The Moxie Process (Tile)

I prefer the Schluter products for wet areas like shower enclosures, as the Schluter system is tried, tested, and has a lifetime warranty. The cost of Schluter is WAY cheaper than the price of a secret leak, and not too much more expensive than other systems.

Installing the shower pan, drain, and Kerdi board is the first step. Then we seal all joints and fastener points. Kerdi/Schluter can include shower pans, drain flanges, niches, and shelves, depending on what you'd like. 

Schluter also offers "Ditra" which is membraine that is mortared to the floor under floor tile and "un-couples" the tile so that it will not crack anywhere. This is what I use under all floor tile.

All you need to know is that when I'm done, water will stay where you want it and won't get into places where it shouldn't. And that everything you see will be bright orange.

I prefer to plan my layout based on your preferences. This can range from simple to complicated to deranged depending on the space, tile, and pattern. Layout is critical to create a beautiful finished product. It influences drainage, tile chipping or odd cuts, and wear and tear, so it's pretty important. 

Layout is performed without mortar, so nothing is sticking the tiles down. Sometimes I only need to do a small portion of the whole space, but often I will lay out the whole area to make setting go quicker and make sure it make sense for the space. I make difficult cuts ahead of time and focus on getting a perfect layout before I mix any mortar.

This us usally day three or four of the project depending on size of the space and prep needed. All Schluter or Kerdi or Ditra must be dry before tile setting can occur. 

I have an assortment of trowels that are used to ensure 'stick' to any type of tile and provide enough support, but minimize squeeze-out and cleanup time. Having performed a layout ahead of time, this step tends to go quicker, although it can be hard work.

Tile levelers are deployed to make sure that tiles are level with respect to each other. Think level floor or smooth wall rather than uneven, crooked, and wonky at grout joints. 

I will clean as I go, and this will set overnight.

Grouting is when it all comes together. Grout is the sandy, colored stuff between the tiles and it finishes the tile beautifully. Grout days are fun: they start messy and end finished. The Laticrete or MaPei grout I use comes in a variety of colors and is already sealed, which is a time and money-saving bonus.

After applying the grout, I wipe off the excess and allow it to cure. I will return within a day for a final wipe down of the tile (this removes the haze on the tile after the grout cures) and then will clean the area and be out of your hair.

You can use your newly tiled space 24 hours later!