Common Tiling Mistakes To Avoid That Can Be Costly

Not Ordering a Tile Sample First

Tile fitting and finishing look easy but can be tricky for those with no prior experience. Installing tiles is a skilled job that requires precision and knowledge to ensure the highest-quality results. Making mistakes when tiling can be costly, both in materials and time. To save you from making costly mistakes, here are some common tiling mistakes to avoid.

One of the most common tiles mistakes among DIYers is not ordering a tile sample first. Before you purchase your tiles, it is important to order samples first to make sure they’re the right outcome for your space. A tile sample also gives you an opportunity to inspect its quality and colour before you commit to buying large quantities. Samples will also allow you to visualize the tiles in their setting so that you can decide whether or not they’ll suit your room. 

Planning the Tile Layout

Another common mistake is not properly planning the tile layout. When laying out tiles, it's important to consider light and dark variations, grout lines, and individual tiles to ensure an even and consistent pattern. If the layout isn't planned, then some parts might require fewer tiles than others, leading to unstable surfaces. Planning ahead is also important to save time and cost as extra tiles might be required if any are cut wrong.

Choosing Price Over Quality

Price is an important factor, but don't let it be the only buying consideration. While cheaper tiles may save you money upfront, they could be more expensive to install and maintain in the long run, as they require more repairs and replacements. Investing in high-quality tiles may cost more initially, but they are more durable and require less maintenance.

Picking an Unsuitable Grout Colour

Making the wrong choice of grout colour is another common mistake. Grout adds character to your tiling, but if you pick the wrong colour, it can ruin your overall look. When picking a grout colour, consider the colour of your tiles and the type of effect you want to create. A contrasting grout colour will create a classic look while a matching colour will add a more modern feel.

Not Selecting a Specialist

Lastly, don't forget to hire a professional tiling specialist. It's important to bring in an expert who knows what they're doing so that your tiling job will last for years. Specialists have the right certifications and experience to get the job done right, and they know which tools and techniques should be used for each job. In addition, they will be able to know where to source the best, highest-quality tiles to get the most out of your budget. 

Tiling may seem like an easy job, but it can get tricky quickly. Taking the time to do your research and prepare will help you to avoid expensive mistakes. Remember to order samples, plan the tile layout, choose quality over price, consider the grout colour, and select a specialist. Doing these things will help you get the most out of your tiling project.