As a precaution, always buy about 10 percent more material than you actually need for the job. If you mis-cut a piece of flooring or break a tile, you'll have a perfectly matched replacement. If you are working with a plywood sub-floor, activate the building's heating system and let it run for at least 72 hours prior to installation. After 24 hours, if there is no moisture on the underside of the film, the slab is dry. Always install a polyurethane vapor barrier when working over concrete.
Every building material is unique and often many factors dictate which material is installed first.
The working drawings, building schedules and finishing requirements all must be thought out before construction can start. For this example, install the ceramic tile first because it is easier to work around the smaller inlay. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions when finishing and cleaning these secondary materials because some are pre-finished. Remember that most secondary materials are cleaned with water, which can harm the neighboring hardwood. To protect against moisture damage, thoroughly seal the sides and bottoms of any hardwood that touch the medallion.