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What to Expect During a Professional Tile Installation

White shower tiles with red spacers are shown as part of a bathroom tile install and remodel from The Tile Genie of Oklahoma.

The Tile Genie’s Proven Process for Perfect Tile Installation

Professional tile installation is essential for achieving a beautiful, durable result that performs well over time. While DIY or inexperienced work can lead to costly mistakes—like uneven tiles, improper alignment, or poor surface preparation—a professional ensures every step is done right, from initial consultation and precise planning through demolition, layout, installation, grouting, and post-installation care. Professionals also navigate challenges like specialty materials or complex spaces with skill, delivering a high-quality finish that enhances your space and protects your investment for years to come.

The professional tile installation process typically consists of:

  1. Initial consultation and planning
  2. Site preparation and demolition (if remodeling)
  3. Laying out the pattern
  4. Tile installation
  5. Grouting and finishing touches
  6. Post-installation inspection and guidance


When you choose The Tile Genie for your professional tile installation, you’re choosing a local team with decades of experience in general construction, kitchen and bath remodels, and expert tile installations across Oklahoma. From your initial consultation to the final inspection, our seamless process—including meticulous planning, premium materials, and clear, consistent communication—ensures your project is handled with precision and professionalism. With seasoned craftsmen overseeing every detail and a one-year warranty backing our work, The Tile Genie delivers a stress-free, top-quality tile installation experience that stands the test of time.

Why Professional Tile Installation is Necessary

Proper tile installation is critical not just for appearance, but for the long-term durability and performance of your floors, walls, or backsplashes. While DIY projects or hiring inexperienced installers may seem like a way to save money, these approaches can lead to costly mistakes and repairs down the road, such as:

  • Underestimating the amount of needed materials and costs
  • Using improper materials (non-waterproof tiles when they need to be, for example)
  • Improper alignment and spacing
  • Failing to create a completely clean or level base, leading to tiles not sitting correctly
  • Not following industry standards and expectations
  • Not using proper safety equipment or failing to identify hazards
  • Applying the adhesive or grout incorrectly, leading to a weaker or uneven bond


Hiring a professional for tile installation ensures that every step of the process is handled with skill and precision, from preparation to finishing touches. Experienced installers understand how to avoid these common pitfalls that can compromise both the look and lifespan of your tilework, resulting in a finished space that not only looks beautiful but also performs well over time.

The benefits of professional tile installation include:

  • Precise layout and alignment for a polished, attractive finish
  • Proper surface preparation to ensure tiles bond securely
  • Use of the right materials and techniques for durability
  • Reduced risk of water damage from improper sealing or spacing
  • Faster, more efficient installation with less waste
  • Work backed by expertise and often a warranty or guarantee

The Professional Tile Installation Process: Step by Step

Proper tile installation is a complex, multi-step process that demands specialized tools, precise measurements, careful surface preparation, and meticulous execution throughout the entire project. Each stage—from layout planning to grout application—requires an expert eye and steady hand to ensure a flawless result. An experienced, professional company will bring this level of care and attention, continually reviewing and refining their work to catch even the smallest imperfections before they become bigger problems. You can and should expect this kind of thoroughness and craftsmanship from your contractor in order to achieve a high-quality, long-lasting finish.

1. Initial Consultation and Planning

The initial consultation and planning phase lays the foundation for the entire tile installation project, setting clear expectations and ensuring every detail is accounted for before work begins. A professional approach during this stage helps avoid surprises later and ensures the final result meets your needs, style, and budget.

During the initial consultation and planning phase, you can expect:

  • A collaborative discussion to understand your budget, style preferences, and goals
  • Expert guidance to explore design options and practical solutions
  • A detailed assessment of the space, including surface conditions and layout considerations
  • Precise, double-checked measurements for accuracy
  • Assistance in selecting the right materials for your project
  • A customized plan that outlines the project scope, timeline, and next steps

Come prepared to this part of the process with your initial thoughts on budget, design, and materials. Giving your installer something to work with up front helps them more accurately guide you toward the best version of your vision, but also be sure to keep an open mind to any suggestions your installer may have. For example, you may have a low budget but want a tile type that looks high-end. Explaining this to your installer narrows the range of tile types they’ll discuss with you. As one possibility, they may suggest ceramic, which can be made to look like wood or stone.

Additionally, tell the installer you’re working with as much as you can about the space you want tiled. Let them know of any peculiarities or hazards, such as potential asbestos, lead paint, or mold.  Although they’ll conduct a thorough pre-inspection to look for these issues before work starts, giving them a heads up may help prepare them and decrease the chances of any delays due to surprises.

2. Demolition and Site Preparation (if remodeling)

Demolition and site preparation are critical steps that ensure a clean, safe, and stable foundation for your new tile installation. When done improperly, this phase can expose hidden hazards, compromise the surface integrity, or lead to costly issues later. Professional installers have the expertise to manage this process carefully, address potential risks—especially in older homes—and prepare the site according to best practices and building codes. In some cases, you may need to vacate your home during this stage for safety reasons, and your installer will advise you in advance if that’s necessary.

If demolition is required, professionals will typically:

  • Clear obstacles such as furniture and fixtures
  • Set up protective coverings like tarps or plastic sheeting
  • Remove baseboards if necessary for access
  • Remove grout and break up existing tile
  • Remove old adhesives (such as mortar)
  • Clean away dust and debris thoroughly
  • Inspect the substrate for damage or hazards
  • Repair, level, or reinforce surfaces as needed
  • Install underlayment or backer board to create a stable base for new tile

3. Laying Out the Pattern

Laying the pattern is one of the most important steps in tile installation, since it determines the symmetry, flow, and overall visual impact of the finished surface. A professional installer ensures that the layout is precise, balanced, and free of issues like uneven edges or awkward cuts that can detract from the look of the space. This stage requires careful planning and expert execution to create a pattern that complements the room’s dimensions and design goals.

When laying out the pattern, a professional installer will:

  • Identify and mark the center of the room to create a symmetrical, balanced layout
  • Check the pattern alignment against walls and architectural features
  • Adjust the layout as needed to avoid thin or uneven edge tiles
    Lay out test rows and chalk lines for accuracy
  • Use spacers to ensure even, consistent grout joints throughout the space

4. Tile Installation

Tile installation is the phase where preparation and planning come together, and it requires precision, skill, and attention to detail to achieve a durable, professional result. This is where mistakes—such as uneven tiles, poor adhesion, or misaligned joints—can quickly compromise both the appearance and longevity of the entire project, which is why an experienced installer is essential. Professionals work carefully to ensure every tile is properly positioned and securely set, creating a smooth, level surface that will last.

During tile installation, a professional installer will:

  • Perform a final check to confirm surface readiness and layout accuracy
  • Prepare and evenly apply adhesive in small sections for controlled installation
  • Place tiles carefully according to the established pattern
  • Use spacers to maintain uniform grout joints
  • Continuously check that tiles remain straight, level, and aligned
  • Cut tiles precisely to accommodate edges, corners, and angles
  • Allow tiles to set undisturbed for at least 24 hours before grouting

5. Grouting and Finishing Touches

Grouting and finishing are critical steps that not only complete the appearance of your tile installation but also seal and protect it. This phase requires careful application to ensure clean lines, uniform joints, and a durable seal that prevents moisture intrusion. A professional’s skill ensures that grout is properly applied and that the tiles are cleaned without damaging the fresh joints or leaving unsightly residue behind.

When it’s time for grouting and finishing touches, a professional installer will:

  • Inspect joints for debris and clean them thoroughly
  • Prepare and apply grout carefully in small sections to avoid premature drying
  • Smooth grout evenly into joints using a rubber grout float
  • Use a damp sponge to gently clean tile surfaces without disturbing grout lines
  • Remove grout haze after the grout has set properly

6. Post-installation

The post-installation phase ensures that your tile surface is ready for long-term use and provides you with guidance for proper care. It’s important that this step is handled by a professional, who will inspect the work to confirm everything has cured correctly and that the finished surface meets quality standards.

After installation of your tile is complete, you can expect:

  • Clear instructions on when it’s safe to walk on or use the tiled area (typically at least 48 hours)
  • A final inspection to confirm all work is properly set and finished
  • Recommendations for cleaning, maintenance, and care to protect your investment

Special Considerations for Unique or Complex Tile Projects

Some tile projects demand additional care, expertise, and precise planning, making the experience of a professional installer even more critical. Factors such as the type of tile, including glass or other specialty materials, require specific adhesives and techniques to prevent issues like improper setting or discoloration. Complex space layouts, such as curved walls or tight corners, call for meticulous preparation and skillful custom cuts to achieve a flawless result. An experienced professional will anticipate these challenges, explain how they impact the project, and develop thoughtful solutions or alternatives to ensure a high-quality, lasting installation.

Experience Peace of Mind with Professional Tile Installation From The Tile Genie

Choosing The Tile Genie means partnering with seasoned professionals who combine expert craftsmanship, top-tier materials, and clear communication to bring your tile vision to life without all the stress. From personalized consultation and precise planning to meticulous installation and final touches, our methodical approach is backed by decades of experience, a streamlined process that minimizes disruption, and a one-year warranty for peace of mind. With The Tile Genie, you can count on a smooth, professional experience and results that are built to endure and enhance your space for years to come. Contact us today for a free consultation!

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