Tile That Stays Put in Wet Conditions

Floor and wall tile installation for kitchens and bathrooms throughout Buford, Georgia.

Tile is the default choice for bathrooms and kitchens because it does not absorb water, resists mold growth, and holds up when floors get wet multiple times a day. In Buford, where humidity lingers during summer months and bathrooms see daily showers, properly installed tile means you are not dealing with peeling grout, loose corners, or water seeping under the floor and into the subfloor below.

Modern Structure installs ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone tile for floors, walls, backsplashes, and shower surrounds. The process involves preparing the surface with a moisture barrier, setting tiles with precise spacing, and sealing grout lines so water does not penetrate. You choose tile size, color, and pattern based on the room layout and how much maintenance you want to handle, with larger tiles offering fewer grout lines and smaller mosaics providing more slip resistance in wet areas.

If you are planning a tile installation in your Buford home, reach out to discuss layout options and material selections that fit your space.

How Tile Is Laid and Sealed

The installation process starts with inspecting the subfloor or wall surface to ensure it is level and free of damage. In Buford homes, older bathrooms sometimes have water damage under vinyl flooring or around tub surrounds. Modern Structure addresses these issues before tile goes down so the finished surface does not crack or shift once you start using the room.

Once installed, you will notice that tiles sit flush with each other, grout lines are consistent in width, and corners meet cleanly without gaps or uneven edges. Floors feel solid underfoot rather than hollow or loose, and walls do not flex when you press on them. Sealed grout resists staining from soap scum, hard water, and daily splashes, though grout will still require periodic cleaning to maintain its appearance.

Porcelain tile is denser than ceramic and less likely to crack under weight, making it a better choice for floors in high-traffic areas. Natural stone offers unique color variation but requires sealing to prevent staining from oils and liquids. If you are coordinating tile work with plumbing, cabinetry, or countertop installation, the sequence is planned so fixtures can be installed after tile is finished and transitions between materials look intentional.

Practical Concerns About Tile Installation

Homeowners often ask about grout color choices, how long tile takes to cure, and whether certain tiles hold up better in showers versus floors.

What is the difference between ceramic and porcelain tile?
Ceramic tile is made from clay and fired at lower temperatures, making it lighter and easier to cut but more prone to chipping. Porcelain is fired at higher temperatures and is denser, which makes it more durable and water-resistant, especially for floors and showers.
How long does it take to install tile in a bathroom?
Most bathroom tile installations take two to four days depending on the size of the space and whether you are tiling floors, walls, or both. Grout needs at least 24 hours to cure before the area can be used, and sealing adds another day to the timeline.
Why do some tiles crack after installation?
Tiles crack when the subfloor flexes, when they are installed over an uneven surface, or when heavy objects are dropped on them. Proper preparation and a solid underlayment prevent most cracking issues, though no tile is immune to impact damage.
What grout color should I choose for tile?
Darker grout hides stains and dirt better than white or light grout, which shows discoloration over time. If you want a clean, uniform look, choose a grout color that closely matches the tile so grout lines blend in rather than stand out.
When should I seal tile grout?
Grout should be sealed after it has cured fully, which usually takes about 72 hours. Sealing is especially important in showers and around sinks where water exposure is constant, and most grout needs resealing every one to two years depending on use.

If your bathroom or kitchen tile is cracked, stained, or sitting loose in areas where water collects, Modern Structure can remove the old tile, repair the subfloor, and install a new surface that stays secure and moisture-resistant. Learn more about material options and scheduling by contacting us to set up a consultation.