Avoid Costly Tile Installation Mistakes - What You Need to Know About Tile Crack

March 28, 2024

Tile installation is a big job and can have a huge impact on the look of your space. However, when installing tile, many people don't think about one very important thing - the potential for tile crack. Cracked tiles can ruin all of your hard work in an instant and be costly to replace. In this blog post, we'll detail everything you need to know about how to avoid cracked tiles and what steps you should take if you encounter such issues during or after tile installation. Keep reading so that you won't be faced with unexpected surprises!

Understand the Different Types of Tile Cracks

Tile cracks can be a common issue for homeowners, but did you know that there are different types? Understanding the various types of tile cracks can help you identify the cause and determine the best course of action for repair. One type is called a hairline crack, which is a narrow crack that is barely visible and often caused by tension in the tile. Another type is a through-body crack, which starts at the surface and goes all the way through the tile. This type is usually caused by structural issues or excessive weight on the tile. By learning about these and other types of tile cracks, you can be better equipped to handle any issues that arise with your tile flooring.

Evaluate the Existing Subfloor

When it comes to home renovation projects, assessing the existing subfloor is a crucial consideration. Without a strong and sturdy base, any new flooring or tiling can be at risk of damage or instability. It's important to evaluate the existing subfloor to determine its condition and whether it's suitable for the type of flooring you want to install. Perhaps it's time for repairs or reinforcement to ensure a successful and long-lasting renovation project. By properly evaluating the subfloor, you can take the necessary steps to ensure your new flooring stays in place for years to come.

Use a Floated Substrate to Reduce Cracking Risk

Concrete structures have a tendency to crack over time due to various factors such as shrinkage, temperature changes, and moisture. However, there are methods to reduce the risk of cracking, one of which is the use of a floated substrate. This technique involves placing a thin layer of a different material on top of the concrete to create a bond-breaking layer. By doing this, the substrate is allowed to move slightly separately from the concrete, reducing tension and stress on the surface that can lead to cracks. Not only does this method minimize the likelihood of cracks forming, but it also improves the overall durability of the concrete structure. So, whether you're building a driveway or a skyscraper, using a floated substrate can help ensure a smoother, longer-lasting surface.

Ensure Your Tiles Are Properly Installed and Sealed

There's nothing quite like a home with beautiful tile work. Whether it's in the kitchen, bathroom, or foyer, properly installed and sealed tiles can elevate the entire look and feel of your home. Not only are they aesthetically pleasing, but they're also durable, easy to clean, and can last for years. However, if tiles are not installed and sealed properly, it can lead to a host of problems such as water damage, mold, and even structural issues. That's why it's crucial to ensure your tiles are properly installed and sealed by a professional. With the right installation and sealant, your tiles will not only look great, but will also provide long-lasting protection for your home.

Be Mindful of Expansion Joints

When it comes to designing a building, there are many factors to take into consideration, one of them being expansion joints. These joints are crucial for allowing a building's materials to expand and contract with temperature changes, preventing damage and prolonging the building's lifespan. It's important for architects and engineers to keep expansion joints in mind throughout the building process, from the initial design to the construction phase. By taking careful consideration of expansion joints, a building can withstand the test of time and continue to provide a safe and functional space for its occupants.

Select the Right Grout for Your Tile Installation

Choosing the right grout is essential for a successful tile installation. Not only does grout hold the tiles in place, but it also seals out moisture and reinforces the structure of the tiling. With so many grout options on the market, selecting the right one can seem overwhelming. The first step in choosing a grout is to consider the tile size and spacing. Smaller tiles require thinner grout lines, while larger tiles need thicker lines. Additionally, the color and texture of the grout can dramatically affect the final appearance of the project. Take the time to research and compare different grout types, and don't be afraid to ask a professional for advice. With the right grout, your tile installation will look beautiful and perform flawlessly for years to come.

Ultimately, tile cracks can be a headache of a problem. To reduce your risk of having to deal with tile cracking, first understand the causes and types of tile cracks so you can identify them when the need arises. Second, consider the existing subfloor in the area where you are installing tiles and whether it is adequately prepared. Third, using a floated substrate beneath your tiles can help reduce their susceptibility to cracking. Fourth make sure that your tiles are properly installed and sealed in order to further prevent cracking. Fifth account for any necessary expansion joints when tiling an area so that you can more effectively account for seasonal changes in temperature or humidity that might otherwise cause swelling beneath the tiles. Finally, select appropriate grout for your tile installation based on how much divergence there is between the two materials to further promote long-term stability – if done right, you won’t have to worry about ever having to repair those tiles! By following these tips carefully, we hope you will have complete peace of mind knowing that your tile installation will remain crack-free for years to come!

We serve Austin, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Pflugerfille, West Lake Hills, Bee Cave, Manor, Sunset Valley, Manchaca, Buda, Hornsby Bend, Hudson Bend

Tile contractors, Tile contractor, Bathroom remodel Austin, Tile installers

Tile Installation Pros Austin

Austin, TX 78744

512-312-7956

https://www.tileprosaustin.com

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Modern Glam: How to Mix Metallic Finishes with Vibrant Bathroom Colors

By TP Bathroom Remodeling Austin • July 9, 2025

When it comes to bathroom design, few styles deliver the drama and luxury of modern glam. It's a look that blends bold color with sleek metallic finishes to create a space that feels both indulgent and contemporary. If you're ready to elevate your bathroom from basic to breathtaking, here's how to expertly mix metallic finishes with vibrant bathroom colors—and why it works. Why Modern Glam Works in the Bathroom Bathrooms are no longer just utilitarian spaces. They're now sanctuaries for self-care and self-expression. The modern glam aesthetic pairs polished metals like gold, brass, and chrome with statement colors like emerald green, deep plum, or sapphire blue to create a space that feels both chic and energizing. At TP Bathroom Remodeling Austin, we’re seeing more homeowners embrace this bold combination to add personality and sophistication to their bathrooms—whether they’re working with a full renovation or just a strategic refresh. 1. Choose Your Bold Color Base Start with a vibrant foundation color. Think jewel tones, moody hues, or even saturated pastels. Here are a few trending color options: Emerald Green – Luxurious and calming, it pairs beautifully with brushed gold or brass fixtures. Navy Blue – Deep and dramatic, navy contrasts beautifully with shiny chrome or silver. Blush Pink – Soft yet modern, blush pairs well with rose gold or polished nickel. Black or Charcoal – For ultimate glam, a dark backdrop makes metallics pop dramatically. Don’t be afraid of going bold—modern glam is about making a statement. 2. Mix and Match Metallic Finishes (With Intention) Gone are the days of matching every finish in the room. Mixing metals is a major trend in modern glam bathrooms, but it has to be done with balance. Tips for Mixing Metallic Finishes: Limit to Two Finishes: Stick with two metal tones to keep things cohesive. Choose a Dominant Metal: Use one finish (e.g., brushed gold) for most of your fixtures, and the other (e.g., chrome) for accent pieces. Match the Undertones: Warm metals (like brass and copper) pair better with warm paint tones, while cool metals (like chrome and nickel) look best with cool colors. Popular combos include: Brushed gold + matte black Chrome + navy blue Rose gold + deep plum 3. Use Lighting to Accentuate the Glam Lighting is key in any bathroom, especially in a modern glam design. Metallic finishes naturally reflect light, so strategically placing pendants, sconces, or chandeliers can enhance the sparkle and mood. Try: Crystal pendant lights for elegance Brass sconces to warm up the space LED mirrors with chrome frames for a sleek, modern touch At TP Bathroom Remodeling Austin, we often recommend layering ambient, task, and accent lighting to create depth and drama. 4. Add Texture with Tiles and Accessories Balance the shine of your metals with textural elements that tie the room together: Glossy subway tiles or metallic mosaic backsplashes reflect your chosen finishes. Velvet or patterned towels in accent colors add softness. Gold-rimmed mirrors , metallic hardware, and vibrant art pieces reinforce the glam vibe. Even small details—like a brass soap dispenser or a color-blocked shower curtain—can pull the look together effortlessly. 5. Keep the Layout Functional and Flowing Designing a glam bathroom isn’t just about aesthetics. You’ll want a layout that supports your daily routine while showcasing your design choices. Consider: Floating vanities in bold lacquered finishes Glass shower enclosures with matte black trim Custom storage solutions that match your color and metal scheme Our remodeling experts at TP Bathroom Remodeling Austin specialize in creating layouts that balance beauty and practicality, especially when mixing striking colors and finishes. Final Thoughts: Dare to Be Dramatic Modern glam isn’t for the faint of heart—but it rewards boldness with beauty. Whether you’re remodeling a master bath or upgrading a powder room, mixing metallic finishes with vibrant colors adds depth, personality, and undeniable flair. Looking to bring modern glam to your Austin bathroom? TP Bathroom Remodeling Austin is here to help you design a space that’s as stunning as it is functional. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation! Serving Austin, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Pflugerfille, West Lake Hills, Bee Cave, Manor, Sunset Valley, Manchaca, Buda, Hornsby Bend, Hudson Bend Bathroom remodeling Austin, bathroom remodeling Austin Tx, Austin bathroom remodeling, bathroom remodelers Austin TP Bathroom Remodeling Austin Austin Tx 78745 512-270-2168 https://www.tileprosaustin.com/bathroom-remodeling-austin

How to Deep Clean Grout and Make Your Tile Floors Look Brand New

July 7, 2025

Over time, even the most beautiful tile floors can lose their shine—not because of the tile itself, but because of dirty, stained grout. Grout is porous and prone to absorbing dirt, spills, and grime, which can make your entire floor look older and less vibrant. But don’t worry—with a little time, effort, and the right techniques, you can deep clean your grout and make your tile floors look brand new again. Here at Tile Installation Pros Austin , we know that great-looking tile isn’t just about installation—it’s also about ongoing care. Read on for expert tips on how to deep clean your grout and restore the brilliance of your tile flooring. Why Grout Gets So Dirty Grout sits slightly lower than your tile surface and is made from materials like cement and sand, which are naturally absorbent. That means every spill, speck of dirt, or drop of grease can seep into the grout lines and leave a lasting mark. Regular mopping won’t reach deep into the grout, which is why deeper cleaning is essential every so often. Supplies You’ll Need Before you begin, gather the following supplies: Baking soda White vinegar or hydrogen peroxide Warm water A stiff-bristle grout brush or old toothbrush Spray bottle Microfiber cloths Optional: Steam cleaner or grout sealer Step-by-Step Guide to Deep Clean Your Grout Step 1: Make a Grout-Cleaning Paste Mix baking soda with a small amount of water until it forms a thick paste. For extra whitening power, swap the water for hydrogen peroxide. Apply this paste directly onto the grout lines using your brush. Step 2: Spray with Vinegar (If Using Baking Soda) If you used baking soda, lightly spray the grout with white vinegar. This will create a fizzing reaction that helps lift deep-seated dirt and grime. Let it sit for about 5–10 minutes. Note: Avoid vinegar on natural stone tiles like marble or travertine, as it can etch the surface. Step 3: Scrub Thoroughly Using your grout brush or toothbrush, scrub the grout lines vigorously in a circular motion. Focus on stained areas and give extra attention to high-traffic zones. Step 4: Wipe and Rinse Wipe away the paste and grime using a clean, damp microfiber cloth. Rinse with warm water and wipe again to ensure no residue is left behind. For Tough Stains: Try a Steam Cleaner For especially stubborn stains or large areas, a steam cleaner is a powerful, chemical-free way to deep clean grout. The high-temperature steam penetrates pores and loosens dirt and bacteria without damaging your tiles. Seal Your Grout to Keep It Cleaner Longer Once your grout is clean and dry, applying a grout sealer is a smart move. Sealing grout helps prevent future staining and makes routine cleaning easier. Reapply grout sealer every 6–12 months for best results. Tile Looking Dull Too? Here’s What to Do While grout cleaning works wonders, don’t forget to refresh your tile surface as well. Use a pH-neutral tile cleaner to remove residue, restore shine, and preserve the tile’s finish. Avoid harsh chemicals that can dull the tile or degrade the grout. When to Call the Pros If your grout is permanently stained, cracked, or crumbling, it may be time to call in a professional. At Tile Installation Pros Austin , we offer grout replacement, tile restoration, and full-service tile cleaning to bring your floors back to life. Whether you need a one-time deep clean or a full re-grout, our experienced team has you covered. Final Thoughts Don’t let dirty grout steal the spotlight from your beautiful tile floors. With the right tools and methods, you can deep clean grout and instantly refresh the look of your entire space. And if your floors need more than a surface clean, trust the team at Tile Installation Pros Austin to restore their original charm with expert care. Need help with tile or grout in the Austin area? Contact Tile Installation Pros Austin today for a free estimate and let us help you fall in love with your floors all over again. We serve Austin, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Pflugerfille, West Lake Hills, Bee Cave, Manor, Sunset Valley, Manchaca, Buda, Hornsby Bend, Hudson Bend Tile contractors, Tile contractor, Bathroom remodel Austin, Tile installers Tile Installation Pros Austin Austin, TX 78744 512-312-7956 https://www.tileprosaustin.com

Tile Harmony: Creating a Cohesive Look Between Floors and Walls

By TP Bathroom Remodeling Austin • July 2, 2025

When it comes to designing a bathroom that’s both beautiful and functional, tile selection plays a critical role—especially when coordinating the look between your floors and walls. Striking the right balance can transform your space into a serene, spa-like retreat or a bold, modern statement. At TP Bathroom Remodeling Austin, we specialize in helping homeowners create bathrooms where every surface works together in visual harmony. Why Tile Coordination Matters Mismatched tile choices can make your bathroom feel disjointed or cluttered. On the other hand, a cohesive design: Enhances the feeling of space Provides visual flow and balance Increases resale value through polished aesthetics Whether you're remodeling a compact powder room or a spacious master bath, tile harmony creates a seamless look that elevates your entire home. 1. Choose a Unified Color Palette Start by selecting a base color scheme that ties the floor and wall tiles together. Neutrals like white, gray, taupe, or soft blues are versatile and timeless, but don't be afraid to add a bold accent. Pro Tip: Choose one dominant color, one secondary shade, and one accent tone. Use the dominant color on larger surfaces (typically floors), and support it with complementary tones on the walls. 2. Mix Textures, Not Chaos Tile texture adds depth and character, but mixing too many types can overwhelm the space. Try combining: Glossy wall tiles with matte floor tiles for contrast Stone-look floors with smooth ceramic or glass walls Stick to a similar color family when mixing textures to keep things visually grounded. 3. Coordinate Sizes and Patterns Size matters. Large format tiles on the floor can make small bathrooms look bigger, while smaller tiles (like subway or mosaic styles) often work well on walls or in shower niches. To keep things cohesive: Avoid placing dramatically different patterns right next to each other. Repeat a pattern (like a hexagon or chevron) in different sizes or applications. 4. Use Accent Tiles Strategically Accent tiles break up monotony and add interest—but restraint is key. Limit decorative tiles to: A feature wall A shower niche A backsplash behind the vanity These accents should complement, not compete with, your main tile choices. 5. Consider Grout Color as a Design Element Grout may seem minor, but it plays a big role in your overall look: Matching grout creates a smooth, continuous surface. Contrasting grout outlines individual tiles and can highlight patterns. In bathrooms with both floor and wall tiling, using the same grout color throughout can help unify the design. 6. Let Lighting Guide Your Tile Choices Natural and artificial light affect how tile colors appear. A tile that looks gray in the store might appear blue under LED lighting. Tip: Test samples in your actual bathroom lighting conditions before finalizing your selections. 7. Work with a Bathroom Remodeling Pro Tile selection and layout can be overwhelming—but you don’t have to do it alone. At TP Bathroom Remodeling Austin , we offer expert design guidance and professional tile installation to help bring your vision to life. From floor-to-ceiling renovations to modern shower upgrades, our team ensures your bathroom looks polished, cohesive, and built to last. Ready to Harmonize Your Bathroom Tile Design? Let TP Bathroom Remodeling Austin transform your bathroom into a harmonious space that feels as good as it looks. Contact us today for a free consultation and discover how the right tile choices can make all the difference. Serving Austin, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Pflugerfille, West Lake Hills, Bee Cave, Manor, Sunset Valley, Manchaca, Buda, Hornsby Bend, Hudson Bend Bathroom remodeling Austin, bathroom remodeling Austin Tx, Austin bathroom remodeling, bathroom remodelers Austin TP Bathroom Remodeling Austin Austin Tx 78745 512-270-2168 https://www.tileprosaustin.com/bathroom-remodeling-austin