Tile Installation Do’s and Don’ts: Splurge-Worthy Moves for Your Kitchen Reno
There are some things you can save on. Tile installation? Not one of them. Here’s why.
Let’s talk about a renovation decision that catches a lot of people off guard: tile installation.
I know, it’s not the most exciting part of your reno. You’re probably more into paint colors, hardware, or that perfect brass sconce. But if you're putting in a new shower or a tile kitchen backsplash, here’s the deal: you can buy the prettiest tile in the world, but if it’s not installed right, it’s not going to matter.
And if you’re working through a kitchen renovation on a budget, knowing where to splurge (and where you don’t have to) makes all the difference.
Tile Installation: Save on the Tile, But Not the Installation
I love a good save moment. Basic white subway tile? Still iconic. A $4 ceramic from Floor & Decor? Totally usable. Tile is absolutely a place to save when you're managing a budget.
But the tile installation? That’s where we spend.
A good installer can make affordable tile look elevated. A not-so-great one? Can make expensive tile look like a rushed DIY project, and not in a cute way.
Tile and Grout Are Porous (Waterproofing Is Not Optional!)
Here’s what most people don’t realize: tile is porous. Grout too. Which means water will find its way through, especially in showers or wet zones.
That’s why proper waterproofing matters so much. It’s the stuff you don’t see, but if it’s not done right, you’re dealing with mold, rot, and a very expensive do-over. Not ideal when you’re trying to pull off a kitchen renovation on a budget.
Bottom line: the surface might look pretty, but it’s what’s underneath that keeps it safe.
For a Great Tile Kitchen Backsplash, Start With the Layout
One of the best ways to make a tile kitchen backsplash look intentional? Planning the layout before the tile ever touches the wall.
A professional installer will:
Map out where cuts will land
Ask how you want the pattern oriented
Keep grout lines consistent (and straight)
Talk through tricky spots like outlets or corners before the install
This is what takes your backsplash from “fine” to actually beautiful, and it doesn’t have to cost more tile-wise. It just takes a pro who knows what they’re doing.
Thinking About DIY Tile Installation? Then Let’s Be Honest.
I get asked this a lot. And listen, I’m not anti-DIY. But DIY tile installation isn’t as easy as a YouTube tutorial makes it look.
If you’re dead set on trying it, keep these in mind:
Start small (think powder room, not full shower surround)
Pick easy tiles (matte ceramics, basic shapes)
Expect it to take twice as long as you think
Watch multiple tutorials, not just one guy on TikTok
And if it starts going sideways? There’s zero shame in stopping and calling in help. Better to pivot early than rip it out later.
A Tile Installer Is Essentially Part of Your Design Team
When you hire the right installer, you’re not just paying for labor, you’re getting someone who:
Can spot issues before they become problems
Cuts around edges with clean lines
Understands how to make your tile layout shine
Doesn’t leave you with crooked grout lines and uneven spacing
In short, they take your vision and actually execute it. That’s worth every penny. Especially when you don’t want to re-do your reno six months later.
Save Here, Splurge There
Let’s go over a quick rundown:
💰 Save on:
Budget-friendly ceramic or porcelain tile
Simpler patterns (stacked, straight lay)
Grout color (classic white or gray is fine!)
💸 Splurge on:
A skilled tile installation pro
Proper waterproofing (especially for showers or wet walls)
Detailed layout planning
This balance is exactly how I guide clients through a kitchen renovation on a budget without cutting corners that matter.
Before You Pick a Tile, Read This First
👉 Kitchen Renovation on a Budget: Top 8 Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Kitchen Cabinets
Because a smart kitchen renovation isn’t just about pretty finishes. It’s about avoiding the headaches nobody warns you about. This free guide walks you through the cabinet decisions that can throw off your whole budget (and what to do instead). Grab it before you start second-guessing everything.
GET THE CHEAT SHEET →