INTRO TO TILE:
TILE & GROUT BASICS

Duration: Approximately 5.5 hours

Age Requirement: Must be 15+

Dress Code: Closed-toe shoes required. Comfortable, well-fitted clothing that you won't mind getting dirty. No loose jewelry. Longer hair should be pulled back in a ponytail or ball cap.

Instructors: Richard Jenkins & Marshal Spivack

What's Included: Materials + PPE

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN PORCELAIN, CERAMIC, NATURAL STONE, GLASS AND MOSAIC TILE
DIFFERENT GROUT TYPES
DIFFERENT THINSET TYPES
SUBSTRATES
HOW TO USE A TROWEL
HOW TO USE A GROUT FLOAT
HOW TO CUT TILE USING TILE SAWS AND SCORE AND SNAP SAWS
MIXING GROUT
APPLYING GROUT

$285

Workshop Description

Our Tile & Grout Basics Workshop provides a solid foundation in the core principles of tile installation.
Participants will learn the “why” and “how” behind professional tilework — from surface preparation and layout to cutting, thinset application, and grouting.

This workshop demystifies the materials, tools, and techniques that make the difference between an amateur job and a professional finish.

What's Covered

The differences between tile types (ceramic, porcelain, natural stone, glass)
Identify the right grout and thinset for your needs
Proper mixing and application techniques for grout and thinset
How to cut tile using dustless tile saws
How to use essential tools like trowels and floats
Substrate options (cement board, backer board, existing surfaces)
The importance of surface prep and leveling for long-lasting installs

Led by licensed, experienced contractors, this workshop offers a blend of demonstration and hands-on learning using real materials and professional-grade equipment.

‼️ Time Disclaimer: Our workshops are highly interactive and question-friendly. From time to time, classes may run a bit over the scheduled end time to ensure everyone feels supported and confident. We recommend allowing some flexibility in your schedule just in case.

THE FUNDAMENTALS OF TILE THAT EVERY DIYER SHOULD KNOW.

This workshop gives you the inside knowledge professional tile setters use every day — from how to properly prepare a surface to how to mix, spread, and grout for lasting results.

Even if you never plan to install tile yourself, you’ll walk away knowing what professional work should look like and how to spot red flags in poor installations.

Next Available Workshop:

$285

ABOUT THE
INSTRUCTOR

My name is Richard Jenkins

Hi, I'm Richard! From a young age, I’ve always had a curiosity for how things work. I was the kid who loved taking things apart just to figure out how to put them back together. That desire to understand, learn, and improve has followed me throughout my life and shaped my career in the trades.

I got my start helping my neighbor with his contracting business and quickly discovered a passion for building and problem-solving. Over the years, I continued to learn and grow, working for several companies before eventually becoming a licensed contractor and venturing out on my own. With more than 30 years of hands-on experience in the tile and remodeling industry, I’ve built my career on craftsmanship, precision, and a belief in doing things the right way.

As the co-founder of TradeWorx Academy, I’m proud to share my knowledge with homeowners, aspiring tradespeople, and professionals who want to gain real-world skills that make a difference. My teaching style is patient and practical — I enjoy breaking down complex concepts into lessons that anyone can grasp. There’s nothing more rewarding than watching a student gain confidence and realize they can take on projects they once thought were beyond their ability.

Outside the classroom, my passion for learning never stops. I spend much of my free time studying the latest methods, products, and materials in the tile trade because I believe continuing education is essential to staying sharp and providing the best instruction possible.

In addition to TradeWorx Academy, I own The Grout Genie, with my wife and business partner, Nicole. My experience running projects and training new technicians inspired me to create a space where education and trade excellence meet.

I’m methodical in my work and have an eye for detail that comes from years of experience — but more than anything, I believe in teaching others to take pride in what they build, to work with integrity, and to always keep learning.