Let’s be honest – tile projects can go wrong. As tile installers serving Toronto, Mississauga and all around the GTA, we’ve seen the same expensive mistakes happen over and over. Here’s how to avoid them in your next project.
Not Preparing the Floor Properly
The most common mistake happens before the first tile goes down. Many Toronto homeowners don’t realize that what’s underneath matters more than the tiles themselves.
An uneven or weak subfloor leads to cracked tiles and loose grout within months. In older Hamilton homes, we often find multiple layers of old flooring that need removal before new tiles can be installed properly.
It’s like building a house on sand – no matter how nice your tiles are, they’ll fail without a solid foundation. Our Mallet Tile team always takes the time to create a perfectly flat, strong base before laying a single tile.
Skipping Waterproofing Where It Matters
Water and homes don’t mix well. In bathrooms and kitchens across Mississauga and Burlington, insufficient waterproofing leads to mold, rotting wood, and expensive repairs behind seemingly fine-looking tiles.
This problem is especially common in shower renovations, where proper waterproofing membranes make all the difference between a shower that lasts 20+ years and one that causes hidden damage within months. If you’re planning a bathroom renovation, don’t miss our post on Bathroom Tile Ideas That Won’t Go Out of Style for designs that combine beauty with practicality.
Professional installers use specialized waterproofing systems that keep water where it belongs – on the surface where it can drain away safely.
Using the Wrong Adhesive (Or Using It Wrong)
The glue holding your tiles down matters. Using the wrong type for your specific tiles or applying it incorrectly is a recipe for disaster. We’ve replaced countless floors across Oakville and Milton where tiles started popping loose because the adhesive wasn’t right for the job.
Each tile type and location needs a specific approach. Large format tiles need different thinnest than small mosaics. Shower walls need different adhesive than dry area floors. Getting this right is why professional installation often saves money in the long run.
Poor Layout Planning
Nothing screams “amateur job” like awkwardly cut tiles in noticeable areas or patterns that don’t line up properly. Good tile installation starts with careful planning.
In open concept homes throughout Mississauga and Toronto, tile layout becomes even more important as the flooring flows between different spaces. Professional installers take time to plan the perfect starting point and layout that minimizes odd cuts and creates visual balance.
This attention to detail separates okay tile jobs from ones that truly enhance your home’s value. Not sure which type of tile is right for your space? Our comprehensive guide on How to Choose the Right Tiles for Your Home walks you through everything you need to know.
Rushing the Process
Tile installation has necessary waiting periods between steps. Rush any of them, and you’ll pay for it later.
Proper curing time for different materials isn’t just a suggestion – it’s essential for durability. We’ve seen beautiful tile work across Muskoka and Burlington homes ruined because someone walked on freshly laid tiles too soon or grouted before adhesive fully cured.
Good tile work takes the right amount of time. Professionals understand exactly how long each step needs and plan accordingly.
Want to make sure your tile project is done right the first time? Download our simple tile guide for straight talk on materials, preparation and what to expect during installation. Our team at Mallet Tile Installation serves homeowners throughout Toronto, Hamilton, Mississauga, Muskoka, Burlington, Milton, and Oakville with honest advice and quality workmanship that lasts.
