently, most of our clients are leaning towards bigger tile because it leaves fewer grout joints. But we feel it is ultimately a personal decision. One common theory is that bigger tile can make a room look bigger.
Can you set tile on top of drywall in a bathroom shower?
No, you should never set tile directly over drywall in a shower. There is a product called Kerdi Matting that is often used for that application.
Care and Maintenance After Your Tile Project Has Been Installed
How do I clean my tile and stone flooring?
For cleaning floors, walls and countertops, a solution of hot water and a mild all-purpose liquid cleaner works excellently. A stronger solution may be used for heavily-soiled surfaces.
How soon can I walk on my new tile floor?
48 hours is recommended, but in general clients are on them as soon as the next day without problems.
I found cracks in my floor. Should I be concerned about it?
Yes, cracks in a tile floor must be repaired. There are many products available that work well. Each crack needs to be covered up.
Common Questions Asked by Do-it-Yourselfers (DIYers)
Can I seal my ceramic or porcelain tile?
Ceramic or porcelain tile should never be sealed. These tiles are impervious to sealer penetrating into the glaze.
Should I use grout sealer to seal the grout around my tile?
Yes we typically recommend a penetrating sealer be used. Especially in high traffic areas.
What tools do I need to set my own tile floor?
For most jobs you would need at the very least:
- a chalkline pencil
- 2 painter’s buckets
- 2 tile sponges
- 1/4-in. notch trowel for tiles 12-in. x 12-in. or smaller
- 3/8-in. notch trowel for 18-in. x 18-in. tiles
- margin trowel
- undercut hand saw
- tape measure
- a tile saw (which can be rented)
