Frequently Asked Questions

Schluter-KERDI is a polyethylene waterproofing membrane bonded directly to the wall substrate behind shower tile. Unlike traditional mud-bed showers, KERDI creates a continuous, impermeable barrier that completely prevents water from reaching the structural framing — eliminating the primary cause of shower failure, mold growth, and grout cracking over time.

The DITRA uncoupling membrane serves a similar role beneath tile floors, neutralizing the tension between the tile and the substrate that would otherwise cause cracking. We install these systems to the manufacturer's exact specifications, which means your installation qualifies for Schluter's manufacturer warranty.

Project duration varies by scope. A custom shower installation typically takes 3–5 working days from tile-setting through grouting and sealing, with curing time factored in. A full master bathroom (floor, walls, and shower) may take 1–2 weeks. A large-format tile floor for an open-plan living area is often 2–4 days.

We provide a precise timeline in your written proposal before any work begins, and we maintain that schedule. If unexpected conditions arise (hidden moisture damage, out-of-level substrate), we communicate immediately.

Large format tile is one of our core specialties. We work with tile from 24"×24" up to full slab formats (48"×96" and larger). These formats require specialized techniques that most contractors don't have: laser leveling, thorough back-buttering, mechanical leveling clip systems to control lippage, and careful substrate deflection assessment before a single tile is set.

We have the tools and trained eye to achieve near-seamless installations with grout joints as tight as 1/16" — producing the clean, continuous surface that makes large format tile so compelling.

We install luxury vinyl plank (LVP) in both floating and full-spread glue-down formats, engineered hardwood, and solid hardwood flooring. Each format has specific substrate requirements, especially in Florida's climate, where moisture is a constant concern. We conduct moisture testing before every flooring installation and apply the appropriate vapor barriers and underlayment.

We also excel at transitions — tile-to-LVP, tile-to-hardwood, and multi-material open-plan homes where consistent floor height and elegant transitions matter.

We're flexible. Many clients prefer to select their own tile at a showroom or tile distributor — we're happy to advise on specifications (thickness, rectified vs. non-rectified, slip resistance ratings) before you purchase. Alternatively, we can source materials through our trade accounts and manage the ordering process for you.

All Schluter waterproofing materials (KERDI, DITRA, trim profiles, drains) are supplied by us as part of the project to ensure compatibility and warranty validity.

Yes. We provide a workmanship warranty on every project — specific terms are included in your written proposal. Shower installations using Schluter systems also carry Schluter's manufacturer warranty on the waterproofing membrane, which is one of the most comprehensive warranties available in the tile industry.

We stand behind our work long after we've left your home. If any issue arises from our installation, we return and address it — no runaround.

Reach us by phone at (689) 346-0800 or through the contact form. We'll schedule a free on-site visit to assess the space, take measurements, and discuss your design goals and material preferences.

Following the visit, you'll receive a written, itemized proposal with a complete scope of work, material specifications, project timeline, and total investment. We do not provide estimates without seeing the project in person — this protects both parties from surprises during the job.

We primarily serve Sarasota, Siesta Key, Lakewood Ranch, and Bradenton. We also work in surrounding communities throughout Sarasota and Manatee counties. Contact us if you're unsure whether your location is within our service area — we're happy to discuss on a project-by-project basis.

Tile matching is challenging — dye lots change between manufacturing runs, and discontinued tile can be difficult to source. We're honest about this upfront. If you have spare tiles from your original installation, bring them. We can also help evaluate your options, including sourcing from specialty distributors or redesigning the affected area to incorporate a complementary accent rather than an imperfect match.

Rectified tile is precision-cut after firing to exact dimensions, allowing for very tight grout joints — as small as 1/16". Non-rectified tile has slight size variations from the firing process and requires wider grout joints to accommodate them. For large format and contemporary installations, rectified tile is the standard. We advise on the appropriate type for each application before you purchase material.

Cement board is water-resistant, not waterproof. Over time, moisture will penetrate, causing structural damage, mold growth behind the tile, and grout failure. Schluter-KERDI creates a true, continuous waterproof barrier at the surface — the correct standard for any wet area. For every shower we build, we use Schluter systems exclusively. There is no cheaper shortcut we recommend.

Custom shower tile installation in Sarasota typically ranges from $4,500 to $12,000+ depending on shower size, tile selection, and complexity of design. This includes Schluter-KERDI waterproofing, substrate preparation, tile setting, grouting, and sealing. We provide fully itemized written proposals so you know exactly what you're paying for — no hidden charges at completion.

In most cases, we recommend against tiling over existing shower tile. The added weight and height, plus the inability to inspect the waterproofing layer beneath, creates significant risk. If the original waterproofing failed, you'll tile over the problem without solving it. We typically demolish to the substrate, inspect for moisture damage, apply Schluter KERDI waterproofing, and tile fresh — ensuring a result that lasts.

The combination we see performing best in Sarasota luxury homes: large format porcelain tile in main living areas, kitchens, and baths (durable, cool, maintenance-free), with engineered hardwood or premium LVP in bedrooms (warm, quiet, comfortable). This handles Florida's humidity, pool and beach traffic, and the barefoot Gulf Coast lifestyle. The specific best answer depends on your home — we give recommendations after seeing the space.

Sometimes, but it depends on the existing floor's condition, height, and stability. We assess the situation before recommending overlay vs. full removal. If the existing floor has moisture damage, height conflicts at doorways or with existing tile, or subfloor instability — we remove it first. Proper assessment prevents future failures that would require re-doing the installation at far greater cost.

LVP installation for a typical room (200–400 sq ft) takes 1–2 days including subfloor prep. Whole-home LVP projects covering 1,500–3,000 sq ft typically take 3–5 days. We factor in subfloor leveling and moisture testing time in every estimate — so your schedule is accurate from the start, not revised mid-project.

Floating (click-lock) LVP locks together and sits on an underlayment without adhesive — easier to install and replace individual planks. Full-spread glue-down LVP is bonded directly to the substrate with adhesive, creating a more stable, quieter floor that is ideal for high-traffic areas and large open spaces. We recommend the right method based on your subfloor type, use case, and the specific LVP product you're installing.

Tile installation in Sarasota typically ranges from $12–$22/sq ft installed for standard ceramic and porcelain, and $18–$35/sq ft for large format tile requiring specialized leveling and substrate work. Custom shower systems run $4,500–$12,000+ depending on size and tile selection. Subfloor prep, demo of existing flooring, and pattern work are itemized separately. Every proposal is written and fully detailed before work starts.

Yes, always. Subfloor preparation — self-leveling compound, grinding high spots, patching damaged areas — is assessed and included in every written proposal. We never install tile or flooring over an unprepared substrate and hope for the best. Every performance issue we've seen in others' work traces directly back to inadequate substrate preparation at the start of the project.

Yes. We regularly work alongside interior designers, general contractors, and custom home builders throughout the Sarasota area. We can coordinate directly with your design team on material specifications, floor height planning across material transitions, and installation scheduling that fits within your project timeline. Our written proposals and detailed scope of work make it straightforward to integrate us into a larger construction or renovation.