Frequently Asked Questions

 Tile and Stone:

 What type of trowel should I use to set 12x12 floor tile?

In most situations a 1/4x1/4 square notch or 1/4x1/4x3/8 trowel is fine.

Do I have to seal all natural stone?

Yes. All natural stones should be sealed.

Can I set tile over plywood or luan?

If setting tile over plywood it must be exterior grade. Luan is not recommended by the T.C.A. as a suitable substrate

Can I use mastic to install 12x12 tile?

No. Mastic always remains pliable and never completely hardens.

What type of trowel should I use to set a wall tile?

In most situations a 3/16 V-Notch is fine for 4x4 and 6x6 tiles, anything larger would require a 1/4x1/4 trowel.

What type of tile can I use outside?

Any tile with a frost resistant rating such as porcelain or quarry tile.

What can I use to clean my tile floor?

Coast Tile has a full line of products made to clean ceramic tile and natural stone.

How do I figure out my square footage?

Multiply the length by the width. A general rule is to add 10% for cuts and waste.

How do I prep for the work?
Coast Tile recommends that our customers have a qualified installer look at their particular job and determine the amount of material needed to do the job properly.  Some jobs will have more or less waste than others due to the shape of the areas as well as the layout.  Most times a waste allowance of 5 to 10 % is sufficient, however, if a combination of tile sizes are used or tile is laid diagonally it may be necessary to increase that allowance.

How do I care for my stone?
Marble, Granite, Slate and Limestone as well as other stone products are natural and as such, no two pieces are exactly identical.  The individuality of each stone is part of its natural beauty.  Although these types of surfaces vary in their porosity, they all can absorb stains.  To ensure the integrity of the stone a sealer should be applied after the installation to protect against staining the material.  Please visit our showroom for a full line of products for stone and tile care.

 Hard Wood:

Can I use 3/4 inch hardwood floors in a kitchen?

Yes provided proper care is maintained.

Is it possible to scratch a laminate floor?

Yes. Although it has an abrasion resistant finish it can still be scratched.

How do I install 3/4 inch hardwood?

Each manufacturer has installation instructions included in every box.

Can I refinish a 3/4 inch hardwood floor?

Yes. Depending on the situation they can be refinished.

Can I refinish a laminate floor?

No.

Can I install wood floors below grade?

Engineered and laminate floors can be installed on or below grade.

Can I install wood or laminate floors over concrete?

Yes. It is recomended that you have the moisture level on the concrete checked.

What are the benefits of engineered floor vs. a 3/4 inch hardwood floor?

Engineered floors can be used on or below grade and they are more stable and resistant to movement.

Can an engineered floor be refinished?

Yes. Depending on the situation an engineered floor can be refinished.