Scott Carothers’ Favorite Tile Setting Tools: The Ones That Protect the Install

For Connecticut tile installers and suppliers, the bigger story is this:

Smarter prep. Better results. Faster installs.

The folks at CTEF laid out a fantastic cautionary example, so let’s walk through the key fails — and how you can avoid them with the right products, the right team, and the right approach.

Get the recap of The Ultimate Tile Trade Show—see featured products, pro demos, and design-forward solutions that wowed attendees.

If you're a tile installer ready to grow your business, there’s one area that will set you apart fast:
Large-format porcelain panel installation.

To avoid costly project delays, it's crucial to order sufficient tile, especially with larger formats, as waste from cuts and breakage is common. Industry recommendations suggest 20-25% extra for large tiles (over 18"x18") and 10-15% for smaller tiles (12"x24" or less), with additional waste needed for intricate patterns.

Marble Tile in Showers: A Cautionary Tale

How to Deal with Non-Linear Expansion Joints

At Tile America, we know a successful tile installation starts with proper thin-set application. A common misconception is that thin-set mortar can bond to only one surface—it must adhere to both the substrate and the tile for a lasting hold.