Do you have to visit my home to do an estimate, or can you price it without seeing the job?

I first ask that you email pictures of the job to Ryan@backsplashdecor.ca.   I will provide a ballpark quote and timeline for the project.  If the price and timeframe work out then I would come out to measure and provide a firm quote. 

 

Do I supply all the materials?

The only thing you will be required to supply is the tile.  I provide all the setting material, grout and tile edge required.

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Do you protect floors and countertops during the process?

Yes.  I protect the floors using carpet runners.  The countertop is protected with a heavy paper during the setting process and plastic during the grouting process.

 

How much tile do I need to buy?

The estimate you will recieve will state the required amount of tile needed for the job.  if you would like to figure it out on your own, I have instructions on how to do so here.

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How long does it take to install a backsplash?

Most backsplashes take 1.5 days to install. The first day the tile gets installed and is left to dry overnight.  I return the following day to grout and silicone.  Some companies do everything the same day but setting materials have to dry properly and I never want to rush the installation, which could potentially sacrifice the quality of the job. 

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Does the grout need to be sealed?

The grout I use is a premium quality product that does not require sealing.  I do recommend cleaning spills up as they happen such as tomato sauce on white grout.

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What do I do about the electrical outlets?

I take care of all the electrical devices.  I will install a plastic box extension and the devices will sit against the new tile

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Do I need to remove the range hood before the backsplash gets installed?

If you have a chimney style hood fan and want tile all the way up to the ceiling it will need to be removed.  It is a lot easier to remove and tile behind it as opposed to try and cut tile around it.  Removing and reinstalling the fan is a service I provide.  If it is a typical range hood with a cabinet above most of the time tile gets installed up to the bottom of the fan.

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Are some tiles easier to work with than others?

Of course.  Each kind of tile presents its own unique challenges. For example, glass tile requires a special blade and cuts the slowest.  Ceramic tile absorbs moisture from grout causing it dry extremely fast, this is especially important to remember when dealing with contrasting colours (I have seen many bad jobs with white subway tile and black grout).  

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Should I tile behind the stove?

You can.  But I don't find it necessary.  I install tile 3"- 4" below the countertop to give the appearance that it is tiled (especially important with flat top stoves). However, if you want tile all the way down to the floor I can certainly do that.

 

Can you recommend places to buy tile / countertops?

Absolutely!  please see my resources page for that information. 

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I removed my old backsplash and there is damage to the wall. Do I need to repair it?

It really depends on how bad the damage is and what kind of tile is to be installed. Generally, larger tiles can be installed over minor damage much easier than smaller tile can.  A site visit would determine how to proceed.

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Can you remove the old backsplash?

Yes.  I remove backsplash on a regular basis.  It is not an easy task, some tiles come off easily with a mallet and prying tools and sometimes the drywall comes off with the tiles.  In most cases it is far easier to remove the drywall and tiles as one separate unit and then replace the drywall.

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How do I choose the grout colour?

I have grout selection charts to leave with customers after the tile has been installed.  I find it's easier to pick a colour once the tiles have been installed in the actual space rather than a showroom floor with different lighting.  I usually make recommendations to help with the decision making process. 

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Can I use my kitchen right away?

Yes, but not fully.  After the grout is done a bead of silicone is applied between the tile and countertop.  The silicone takes 24 hours to fully cure so you just have to be careful not to disturb it.

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Where do you cut the tile?

Each house is different and it also depends on the weather.  I use a specially made enclosure for my wet saw that gives me the ability to cut anywhere (even in the kitchen itself).  

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I read that glass is hard to install.  Can you install glass?

Unfortunately, I no longer install glass tile except glass mosaics.  

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How long of a wait time do you have?

Generally I have jobs booked 2-4 weeks in advance

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What do I have to do to prepare for the installation?

The countertops should be cleared off and the sink free from dishes.  The tiles should be room temperature so please bring them inside the night before.  

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