Tile Installation Guide
Published by Tillerstead LLC
Licensed New Jersey contractor | New Jersey HIC #13VH10808800
Table of Contents
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1
Understanding TCNA & ANSI Standards
Industry standards, installation methods, and compliance requirements
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2
Vetting New Jersey Contractors
New Jersey HIC licensing, essential questions, and red flags to avoid
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3
Waterproofing: The Critical Element
ANSI A118.10 standards, popular systems, and installation must-haves
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4
Material Selection Guide
Porcelain vs ceramic vs stone, large format tile, and grout options
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5
Project Planning & Budgeting
2024 South Jersey pricing, cost factors, and budget planning tips
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6
Your Legal Rights in New Jersey
Consumer protection laws, contract requirements, and complaint procedures
Understanding TCNA & ANSI Standards
The foundation of quality tile work starts with understanding industry standards that govern professional installations
What is TCNA?
The Tile Council of North America (TCNA) is the authoritative source for tile installation methods in North America. Their comprehensive handbook provides detailed, tested installation guidelines that professional contractors follow to ensure long-lasting, code-compliant installations.
- TCNA Handbook: Detailed installation method specifications with diagrams
- Method EJ171: Standard shower installation over concrete or wood framing
- Method B421: Waterproof membrane shower systems (bonded)
- Method B422: Shower receptors with clamping-type drains
- Technical Bulletins: Material compatibility and troubleshooting guidance
Critical ANSI Standards
ANSI (American National Standards Institute) establishes performance specifications for tile materials and installation products:
| ANSI Standard | Purpose | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| ANSI A108.10 | Installation of ceramic tile | Defines proper installation methods |
| ANSI A118.10 | Waterproofing membranes | Critical for shower/wet area compliance |
| ANSI A118.4 | Modified thin-set mortar | Standard adhesive for most tiles |
| ANSI A118.15 | Improved modified thin-set | Required for large format tile |
| ANSI A137.1 | Ceramic tile specifications | Defines tile quality and performance |
If a contractor doesn't reference TCNA methods or ANSI standards in their proposal, they may not be following industry best practices. This can void material warranties, fail inspections, and lead to premature failure. Always ask for specific method numbers.
Vetting New Jersey Contractors
New Jersey has specific contractor licensing requirements—here's how to verify compliance and protect yourself
NJ Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) License
In New Jersey, any contractor performing work over $500 MUST be registered with the Division of Consumer Affairs and hold an active HIC license. This is not optional—it's the law.
- Verify HIC Registration: Visit nj.gov/consumeraffairs/hic and search the contractor's name or license number
- Check License Status: Ensure the license is active (not suspended, revoked, or expired)
- Verify Insurance: Contractor must carry liability insurance (minimum $500,000 recommended for tile work)
- Review Complaint History: Check for filed complaints with Consumer Affairs
- Confirm Business Address: Legitimate contractors have verifiable physical business locations
- Check References: Ask for 3-5 recent similar projects with contact information
10 Essential Questions to Ask
| # | Question | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | What is your New Jersey HIC license number? | Should be readily available and verifiable |
| 2 | Which TCNA methods will you follow? | Specific method numbers show expertise |
| 3 | What waterproofing system will you use? | Schluter, RedGard, Laticrete, etc. |
| 4 | Do you warranty your work? For how long? | 1-2 years minimum for labor |
| 5 | Will you provide a written contract? | Required by NJ law for work over $500 |
| 6 | Can you provide recent references? | Verifiable past work quality |
| 7 | What is your substrate inspection process? | Shows attention to preparation |
| 8 | Modified or unmodified thin-set? | Should know when to use each type |
| 9 | How do you handle changes during work? | Written change order process |
| 10 | What is your cleanup/disposal process? | Professional waste management |
- ❌ No HIC license or unwilling to provide license number
- ❌ Requests full payment upfront (NJ law limits deposits to 1/3 or $1,000)
- ❌ Won't provide written contract or detailed estimates
- ❌ Doesn't mention waterproofing in shower/wet area proposals
- ❌ Significantly lower price than other bids (corners being cut)
- ❌ Pressure to sign immediately without time to review
- ❌ Cash-only payment with no receipts
- ❌ No insurance or "self-insured" claims