Americo Migliore’s Top Tips for Commercial Stone and Tile Installations

As the president of field operations for a premier commercial interior stone and tile installation company in the New York tri-state area, Americo Migliore has seen it all.

1. Understand the Material and Its Properties

One of the first and most crucial steps in any stone or tile installation project is selecting the right material for the job. Every type of stone—whether it’s marble, granite, limestone, or travertine—has distinct physical and aesthetic properties. Similarly, tiles come in various forms, such as ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone. Each material reacts differently to environmental factors like moisture, temperature fluctuations, and heavy foot traffic.

“Choosing the wrong material for a specific space can lead to costly repairs down the line,” says Americo. “For example, while marble looks elegant, it’s not always the best choice for high-traffic areas like hotel lobbies or shopping malls because it can scratch easily and requires more maintenance than harder stones like granite.”

Tip: Before you finalize your material choice, evaluate the conditions of the space and how the stone or tile will interact with its environment. A material that works beautifully in one location may be ill-suited to another.

2. Plan for Movement and Expansion

Commercial buildings are large, dynamic structures that shift over time due to temperature changes, vibrations, and settling. Stone and tile installations must account for these movements to avoid cracks and other structural failures.

“Expansion joints are a critical but often overlooked element in commercial installations,” Americo explains. “These joints allow the materials to expand and contract without causing damage. Skipping them is a surefire way to see tiles or stone slabs crack or lift over time.”

Tip: Work with an engineer or an experienced professional to identify the key areas where expansion joints are needed. This will save time and money on future repairs and ensure the longevity of the installation.

3. Invest in Quality Adhesives and Grout

The adhesive you choose can make or break your project—literally. Inferior adhesives may not hold up over time, especially in areas exposed to moisture or heavy use, such as commercial kitchens, bathrooms, or exterior spaces.

“Never skimp on adhesives and grout,” Americo emphasizes. “While it might seem like a good place to save money, poor-quality adhesives will fail, leading to loose tiles or cracked stone. This not only affects the aesthetics but can also be a safety hazard in commercial environments.”

Tip: Always consult with your supplier or contractor to ensure you’re using the correct adhesive and grout for both the material and the specific conditions of the space.

4. Focus on Subfloor Preparation

One of the most common reasons for failed stone and tile installations is improper subfloor preparation. Whether you’re working with concrete, plywood, or another substrate, the surface needs to be clean, flat, and stable before installation begins.

“I can’t stress enough how important it is to ensure the subfloor is properly prepared,” Americo says. “If there are imperfections in the subfloor, they’ll transfer to the stone or tile, leading to uneven surfaces, cracks, or even entire sections coming loose.”

Moisture is another significant consideration when it comes to subfloors. Some materials, like wood, can warp or expand when exposed to water, which can disrupt the entire installation. Therefore, moisture barriers and sealants are often necessary, particularly in commercial kitchens or bathrooms where water exposure is frequent.

Tip: Inspect the subfloor thoroughly before installation. Take the time to repair any cracks, level uneven surfaces, and ensure the subfloor is dry and stable. It might seem like a lot of extra work, but it’s essential for the success of the project.

5. Consider Aesthetic Layout and Design

Commercial spaces are more than just functional—they’re often designed to create a specific atmosphere or branding experience. Stone and tile installations play a significant role in the visual impact of the space. A well-planned design can elevate a property from generic to extraordinary, but a poorly executed layout can detract from the space’s appeal.

“Take the time to plan the layout carefully,” says Americo. “For example, in retail spaces, you want to consider how the lines of the tiles or the veining of the stone will guide the customer’s eye. In restaurants, the flooring and wall treatments need to complement the overall ambiance.”

Tip: Work with a designer or architect to ensure the layout aligns with the aesthetic goals of the project. Mock-ups or digital renderings can help visualize how the space will look once the materials are installed.

6. Ensure Proper Sealing and Maintenance

Once the stone or tile installation is complete, the work isn’t quite finished. Proper sealing is essential to protect the materials from stains, moisture, and wear. Some stones are more porous than others and will require regular re-sealing to maintain their appearance and durability.

“For commercial spaces, I always recommend using a high-quality sealant and scheduling regular maintenance,” Americo advises. “This not only extends the life of the installation but keeps it looking fresh and new, which is particularly important in spaces like hotels or upscale retail stores where aesthetics are paramount.”

Tip: Discuss a maintenance plan with your client or the building management team. Ensure they understand the importance of regular sealing and cleaning to keep the installation in top shape.

7. Choose the Right Installer

No matter how well you plan and select materials, the success of your project ultimately depends on the quality of the installation. Commercial installations are more complex than residential ones, often requiring specialized tools and expertise.

“Experience matters,” says Americo. “A skilled installer will know how to handle tricky situations, like working around irregular walls or integrating stone with other materials. It’s worth the investment to hire someone who knows what they’re doing.”

Tip: Always vet your installer thoroughly. Look for a company or contractor with a proven track record in commercial installations, and don’t hesitate to ask for references or examples of previous work.

Conclusion

Commercial stone and tile installations require a blend of artistry, technical know-how, and practical problem-solving.