Tile contractor in Lakewood Ranch, FL

Large-format porcelain tile — typically 24x24 or 24x48 — is the most popular choice in Lakewood Ranch open-plan homes because it creates a clean, continuous look across wide floor areas with fewer grout lines. The trade-off is that larger tile requires a flatter substrate. We check and correct the slab before installation so the tile lays flat and the grout lines stay consistent across the full room.

If the existing builder tile is fully bonded and the substrate is flat, installing new tile over the existing floor is an option in some cases. We evaluate the height at doorways and transitions first, because adding tile thickness can create a step-up that is a problem at thresholds. If the existing tile has hollow spots or the slab is uneven, demo gives the new tile a better foundation and a longer service life.

Yes, when it is installed correctly. Porcelain tile rated for outdoor use handles Florida's wet season without absorbing water or degrading from UV exposure. The key is setting it with a slope so water drains off the surface rather than pooling, and using a flexible mortar that handles the thermal expansion the Florida sun creates. Tile set flat with a rigid mortar will start to pop as the slab heats and cools through the seasons.

A retile replaces the tile surface while keeping the existing shower pan and plumbing in place. A full remodel includes demo of the existing shower down to the studs, installation of a new waterproofing membrane, a new shower pan or linear drain, and fresh tile throughout. Full remodels take longer but give you the opportunity to change the layout, add a bench or niche, and ensure the waterproofing is done correctly from the ground up.