Tile is one of the hardest-working finishes in a home. It stands up to foot traffic, spills, mud and moisture, and with the right choice it looks great for years. Our tile installation service in Philadelphia covers floors, walls and backsplashes, plus repairs that bring tired tile back to life.
The secret to tile that lasts isn’t the tile itself. It’s everything underneath: a stiff, flat, properly prepared base that won’t flex, crack or let water through. We’ve been building and renovating homes since 1986, and we take that preparation seriously on every job, whether it’s a powder room floor or a full kitchen backsplash.
Tile installation services we offer
Floors
Kitchens, bathrooms, entryways, laundry rooms and basements are all great candidates for tile. We install:
- Porcelain tile, dense and water-resistant for busy, wet areas
- Ceramic tile, versatile and cost-effective
- Slate and natural stone, with extra floor reinforcement where heavy stone requires it
- Marble tile, for a classic, elegant finish
Walls and backsplashes
A new backsplash is one of the fastest ways to update a kitchen. We also tile bathroom walls, tub surrounds and accent walls. If tile is part of a bigger refresh, our kitchen and bathroom services handle the rest of the project.
Repairs
Tile is easier to repair than many other flooring types. We replace cracked, chipped or stained tiles, regrout worn joints and redo failing caulk so moisture stays where it belongs.
Why preparation matters
Tile and grout are rigid. If the floor beneath them bends or moves, they crack. Before any tile goes down, we:
- Check the subfloor for flex, soft spots and level, and reinforce where needed.
- Install the right backer, such as cement board or a tile underlayment, to create a stable surface that won’t be damaged by moisture.
- Plan the layout so cuts are balanced, lines are straight and the pattern looks intentional at doorways.
- Set the tile in the correct mortar for the tile type, checking for flatness and coverage as we go.
- Grout and seal. Once the mortar has set we fill the joints. Grout takes a few weeks to fully cure, so we come back to apply sealer when it’s needed.
Skipping these steps is the most common reason tile fails early, and it’s why tiles in older homes sometimes crack in a line across the room.
Signs your tile needs attention
- Hairline cracks running across several tiles
- A hollow sound when you tap certain tiles
- Grout that’s crumbling, missing or dark no matter how much you scrub
- Caulk at the tub or shower that’s peeling, gapped or moldy
- Loose tiles around a toilet or tub, which can point to a moisture problem below
Older Philadelphia rowhomes and twins often have floors that have settled over the decades, so we pay close attention to level and structure before tiling.
What affects the cost of tile installation
Every project is quoted individually. The biggest factors are:
- Square footage and layout. Small rooms with many cuts can take as long as larger open areas.
- Tile type and size. Natural stone and large-format tiles need more care and specific setting materials.
- Pattern. Herringbone, diagonal and mosaic layouts take more time than a straight grid.
- Removal and prep. Tearing out old tile or repairing a damaged subfloor adds labor.
- Trim and transitions. Edges, thresholds and bullnose pieces add detail work.
Request a quote with your room size and a photo, and we’ll walk you through the options.
Tips before your tile project
- Order extra tile, about 10 percent more than the floor area, to cover cuts and future repairs.
- Keep a few spare tiles after the job. Matching discontinued tile later can be difficult.
- Choose grout color thoughtfully. Mid-tones hide everyday dirt better than bright white.
- Clear the room and plan for limited access while the mortar and grout set.
Why homeowners choose Home Exchange for tile
We’re a family-run company with decades of renovation experience in New York, New Jersey and Philadelphia. That background shows in how we plan, prepare and finish. Our Done Right Promise means the job is done right the first time, from Mayfair to Collingswood. Thinking about tile versus wood or vinyl? Our flooring page covers the other options.
