Your Trusted Source for Premium Tile Flooring Installation Across PA and NJ

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Tile Flooring Installation

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Tile: The Timeless, Waterproof Flooring that is Built to Last

Nothing compares to tile flooring when waterproofing, hygiene, and durability matter – as long as it is installed correctly.

100% Waterproof Protection for Wet Rooms

Properly installed tile, including sealed water barriers, is the only flooring available that is designed to withstand continuous water exposure. It's perfect for wet rooms, bathrooms, kitchens, and showers.

Lasts for Decades with Zero Scratches, Stains, or Dents

Because glazed porcelain is totally impervious to staining, scratches, or dents, your tiled floor is built to last and look great too. It can outlast the home itself when installed correctly.

Hypoallergenic and Easy to Disinfect

Non-porous tiling means no trapped dust or bacteria and no buildup of allergens, making tile easy to sanitize. That makes it a great choice for kitchens and bathrooms, as well as any allergy-aware location.

Endless Styles, Formats, Patterns, and Textures

Whatever material you choose, your tiling can be in an almost endless choice of colors, styles, patterns, and finishes. Nothing matches tile for its design flexibility.

Our Professional Tile Flooring Installation Process

A simple, six-step process that takes you from your old floor through to the final inspection, ensuring a quality finish every time.

Free In-Home Consultation and Precise Measurement

Our home visit includes a full consultation on the type and style of tiling you are looking for, along with a precision measurement process and full subfloor assessment.

Subfloor Levelling, Reinforcement, and Cement Board Prep

We inspect your existing subfloor for condition and levelness. Any issues that need rectifying are addressed here, with high spots eliminated and cement board or uncoupling membrane installed.

Schluter / Membrane Waterproofing and Crack Isolation Setup

We install the waterproofing membrane and crack isolation systems (including Schluter Ditra, RedGard and equivalents) following the manufacturer's instructions, prior to any tiles being installed.

Dry Laying, Laser Alignment and Custom Mortar Setting

We dry-lay the entire tiling project to properly plan the layout and confirm all cuts before needing to mix mortar. We use the appropriate thinset for the tiling material and substrate.

Stain-Resistant Grouting and Perimeter Expansion Caulking

We use the specified type of grouting in your chosen color, while caulking is applied to perimeter edges to allow for movement.

Sealing, Tile Polishing, and Final Inspection

Natural stone and unglazed tiles are sealed following the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure durability. All tiling is then cleaned and polished, ready for the final inspection with you.

Where Tile Flooring Works Best

In showers, outdoor patios, hallways, and kitchens, the combination of water-resistance, durability, and style offers performance that other floorings simply cannot match.

Bathrooms and Walk-In Showers

With complete waterproof performance and non-slip textures, tile is the only choice for bathrooms, wet rooms, walk-in showers, and where continuous water exposure is expected.

Kitchens and Dining Areas

With impressive impact resistance that means high traffic or dropped pots are never a problem, Tile’s tough surface and chemical resistance make it the most practical option for your kitchen floor.

Entryways and Mud Rooms

From wet boots to mud and grit, tile handles them all with ease, with no wear or warping, and remains easy to clean and sanitize, whatever it is exposed to.

Outdoor Patios and Sunrooms

Weatherproof porcelain finishes are not just water-resistant; they remain immune to temperature swings and UV exposure too, so your patio or sunroom will look as good in 10 years as it does today.

Porcelain vs Ceramic vs Natural Stone: Which is Right for You?

Each tile type represents different technical properties and has different maintenance requirements that make them suitable for various environments and uses. Our table explains which to use and when.

	Porcelain	Ceramic	Natural Stone
PEI Rating (Durability)	PEI 4–5 — heavy residential & commercial	PEI 1–3 — light to moderate residential	Varies — hardness depends on species
Water Absorption Rate	< 0.5% — virtually impervious	0.5–3% — moderate absorption	High — requires full sealing
Maintenance & Sealing	None required — glazed surface	Grout sealing only	Regular sealing essential
Price Range	Mid to High	Low to Mid	High to Premium
Scratch Resistance	Excellent — Mohs 6–7	Good — Mohs 5–6	Varies — marble soft, slate harder
Frost Resistance	Excellent — suitable outdoors	Limited — interior only	Varies — check species
Design Range	Very Wide — wood, stone, concrete looks	Wide — classic and modern options	Natural variation — unique to each slab
Ideal Application	All rooms incl. outdoor & wet areas	Dry to semi-wet interior spaces	Feature areas, luxury interiors

Cost Factors in Tile Installation

Tile is a premium flooring option, offering long life and water resistance. Prices do vary, though; here are the main drivers of your tile project costs.

Square Footage and Room Complexity

The larger the area, the less per square foot it costs thanks to labor efficiencies. Small rooms, stairs, and hallways need a higher proportion of cuts per square foot, adding to the costs.

Tile Grade and Material Choice

Budget-friendly options begin with ceramic, with porcelain a mid-range choice and natural stone, or large format designer tiles, offering a true luxury alternative with costs to match.

Subfloor Preparation and Waterproofing

Tile requires a level, robust substrate. We assess the subfloor and remedy any issues, install waterproof membranes, levelling compounds, and moisture barriers as needed for perfect tile flooring.

Seaming and Grouting

Quality grout and sealant ensure your tile flooring is protected for longevity. Epoxy and urethane grouts add to the cost, but also provide increased stain and moisture resistance.

Installation

Layouts are hand-cut by our experienced, professional flooring experts. Intricate patterns and large-format tiles add to labor costs, while choice of floating or mortar-set installations impacts both cost and time of installation.

Removal and Debris Hauling

We lift and remove old tiling from your property, along with any substrate or other debris required. Tile removal is a labor-intensive process, and we include it in every pricing estimate.

Project Timeline and What To Expect

We proceed with each project in defined phases, taking you from first assessment to final walkthrough. Knowing how this works makes planning your home much easier.

Consultation and Measurement

Our home visit includes a consultation on the style and type of tiling you want, your budget, a detailed measurement of the rooms, and finally an assessment of the subfloor condition.

Tile Selection and Design

We offer an extensive range of tile and grout materials, patterns, and colors. We can provide samples of your chosen tiles for easy comparison at home, and will offer guidance on patterns and other aspects of the project.

Substrate Removal and Prep

We remove the old tile, then clean the subfloor, ready for inspection. If we find damage or unevenness, we address it at this point, then proceed with waterproofing membranes if required.

Layout Planning and Cutting

We plan the tile layout precisely, including all edge cuts, transitions, and pattern work, all clearly laid out prior to installation.

Tile Installation

We set new tiles using the appropriate adhesive and per the manufacturer’s instructions for optimal performance. Every tile is spaced and aligned for consistent, professional grouting lines throughout the project.

Grouting and Sealing

High-quality grout in your chosen color is applied and cured as per the manufacturer’s recommendations. Everything is then sealed to protect the install from staining and moisture penetration.

Why Homeowners Trust PHS Construction for Tile Installation

We have decades of experience providing high-quality tile installation for homeowners in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, with in-house expert tiling teams for a perfect finish, every time.

Decades of Hands-On Construction Experience

PHS Construction has served the NJ and PA regions since the 1970s. We have a proven track record as expert tiling installers, including porcelain, ceramic, and natural stone projects of all sizes.

In-House Tiling Artisans – No Unvetted Subcontractors

We don’t use subcontractors, so your install will be carried out by our own in-house team. They do all the work from start to finish to ensure consistency and quality at every stage.

Complete Subfloor Preparation and Waterproofing Systems

Our installations cover all necessary work for a quality finish, including proper subfloor preparation, cement board, decoupling membranes, and waterproofing layers.

Fully Licensed and Insured Service Protection

We carry full liability coverage and valid NJ and PA contractor licenses to make sure you and your property are protected from our first visit to the last.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tile Installation

The simple answers to the most popular questions we get asked about tile installation.

What is the difference between ceramic and porcelain tile?

The way porcelain is manufactured, using a higher-temperature firing process, means that it is less porous and denser, resulting in improved water resistance, with water absorption rates of below 0.5%. Ceramic is softer and more porous, so it absorbs more water and has a less durable surface. The cost savings mean it is useful for moderate residential use indoors, but for wet areas, exterior applications, and high-traffic use, porcelain is the better option.

Can tile be installed directly over existing tile or wood floors?

Possibly. For any tile, the surface they are to be laid on must be flat and structurally sound, as well as fully bonded to the main structure. Wood floors must comply with the L/360 deflection standard to be suitable, and many often require a cement board or uncoupling membrane installed to do that.

Do natural stone tiles need to be sealed before and after installation?

Yes, they do. Most natural stone tiling, including marble, travertine, slate, and limestone, is porous and will be stained by the grout without proper sealing being completed first. A final sealant application protects against moisture ingress and must be carried out again at regular intervals.

How do you prevent floor tiles and grout lines from cracking over time?

The most effective way to avoid cracking in tiles and grout is to lay them on a well-prepared, flat, and robust substrate. Stiffness prevents the tile movement that leads to cracks, while adding crack isolation membranes, proper thinset coverage, and correctly spaced expansion gaps all reduce the risk of cracking. Edging the install with flexible caulk rather than grout also enables movement without cracks forming.

Is large-format tiling harder or more expensive to install than standard tile?

Yes, both more difficult and more expensive. Large format is classed as 18” x 18” and above sized tiles, and they are more sensitive to subfloor unevenness, require more precise mortar coverage, and require specialized handling from skilled tiling experts. All of these make it a more difficult install and, along with higher waste levels, also add to the costs for the project.

Do I need to waterproof the subfloor before laying floor tile?

In areas where high moisture levels are expected, such as wet bathrooms, shower enclosures, and so on, a waterproof membrane must be included; it is not optional. The tile itself is water-resistant; however, grout is not, and water ingress there can lead to substrate failure without a waterproof barrier.

Which type of grout is best: cementitious, urethane, or epoxy grout?

The standard grout most companies use is cementitious, as it is cost-effective and suitable for most applications. However, urethane grout may be more expensive but adds stain resistance and avoids the need for sealing. Epoxy grout is incredibly durable and is also highly chemical-resistant, but because it is also the most difficult to work with, it is the costliest option. Which one is right varies depending on the installation; we always advise on the choice of grout.

How long do I need to wait before walking on newly installed tile?

Before walking on tile, you must allow time for the thinset mortar to fully cure. This is usually 24 hours for standard thinset, but there are some mortars that reduce this time. Grouting cannot be carried out until the thinset is cured, and walking on the tiles prematurely can cause movement or bond failure.

What slip-resistance rating (DCOF) should I look for in my bathroom tiles?

A DCOF of 0.42 is recommended for residential floor tiles that are installed in wet areas. For areas where you will be walking barefoot, such as showers and pool surrounds, this rises to a DCOF of 0.6. Large-format tiles, or natural stone such as polished marble, often feature much lower DCOFs and require careful evaluation for any wet area installations.

How much extra material (waste factor) should I order for a tile project?

A standard installation with a straight lay design requires around a 10% waste factor. For diagonal or herringbone patterns, that rises to 20%. Complex shaped rooms with lots of obstacles, or large-format tiling options, increase that even further. We calculate waste factors for each project based on the room, design, and so on, so you have enough for the project and some extra tiles for future repairs.

Ready for New Floors?

We serve all neighborhoods. Estimates are free, written, and itemized — scheduled within 48 hours.