*image via* *clé tile* *- zellige fallen citrus*

I can’t even count how many times I’ve run into homeowners in the tile aisles at Home Depot, Lowe’s, Floor & Decor, Bedrosians — you name it. I can always spot the design newbies by the look on their faces: a mix of excitement, panic, and total decision fatigue as they stare at fifty shades of beige tile.

Honestly? It brings me joy. I love stepping in, helping them sort through the chaos, and guiding them toward a choice they’ll actually feel confident about.

Over the years, I’ve noticed that most people focus only on the tile itself — the color, the shape, the material — but overlook the less obvious decisions that truly make or break a remodel. So if you’re tackling a DIY renovation, here are the top less-common (but crucial!) things to consider before you start:

1. Grout Size & Grout Color

The wrong grout can ruin the right tile, and the right grout can make a budget tile look custom. Also keep in mind: white floor grout gets dirty — very quickly — especially with wet feet or high traffic. Grout is not easy to clean.
Another tip: you don’t always have to use white. As a general rule, darker tiles typically look best with darker grout.

*credit: Designer: Lindy Design Build Photographer: PLV Photography*

2. Trim & Edging

Don’t forget about your schluter or bullnose. Finished edges are the difference between “DIY project” and “designer install.” An unfinished edge can instantly cheapen an otherwise beautiful space. However a mitered edge is what you should be asking your tile installers about. It’s a cleaner look that doesn’t require extra Schluter or bullnose.

Not sure what I mean? Think about where your tile ends — on a wall, at a corner, or where it meets another material. That finishing piece is your trim or edging.

*Image via Renovation Realty design: Juli Novotny*

3. Tile Installation Patterns

Offset, herringbone, stacked, brick lay — your pattern affects the entire vibe. A simple tile can look completely elevated when installed in the right pattern.

4. Tile Thickness

Mixing tiles of different thickness on the same surface? You’ll regret it — and so will your installer.
I’ve learned this the hard way: sometimes you fall in love with two floor tiles, only to discover they’re different thicknesses and you’re forced into rushed last-minute decisions. Know this upfront.

5. Installation Quality

A beautiful tile can look awful with poor installation. The labor matters just as much as the material.
And near drains? Use smaller tiles or mosaics — they slope better and won’t create uneven ridges that pool water.

6. Installation Costs

Complex patterns, large-format tiles, and certain materials (like zellige) require more skill — which means higher installation costs. Budget for that.
Also: make sure your contractor knows exactly what tile you’re using and in which pattern before he gives you a quote. Otherwise, you may get hit with a last-minute change order.

7. Shower Curbs & Transitions

Are you building a curb? Going curbless? How will it transition into your main floor tile? These details impact drainage, safety, and overall aesthetics.
And don’t forget to choose which tile you’re using on the curb itself — the shower floor tile, the wall tile, or a combination.

8. Decorative Tile Mistakes

So many builders and contractors still recommend a “decorative strip” to break up the basics. But that’s an outdated trend and not always the best choice.
Hop on Pinterest or Instagram for more current inspiration. There are no strict rules — just choose what you truly love and have fun with it.

9. which walls to tile

Something to consider is whether or not you have tile on the vanity wall. This is not only gorgeous and function (makes a great backsplash for water splashing) but it’s also you need to think bout when creating a budget and design. There should always be tile at least partially up the wall behind a bathtub. How high did you want to go with it? What type of tub filler are you using? If wall mounted, you’ll want to be sure there is enough tile to go behind the filler - for the cleanest design.

10. Sealants & Natural Stone

Natural stone — like marble, limestone, and quartzite — is stunning but varies in color and pattern, and it must be properly sealed. Some sealants even add a non-slip finish, so ask your installer about your options.

Handmade tiles have charming imperfections, but they aren’t for everyone. If you prefer a cleaner, more uniform look, porcelain or ceramic will give you that consistency.

In summary, choosing tile isn’t just about picking a pretty design — the details behind the scenes matter just as much. From grout color and edging to installation patterns, tile thickness, shower curbs, and labor costs, the subtle decisions often determine whether your remodel looks polished or DIY-gone-wrong. By paying attention to the overlooked details and avoiding common decorative mistakes, you can create a space that feels intentional, elevated, and beautifully executed — even on a DIY project.

tile — 10 things to think about