Marcus Sterling
Certified CTEF Master Installer & Technical Advisor
Marcus oversees the estimation mathematics, project waste formulas, and substrate compatibility parameters behind the TileCalculator engines. With over 20 years of custom residential and commercial floor laying experience, he ensures our tools translate seamlessly to real-world installations.
Core Technical Expertise
Substrate & Deflection Diagnostics
Calculating deflection ratios for plywood underlayment and concrete moisture emissions before tiling to prevent cracked grout.
Layout & Waste Optimizations
Developing boundary calculations for offset brick, chevron, and modular Versailles patterns to minimize sliver cuts and waste.
Waterproofing Systems
Auditing liquid vs sheet membranes for steam showers, open wetrooms, and pool basin chemical exposures to ensure dry assemblies.
Commercial Project Estimating
Modeling contractor bidding templates, square footage coverage offsets, and mortar yield margins for high-volume jobs.
Professional Experience Timeline
Lead Technical Advisor — TileCalculator
Responsible for modeling calculation engines, pattern waste coefficients, and authoring reference materials on substrate preparation and layout planning.
Commercial Project Estimator & Consultant
Estimated materials, calculated bid waste thresholds, and consulted on high-end hotels, commercial kitchens, and swimming pool tile installations.
Master Installer & Journeyman Setter
Acquired hands-on experience in mud bed screeding, dry lay leveling, complex mosaic murals, slate patio layout systems, and water-test systems.
Certifications & Industry Memberships
CTEF Certified Installer
Ceramic Tile Education Foundation. Demonstrating installation excellence according to TCA standards.
NTCA Technical Advisor
National Tile Contractors Association member. Consulting on architectural floor configurations and standards.