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Home » Topics » Columns » CTEF Tile Tip

CTEF Tile Tip
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exterior tile installation failure
CTEF Tile Tip

A Recipe for Failure

Even the most expertly prepared tile substrate can fail when Mother Nature turns up the heat
Scott Carothers 2025
Scott Carothers
October 13, 2025

A flawless-looking exterior tile installation quickly became a total loss after extreme heat and wind caused catastrophic bond failure—underscoring the importance of respecting environmental conditions, manufacturer guidelines, and movement joint requirements on outdoor projects.


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two columns at the main entrance of a new hotel

The Tile Industry Gets Another Black Eye

Scott Carothers 2025
Scott Carothers
July 14, 2020
All across the U.S., there are thousands upon thousands of beautiful, high-quality, and long-lasting tile installations which should be highlighted as examples of the work done by qualified labor as included in the TCNA Handbook. However, when the very sad examples of extremely poor work are seen, they should be reviewed and presented as a learning tool for the tile placer who needs to improve his or her skills.
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using a laser to install square tile

Is Your Laser Really Square For Your Tile Installation Project?

Scott Carothers 2025
Scott Carothers
June 3, 2020
The combination of technology and the tile installer's need to create a square layout and project long straight lines, brought the laser to the tile world.
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checking your level

Flooring Contractors Need a Balanced Level

Scott Carothers 2025
Scott Carothers
April 13, 2020
One of the many skills used by qualified labor is knowing that the tools being used are accurate along with the maintenance required to keep them functioning properly.
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CTEF Tile Tip: Who Dictates Proper Tile Installation?

Scott Carothers 2025
Scott Carothers
March 27, 2020
When we ask who has the last word in the use of tile-related products or procedures, we need to begin with a firm foundation.
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non-linear expansion joint

What is a Non-Linear Expansion Joint?

Scott Carothers 2025
Scott Carothers
February 5, 2020
When the topic of expansion joints is discussed, it many times causes confusion.
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unbalanced tile installation

CTEF Tile Tip: Is a Balanced Tile Layout Really Difficult to Achieve?

Scott Carothers 2025
Scott Carothers
December 19, 2019
In order to deliver an eye-pleasing tile installation, the tile mechanic needs to follow all the tile industry standards and best practices when possible. One of these requirements calls for the tile to be centered and balanced.
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CTEF Tile Tip: When in Doubt, Grout

Scott Carothers 2025
Scott Carothers
October 15, 2019
Grout has a specific function and when used correctly, it does a great job. Unfortunately, too many tile placers seem to be unclear where grout is to be used and where it should not to be used.
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tile installation failure

CTEF Tile Tip: Fix That Lack of Mortar Coverage

Scott Carothers 2025
Scott Carothers
September 11, 2019
This space has devoted a lot of words to the topic of mortar coverage—or should I say, the lack thereof?
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transition to adjoining ramp

CTEF Tile Tip: Unique Challenges on the Job Site

Scott Carothers 2025
Scott Carothers
August 7, 2019
Many tile projects can provide installation challenges that require the talent and expertise of better installers.
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