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Porcelain Tile

A high-density ceramic tile fired at very high temperature. Suitable for floors, walls, and outdoor applications.

Porcelain tile is a denser, harder-fired version of ceramic tile. It absorbs less than 0.5% water (vs. 3-7% for standard ceramic), making it suitable for outdoor and freeze-thaw environments. Most modern floor tile is porcelain.

Sizing has shifted toward large-format (24x48", 30x30", and beyond) which requires a flat subfloor and Schluter or similar uncoupling membranes to handle minor deflection. Smaller mosaic tile is more forgiving.

Pricing runs $3-$8/sqft material and $4-$8/sqft labor. Tile install labor is the highest in the trade because of the prep, layout, and curing time.

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Self-Leveling Compound (SLC)

A pourable cement-based compound used to level out an uneven subfloor before finish flooring installation.

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Subfloor

The structural floor surface — plywood, OSB, or concrete slab — that supports the underlayment and finish flooring.

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Transition Strip

A trim piece that bridges two different flooring surfaces or covers an expansion gap between rooms.

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Tile Contractor Software

Tile contractor software for measuring, quoting, scheduling, and invoicing. Track tile, grout, mortar, demo, and waterproofing in one toolset.

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Demolition (Demo)

Removal and disposal of existing flooring before new install can begin.

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Schluter (Uncoupling Membrane)

A polyethylene mat installed beneath tile to absorb subfloor movement and prevent cracked tile/grout.

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Vapor Barrier

A moisture-impermeable membrane installed between a damp subfloor (usually concrete slab) and the finish flooring.

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Grout

Cement-based filler installed between tile joints. Sanded (wider joints) or unsanded (narrow joints).

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