WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU HIRE A TILING COMPANY

we know it can be difficult to evaluate the experience and knowledge of a new installer, but don’t allow yourself to fall prey to the lowest bid ploy

TILE INSTALLATION: The finishing touch that has the power to transform any room into a work of art. So when choosing an installer do so wisely. Like any other work of art, detail is most important.

Select a Pro

You shouldn’t underestimate the value of professionalism. Never accept offers from your handy man or other do-it-yourselfer; your installation job is too important to trust to amateurs. This is one of the most common mistakes homeowners make. Being in the industry for 25+ years, I estimate that more than half of tile repairs I have seen are the result of poor installation.

Installing tile flooring seems simple enough, after all, how hard could it be, right?

Professionalism doesn’t just refer to a certification. Professionalism is how a company runs its business. How do they treat their customers, community, and associates? The way a business is run will tell you a lot about how they will look at and treat your job.

Checklist

There is a lot you need to know before hiring an installer, and the only way to get that information is to ask questions.

Estimate

​After doing your preliminary research and finding a few prospective candidates. The first thing you need to do is contact them to make arrangements for an estimate. Most companies will provide them for free, if not, that may be a sign to cross them off your list. Feel free to ask the installer any questions you may have. Don’t be shy about it either.

​References

​Find out about their experience. Ask for a list of references, then follow up with them. When you contact the references consider asking them some of the following questions:

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• Was it easy to work with or communicate with the installer?
• Were they on time, respectful of the property, did they clean up?
• Were they done on time?
• How professional were they?
• Would you hire them again?

You can even make arrangements to view the installer’s work.

Ask Questions

Ask the installer about their work habits. What time do they start, what do they do with trash and debris, how will they protect the surrounding area, how many people will be working on the project, and how long will the project take?

​Make sure the installer is insured, don’t be afraid to ask for proof.

Contract

​Next carefully review the contract; it should be clear and straightforward. A complicated contract is not necessarily a bad thing, but if you don’t have a clear understanding what it says, then it is too complicated. Make sure you know exactly what the contract says before you sign it.

Once the contract is signed, don’t be fooled into thinking your work is done. You should plan to be available while the contractor is working so you can supervise the progress. If you have a basic understanding of the job then you will be able to spot any red flags.

Finally, trust your instincts. If you are uncomfortable with an installer then cross them off your list of candidates.