What Are the Most Common Mistakes People Make When Buying Tiles?
If you're planning a home renovation or simply updating a room, selecting the right tiles is crucial. Tiles can enhance the aesthetic appeal and functionality of a space, but making the wrong choices can lead to costly and time-consuming mistakes. To help you navigate the tile-buying process, we've compiled a list of common pitfalls to avoid, ensuring your project is both beautiful and durable.
1. Underestimating Tile Quantity
One of the most frequent errors is not ordering enough tiles. It's essential to account for breakages, cuts, and future repairs. Experts recommend ordering an extra 10% to 15% of tiles, especially for intricate patterns like herringbone, to cover potential waste and ensure consistency in colour and texture .
2. Choosing the Wrong Size
The size of the tile should complement the room's dimensions. Large format tiles can make small rooms feel more spacious by reducing grout lines, while smaller tiles may suit compact areas or intricate designs. Selecting the appropriate size ensures a harmonious and balanced look .
3. Skipping Samples
Tiles can appear different under various lighting conditions and in different settings. Ordering a sample allows you to assess the tile's true colour, texture, and finish in your own space, helping you make an informed decision and avoid surprises upon installation
4. Prioritizing Price Over Quality
While budget considerations are important, opting for the cheapest tiles can lead to issues like chipping, staining, or rapid wear, especially in high-traffic areas. Investing in quality tiles ensures longevity and better performance over time.
5. Ignoring Room Functionality
Different rooms have varying requirements. For instance, bathrooms and kitchens need moisture-resistant and slip-resistant tiles, while living areas may benefit from more decorative options. Selecting tiles suited to the room's function enhances safety and durability
6. Overlooking Installation Expertise
Proper installation is as crucial as selecting the right tile.Hiring experienced professionals ensures correct placement, alignment, and sealing, preventing issues like uneven surfaces or water damage. It's advisable to schedule installers after receiving all materials to avoid delays .
7. Neglecting Maintenance Requirements
Some tiles, such as natural stone, require regular sealing and specific cleaning products to maintain their appearance and prevent damage. Understanding the maintenance needs of your chosen tiles helps in preserving their look and extending their lifespan .
8. Disregarding Grout Selection
Grout color and type can significantly impact the overall look of your tiled area. Choosing a grout that complements your tiles can create a seamless appearance, while contrasting grout can highlight patterns. Additionally, selecting the appropriate grout type ensures durability and resistance to staining .
9. Failing to Plan the Layout
Planning the tile layout before installation helps in visualizing the final look and identifying potential issues, such as awkward cuts or misaligned patterns. A well-thought-out layout contributes to a professional and aesthetically pleasing finish .
10. Disposing of Spare Tiles
Retaining extra tiles after installation is beneficial for future repairs or replacements.Tiles can vary between batches, so having spares from the original lot ensures consistency in color and texture if replacements are needed .
Planning the tile layout before installation helps in visualizing the final look and identifying potential issues, such as awkward cuts or misaligned patterns. A well-thought-out layout contributes to a professional and aesthetically pleasing finish .
