How to Start a Tile Installation Business: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- Oct 27
- 3 min read
Starting a tile installation business can be a rewarding venture for skilled tradespeople who want to turn their craftsmanship into a profitable enterprise. Whether you're focused on tile flooring installation, shower tile installation, ceramic tile installation, mosaics, or commercial flooring, the demand for professional tile work continues to grow in both residential and commercial markets.
At Wexford Insurance, we specialize in helping tile contractors protect their businesses with tailored insurance solutions. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to launch your tile installation business and how to protect it with the right insurance coverage.
1. Learn the Trade or Get Certified
Before starting, ensure you have the necessary skills. You can:
Work under an experienced tile installer
Take trade school or online courses
Get certified through organizations like the
Certification isn’t always required, but it builds credibility and helps you win commercial contracts.
2. Choose Your Niche
Specializing helps you stand out. Consider:
Tile flooring installation
Shower tile installation
Ceramic tile installation
Mosaics installation
Commercial flooring installation
Each niche has different tools, techniques, and client expectations. Choose one or two to start, then expand as your business grows.
3. Create a Business Plan
A solid business plan should include:
Market research
Target customer profiles
Startup costs
Pricing strategy
Marketing plan
Insurance needs
Use resources like The Business Plan Shop to help structure your plan.
4. Register Your Business and Get Licensed
Depending on your location, you may need:
A contractor’s license
A business license
A tax ID (EIN)
Local permits
Check with your local contractor board or visit LegalClarity for licensing requirements.
5. Buy Essential Equipment
Start with the basics:
Tile cutter or wet saw
Notched trowels
Tile spacers and leveling systems
Grout float and rubber mallet
Measuring tape and chalk line
Safety gear
6. Get Tile Installation Contractor Insurance
Protect your business from accidents, property damage, and lawsuits. At Wexford Insurance, we help tile contractors secure:
7. Market Your Services
Use both online and offline strategies:
Build a professional website
List your business on Google Maps and directories
Share before-and-after photos on Instagram and Pinterest
Partner with interior designers and contractors
Run local ads and offer referral incentives
Explore more ideas at The AD Leaf and theBrandBoy.
Market Your Tile Installation Business with Contractor Back Office
In a competitive home improvement industry, your tile installation business needs more than just craftsmanship—it needs visibility, credibility, and operational efficiency. Contractor Back Office helps tile contractors build a strong brand, attract more clients, and streamline backend processes with smart digital tools.
Our Services for Tile Installation Include:
Create a professional, responsive website that showcases your tile work and makes it easy for clients to request quotes.
Get discovered by homeowners and builders searching for tile installation services with targeted SEO strategies.
Build trust and stay top-of-mind with consistent, engaging content across Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest.
Keep your finances organized and compliant with tile-specific bookkeeping support.
Track leads, manage customer relationships, and automate follow-ups with a customized CRM system.
Win more jobs with professionally prepared proposals and accurate estimates for residential and commercial tile projects.
Final Thoughts
Starting a tile installation business takes planning, skill, and the right protection. By choosing your niche, investing in tools, and securing insurance, you’ll be ready to build a business that lasts.
Ready to launch tile installation business and need insurance?
Contact Wexford Insurance today. We specialize in protecting tile contractors across all specialties — from ceramic and mosaics to commercial flooring.