Ceramic Tile Installation in Claremore, OK

Both are made from clay, but porcelain is fired at higher temperatures, making it denser, harder, and more water-resistant. Porcelain absorbs less than 0.5% water versus up to 3% for standard ceramic. Porcelain costs more but performs better in wet areas and high-traffic zones. For wall applications and moderate-traffic floors, standard ceramic works well and saves money.

Quality ceramic tile properly installed can last 50-100 years. The tile itself rarely fails—most issues involve grout deterioration or subfloor problems. Regular grout maintenance and resealing (for cement grout) extends lifespan. We ensure proper installation techniques that maximize your tile floor's longevity.

Slip resistance depends on the tile's surface texture and finish. Glossy tiles can be slippery when wet—we don't recommend them for bathrooms or entryways. Textured, matte, or slip-rated tiles provide traction even when wet. We help you select appropriately rated tiles for each area, especially important for bathroom floors and outdoor applications.

Sometimes. Tile can go over existing vinyl or tile if the subfloor is sound and height transitions are acceptable. We don't recommend tiling over wood floors due to movement concerns. Proper installation usually requires removing old flooring to address subfloor condition. We assess your specific situation and recommend the best approach.

Matching grout to tile color creates seamless, expansive looks. Contrasting grout highlights tile patterns and individual tiles—popular with subway tile. Darker grout hides stains better than white. For floors, medium tones between tile colors offer both aesthetics and practicality. We provide grout samples so you can see options with your chosen tile.

A typical bathroom floor takes 1-2 days; a kitchen 2-3 days. Time depends on subfloor prep needed, tile size and pattern complexity, and curing time between steps. Allow 24 hours after grouting before light foot traffic and 72 hours before heavy use. We provide accurate timelines for your specific project.

Ceramic tile can crack from impacts, heavy dropped objects, or subfloor movement—not from normal use. Proper installation with appropriate underlayment prevents most cracking. Uncoupling membranes help in areas with subfloor concerns. If individual tiles crack, they can usually be replaced without disturbing surrounding tiles.

Excellent. Ceramic tile resists water, heat, stains, and dropped items better than most alternatives. It's easy to clean from food spills and doesn't harbor bacteria. Choose PEI 4-rated tiles for kitchen floors due to high traffic. Many homeowners extend kitchen tile into adjacent living areas for seamless flow.