Grout, a common tile installation material, dries with a lighter shade than when initially applied. This occurs as the water content evaporates, reducing its opacity. The drying process involves hydration, where water molecules bond with cement particles in the grout, forming a hardened matrix. Grout’s composition and thickness influence its drying time and final color.
The Tile Installation Ecosystem: A Tale of Tiles, Tools, and Expertise
In the realm of home improvement, tile installation stands as a symphony of artistry and precision. And like any symphony, it requires a harmonious interplay of talented musicians, each playing their part to create a masterpiece. In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to the key entities that make up the tile installation ecosystem, from the maestros themselves to the essential materials that bring their vision to life.
Tile Installers: The Master Craftsmen
These skilled professionals are more than mere tile-placers; they’re wizards who transform ceramic canvases into functional works of art. Their expertise encompasses not only the meticulous placement of tiles but also the artistry of creating patterns, textures, and transitions that elevate any space.
Industry Associations: Setting the Standards
The Tile Council of North America and the National Tile Contractors Association stand as beacons of excellence in the industry. They’re the guardians of industry standards and guidelines, ensuring that every tile installation meets the highest quality expectations.
Materials: The Building Blocks of Beauty
No symphony would be complete without its instruments. In the case of tile installation, these instruments come in the form of materials like grout, tile, grout floats, grout sponges, and trowels. Grout, the unsung hero, binds tiles together while providing a canvas for creativity and customization. Tile, the star of the show, comes in a dazzling array of materials, colors, and textures to suit every design vision.
And let’s not forget the unsung heroes: grout floats, the precision tools that ensure a smooth, even spread of grout; grout sponges, the gentle hands that shape and clean grout lines; and trowels, the versatile tools that apply both adhesive and grout with surgical precision.
Discuss the role and responsibilities of tile installers.
The Unsung Heroes of Home Improvement: Meet the Tile Installers
Tile installation, like any other home improvement project, is a delicate dance that requires a skilled hand and a keen eye for detail. And while the spotlight often shines on the finished product, let’s not forget the unsung heroes behind the scenes: the tile installers.
These skilled craftsmen and women are the ones who meticulously transform our walls and floors into works of art. They possess a deep understanding of tile types, adhesives, and techniques, ensuring that every tile is perfectly placed and firmly secured.
But their responsibilities extend far beyond the physical installation. They also serve as patient guides, advising homeowners on tile selection, layout, and maintenance. They’re the ones who answer our endless questions, offer their expert opinions, and help us avoid costly mistakes.
In a nutshell, tile installers are the unsung heroes of home improvement. They’re the ones who take our tile dreams and turn them into stunning reality. So next time you marvel at a beautifully tiled bathroom or kitchen, take a moment to appreciate the skilled hands that made it all possible.
Tile Installers: The Wizards Behind Your Stunning Tiled Creations
When it comes to tile installation, it’s not just about the tiles. Enter the unsung heroes of the tile world: tile installers. These wizards wield their trowels and floats like magic wands, transforming dull floors and walls into breathtaking works of art.
But hold your horses, not just anyone can call themselves a tile installer. These pros pack serious skills, experience, and certification that would make MacGyver proud. They’ve mastered the art of precision cutting, meticulous grouting, and leveling tiles to create seamless and durable surfaces.
So, how do you spot a true tile installer? Look for the NTCA (National Tile Contractors Association) certification. This prestigious badge signifies that they’ve passed rigorous exams, proving their knowledge of industry standards and best practices. Plus, they stay up-to-date on the latest techniques and trends to ensure your tile project is a masterpiece for the ages.
Understanding the Tile Installation Ecosystem: A Who’s Who Guide
Hey there, tile enthusiasts! 👋 Let’s dive into the wonderful world of tile installation and meet the key players who make your dream floors and walls a reality. 🧱✨
The Tile Council of North America (TCNA) 👑
Think of the TCNA as the wise owls of the tile industry. They’re the guys who set the golden standards and make sure everyone’s on the same page when it comes to tile installation best practices. Their mission? To spread the gospel of tile knowledge and ensure every installation is a masterpiece. 🎓
Why They Rock:
- They’ve got the scoop on all things tile, from adhesives to grout and everything in between.
- Their guidelines are the industry bible, so you know your tiles are in good hands.
- They’re constantly researching and developing new ways to make tile even more awesome.
Discuss the industry standards and guidelines set by the TCNA.
3. Tile Council of North America (TCNA)
The Tile Council of North America (TCNA) is like the Jedi Council of the tile industry, guarding the secrets of perfect tile installations. Their mission is to make sure that tiles stay where they’re supposed to, without causing any moisture-related drama.
Think of the TCNA as the guardians of tile knowledge. They set the industry standards, the holy grail for tile installers. These standards are like the blueprints for a tile masterpiece, covering everything from choosing the right materials to applying the adhesive with Jedi-like precision. They even have an army of inspectors who make sure that every tile installation follows the rules.
Industry Standards and Guidelines
The TCNA’s standards are like the Ten Commandments for tile installers. They cover everything from the basics of tile selection to the advanced techniques of grout application. Here are a few highlights:
- Tile Selection: The TCNA helps you choose the right tile for your needs, whether it’s for a wet or dry area, interior or exterior, and heavy traffic or light use. They’ve got your back!
- Installation Methods: They’ve got step-by-step instructions for every type of tile installation, from thin-set to mastic adhesives. No more guesswork!
- Grout Application: The TCNA’s guidelines ensure that your grout is applied smoothly, with no voids or cracks. It’s like they have a secret handshake for perfect grout lines.
By following the TCNA’s standards, tile installers can create beautiful and durable tile installations that will last for years to come. It’s like having a superhero on your side, making sure your tiles are the envy of the neighborhood!
Describe the NTCA’s purpose and membership base.
Who’s the Boss of Tile Contractors? Meet the NTCA
Picture this: a world where every tile contractor is an absolute superstar, laying down stunning floors that make our homes the envy of the block. Who’s behind this tile-tastic utopia? None other than the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA), the undisputed champs of the tile contracting game.
Like the Avengers assembling, the NTCA brings together the best and brightest tile professionals from across the country. Their mission? To make sure every contractor has the skills, knowledge, and confidence to create tile masterpieces that’ll leave us floored for years to come.
The NTCA isn’t just a bunch of tile-obsessed nerds (though, they’re definitely that too). They’re also a valuable resource for homeowners like you and me, offering everything from contractor recommendations to DIY tips. It’s like having a superpower at your fingertips, only instead of shooting lasers, you get access to the secrets of the tile world.
So, whether you’re a seasoned tile contractor or you’re just starting out in the fascinating world of grout and trowels, the NTCA has got your back. They’re the Yoda of tile installation, providing guidance, support, and a whole lot of tile-spiration.
The Magical World of Tile Installation: A Behind-the-Scenes Look
In the vibrant and ever-evolving world of tile installation, a cast of talented characters and essential resources come together to create the mesmerizing masterpieces that grace our homes and commercial spaces. Let’s pull back the curtain and meet the key players who make tile installation a symphony of skill and aesthetics.
National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA): The Tile Titans
Imagine a secret society of tile wizards, united by a common passion for transforming bare walls and floors into works of art. Meet the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA), the guiding star for tile professionals across the nation. Their ranks encompass the most skilled and experienced tile contractors, who have dedicated their lives to mastering the art of tile installation.
Benefits for the Tile-Curious
Joining the NTCA is like unlocking a treasure chest of tile knowledge and support. Members have access to exclusive resources that would make any tile enthusiast’s heart skip a beat:
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Technical Training and Certification: Say goodbye to DIY disasters! The NTCA offers top-notch training programs to hone your tile-setting skills. You’ll become a certified tile master, armed with the know-how to create flawless installations that withstand the test of time.
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Industry Standards and Best Practices: No more guesswork! The NTCA sets the gold standard for tile installation practices. As a member, you’ll have access to the latest industry techniques and guidelines, ensuring your projects meet the highest quality benchmarks.
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Networking and Collaboration: Connect with fellow tile enthusiasts and industry experts at NTCA events and online forums. Share ideas, swap war stories, and build a network that will take your tiling game to the next level.
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Advocacy and Representation: The NTCA is your voice in the world of tile. They actively engage with government agencies and industry leaders to protect the interests of tile contractors and ensure that the tile industry continues to thrive.
Meet Grout: The Unsung Hero of Your Tiled Abode
Grout, that humble yet indispensable player in the tile installation world, deserves a moment under the spotlight. Picture this: you’ve meticulously laid each tile in your bathroom, creating a stunning mosaic. But what would this masterpiece be without grout? It’s like the mortar that binds the bricks of your tile fortress, sealing it against water’s wiles and adding the finishing touch that makes it both beautiful and functional.
Grout’s composition is a fascinating blend of Portland cement, sand, and sometimes other additives. It’s this combination that gives it the strength to hold your tiles together and the flexibility to withstand the occasional shift. And just like your friends, grout comes in different personalities, or rather, colors. From classic white to bold hues and shimmering metallics, grout has the power to complement any tile design.
Its purpose is simple yet profound: to create a watertight seal that protects your tiles and the underlying substrate from moisture damage. Think of it as the guardian of your bathroom’s integrity, preventing water from seeping into cracks and crevices where it can wreak havoc. Plus, grout adds a touch of artistry to your tiled spaces, filling the gaps between tiles with a seamless, polished look. So next time you admire your tiled masterpiece, don’t forget to give a little nod to the unsung hero, grout.
Grout: The Unsung Hero of Your Tile Masterpiece
Grout, my friends, is the unsung hero of every tile installation. It’s the glue that holds your precious tiles together, the artist that brings life to your tiled spaces. But hold your horses, there’s more to grout than meets the eye!
There’s a whole world of grout out there, each with its own personality and purpose. Just like choosing a new pair of shoes, selecting the right grout can make all the difference.
Portland Cement Grout: The Old Faithful of the Grout World
Portland cement grout has been a trusty companion to tilers for ages. It’s strong, durable, and can withstand the toughest conditions. Think of it as the superhero of grouts, ready to repel moisture, stains, and even Superman’s laser beams.
Epoxy Grout: The Iron Fist of Grout
Epoxy grout is the heavyweight champion of grouts. It’s a two-part wonder that creates a rock-solid bond between tiles. Its superpowers include:
- Impervious to stains and chemicals: Kiss goodbye to those pesky coffee spills!
- Exceptional durability: Stands up to heavy foot traffic like a fearless warrior.
Urethane Grout: The Flexible Flyer of Grout
Urethane grout is the flexible flyer of the grout family. It’s engineered to handle movement in tiles, so it’s ideal for areas like showers, where water and temperature fluctuations can cause some serious flexing.
Other Grout Types: Beyond the Mainstream
Beyond these three main types, there’s a whole galaxy of specialty grouts out there. For instance, stain-resistant grout is a lifesaver in high-traffic areas, while antimicrobial grout keeps nasty bacteria at bay.
So, which grout should you choose? The answer lies in understanding your needs. Consider the location, foot traffic, and desired aesthetic. With a bit of research, you’ll find the perfect grout to make your tile installation shine brighter than a disco ball!
A Tile-rific Adventure: Meet the Entities Involved
Tile installation is a symphony of skilled professionals, associations, and materials. Let’s dive into the cast of characters that make your tiled spaces beautiful and functional.
Tile Installers: The Masters of Mosaic
Tile installers are the wizards who transform your tile dreams into reality. With meticulous precision and years of experience, they lay each tile with a surgeon’s finesse. Their skills include cutting, setting, and grouting tiles, ensuring a perfect finish every time. From humble home renovations to grand architectural projects, these craftsmen are the cornerstone of the tile industry.
Tile Council of North America (TCNA): The Tile Guardians
The TCNA is the pacesetter of the tile world. Their mission is to advance the industry through research, education, and setting industry standards. Think of them as the watchful guardians of tile quality, ensuring that every installation meets the highest standards.
National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA): The Community of Pros
The NTCA is a hub for tile contractors, providing a wealth of resources, training, and networking opportunities. Its members are the backbone of the industry, sharing best practices and staying ahead of the curve.
Grout: The Glue that Binds
Grout is the mortar that holds your tiles together, giving them strength and sealing out moisture. It comes in a variety of colors and textures, from classic white to shimmering metallics. Choose the perfect grout to complement your tiles and create a cohesive look.
Tiles: The Stars of the Show
From classic ceramic to elegant porcelain, the variety of tiles available is mind-boggling. Each type has its own unique characteristics, benefits, and installation considerations. Whether you’re looking for durability, aesthetics, or a touch of the exotic, there’s a tile out there for you.
Unveiling the Tile Installation Universe: Meet the Key Players
In the world of tile installation, it’s not just about slapping down tiles and calling it a day. There’s a whole ecosystem of entities that make this art form possible, each with its unique role to play. Let’s take a fun and informative journey to meet these stars.
1. The Tile Installers: The Masters of the Ceramic Craft
Tile installers are the superheroes of the tile world, transforming blank canvases into masterpieces. Skilled, experienced, and certified, they have the magic touch to make your tile dreams a reality. They turn those beautiful tiles into intricate mosaics, ensuring a flawless finish that will make your home the envy of the neighborhood.
2. Tile Council of North America (TCNA): The Wise Council of Tile
The TCNA is the guiding light of the tile industry, setting the gold standard for everything tile. They’re the gatekeepers of industry standards and guidelines, ensuring that your tile installations are not only beautiful but also safe and long-lasting. Think of them as the safety net for your tiled spaces.
3. National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA): The Powerhouse for Tile Pros
The NTCA is the go-to resource for tile contractors, providing benefits and support that help them stay on top of their game. They’re like the secret sauce that keeps tile installers sharp, up-to-date, and ready to tackle any tiling challenge that comes their way.
4. Grout: The Silent Hero of Tile Installations
Grout, the unsung hero, does more than just fill the gaps between tiles. It acts as the glue holding your tile masterpiece together, sealing it from moisture and keeping it looking fabulous for years to come. From sanded to unsanded, epoxy to cement-based, there’s a grout out there for every tiling adventure.
5. Tile: The Star of the Show
Tiles are the glamorous stars of any installation, gracing your floors and walls with elegance and durability. From ceramic to porcelain, natural stone to glass, there’s a tile that perfectly fits your style and needs. They’re like the customizable building blocks of your dream space.
Grout Float: Your Secret Weapon for Flawless Grouting
Let’s talk about the unsung hero of tile installation: the grout float. This humble tool is your secret weapon for achieving smooth, professional-looking grout lines.
Imagine this: You’ve meticulously laid out your tiles, and now it’s time to fill in the gaps with grout. But you don’t want to end up with messy, uneven lines that ruin the whole effect. That’s where the grout float comes in.
A grout float is a square or rectangular tool with a rubber edge. It’s like a little squeegee for your grout, allowing you to press it firmly into the joints and shape it to perfection. The rubber edge ensures that you don’t scratch the tile surface.
Using a grout float is a breeze. Simply dip it into a bucket of mixed grout and apply it across the tile joints. Press down evenly to force the grout into the gaps, and then use a diagonal motion to smooth and shape it. It’s like painting with grout!
Remember, the key to successful grouting is to work in small sections. Don’t try to do too much at once, or the grout will start to dry out and become difficult to work with. Clean your float regularly as well, to prevent debris from getting into the grout lines.
With the right technique and a little practice, you’ll master the art of grout floating like a pro. So go ahead, embrace the power of this magical tool and transform your tile installation into a masterpiece!
The Essential Guide to Tile Installation Entities
In the world of home improvement, there’s a hidden network of entities that make tile installation possible. From the skilled hands of tile installers to the industry-leading organizations that set standards, this guide will take you behind the scenes of this fascinating realm.
Tile Installers: The Masterminds
Tile installers are the maestros of the tile world. They possess a keen eye for detail, a steady hand, and a deep understanding of the materials they work with. These wizards transform raw materials into breathtaking mosaics, adding beauty and durability to your home.
Industry Associations: Guiding the Way
The Tile Council of North America (TCNA) and the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) are the beacons of the tile industry. Like wise sages, they establish guidelines and standards that ensure the highest quality installations. By working together with tile installers, they elevate the art of tile craftsmanship.
The Tools of the Trade
Grout: The Tile’s Secret Weapon
Grout is the unsung hero of tile installations. It’s the gooey stuff that fills the gaps between tiles, keeping them securely in place and preventing water damage. Different types of grout are available, each with its own strengths and applications.
Tile: The Canvas for Creativity
Tiles are the stars of the show, adding personality and style to your home. From classic ceramics to modern glass, the variety of tiles available is mind-boggling. Each type has unique characteristics, so it’s crucial to choose the right ones for your project.
Grout Float: The Magic Wand of Grouting
The grout float is the magic wand that transforms grout from a sticky mess into a smooth, professional-looking finish. It’s a simple tool, but it takes some finesse to master its usage. Follow our tips to wield this grout-smoothing wizard like a pro.
- Hold the float at a 45-degree angle to the tile.
- Apply just enough pressure to smooth the grout without digging into the tiles.
- Work in small sections, starting from the center and moving outwards.
- If the grout starts to dry out, add a little water to the float.
Grout Sponge: The Tile’s Best Friend
The grout sponge is the tile’s best friend, gently cleaning and shaping the grout lines. It’s like a fluffy cloud that brings life to your tiles. Use it to remove excess grout, create clean edges, and reveal the tile’s true beauty.
Meet the Grout Sponge: Your Secret Weapon for Perfect Grout Lines
Now, let’s talk about the unsung hero of the tile installation world: the grout sponge. This little gem may seem humble, but it’s as crucial to a flawless tile job as a surgeon’s scalpel.
Remember that grout, the stuff that fills the spaces between tiles? Yeah, it can be a bit sticky and messy to work with. That’s where the grout sponge comes in. It’s your secret weapon for cleaning up grout lines and giving them that professional, polished look.
The grout sponge is usually made of a porous material, like natural sponge or foam. It’s designed to absorb excess grout and smooth out the lines between tiles. Picture it like a tiny paintbrush, but for grout.
How to Use a Grout Sponge Like a Pro
- Prep Time: Before you start sponging, make sure the grout has set for a bit but is still pliable. A good rule of thumb is to wait about 15-20 minutes after applying the grout.
- Dampen Your Sponge: Before you go to town on the grout, dampen your sponge with clean water. This will help it absorb the excess grout without soaking up too much of the adhesive.
- Gently Glide: Hold the sponge at a 45-degree angle to the grout line and gently slide it along. Don’t press too hard, or you’ll risk damaging the grout.
- Shape and Define: As you sponge, pay attention to the shape of the grout lines. You can use the corner of the sponge to create precise angles or the flat side for a more rounded look.
- Clean and Repeat: Rinse your sponge frequently in clean water to remove excess grout. Repeat steps 3-4 until you’re satisfied with the appearance of the grout lines.
Grout Sponge Tips for Success
- Use a specific grout sponge designed for tile installation. It’s usually made of a material that’s gentle on grout.
- Experiment with different angles and pressures to achieve the desired grout line shape.
- Don’t rush the process! Take your time and allow the grout to set properly before sponging.
- If the grout starts to dry too quickly, re-dampen your sponge to keep it from sticking.
- Have multiple sponges on hand. This will save you time and ensure you have a clean sponge ready when needed.
Tile Installation Entities: A Comprehensive Guide
Like a well-orchestrated symphony, tile installation involves a harmony of entities, each playing a crucial role. This guide will introduce you to the maestros, instruments, and materials involved in this transformative art form.
Tile Installers
These skilled craftsmen and women are the backbone of tile installation. Their artistry transforms raw tiles into captivating surfaces that elevate any space. Their expertise encompasses laying tiles with precision, ensuring proper adhesion, and grout application that leaves no trace of imperfections.
Tile Council of North America (TCNA)
Think of the TCNA as the conductor of the tile industry. This esteemed organization sets the standards, guidelines, and best practices that ensure the highest quality installations. Their meticulous research and unwavering commitment to excellence guide the industry towards innovation.
National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA)
The NTCA is the symphony’s orchestra, connecting tile contractors across the nation. This vibrant organization provides its members with a wealth of resources, educational opportunities, and industry-leading networking events.
Grout: The Invisible Force
Grout, the unsung hero of tile installations, fills the gaps between tiles, creating a seamless and durable surface. Its composition, which includes cement, sand, and water, provides both strength and flexibility.
Tile: The Canvas
A symphony of colors, textures, and materials, tiles are the medium through which the installer’s vision takes shape. From classic ceramic to elegant stone, each tile type offers unique characteristics and installation considerations.
Grout Float: The Orchestrator
The grout float is the maestro’s baton, guiding the grout into place and shaping it to perfection. Its rubber or sponge surface ensures even distribution and a smooth, professional finish.
Grout Sponge: The Eraser
Like a gentle eraser, the grout sponge removes excess grout, leaving behind pristine lines. Its absorbent nature and ability to mold to grout shapes make it an indispensable tool.
Trowel: The Versatile Instrument
The trowel, both notched and smooth, is the installer’s trusted companion. With its serrated edge, it applies adhesive smoothly, ensuring a strong bond between tile and substrate. When the symphony reaches its finale, the smooth trowel spreads grout with finesse, leaving your space humming with beauty.
By understanding the entities involved in tile installation, you can appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into every surface. From the skilled installers to the industry-leading organizations, each entity plays a harmonious role in creating the perfect symphony of tiles.
The Trowel: The All-Star Tool of Tile Installation
Picture this: you’re a tile installer, standing before a blank canvas of a wall, armed with your trusty trowel. This unassuming tool may seem like a simple spatula, but it’s the secret weapon that transforms ordinary tiles into a stunning masterpiece.
Trowels come in various sizes and styles, each tailored to different tile installation tasks. For large-format tiles, you’ll need a larger trowel with a wider notch size, ensuring proper adhesive coverage beneath each tile. For smaller tiles, a narrower notch trowel will do the trick, providing just the right amount of grip without overapplying adhesive.
But the key to troweling success lies in the technique. You’ll want to hold the trowel at a 45-degree angle and apply even pressure as you spread the adhesive. Think of it like a graceful dance, where the trowel glides over the surface, leaving behind a smooth, uniform layer of adhesive.
Remember, the trowel doesn’t just apply adhesive; it also plays a crucial role in spreading grout. Before applying grout, you’ll use the flat side of the trowel to force it into the spaces between the tiles. It’s like a mini bulldozer, compacting the grout and ensuring a solid seal.
So, the next time you pick up a trowel, give it a little respect. It may not be the flashiest tool in your arsenal, but it’s the unsung hero that makes your tile installations look flawless.
The Who, What, and How of Tile Installation
When it comes to tiling, there’s a whole cast of characters and materials involved. From the tile installers who work their magic to the trusty tools that make it all happen, let’s dive into the world of tile installation entities.
Tile Installers: The Masters of Tile Magic
These skilled craftsmen and women are the backbone of any tile project. With their steady hands and keen eyes, they transform bare floors and walls into stunning tiled masterpieces. Their expertise extends from meticulous tile placement to ensuring proper sealant application, leaving you with a bathroom or kitchen that looks like a million bucks.
Grout: The Secret Sauce That Holds It All Together
Grout, that unsung hero of tile installations, is the mortar that bridges the gaps between tiles and fills them with its strength and beauty. From traditional cement-based grout to high-tech epoxy grout, there’s a type of grout for every project and personality.
Tile: The Star of the Show
Tiles come in all shapes, sizes, and materials, so you can find the perfect ones to match your style and durability needs. Whether you’re after classic ceramic tiles, sleek porcelain tiles, or earthy stone tiles, there’s a tile out there that will make your space shine.
Grout Float: The Unsung Hero of Grouting
This handy tool is the unsung hero of grouting, allowing you to apply grout evenly and smoothly. Picture a rubber- or foam-covered board with a handle. It’s your grout-spreading sidekick, ensuring those grout lines look sharp and professional.
Grout Sponge: The Cleanup Crew
After applying grout, it’s time for cleanup with the grout sponge. This absorbent little wonder helps you remove excess grout and shape the grout lines to perfection. Just dampen it slightly and gently wipe away the excess, leaving behind a spotless finish.
Trowel: The Adhesive and Grout Applicator
The trowel, a trusty tool in a tiler’s toolbox, comes in different sizes and shapes. It’s used to apply adhesive to the back of tiles and to spread grout evenly over the newly laid tiles. Think of it as the paintbrush of tile installation, making sure that everything sticks where it should.