Choosing Tile & Stone Subcontractors

Think About:

• Do they specialize in high-end custom tile, niches, and complex patterns?

• Familiar with:

  • Large-format tile installation (warpage control)

  • Heated floor systems

  • Curbless showers + linear drains

• Who handles waterproofing — integrated scope?

• Do they include grout sealing or is that post-install?

Subs to Select:

• Tile installer (primary)

• Waterproofing installer (if separate)

• Heated floor installer

• Slab setter for stone pieces

• Caulking + sealant installer (inside corners, transitions)

Choose installers who master flatness, slope, and waterproofing — the BIG 3.

Choosing Tile & Stone Materials

Think About:

• Tile size vs layout → cutting + lippage concerns

• Slip resistance → bathrooms + entries = safety first

• Grout type impacts maintenance + longevity

• Waterproof substrate requirements behind tile

• Exterior freeze-thaw rating if applicable

Materials to Select (as applicable):

Tile Types:

• Porcelain

• Ceramic

• Glass tile

• Natural stone (marble, slate, limestone)

• Mosaic sheets

• Specialty hand-made tile

Setting Systems:

• Thinset mortar (modified or unmodified per system)

• Large-format leveling clips

• Tile backer board or foam board

• Waterproof membrane (Schlüter/Kerdi, RedGard, etc.)

Drain & Shower Components:

• Shower pans (pre-fabricated or mortar bed)

• Linear drains vs round drains

• Niches + waterproofing kits

• Bench forms + slope requirements

Grout & Sealants:

• Sanded vs unsanded grout

• Epoxy grout (special applications)

• Caulking at transitions (100% silicone)

• Sealers for natural stone

Transitions & Trims:

• Schluter or tile edge trims

• Thresholds + sill details

Durability and maintenance tie directly to the system behind the tile.

Choosing Tools, Equipment & Rentals

Think About:

• Flat floors first — grinding or leveling required?

• Dust containment around finished surfaces

Tools & Equipment to Select:
Prep:

• Moisture meter for substrate checks

• Concrete grinder / floor leveling system

Installation:

• Tile saw / wet saw

• Spacers + lippage control clips

• Trowels (various notch sizes)

• Laser level + layout tools

• Mixing station for thinset

Protection:

• Surface protection mats

• Kneeling boards

Correct layout + prep = perfect tile lines.

Choosing Vendors & Supply Sources

Think About:

• Batch matching for tile — always same dye lot

• Lead time for specialty stone or patterned tile

• Availability of trims + accessories from same manufacturer

Vendor Types:

• Tile showrooms

• Stone slab suppliers (bath walls, fireplace)

• Underlayment + waterproofing suppliers

• Heated flooring supplier

• Grout + sealer manufacturer

Vendor support should include technical data sheets.

Thank you for completing this Session!

Home Building Master Class | The Contractor Checklist

Video Explanation

www.thecontractorchecklist.com