Ricochet Construction is a Dallas-area leader in all forms of construction and remodeling for homes, multi-family rental properties, large apartment communities, and condominiums. In this article we will cover some of the major issues that crop up when you’re installing tile floors with Hardibacker tile backer board.

Tile is a strong choice for flooring, especially so in homes. The advantages are many, and include durability, ease of cleaning, lifespan, and resistance to damage. However, some people find tile to be to hard as a surface for everyday family use, or don’t like the strong design role it plays in a room. It’s best to visit or research similar homes online in order to get a true sense of how tile will feel as a choice, or whether you would prefer an alternative, such as wood or carpet. For those who do choose tile, its many advantages usually lead to very satisfying outcomes.

It used to be that contractors had to create a full continuous cement underlayment for all tile and ceramic flooring projects. This kept the surface flat and stable, preventing shifting and cracking of the thinner tiles that were placed on top of that surface. That changed with the introduction of cement-based backer boards -- such as Hardibacker -- that are far easier to install, and don’t build up the floor nearly as high as a cement underbacking.

It is essential that your contractor knows the in’s and out’s of working with backer boarding. Each section of Hardibacker must be aligned and cut properly. Every piece of backer board also needs to be secured in place, and taking the time to completely sink screws without breaking the board will create a strong, well-prepared base for your tiles. Proper cutting, laying, and inspecting of the underlayment makes sure that your tile doesn’t have to deal with forces beyond its capacity, and are key to getting the full lifespan of your new flooring.

There are many different types of tiles you can choose for you flooring, including clay, cement, stone, quartz, metal, terrazzo, and ceramic. Each type of tile varies in look, durability, and suitability for different surfaces and amount of use. You should consult with your contractor and/or designer on what works best for your situation, but in the end, the look and feel of tile is most often a personal choice, so you’ll want to spend the time it takes to get a real sense of how your tile will look in the actual space where it will live.

Tile installation is definitely a mix of science and art. The visual feel of your floor comes from choosing tile patterns that flow together, and which can also offset each other in order to create a more visible effect. At Ricochet, we pride ourselves on the choices we make as we work with the tile that you’ve selected, and we consistently get high marks on the final appearance of our floors.

The science of tile installation means taking care to install each tile in a way that ensures it will fit within the overall design of the floor, while also lasting as long as it is intended to last. Installation must also take into account proper spacing, grouting, and sealants that can extend the life of the tile. Improper spacing is not only visible to the naked eye, but it leads to cracking and breaking of tiles during expansion or contraction. Grouting, if not chosen and done properly, won’t blend with tiles, and will stand out above the tiles.

At Ricochet Construction, we handle large scale work on apartment and condo communities in the Dallas metropolitan area. We are well-equipped and fully experienced in all forms of flooring, and can inspect your properties and advise you on exactly what repairs you need, and how long thee work should take. We have contracted with numerous homeowners, rental owners, and HOA’s, and can supply a long list of satisfied customers to give references as to the quality, timeliness, and professionalism of our work. Contact us any time to find out more!