Common questions. Straight answers.

A kitchen backsplash typically runs $500-$1,500. Floor tile installation runs $8-$18 per square foot installed. Shower tile with waterproofing typically runs $2,500-$6,000. The on-site estimate confirms the written price.

Yes. A tile setter visits your space, reviews the subfloor condition, waterproofing needs, and tile scope, and hands you a written quote with no obligation and no trip fee for your zip.

Material cost, square footage, subfloor prep, waterproofing membrane, and tile format are the main cost drivers. Natural stone and large-format tile cost more to set than standard ceramic. Showers with full waterproofing systems cost more than dry-area floor tile. Your tile setter confirms all of it at the on-site estimate.

Porcelain is denser, less porous, and more water-resistant than ceramic. Porcelain handles outdoor use, wet areas, and heavy foot traffic better. Ceramic is lighter, easier to cut, and typically less expensive. Both work well for indoor floor and wall applications when installed correctly.

Yes. Tile and grout alone are not waterproof. Shower pans and walls require a waterproofing membrane before tile is set. Common systems include sheet membrane, liquid-applied membrane, and foam board. Skipping this step is the leading cause of water damage behind shower tile in San Diego homes.

Lippage is the height difference between the edges of adjacent tiles. Large-format tiles (24-by-24 and up) are less forgiving of subfloor variation because a small dip in the slab creates a visible edge between tiles. Proper subfloor leveling, a flat mortar bed, and lippage clips during setting control the result. A tile setter who skips leveling compound on an uneven slab will leave lippage that cannot be fixed after the grout cures.

A kitchen backsplash takes one to two days. A bathroom floor replacement takes two to three days including curing time. A full shower reset with waterproofing membrane and tile takes three to six days. Large-format tile floors needing leveling compound take longer. Your tile setter sets the timeline at the on-site estimate.

No. Tile needs to cure before foot traffic and before grout is applied. Thin-set mortar under floor tile typically requires 24 hours before light foot traffic and 48-72 hours before heavy use. Waterproofing membranes in showers have their own cure time before tile can be set. Your tile setter gives you the specific timeline for your project.

Tile installation alone does not require a permit. If the project includes plumbing changes, electrical for a heated floor system, or structural modifications, those trades require permits. Your tile setter confirms what is and is not included in the permit scope for any work that goes beyond tile.

No. Set Tile SD is a referral service, insured but not licensed, cslb.ca.gov. We match you with insured local tile setters and help you get a clear written quote. The tile setter you hire does the work.

The tile setters we match carry general liability and workers comp, and we confirm coverage before work starts. You can verify any California contractor license at cslb.ca.gov before you sign.

Getting matched and getting the on-site estimate and written quote costs you nothing. You only pay the tile setter you choose for the actual tile installation work.