Professional Tile Installation in Asheville, NC | Leicester Flooring

When it comes to transforming your home with beautiful, durable tile flooring, the quality of installation matters just as much as the tile itself. Since 1971, Leicester Flooring has been Asheville’s trusted partner for professional tile installation, combining old-fashioned craftsmanship with modern techniques to deliver results that exceed expectations.

Whether you’re renovating a historic West Asheville bungalow, updating a Biltmore Forest bathroom, or building new construction in Black Mountain, our tile installation team brings the expertise, precision, and attention to detail your project deserves.

Why Choose Leicester Flooring for Tile Installation

50+ Years Installing Tile in Western North Carolina

Leicester Flooring started as a family business in 1971, and we’ve spent more than five decades perfecting our tile installation craft in homes throughout Asheville, Hendersonville, and surrounding communities. Our experience spans every type of tile project imaginable—from simple kitchen backsplashes to complex bathroom renovations with custom shower tile work.

This depth of experience means we understand Western North Carolina homes inside and out. We know how to work with the unique challenges of mountain climate humidity, how to preserve the character of historic Asheville homes, and how to ensure tile installations perform beautifully for decades in our region’s temperature fluctuations.

Experienced, Professional Tile Installers

Our installation team represents the backbone of Leicester Flooring’s reputation. Many of our installers have been with us for years, some for decades, bringing consistency and mastery to every project. They’re not subcontractors—they’re skilled Leicester Flooring craftsmen who take personal pride in their work.

Each installer receives ongoing training in the latest tile installation techniques, waterproofing systems, and industry best practices. They’re equipped with professional-grade tools and materials, from laser levels ensuring perfectly flat surfaces to specialized wet saws that produce precise cuts without chipping.

When our installation team arrives at your home, they treat it with the same respect they’d show their own. They protect your furnishings, minimize dust and disruption, and leave your space cleaner than they found it.

Lifetime Installation Warranty

While most tile installation companies offer limited warranties if they offer any warranty at all—Leicester Flooring stands behind our work with a lifetime installation warranty. This comprehensive coverage protects you against installation defects, workmanship issues, and structural problems with the tile installation itself.

Our warranty covers:

Installation defects (lippage, hollow-sounding tiles, improper adhesion)
Grout failures related to installation
Substrate preparation issues
Waterproofing failures in wet areas

This warranty is in addition to manufacturer product warranties on the tile itself, giving you complete peace of mind. We can offer this protection because we’re confident in our installation process and the skill of our team. With proper care and maintenance, your professionally installed tile will look beautiful for decades.

American-Made Tile Products

At Leicester Flooring, we believe in supporting American manufacturing. That’s why we exclusively carry American-made tile products from trusted brands like Shaw Floors, Mohawk, and Emser Tile.

American-made tile offers several advantages:

Consistent quality control with rigorous manufacturing standards
Environmental responsibility with shorter shipping distances and cleaner production
Supporting American jobs and communities
Better warranties and customer support from domestic manufacturers
Readily available replacement tiles if needed in the future

When you choose Leicester Flooring, you’re not just getting expert installation—you’re getting premium American-made products that meet the highest quality standards.

Our Tile Installation Process in Asheville

We’ve refined our tile installation process over 50 years to ensure consistent, high-quality results on every project. Here’s what you can expect when you work with Leicester Flooring:

Step 1: Free In-Home Consultation and Measurement

Your tile project begins with a complimentary in-home consultation. One of our flooring specialists will visit your Asheville home to:

Assess your space and existing conditions
Take precise measurements for accurate material estimates
Evaluate substrate conditions (the foundation beneath your tile)
Discuss your design preferences and functional needs
Explain tile options that fit your budget and style
Provide a detailed, transparent estimate

This consultation is no-obligation and free throughout our service area, from downtown Asheville to Black Mountain, Weaverville, and beyond. You can schedule your free consultation at your convenience.

Step 2: Tile Selection and Design Planning

Once you’re ready to move forward, we’ll help you select the perfect tile for your project. Visit either of our showrooms—in Asheville on New Leicester Highway or in Hendersonville—to see and touch tile samples in person.

Our non-commissioned sales staff will guide you through:

Ceramic vs. porcelain tile selection based on your space
Tile size, shape, and format options (from classic subway tile to large-format planks)
Color and finish choices that complement your home’s style
Grout color selection and joint width
Layout patterns (straight lay, diagonal, herringbone, chevron)
Accent tiles and decorative borders
Budget considerations and value options

We’ll also use our room visualizer tool to help you see how different tiles will look in your actual space before making final decisions.

Step 3: Professional Substrate Preparation

The foundation beneath your tile—called the substrate—is absolutely critical to long-term performance. This is where many DIY projects and inexperienced installers fail, leading to cracked tiles, hollow sounds, and premature failure.

Our preparation process includes:

Evaluation and Repair

Inspection of existing substrate (concrete, plywood, existing tile, or drywall)
Checking for structural soundness, moisture issues, and damage
Repairing or replacing damaged areas
Addressing any underlying moisture problems

Leveling and Smoothing

Using self-leveling compounds to create perfectly flat surfaces
Grinding down high spots on concrete
Installing cement backerboard over wood subfloors for stability
Ensuring substrate meets flatness requirements (critical for large-format tile)

Waterproofing Application

Installing waterproof membranes in wet areas (bathrooms, laundry rooms)
Using systems like Schluter KERDI or RedGard depending on application
Creating completely waterproof shower pans with proper slope for drainage
Sealing all seams, corners, and penetrations

This preparation phase typically takes 1-2 days depending on project scope, and it’s time invested that pays dividends in the decades-long performance of your tile installation.

Step 4: Expert Tile Installation

With substrate properly prepared, our installation team begins laying your tile with precision and care.

Layout Planning Before setting any tile, we carefully plan the layout to:

Center the tile pattern in the most visually prominent areas
Minimize small cuts that look awkward or unprofessional
Plan cuts around fixtures, outlets, and architectural features
Ensure grout lines align throughout the space
Create visually balanced patterns

Tile Setting Our installers use professional techniques including:

Proper thinset mortar application with the correct trowel size
Back-buttering large tiles for full coverage and support
Using tile leveling systems to prevent lippage (uneven edges)
Maintaining consistent grout joint spacing
Checking level and alignment continuously
Installing expansion joints where needed to prevent cracking

Quality Control Throughout installation, we monitor:

Mortar coverage (should be at least 95% under each tile)
Level surfaces with laser levels and straightedges
Consistent grout joint width
Proper alignment of patterns
Tile cuts that fit precisely around obstacles

Step 5: Grouting, Sealing, and Final Inspection

After tiles are set and mortar has cured (typically 24-48 hours), we complete the finishing touches:

Professional Grouting

Selecting the right grout type (sanded vs. unsanded)
Mixing to manufacturer specifications
Applying grout and filling all joints completely
Cleaning excess grout from tile surfaces
Tooling joints for consistent depth and profile
Allowing proper cure time before use

Sealing (When Needed)

Sealing natural stone tile (marble, travertine, slate) to protect from staining
Applying grout sealer for long-term protection and easy cleaning
Using penetrating sealers that don’t alter tile appearance

Final Walkthrough Before our team leaves, we conduct a thorough final inspection with you:

Reviewing the completed installation for quality and finish
Explaining care and maintenance requirements
Providing information about cure times and when you can use the space
Answering any questions about your new tile
Ensuring you’re completely satisfied with the results

Cleanup We handle all cleanup, removing:

Construction debris and packaging
Dust and residue from cutting and grouting
Protective coverings
All equipment and materials

Your space is left clean and ready to enjoy.

Types of Tile Installation We Specialize In

Ceramic Tile Installation

Ceramic tile remains one of the most popular and versatile flooring options for Asheville homes. Made from clay fired at high temperatures, ceramic tile offers excellent durability at an affordable price point.

Our ceramic tile installations include:

Kitchen floors with easy-to-clean surfaces that resist spills and stains
Bathroom floors and walls in sizes from classic 12×12 to modern large-format
Entryways and mudrooms using durable, slip-resistant ceramic
Backsplashes in countless colors, patterns, and finishes
Laundry rooms where water resistance matters

Ceramic tile installation typically costs $5-8 per square foot installed in the Asheville area, making it an economical choice for budget-conscious homeowners who don’t want to compromise on quality.

Porcelain Tile Installation

Porcelain tile represents the premium segment of ceramic tile, with denser construction and superior performance characteristics. It’s fired at higher temperatures than standard ceramic, resulting in a tile that’s harder, less porous, and more resistant to moisture and wear.

We frequently install porcelain in:

High-traffic areas like entryways and hallways where durability is paramount
Bathrooms and showers where water exposure is constant
Kitchens needing commercial-grade performance for busy families
Basements where moisture resistance prevents damage
Outdoor patios using freeze-thaw rated porcelain for Western NC climate

Modern porcelain tile beautifully mimics natural materials—you’ll find options that look like wood planks, natural stone, concrete, and fabric—at a fraction of the cost and maintenance requirements. Large-format porcelain (24×24, 12×24, and even larger) creates a sleek, contemporary look with minimal grout lines.

Porcelain tile installation ranges from $8-12 per square foot installed depending on tile size and project complexity.

Natural Stone Tile Installation (Marble, Travertine, Slate)

Natural stone tile brings unmatched beauty and character to any space. Each stone tile is unique, with natural color variations, veining, and texture that cannot be replicated by manufactured products.

Marble Tile Installation Marble delivers timeless elegance, commonly chosen for:

Luxury bathroom floors and shower walls
Accent walls and fireplace surrounds
High-end kitchen backsplashes
Formal entryways

Marble requires experienced installation to handle its weight and delicate nature, plus proper sealing to protect against staining. Our team has extensive experience with Carrara, Calacatta, and other marble varieties.

Travertine Tile Installation With its distinctive pitted surface and warm earth tones, travertine creates a Mediterranean or Tuscan aesthetic. We install travertine in:

Bathroom floors with slip-resistant filled or tumbled finishes
Outdoor patios and walkways
Kitchen floors in traditional or rustic homes
Accent walls

Slate Tile Installation Slate’s natural cleft surface and rich, varied colors make it ideal for:

Entryway floors that hide dirt while looking beautiful
Outdoor patios in mountain homes
Rustic bathroom installations
Accent walls with dramatic texture

Natural stone installation is more complex than ceramic or porcelain, requiring specialized cutting techniques, proper sealing, and careful grout selection. Expect $10-15 per square foot installed for natural stone tile in Asheville.

Mosaic and Decorative Tile Installation

Mosaic tiles—typically 2×2 inches or smaller, often arranged in artistic patterns—add personality and visual interest to any space. Installation requires patience and precision to maintain pattern alignment and consistent grout joints.

Popular mosaic applications include:

Shower accent walls with glass or stone mosaics
Kitchen backsplashes combining field tiles with mosaic borders
Bathroom floors using small hexagons or penny rounds for slip resistance
Fireplace surrounds with decorative focal points
Niche accents in showers and entryways

We also specialize in decorative installations using:

Listello borders and accent strips
Medallions and inlays
Custom patterns and layouts
Mixed-material combinations

Large-Format Tile Installation

Large-format tile—typically 12×24 inches and larger, including popular 24×24 and plank formats—creates a modern, spacious aesthetic with minimal grout lines. However, it requires expert installation because any substrate imperfections become more visible.

Why Large-Format Installation Is More Challenging:

Substrate must be perfectly flat (lippage shows dramatically)
Tiles are heavier and more difficult to handle
Requires specialized tools and techniques
Mortar must be applied precisely for full coverage
Leveling systems are essential to prevent lippage

Our installers have extensive experience with large-format tile and the specialized skills to ensure flat, level results. We commonly install large-format in:

Open-concept living areas where fewer grout lines create visual flow
Modern kitchens with contemporary design
Bathrooms seeking a spa-like aesthetic
Commercial-looking spaces

The clean, minimalist look of large-format tile is worth the additional care required during installation, and our team delivers the precision necessary for beautiful results.

Tile Installation by Room Type

Bathroom Tile Installation

Bathrooms present unique challenges for tile installation, primarily due to constant moisture exposure. Professional installation is essential to prevent water damage, mold growth, and costly repairs down the road.

Our Bathroom Tile Installation Includes:

Floor Tile

Substrate evaluation and repair
Installation of cement backerboard over wood subfloors
Application of waterproof membrane (Schluter DITRA or similar)
Proper slope toward drains
Heated floor integration (when requested)
Slip-resistant tile selection and installation

Shower Tile

Complete waterproofing system (Schluter KERDI or equivalent)
Proper shower pan construction with 1/4-inch-per-foot slope
Vapor barrier behind cement backerboard
Waterproof niches for storage
Custom bench seats (when desired)
Proper placement of showerhead, controls, and accessories
Glass enclosure coordination

Wall Tile

Water-resistant substrate installation
Waterproofing in wet areas
Layout planning for balanced visual appeal
Integration with fixtures and outlets
Decorative accent placement

Special Considerations for Asheville Bathrooms: Western North Carolina’s humidity requires extra attention to ventilation and moisture management. We ensure proper vapor barriers and recommend exhaust fans sized appropriately for your bathroom to prevent moisture problems that can compromise even the best tile installation.

Bathroom tile installation typically takes 4-7 days depending on size and complexity, with an additional 24-48 hours of cure time before use.

Kitchen Tile and Backsplash Installation

Kitchens see heavy use, spills, dropped items, and constant foot traffic. Your tile needs to withstand it all while looking beautiful.

Kitchen Floor Tile Porcelain tile is our top recommendation for kitchen floors due to its density and durability. We install kitchen floors using:

Properly prepared substrates that won’t flex (flex causes cracked grout)
Tile rated for high-traffic areas (AC4 or AC5 rated)
Slip-resistant finishes for safety
Grout that resists staining from spills

Kitchen Backsplash Installation Backsplashes protect walls from cooking splatter while adding personality to your kitchen. Popular options include:

Classic subway tile in 3×6 or 4×8 sizes
Glass tile for shimmer and light reflection
Decorative mosaic patterns
Large-format porcelain that matches countertops
Natural stone for upscale kitchens

Behind-the-Stove Requirements The area behind your range requires special consideration:

Heat-resistant tile selection
Proper clearances from burners
Grout suitable for high-heat areas
Easy-to-clean surfaces that resist grease

Coordinating with Cabinets and Countertops Our design team helps ensure your tile selection complements existing cabinetry colors and countertop materials, creating a cohesive kitchen design.

Kitchen backsplash installation typically takes 1-2 days, while full kitchen floor installations take 2-4 days depending on size and layout complexity.

Entryway and Mudroom Tile Installation

Entryways and mudrooms face the toughest conditions: tracked-in dirt, mud, rain, snow, and constant foot traffic from outdoor shoes. Tile is an ideal choice because it’s durable, easy to clean, and can handle moisture without damage.

Durability Requirements We recommend:

Porcelain tile rated for heavy traffic
Slip-resistant finishes for wet conditions
Grout that resists staining from dirt
Colors and patterns that hide inevitable dirt

Transition Details Professional installation ensures smooth transitions between:

Tile and hardwood in adjacent rooms
Tile and carpet
Exterior thresholds
Different tile types or heights

Proper transitions prevent tripping hazards and give your home a polished, finished appearance.

Popular Entryway Tile Choices:

Large-format porcelain for easy cleaning with fewer grout lines
Natural slate with slip-resistant cleft surface
Patterned ceramic or porcelain that disguises dirt
Darker colors that don’t show wear

Laundry Room Tile Installation

Laundry rooms benefit enormously from tile flooring. Washing machines can leak, detergent spills happen, and wet clothes drip. Tile handles all of it without damage, unlike laminate or carpet.

We install waterproof tile with proper substrate preparation to handle potential water exposure. Many homeowners choose vinyl or porcelain tile that mimics wood for a warm appearance with waterproof performance.

Outdoor Patio Tile Installation

Western North Carolina’s climate presents specific challenges for outdoor tile: freeze-thaw cycles in winter, humidity in summer, and temperature swings between seasons. Not all tile is suitable for outdoor use.

Requirements for Outdoor Tile in Asheville:

Porcelain rated for freeze-thaw resistance
Slip-resistant surface finish
Proper substrate with drainage
Slope for water runoff
Expansion joints to accommodate temperature changes

We install outdoor tile on:

Covered porches
Screened porches
Patios
Outdoor kitchens
Pool surrounds (with slip-resistant pool coping)

Proper installation includes a concrete base with slight slope for drainage, ensuring water never pools on your outdoor tile surface.

Service Areas: Asheville, Hendersonville & Western NC

Buncombe County Tile Installation

Leicester Flooring proudly serves all of Buncombe County with professional tile installation services. Our Asheville showroom on New Leicester Highway provides convenient access to tile samples and our experienced design team.

Buncombe County Communities We Serve:

Downtown Asheville and Biltmore Village
West Asheville
South Asheville and Biltmore Forest
North Asheville
Black Mountain
Weaverville
Swannanoa
Candler and Enka
Leicester
Woodfin
Fairview

We understand Buncombe County’s unique housing stock, from historic bungalows in West Asheville to modern mountain homes in Biltmore Forest. Our experience with local architecture and building codes ensures compliant, high-quality installations throughout the county.

Henderson County Tile Installation

Our Hendersonville showroom on 7th Avenue East serves Henderson County and surrounding areas. This location offers the full range of tile options and installation services with the same lifetime warranty and expert craftsmanship.

Henderson County Communities We Serve:

Hendersonville
Fletcher
Flat Rock
Laurel Park
Mills River
Edneyville
Mountain Home

Henderson County homeowners benefit from our proximity and local knowledge, with installation teams familiar with the area’s home styles and specific needs.

Serving Black Mountain, Weaverville, and Surrounding Areas

Beyond Asheville and Hendersonville proper, we provide tile installation throughout Western North Carolina, including:

Black Mountain and Montreat
Weaverville and Mars Hill
Marshall and Hot Springs
Barnardsville
Canton and Clyde
Waynesville and Maggie Valley

We offer the same free in-home consultations, accurate estimates, professional installation, and lifetime warranty throughout our extended service area. Our teams travel regularly to these communities and understand the specific considerations of mountain homes, from elevation effects on materials to access challenges in rural areas.

Service Area Coverage: While our primary service area centers on Asheville and Hendersonville, we regularly serve homes within a 30-40 mile radius of our showrooms. If you’re unsure whether we serve your area, contact us—chances are we do, or we can recommend a trusted local installer.

What Makes Quality Tile Installation

Not all tile installations are created equal. The difference between a tile floor that looks beautiful for decades and one that develops problems within years comes down to installation quality.

Proper Substrate Preparation

The substrate—the surface beneath your tile—is the most critical factor in long-term performance. A perfectly level, structurally sound substrate prevents the most common tile problems: cracking, lippage, hollow-sounding tiles, and premature grout failure.

What Proper Substrate Preparation Looks Like:

Structural soundness: Substrate must not flex or move (flex causes cracked tiles and grout)
Flatness: Within 1/8 inch over 10 feet for small tiles, 1/16 inch over 10 feet for large-format
Cleanliness: Free of dust, debris, oils, and contaminants that prevent adhesion
Moisture control: Proper moisture barriers and waterproofing where needed
Appropriate substrate: Cement backerboard over wood, properly prepared concrete, or suitable existing tile

We never cut corners on substrate preparation. It’s the foundation of quality tile installation, and rushing this phase leads to problems that no amount of skill during tile-setting can overcome.

Professional Waterproofing Techniques

Water damage is the primary cause of tile installation failure in bathrooms and other wet areas. Professional waterproofing isn’t just important—it’s essential.

Our Waterproofing Approach:

Redundant systems: We use multiple layers of protection, not single-point waterproofing
Proven products: Schluter KERDI systems, RedGard membranes, and similar professional-grade materials
Proper overlap: Waterproof membranes must overlap and seal completely
Attention to penetrations: Drains, valves, and fixtures require careful waterproofing
Vapor barriers: Behind cement backerboard in showers
Shower pan construction: Proper slope and waterproof liner

Many DIY and inexperienced installer failures happen because waterproofing is invisible once tile is installed. You don’t know there’s a problem until water damage appears—often years later. Professional waterproofing provides peace of mind that your tile installation won’t lead to costly water damage.

Precise Layout and Leveling

Tile layout affects both aesthetics and functionality. Poor layout results in awkward cuts, off-center patterns, and an unprofessional appearance.

Professional Layout Planning:

Centering: Starting point selected to center the pattern in the most visible area
Cut planning: Ensuring edge tiles are at least half-width (narrow slivers look bad)
Symmetry: Balanced layout around focal points like shower controls or vanities
Pattern alignment: Grout lines that align throughout the space
Fixture coordination: Planning cuts around toilets, cabinets, and other obstacles

Leveling for Flat Surfaces:

Laser levels checking flatness continuously
Tile leveling systems preventing lippage (uneven tile edges)
Straightedges confirming alignment
Proper thinset application for full support

A level, well-laid-out tile installation looks professional and performs better long-term.

Expert Grouting and Sealing

Grouting seems simple, but professional technique makes a significant difference in appearance and longevity.

Professional Grouting:

Correct grout type: Sanded for joints wider than 1/8 inch, unsanded for smaller joints
Proper mixing: Following manufacturer specifications for consistency
Complete filling: Joints fully packed with no voids
Consistent depth: Professional tooling for uniform joint profile
Thorough cleaning: Removing all haze without damaging fresh grout
Cure time: Allowing proper curing before sealing or use

Sealing When Needed:

Natural stone: Penetrating sealers protecting from stains
Grout sealer: Protecting grout from staining and moisture penetration
Reapplication schedule: Guidance on when to reseal for continued protection

Tile Installation Cost in Asheville

Understanding tile installation costs helps you budget appropriately and compare estimates effectively.

Factors Affecting Installation Price

Several factors influence your final tile installation cost:

Tile Type and Material

Ceramic tile: Most economical ($5-8/sq ft installed)
Porcelain tile: Mid-range ($8-12/sq ft installed)
Natural stone: Premium ($10-15/sq ft installed)
Large-format or specialty tile: Higher due to installation complexity

Substrate Condition

Good condition: Minimal preparation costs
Repairs needed: Additional cost for substrate repair or replacement
Waterproofing requirements: Showers and bathrooms need extensive waterproofing
Removal of existing flooring: Add $2-4/sq ft for removal and disposal

Pattern and Layout Complexity

Straight lay: Standard pricing
Diagonal: 10-15% additional labor
Herringbone or chevron: 20-30% additional labor
Custom patterns or medallions: Quoted individually

Room Type and Access

Simple rectangular rooms: Standard pricing
Many cuts around fixtures: Additional labor
Stairs: Premium pricing due to complexity
Difficult access: May affect pricing if material transport is challenging

Project Size

Larger projects: Slightly lower per-square-foot cost
Small projects: Minimum charges may apply
Multiple rooms: Potential discount for bundling

Typical Asheville Tile Installation Costs:

Bathroom floor (50-75 sq ft): $800-1,500
Bathroom floor + shower walls: $2,500-5,000
Kitchen floor (150-200 sq ft): $1,500-3,000
Kitchen backsplash (30-40 sq ft): $600-1,200
Entryway (50 sq ft): $500-1,000

These ranges include materials (tile, thinset, grout, waterproofing) and labor for a complete installation. Custom tile, complex patterns, or extensive substrate work can increase costs.

Free Estimates with In-Home Measurement

Leicester Flooring provides accurate, detailed estimates based on in-home measurements—not rough “ballpark” figures. Our estimates include:

Precise square footage calculations
Material costs broken down by tile, thinset, grout, and supplies
Labor costs for installation
Substrate preparation needs
Any additional work required (removal, waterproofing, etc.)
Timeline for project completion

We never surprise you with hidden fees or charges. The estimate we provide is the price you’ll pay.

Schedule your free in-home measurement to receive an accurate quote for your tile installation project in Asheville or surrounding areas.

Financing Options

Quality tile installation is an investment in your home, and we want to make it affordable. Leicester Flooring offers flexible financing through Synchrony Financial, with:

No prepayment penalties
Easy terms
Quick approvals
Competitive rates

Financing allows you to enjoy your new tile now while paying over time in manageable monthly installments. Ask our team about current financing promotions when you schedule your consultation.

Why Professional Installation Matters

Avoiding Common DIY Tile Mistakes

Tile installation looks deceptively simple in online tutorials, but the reality is far more complex. DIY tile projects frequently encounter problems that professional installers prevent:

Substrate Issues

DIY Problem: Installing over flexing or unsuitable substrate
Professional Solution: Proper substrate evaluation, repair, and reinforcement before installation begins

Waterproofing Failures

DIY Problem: Inadequate or incorrect waterproofing leading to water damage
Professional Solution: Redundant waterproofing systems with proven materials and techniques

Layout Errors

DIY Problem: Starting in the wrong location, leading to narrow cuts or off-center patterns
Professional Solution: Careful layout planning before setting the first tile

Lippage (Uneven Tiles)

DIY Problem: Tiles at different heights creating trip hazards and poor appearance
Professional Solution: Tile leveling systems and careful attention during setting

Inadequate Thinset Coverage

DIY Problem: Voids under tiles causing hollow sounds and eventual cracking
Professional Solution: Proper trowel size, technique, and back-buttering for full coverage

Grout Problems

DIY Problem: Inconsistent joints, voids, cracking, or incorrect grout type
Professional Solution: Professional-grade grout properly mixed and applied

Poor Cuts

DIY Problem: Chipped edges, inaccurate measurements, inadequate tools
Professional Solution: Professional wet saws and tools for precise, clean cuts

These mistakes aren’t always visible immediately—problems often develop over months or years as grout cracks, tiles come loose, or water damage appears. By then, the cost to fix the problems often exceeds what professional installation would have cost initially.

Long-Term Performance and Durability

Professional tile installation delivers decades of reliable performance. With proper care, professionally installed tile commonly lasts 30-50 years or more. The investment in quality installation pays for itself many times over through longevity and trouble-free performance.

DIY or budget installations may seem to save money initially, but they often require repairs, touch-ups, or complete replacement within 5-10 years—ultimately costing more than professional installation would have from the start.

Warranty Protection

Many tile manufacturers void product warranties if tile isn’t professionally installed according to their specifications. When you hire Leicester Flooring, you get:

Our lifetime installation warranty covering workmanship and installation defects
Full manufacturer product warranties on the tile itself
Installation documentation required by manufacturers
Professional accountability if any issues arise

DIY installation typically voids all warranties, leaving you without recourse if problems develop.

Time and Stress Savings

Professional installation saves you significant time and stress. A bathroom that might take an experienced DIYer an entire week (or multiple weekends) typically takes our professional team 2-3 days. You avoid:

Tool rental or purchase costs
Learning curve trial-and-error
Physical labor and strain
Cleanup and disposal
Risk of costly mistakes

Your time has value, and professional installation frees you to spend it on things that matter to you while ensuring quality results.

Professional Tools and Materials

Our installers have access to professional-grade tools and materials that make better results possible:

Industrial wet saws with laser guides for precise cuts
Tile leveling systems preventing lippage
Laser levels ensuring perfect flatness
Professional-grade thinset, grout, and waterproofing materials
Specialized diamond blades for different tile types
Tools for drilling clean holes in tile without cracking

These tools represent thousands of dollars in investment—not practical for a single DIY project but essential for professional results.

Schedule Your Free Tile Installation Consultation

Ready to transform your Asheville home with beautiful, professionally installed tile? Leicester Flooring makes it easy to get started:

Step 1: Contact Us

Call our Asheville showroom at (828) 348-4846
Call our Hendersonville showroom at (828) 233-5973
Schedule online at your convenience
Request a free in-home measurement

Step 2: Free In-Home Consultation One of our flooring specialists will visit your home to:

Measure your space precisely
Evaluate substrate conditions
Discuss your design preferences and functional needs
Answer all your questions
Provide a detailed, accurate estimate

Step 3: Visit Our Showroom See tile samples in person at either location:

Asheville Showroom: 119 New Leicester Highway, Asheville, NC 28806
Hendersonville Showroom: 1229 7th Ave E, Hendersonville, NC 28792

Browse hundreds of tile options from Shaw, Mohawk, and Emser Tile, and use our room visualizer to see how different tiles will look in your space.

Step 4: Schedule Installation Once you’ve selected your tile, we’ll schedule your installation at a time that works for your schedule. Our team handles everything from preparation through final cleanup.

Step 5: Enjoy Your Beautiful New Tile Backed by our lifetime installation warranty and decades of tile expertise, your new tile will look beautiful and perform flawlessly for decades to come.

Summary

Leicester Flooring brings over 50 years of tile installation expertise to homeowners throughout Asheville, Hendersonville, and Western North Carolina. Our experienced installers, lifetime installation warranty, and commitment to American-made products set us apart from big-box stores and other flooring companies.

Whether you’re planning a bathroom renovation, kitchen backsplash, new entryway, or any other tile project, professional installation ensures beautiful, long-lasting results. From substrate preparation and waterproofing through precise tile-setting and expert grouting, every phase of our installation process reflects the craftsmanship and attention to detail that have made Leicester Flooring a trusted name for five decades.

Contact us today for your free consultation and discover the Leicester difference: expert tile installation backed by a lifetime warranty, serving Asheville and Western North Carolina since 1971.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tile Installation

How long does tile installation take?

Tile installation timelines vary by project size and complexity. A typical bathroom floor takes 2-3 days including substrate preparation, waterproofing, tile installation, and grouting. Kitchen backsplashes usually take 1 day. Shower tile installations require 4-5 days due to extensive waterproofing. Large-format or complex pattern installations may take longer. All tile needs 24-48 hours of cure time before use. We provide specific timelines during your free consultation based on your project details.

Do you remove old flooring before installing tile?

Yes, Leicester Flooring offers complete turnkey tile installation including removal and disposal of old flooring. We evaluate whether existing flooring can remain (in some cases, tile can be installed over existing tile or properly prepared floors) or must be removed. Old vinyl, carpet, or damaged tile typically needs removal to ensure proper substrate preparation. Removal costs are included in your detailed estimate.

What type of tile is best for bathrooms?

Porcelain tile is typically the best choice for bathroom floors and showers due to its low water absorption, durability, and extensive design options. For shower floors, we recommend smaller tiles (2×2 mosaics or similar) for slip resistance and proper slope. Natural stone like marble creates a luxury look but requires sealing and more maintenance. Ceramic tile works well for bathroom walls. Our team helps you select the ideal tile based on your bathroom’s specific needs, style preferences, and budget.

Can you install tile over existing flooring?

In some situations, yes—tile can be installed over existing tile if it’s well-adhered, level, and structurally sound. However, vinyl, laminate, carpet, and damaged or loose tile must be removed. The substrate beneath must be stable and flat to support new tile. Adding tile over existing flooring also raises floor height, which affects transitions, doorways, and fixtures. We evaluate your specific situation during our free in-home consultation and recommend the best approach for long-term results.

What’s included in your lifetime installation warranty?

Leicester Flooring’s lifetime installation warranty covers workmanship and installation defects for as long as you own your home. This includes problems like lippage (uneven tiles), hollow-sounding tiles indicating inadequate mortar coverage, grout failures related to installation, and waterproofing failures in wet areas. The warranty doesn’t cover damage from accidents, improper cleaning, or natural disasters. It’s in addition to manufacturer product warranties on the tile itself. This comprehensive protection reflects our confidence in our installation quality and our commitment to customer satisfaction.

Do you offer financing for tile installation?

Yes, Leicester Flooring partners with Synchrony Financial to offer flexible financing options for your tile installation project. Financing features include no prepayment penalties, easy terms, quick approvals, and competitive rates. Various promotional financing options are often available. Ask about current financing offers when you schedule your free consultation. Financing makes quality tile installation more affordable by spreading costs over manageable monthly payments.

How much does tile installation cost in Asheville?

Tile installation costs in Asheville typically range from $5-15 per square foot installed depending on tile type, substrate condition, and project complexity. Ceramic tile installations generally cost $5-8/sq ft, porcelain $8-12/sq ft, and natural stone $10-15/sq ft. Small bathrooms (50-75 sq ft) average $800-1,500 for floor tile. Kitchen backsplashes (30-40 sq ft) typically cost $600-1,200. These estimates include materials (tile, thinset, grout, waterproofing) and professional installation labor. We provide accurate, detailed estimates after your free in-home measurement.

What areas do you serve for tile installation?

Leicester Flooring serves Asheville, Hendersonville, and throughout Western North Carolina. Our primary service area includes all of Buncombe County (Asheville, West Asheville, Black Mountain, Weaverville, Candler, Fairview) and Henderson County (Hendersonville, Fletcher, Flat Rock). We also serve surrounding areas including Marshall, Mars Hill, Waynesville, and communities within a 30-40 mile radius of our Asheville and Hendersonville showrooms. Contact us if you’re unsure whether we serve your area.