Install Tile That Stays in Place

Tile installation services in Pollok and Lufkin, Texas for kitchens, bathrooms, showers, and backsplashes that need clean lines and long-term durability.

When grout lines darken and do not come clean, tiles crack or come loose around the shower, or the floor feels uneven under your feet, the tile installation is failing. Tile work in Pollok or Lufkin homes takes constant exposure to moisture, temperature changes, and foot traffic, and over time poor installation or inadequate waterproofing shows up as loose tiles, cracked grout, or water stains on the ceiling below. Duff Remodeling and Construction handles tile installation in Pollok and surrounding areas by preparing surfaces correctly, using moisture-resistant backing materials, and laying tile with precise alignment so the finished surface looks clean and holds up for years.

Tile installation is often part of a bathroom or kitchen remodel, but it can also be done as a standalone project if the surrounding fixtures and cabinetry are still in good condition. The work involves removing old tile, checking the substrate for water damage, and installing new tile over a properly waterproofed surface. In Pollok and the surrounding area, humidity is a constant factor, so tile installation requires attention to moisture barriers and proper sealing to prevent long-term problems.

Call today to discuss your tile installation needs and schedule a consultation for your Pollok home.

Precise Layout for Clean, Lasting Results

Tile installation in Pollok, Lufkin, and surrounding areas begins by removing old tile and inspecting the surface underneath for damage. If the drywall or cement board has been compromised by moisture, it is replaced with waterproof backer board before any new tile is set. The tile layout is planned so cuts fall in less visible areas and grout lines stay consistent across the entire surface. Thin-set mortar is applied evenly, and tiles are set with spacers to maintain uniform grout lines that do not shift as the adhesive cures.

Once the tile is installed, you will notice grout lines that are even and clean, corners where tiles meet at consistent angles, and a surface that does not flex or sound hollow when tapped. Shower floors are sloped properly so water drains completely instead of pooling near the walls, and backsplashes are sealed where they meet countertops to prevent water from seeping behind the tile. Grout is sealed after curing to resist staining and moisture absorption, which keeps the lines from darkening or developing mildew over time.

Materials are chosen based on durability and slip resistance, and the installation process is timed so grout is not applied until the thin-set has fully cured. The work area is kept clean with daily removal of debris and dust, and drop cloths are used to protect surrounding surfaces from mortar or grout splatter. This approach keeps the rest of the room usable and prevents damage to finishes that are already in place.

Homeowners in Pollok, Lufkin, and the surrounding areas often want to know how tile holds up in wet areas, how long installation takes, and what can be done to prevent the grout from darkening or cracking after a few months.

Here Is What Homeowners Usually Ask

What type of tile works best in a shower or bathroom floor?
Porcelain tile with a textured finish provides slip resistance when wet and resists moisture absorption better than ceramic or natural stone. Smaller tiles on shower floors allow for better slope toward the drain, which prevents water from pooling.
How do you prevent tile from cracking after installation?
Tile cracks when the surface underneath moves or flexes, so proper subfloor preparation and the use of cement backer board instead of drywall in wet areas ensures the tile has a stable base. Expansion joints are also used where tile meets different materials to allow for slight movement.
Why do grout lines darken or develop mildew over time?
Unsealed grout absorbs moisture and soap residue, which creates an environment where mildew can grow. Sealing the grout after it cures prevents absorption and makes the surface easier to clean without scrubbing.
How long does tile installation take for a standard bathroom?
A typical bathroom with shower or tub surround and floor tile takes three to five days including surface prep, tile setting, and grouting. The grout needs at least 24 hours to cure before the area can be used, so the timeline accounts for that drying period.
What should be done with old tile after it is removed?
Old tile and mortar are heavy and create a lot of debris, so they are hauled away as part of the installation process. The work area is cleaned daily to prevent dust and broken tile pieces from spreading through the house.

Duff Remodeling and Construction works with homeowners in Pollok who need tile installation that resists moisture, holds up under daily use, and maintains a clean appearance over time. If you are ready to move forward with a tile project or want to talk through material options and layout choices, contact us to schedule a consultation.