Too soft and porous for the most part. Dont buy anything from F&D. It’s all seconds, private label junk, or overstock. But from a real flooring store, where they can show you the legit manufacturer’s rating for PEI, absorption %, and DCOF.

It looks like they are both rated to be used as you wish, with the floor tile also being water resistant. Epoxy grout adds to waterproofness, so I'd be sure to use that, plus it's a dream to keep clean,

There is nothing wrong with ceramic in a wet area. Been used for eons. The tile isn't what makes a watertight installation anyway. Not the grout either (and there are many acceptable grouts for use in a shower, some with stain resistance, and not necessarily epoxy). It's the prep that matters when it comes to a proper, waterproofed shower. Now, as for the F&D tile, we do find that the quality can be an issue and would agree that sourcing from an actual tile specialty store is a better idea. Quality, as in uniform sizing, flatness, color consistency, broken tiles, are some of the character deficiencies you might find with some suppliers. Not all selections, but enough to be problematic. Why does that matter, you might ask? A very experienced tile installer can work wonders with less than perfect tile (although with a larger price tag for the time required to make adjustments). Many of us reject poor quality tile as we won't compromise our standards for the finished aesthetic. Let me be clear, not ALL tile from box stores (like F&D) is problematic. I would suggest you provide multiple samples to your installer for approval regardless of where you source it. One final caveat: penny tile installations require a very experienced installer as well and a bit more time to set (you do not want to see the sheet lines). All that said, I would focus first on the big ticket item and the most important factor for a long lasting and beautiful shower. Sorry for the long post but education is key: LOOKING FOR A QUALIFIED TILE INSTALLER?

14 QUESTIONS YOU SHOULD ASK TO FIND A GOOD MATCH FOR YOUR PROJECT.

1. Do they have liability insurance and if they have employees, are they covered with Worker’s Compensation Insurance?

· Make sure you can verify appropriate insurance coverage.

2. Are they licensed (if required in your area)?

· Verify. Some states do not require tile contractor’s to be licensed.

3. How many years have they been working exclusively as tile installers?

· It takes many years to become proficient as a dedicated, qualified tile professional. Five years or more would be an expected minimum.

4. How was the installer trained? Do they participate in on-going professional industry training from organizations and or manufactures, and specifically what?

· Installers who have completed an apprenticeship under a Qualified Tile Installer and participate in industry training are generally more likely to follow standards and recommendations and stay current with products, materials, and industry updates.

5. Are they familiar with the TCNA Handbook and ANSI Standards and do they follow these industry recommendations?

· The TCNA Handbook coupled with ANSI Standards are the industry recognized guidelines for the installation of tile for a wide range of applications. A qualified tile professional will be familiar with and know how to specify and use these reference tools.

6. If wet areas (showers/baths) are to be included in the work performed, what approved system/methods will they use to assure a long-lasting installation?

· Tile installations in wet areas require some very important preparation to avoid leaks and unwanted moisture problems. Hybrid or unapproved methods, and the use of materials inappropriate for this application can contribute to a very costly and unwanted result that too often requires complete removal and replacement by a qualified professional. A quality installation should last decades or longer.

7. What manufacturer’s products do they use and do they comply with manufacturer’s instructions?

· There are many manufacturers of quality tile setting materials. Most perform well with use of approved methods and adherence to manufacturer specifications. Qualified tile installers will be well-versed on the materials and systems they prefer and should be able to answer your questions about the process and materials and their associated warranties.

8. Do they have a company website or social media page with photos of their work?

· Professionals will have a public presence that is available to consumers so you can review their work and customer reviews. Lack of a traceable, legitimate, and committed business should be a deterrent to hiring.

9. Can you speak with recent customers and see photos of those projects?

· Qualified, experienced tile contractors will have a loyal client base that is happy to recommend them and share their experience.

10. Do they have experience working with the type of tile you plan to use?

· There are different methods, materials and considerations when installing various tile products… ceramic, porcelain, large format tile, handmade tile, natural stone, glass, mosaics. Verify their experience and training with the tile product you have chosen.

11. Talk to them about positives and challenges of past projects

· Get to know the tile professional as part of your project team. Do they take pride in their work? If your General Contractor is hiring the tile installer, it may make sense to request meeting with the GC and tile installer in advance of the installation.

12. What has been their greatest challenge as a tile installer?

· Listen carefully to understand the installer’s limitations and ability to meet your expectations.

13. Do they or their team belong to a professional organization like NTCA (National Tile Contractor’s Association)?

· Industry involvement is one indication of a tile installation company’s commitment to their craft. It gives them access to education, technical information, and other resources to assist them in professionally serving you. Search NTCA’s website for members near you.

14. Are they, or do they have Certified Tile Installer’s (Certified Tile Education Foundation, CTI) on their team?

· The certification of tile installers is an important step forward for the consumer. The industry has established a process to certify tile installers. Certification identifies an installer as being a dedicated and knowledgeable professional whose competence in installing tile has been verified to meet specific tile industry standards. Search Certified Tile Education Foundation for a CTI near you.