Essential information for the tile buying process.
Shade Variation.
Unfortunately we have no control over Mother Nature. Stone products may exhibit shade variation mot only between production lots but within the same lot an even within a single carton.
Hand-painted and handmade ceramic tiles are specialty lines that also may have considerable shade variations and are created in limited production runs. A difference of only 2 degrees in a kiln during the firing process can affect the color of the glaze.
Always inspect your tiles before installation. Suppliers are not liable after installation occurs.
Installation, Take-off, Add-on.
Finding the right installer is very important. Let them calculate the quantity of tiles you will need. The installer should do this for several reasons, including consumption and wastage rates, shade variations, material characteristics and site conditions. Even so, quantity shortfalls often occur with the best of installers, causing add-ons, or ordering more tile. Having an extra box of tile at the end of installation is always a good thing.
Important things your installer should do:
- Do a dry run on smaller areas by laying the tile out on site. Select any natural stone tiles with less pleasing variations for use in closets or underneath cabinets.
- Discuss your designs and quantities. And most importantly, re-check calculations. Don't allow your installer to have 2/3 of the job installed before informing you of a shortfall. This can cause you to go over budget and lowers the possibility that material in the same lot will still be available.
- Inform you of installation delays. Because of construction booms even the best contractor may have difficulties with tradespeople over committing. Ensuring that your installer has ordered adequate quantities early in the process will help you avoid any further delays.
Lead times & Delivery
We carry a wide range of merchandise in stock. But remember that special order tiles require delivery and freight charges. Imported items also run the risk of being held up in customs and occasionally production and shipping delays can occur as well. Because of this, we recommend you estimate and schedule longer lead times. This way you'll be pleasantly surprised when your tile arrives a week earlier than planned.
Do not schedule your installation before the tile arrives and is inspected by you
Back-ordered & Discontinued tiles
Availability of both natural stone and ceramic tiles can change at any time. If our order department informs you your items are on back order, our staff will gladly recommend a similar product if you prefer not to wait.
Tiles can also be discontinued, often without notice. In this even, our purchasing department will search around the country to determine if your tile is available. We will call you if the cost is greater, the lot is different or delivery times are longer.
