Tile Installation Montreal: Your Questions, Answered

We get asked the same handful of questions on almost every call, whether it's a first-time renovator or someone who's done this before and just wants to confirm what they remember. We put the ten most common ones in one place, with straight answers — no sales pitch, just what you need to know before your project starts.

How long does tile installation actually take?

For a standard bathroom (around 100 sq ft), plan on 3 to 5 working days from demolition to grout curing; a kitchen backsplash can be a single day; a full kitchen floor typically runs 2 to 4 days. These timelines assume no major subfloor repairs are needed — add extra days if the subfloor needs leveling or if there's water damage to address first.

Can you tile directly over existing tile?

Sometimes, but it's not usually the better choice. Tiling over tile is possible if the existing surface is flat, well-bonded, and structurally sound, but it raises the floor height (which can affect doors and transitions) and traps whatever problems already exist underneath. In most cases, removing the old tile and starting from a clean, level subfloor gives a longer-lasting result.

How long before I can walk on newly installed tile?

Generally 24 to 72 hours, depending on the setting material used. Quick-set mortar can allow foot traffic in as little as 6 hours, while traditional thin-set typically needs a full 24 to 48 hours before the tile has bonded enough to handle weight safely. Walking on it too soon can shift tiles and throw off your grout lines before the installer even gets to that stage.

How long does grout take to dry and fully cure?

Grout is usually dry to the touch within 24 hours, but it needs 48 to 72 hours to cure completely, and up to two to three weeks before it should be exposed to standing water or heavy cleaning.This is why a new shower typically shouldn't be used for at least a week after grouting, even though it looks finished the next day.

Do I need a permit to retile a bathroom or kitchen in Montreal?

A straightforward tile replacement usually doesn't require a permit, but if the project involves moving plumbing, altering structural elements, or is part of a larger renovation, the City of Montreal or your borough may require one. It's worth confirming with your borough's building department before work starts, especially for larger commercial or multi-unit projects.

What's the real difference between ceramic and porcelain tile?

Porcelain is denser, less porous, and more durable than ceramic, which makes it a better fit for floors, high-traffic areas, and anywhere exposed to moisture. Ceramic is generally less expensive and easier to cut, and works well for walls, backsplashes, and lighter-use floors. Both can look nearly identical on the showroom floor — the difference shows up in how they perform over years, not in the first six months.

Can tile be installed over radiant floor heating?

Yes — tile is actually one of the best flooring materials to pair with radiant heat, because it conducts and retains warmth well. The installation needs to account for the heating system during subfloor prep and use a setting material rated for radiant heat exposure, so this is a detail worth flagging with your installer at the quoting stage, not after the floor is already down.

How do I know if my subfloor needs leveling before tiling?

Most installers check this with a straightedge or laser level during the initial site visit — if there's more than about 1/8 inch of variation over 10 feet, leveling is usually recommended, and it's essentially required for large-format tile. Older homes, homes with wood subfloors, and any space with a history of water damage are the most likely to need this step.

How often should grout be resealed?

For most homes, resealing grout every 12 to 18 months keeps it resistant to staining and moisture, though high-traffic areas or wet rooms like showers may need it closer to once a year. A quick test: if water no longer beads on the grout when splashed, it's time to reseal.

Can tile be installed in winter in Montreal?

Yes, tile installation is an indoor job and isn't seasonal the way exterior work is — winter is actually a popular time for renovations since many homeowners are indoors more and planning spring-ready spaces. The one consideration is material delivery and site conditions if it's a newbuild or an area without reliable heat yet, which your installer can flag during scheduling.

Still Have a Question? If your question isn't on this list, that's what the consultation is for. Book a call with Ceramique Costa and we'll walk through the specifics of your project, timeline, and space.