Master Bathroom Floor Tiling in Newtown, PA
Newtown, PA - This is an update post on the master bathroom renovation that we are working on in Newtown, PA. The client wanted to spruce up their en-suite area with the removal of a jacuzzi, a shower expansion, and new linen closet, and brand new flooring and vanity installation. So far in the project, we have demolished all of the original fixtures, blocked out the space for the new shower and closet, and are in the process of installing flooring.
Tile Selection
The client selected two types of tile from Realonda Ceramica, one black and one white, to alternate on the bathroom floor. The specific tiles were Realonda Diamond City Black and Diamond City White. Although it is a more challenging process to cut the tile since it is a 15x28” rhombus rather than a more typical 12x24” tile, it creates a unique look that can’t be replicated with rectangular tiles.
Beneath the Tile
In a separate part of the build, the original bathroom tile was removed and the subfloor was cleaned up. On top of that, we adhered a layer of Schluter Ditra Uncoupling Membrane. This is an optional, but highly recommended, addition to any bathroom flooring project for two reasons. First, the membrane is made of polyethylene which is waterproof - perfect for the wet environment of a bathroom floor. Second, the membrane acts to decouple the tile and grout from the subfloor beneath. With temperate changes and settling, the subfloor might expand, contract, or warp slightly. If the tile and grout are attached directly to the subfloor, all of those movements are transferred directly to the tile which can result in cracking or delamination. The Uncoupling Membrane acts as a flexible interface that absorbs the changes in the subfloor without impacting the tile - essentially, it makes the tile and grout highly resistant to cracks and loosening.
Putting it all Together
After installing the uncoupling membrane on top of the subfloor, the rest of the installation process was fairly straightforward. The tile adhesive was applied to the membrane with the flat side of the trowel, followed by the grooved side so create channels for air to escape. A thin layer of adhesive was applied to the bottom of the tile, and then the tile was placed down and lightly moved side to side to evenly distribute the adhesive and remove any air pockets. Excess adhesive was removed from the side of the tiles after spreading to make sure it did not overflow in the grout area. Tile leveling clips and wedges were then placed to make sure each tile was level to the adjacent ones. This process was repeated using alternating Diamond City Black and White tiles, and once the entire floor is finished, the grout will be applied to all the joints.
More to Come!
Once completed, this floor will represent just one of the major changes that are taking place in this master bathroom remodel. From the removal of a jacuzzi tub, to a shower expansion and the addition of a new linen closet, this client’s bathroom will go from a cramped, outdated space to a new, luxurious place to relax and unwind. Check back regularly for more updates and to see the before and after photos!
If you are interested in any sort of work ranging from a bathroom refresh to a complete teardown and remodel, we would love to be the ones to help you achieve your vision. MyStateContractor specializes in all jobs, big and small, in the Philadelphia, Bucks County, and South/Central NJ area - if you feel like we can help, don’t hesitate to reach out!