Tile Work That Elevates Every Surface

Not all tile belongs everywhere. Floor tile needs to be rated for foot traffic and slip resistance — porcelain with a textured finish is ideal for bathrooms and entryways. Wall tile can be lighter and smoother since it doesn't bear weight or get wet underfoot. For showers, you want porcelain or ceramic rated for wet areas, installed over a proper waterproofing membrane to prevent moisture from reaching the framing behind the walls.

Grout choice matters more than most homeowners realize. Unsanded grout works for narrow joints under 1/8 inch, while sanded grout fills wider gaps and resists cracking. Epoxy grout costs more but is virtually stain-proof — a smart investment for kitchen backsplashes and shower floors where mold and discoloration are common in Indiana's humid summers.

Think about tile size and pattern before you commit. Large-format tiles (12x24 and up) make small Indianapolis bathrooms feel more spacious by reducing grout lines, but they require a perfectly level substrate. Smaller mosaic tiles work beautifully on shower floors because they conform to drain slopes. Patterns like herringbone and chevron add visual interest but require more precise cuts and additional labor.

For wet areas like showers and tub surrounds, waterproofing is non-negotiable. A proper membrane system — applied to the backer board before any tile goes up — is what separates a shower that lasts 20 years from one that develops mold and leaks within five. We always install waterproofing to current best practices, regardless of the tile you choose.