I am having carpet professionally install, but would like to tile my dinning area. Should I install the tiles first? And how should I leave the transition area of the tile?
Tile first yes. This way you can install the appropriate size (thickness) cement-board, tile, and schluter to match the height of the carpet w/pad. Not to mention the mess.... The transition is up to you. I like everything to be as close to one level as possible, no tripping hazards. You should go with a schluter for a transition. Install the tile to the middle of the archway, AND (considering carpet comes in 12, 15' widths) extend the transition to the back-side of the archway if it helps your situation any. Dont forget to center your tiles, or alighn your pattern for a full tile on the schluter... if possible.
I would have the tiles installed first since it's a messy job. They have to use quick set, grout, cut tiles and etc. so no matter who does it, it's still messy. Then you don't have to worry about protecting your new carpet with some tarps. Usually in the tile section somewhere of home improvement stores there is metal transition pieces you can buy for 2 or 3 bucks that you just nail into the floor.
Yes you should. The last thing that goes in should be your carpet. Out of all types of flooring, the first thing that goes in should be the dirtiest which is typically the ceramic tile. So start with the tile finish up with the grout and you can now install the carpet. Hope this helps. ;-)
I have installed floors professionally for 20 years and tile floors should always be done before carpet if the two are to be transitioned. The reason is that carpet will butt up against the tile, and if you want a good stretch without having the installer make extra visits you will want the tile to be set and preferably grouted first. Hope this helps.
Always tile first and a professional carpet installer will make the transition. You don t say what or how tile is to be installed or even the type of carpet.. So no one can answer your transition question with out knowing how every thing is being done. I do like to use a metal edge to protect the tile edge. But this isn t a transition. Any questions you can e mail me through my avatar and check my qualifications there. GL
