Before You Install Tile or Flooring: Five Critical Steps For A Successful Renovation

A beautiful tile or flooring installation doesn’t start with the product—it starts with preparation. In Vernon and throughout the North Okanagan, many renovation issues stem from what wasn’t completed before tile or flooring was installed. Renovating a kitchen, bathroom, entryway, or entire home requires careful planning to avoid costly mistakes. What do you need to consider?

1.0 A Properly Prepared Subfloor Is Non-Negotiable

One of the most important steps before installing tile or flooring is ensuring the subfloor is level, clean, dry, and structurally sound. Uneven or damaged subfloors can cause cracking, lippage, loose tiles, or squeaking floors. In older Vernon homes, subfloor issues are especially common and should be inspected and corrected before any materials arrive on site.

2.0 Moisture Testing and Control

Moisture is a major concern in flooring installations, particularly in basements, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. Concrete slabs must be tested for moisture levels, and appropriate moisture barriers installed when required. Skipping this step can lead to tile failure, mold growth, or warped flooring—problems many homeowners discover months after installation.

3.0 All Structural and Mechanical Work Must Be Finished First

Before tile or flooring goes down, all plumbing, electrical, drywall, cabinetry, and painting should be fully completed. Installing flooring too early may increase the risk of surface damage, staining, or uneven finishes once other trades return to the project to complete their work.

4.0 Correct Layout and Expansion Planning

Professional tile and floor installers, like Arden Tile in Vernon, BC will plan the layout carefully to avoid awkward cuts, wasted materials, uneven grout lines, or poor transitions between rooms. Expansion gaps in both floors and tiles should be factored into the layout, especially if you are implementing heated floors, or for homes that experience the wide seasonal temperature changes common across the Okanagan Valley.

5.0 Allow Materials to Acclimate

Tile and flooring materials should acclimate to indoor conditions before installation. This helps prevent shifting, cracking, or movement after installation. An experienced tile and flooring renovator will never overlook this aspect of the project.

For homeowners planning a 2026 renovation in Vernon, Arden Tile, located at 2800C 45th Ave. in Vernon, should be your first stop. They have a solid team to help you with recommendations for tile, hardwood, and vinyl flooring, and for developing your renovation plans. With 30 years of experience, their team provides knowledge and installation craftsmanship you can trust to guide your project from selection to installation. Drop into their Showroom or call 250-545-2272 to schedule an appointment. They are committed to your success!

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