Tiling Basics: Set Floors, Walls, and Backsplashes With Confidence - Know Exactly When to Call a Pro

Tiling looks intimidating, but lasting tile work is mostly preparation. Tiling Basics is a practical, beginner-friendly guide to setting floors, walls, and backsplashes with confidence while knowing exactly when to call a pro. It explains the whole tile system in plain language: substrate, flatness, stiffness, waterproofing, mortar, layout, cutting, setting, grout, sealant, and maintenance. Inside, homeowners learn how to choose the right tile, calculate materials and waste, prepare backer board, plan layout lines, avoid ugly slivers, mix and spread thinset, cut tile cleanly, grout and caulk correctly, and respect the special rules for wet areas. The book is clear about the line between DIY and professional work, especially structural subfloor problems, shower pans, waterproofing uncertainty, large-format tile challenges, and jobs where failure can mean water damage. Prepare well, work patiently, and build tile that looks good and lasts.