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For the budget-conscious—and aren’t we all these days?—It’s tempting to go for the lowest bid when you’re searching for tile installation contractors, but the cheapest option isn’t always the best. In fact, it might even be more expensive in the long run!

The Three Risks of Cheap Tile Installation

The right tile installation contractor makes all the difference, whether you need professional tiling for high-end hotels and commercial buildings, or luxury homes and condos. When you skimp on tile installation costs and go with the lowest bid, you’re typically sacrificing either schedule or quality, or both. That can have downstream effects you might not be prepared for, including higher costs of maintenance, repair, or replacement that cancel out your upfront cost savings and time on the jobsite.

Subpar Workmanship

When it comes to craftsmen, you pay for the experience. This is just as true for tile installation contractors as it is for any other trade. Sometimes, the lowest bids come from less experienced and less skilled contractors that may never return if there are issues.

They might not be up to the task of providing the quality tile installation your building needs to make occupants feel comfortable and at-home—risking uneven tiles with poor alignment or inadequate grouting that make your building’s floors look dirty or cheap, turning off potential customers or residents and potentially even reducing the real estate value of your property.

Inferior Materials

When you go for the lowest bidding tile installation contractor, the cost is being cut somewhere. Sometimes it comes from substandard materials, or underpaid employees, and worn out equipment.

Cheap base grade installation products can lead to cracking, chipping, loss of bond or grout discoloration and shading. Nothing lasts forever, but inferior products usually have significantly reduced life spans compared to more high-quality materials. Since they may not last as long, your upfront cost savings get eaten up by excessive repair and maintenance costs. Your tiling might not also be guaranteed by a manufacturer’s warranty.

Less Attention to Detail

Sometimes, going for lower tile installation costs means important things get overlooked during the job, leading to issues such as improper water drainage or time/cost overruns.

The former can result in mold or mildew taking root and jeopardizing the health of your building’s occupants, requiring urgent and expensive repairs. The latter can lead to your project going over time and over budget, negating your cost savings.

What Goes Into Tile Installation Costs?

Choosing the cheapest tile installation contractor may lead to time and cost overruns, more expensive repairs and maintenance, or reduced property values. Any one of these factors can actually make a lower tile installation cost into a bigger hit to your pocketbook in the long run.

When you choose a quality contractor like Brooks Tile, you’re choosing:

Professionals with decades of tile installation experience
The highest quality tile installation materials and methods for quality and lasting project
Impeccable attention to detail

For over 40 years, Brooks Tile has specialized in reliable tile installation with a focus on quality, loyalty, and integrity. When you need the job done right, you know who to call:

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FAQs

Why should I choose a quality tile installation contractor instead of the cheapest option?

Going with the cheapest tile installation contractor can lead to subpar workmanship, inferior materials, and less attention to detail. This can result in higher costs of maintenance, repair, or replacement that cancel out your upfront cost savings and time on the jobsite. Choosing a quality contractor ensures that you get professionals with decades of experience, the highest quality materials and methods, and impeccable attention to detail.

What are the risks of going with the cheapest tile installation contractor?

The risks of going with the cheapest tile installation contractor include subpar workmanship, inferior materials, and less attention to detail. This can lead to higher costs of maintenance, repair, or replacement that cancel out your upfront cost savings and time on the jobsite. It can also result in issues such as improper water drainage or time/cost overruns, which can jeopardize the health of your building’s occupants, requiring urgent and expensive repairs.

How do I choose a quality tile installation contractor?

To choose a quality tile installation contractor, look for professionals with decades of experience, the highest quality materials and methods, and impeccable attention to detail. Check for reviews and testimonials from previous clients, and ask for references and examples of previous work. A quality contractor will be happy to provide all of this information, and will work with you to ensure that your project is completed on time and within budget.

What should I expect from a quality tile installation contractor?

A quality tile installation contractor should provide professionals with decades of experience, the highest quality materials and methods, and impeccable attention to detail. They should also provide excellent customer service, and work with you to ensure that your project is completed on time and within budget. Additionally, they should offer a warranty on their work and be willing to address any issues that arise after the project is completed.

Luxury hotels and resorts offer an escape from the everyday, with luxurious amenities and five-star service. When guests stay at a luxury hotel, they expect the best of everything in their accommodations, including bathroom fixtures and the tile layout and design. High-end shower tile designs can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of your resort’s guest bathrooms. They can also add a touch of luxury to the showering experience.

Why Install High-End Shower Tile in Your Hotel or Resort?

There are many reasons to choose high-end shower tile designs for your luxury hotel bathrooms. Those reasons include:

• Luxury tile adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the space. 
• You can customize your high-end shower tile designs to match the decor of the room. 
• High-end shower tiles can provide superior durability and resistance to water damage. 
• High-quality tile installations can give you peace of mind knowing that your guest room showers will look their best for years to come.

When it comes to choosing the right high-end shower tile designs for your guests’ bathrooms, there are a few things to keep in mind. 

First, consider the overall style of the room itself. You want the tile design to complement the existing decor and not clash with it. Next, consider the size of the bathroom. You don’t want to choose a tile design that is too small or too large for the space. 

Also, determine how much you want to spend on the tile project. There are many high-end shower tile designs to choose from, so you should be able to find one that is within your resort’s budget.

Popular High-End Shower Tile Designs

Once you have considered the above factors, you can select from a variety of shower tile materials and styles. As you will soon discover, there are many materials, colors, and styles to choose from. If you need help selecting the right tile design, you can always ask a professional designer for assistance. With their help, you can create bathrooms that are both stylish and functional.

Below are some ideas for high-end shower tile for guest rooms:

Subway Tiles

Subway tiles are a classic choice for showers, and they can be used in a variety of ways to create different looks. For a sleek and modern look, install large-format subway tiles in a solid color. Smaller subway tiles can be installed in a mosaic pattern for a more traditional look. You can also arrange this versatile tile in a herringbone or basket weave pattern. 

Mosaic Tiles

Mosaic tiles add a touch of luxury to your guest bathroom showers. The intricate designs and vibrant colors are eye-catching and make a big impact. These tiles are a popular option for showers, and they can be used to create a variety of different looks. For a traditional look, use small mosaic tiles in a classic pattern. Professionals can install mosaic tiles in an abstract pattern for a more modern style. 

Glass Tiles

Glass tile design is often used in high-end hotel bathrooms because it offers a luxurious, spa-like look that can help to create an oasis for guests. These tiles are a beautiful option for showers, and they can be used to create a variety of different looks. For a sleek and modern look, select solid-colored glass tiles. Glass tiles can be installed in a mosaic pattern for a more traditional look.

Stone Tiles

Stone tiles are a natural and stylish option for showers. They provide a luxurious look and feel that is sure to impress your guests. Stone tiles can create a variety of different looks. For a rustic look, install stone tiles in a natural finish. Conversely, tiles with a polished finish provide a more modern look.

Metal Tiles

Metal tiles are a unique option for showers and add an extra touch of elegance to any space. This tile is very versatile, as it’s available in a variety of colors and finishes to create unique designs. For a modern look, use solid-colored metal tiles. You can also install them with a traditional flair by using a mosaic pattern.

Upgrade Your Visitors’ Experiences With High-End Shower Tile Designs

High-end shower tile designs can help your hotel or resort stand out from the competition. It can also make your guest bathrooms more luxurious and inviting. If you’re considering installing luxury shower tile in your hotel or resort, contact our design team. We’d be happy to help you select the perfect tile for your guest showers that is both beautiful and durable.

Whether you’re establishing a new business or renovating an existing building, choosing the right floor tile is critical. Commercial floor tiles must be durable enough to withstand heavy foot traffic, as well as frequent drops and spills. They must also be slip-resistant enough to prevent slips and falls. With the numerous types of tile and flooring available on the market, it can be difficult to select the most suitable one for your business. We’ll walk you through some of the most popular and durable tile flooring options and provide advice on what to look for when making your selection.

Types of Commercial Tile Flooring

The following are several popular choices of durable tile flooring for high-traffic commercial applications:

Vinyl

Vinyl commercial tile is extremely durable and can withstand a substantial amount of wear and tear. It’s also easy to upkeep by sweeping away dirt and using a damp mop to clean spills. An added plus is that vinyl is slip-resistant, making it a safe flooring option for any business. 

Vinyl commercial tile is available in a variety of colors and patterns, so you can easily find an option that fits the style of your commercial space. This tile is also an affordable alternative to other commercial flooring types. 

Ceramic

Ceramic tile is moisture- and stain-resistant, making it an attractive option for many businesses. The tiles are also sturdy and not easily broken. The tile’s earthy material and coloring protect it from sun exposure damage, making it a perfect choice for spaces with uncovered windows.

Ceramic tile also costs less per square foot than any other flooring option. This durable tile flooring is available in various textures, patterns, and colors, so it can be easily coordinated with your commercial decor. Unglazed ceramic tile provides increased protection against slips and falls, making it a great choice for kitchens and restrooms. 

Porcelain

Porcelain tile is denser than ceramic, making it even more durable and resistant to water. This characteristic also makes it a perfect flooring for outdoor commercial use, such as restaurant patios. The additional density also makes porcelain tile more immune to chips and scratches. 

Chips are also harder to see when they do occur. While chipping something like a ceramic tile can reveal a different color under the top glaze, the damage isn’t as noticeable on a porcelain tile. 

Stone

Several types of stones are used to manufacture commercial floor tile. Pricing can vary widely depending on the stone’s quality and type. Natural granite, for example, is often used for its long-lasting durability and visually appealing qualities. Marble, considered for a more luxurious look, comes in a variety of patterns and shades as a result of the crystallization process. 

Both of these stone types would be more fitting for higher-end, professional businesses since they are pricier. A more affordable option is Travertine, which is a natural type of stone that is more porous but holds up against scratching and cracking. 

Criteria for Choosing the Right Durable Tile Flooring

With the many choices in commercial flooring available today, you may wonder how to choose the most suitable type for your high-traffic space. The following criteria can help you decide which tile to use. 

1. Cost

Your budget is a major factor in determining which tile flooring to use. When considering the cost of commercial floor tile, it’s important to weigh not only the purchase price but also installation and maintenance costs. Ultimately, you want to select the option that provides the best value for your money. 

2. Durability

Select a tile that can withstand harsh environmental conditions such as moisture and heavy foot traffic. Cutting corners on an inexpensive tile will end up costing you more in the long run since it will require replacement sooner. Additionally, some tile types may crack and chip easier than others. 

3. Slip-Resistance

Selecting a slip-resistant tile will ensure your workers and customers are safer from slips and falls. 

4. Maintenance

Consider tiles that are less susceptible to staining. Factor in how easy the tile is to clean and maintain. 

5. Aesthetics

Select a tile that fits in with the overall aesthetics of your business to give it a professional and polished appearance. 

Durable tile flooring is a necessity for high-traffic commercial areas. By selecting the right type of tile and properly maintaining it, you can extend the life of your floor and keep your business looking its best while ensuring the safety of your employees and customers. Contact us to schedule a consultation for your next commercial tile project. 

Hiring the right contractor to perform renovations or repairs on your property is essential for the project’s successful outcome. However, finding the one with the necessary knowledge and experience is often easier said than done. By knowing which questions to ask prospective tenant improvement contractors, you’ll be able to recruit someone who is best suited for the job. 

Where to Find Prospective Tenant Improvement Contractors

Before setting up interviews, you’ll need to locate and contact prospective contractors. Here are popular sources for finding candidates:

• Get recommendations from other business owners, as well as friends and family members.
• Conduct an online search for contractors available in your area. (Read reviews from previous clients who used them.) 
• Check local social media groups and community boards for recommendations. 
• Ask specialty retailers for references. For example, a tile retailer is likely to know an experienced tile installer.

Questions to Ask Prospective Tenant Improvement Contractors During the Interview

Once you’ve compiled your list of candidates for your tenant improvement project, you can begin scheduling interviews. At this time, it’s essential to ask in-depth questions about their experience and skills. Below is a list of important questions to ask your interviewees that can narrow down your selection.

1. Are you licensed and bonded? 

The contractor must meet the state, city, or county’s licensing requirements. 

2. Do you have liability and workers’ compensation insurance? 

Ask to see proof of both to ensure they are current and are sufficient for the jobs they will be performing. 

3. What is your experience with tenant improvement projects?  

Have they completed any similar projects in the past? If so, ask for references from previous clients. Also, ask how familiar they are with the building code and zoning regulations affecting tenant improvement projects. 

4. Will you be obtaining the permits and setting up inspections required for this job? 

Not every job will require permits, but they are necessary for most remodeling projects that change the structure of the property. The contractor is usually responsible for pulling the appropriate permits, and the costs are generally included in their estimates. 

5. What is your estimated schedule for completing the job? 

You may need additional information to clarify a timeline, such as if they’re working on other projects that would affect your estimated completion time. There may also be pending bids that could impact your job.

6. What is your estimated budget for the project?  

Note that the Better Business Bureau advises that you never pay the full price of contracting work up front. Likewise, a reputable contractor will never ask you to pay the entire amount before beginning the job. However, inquire what their expectations are for a payment plan. 

7. What if the project goes above your estimate? 

While most contractors can give accurate estimates ahead of time, unpredictable issues may arise that can surpass this estimate. In this case, the contractor must write a change order to explain the additional work with your authorization of the changes. 

8. How will you communicate project updates? 

A designated point of contact and their contact details are a must. This can help ensure you receive timely updates. 

9. Will your work be guaranteed or under warranty? 

This will apply to both materials and labor. You should also request a copy of their policies in writing.  

10. Do you have any subcontractors lined up for this project? 

If they do, have them provide you with their references. Inquire if there will be a dedicated team working on the job that can assure consistency and continuity throughout your project. 

11. What are your plans for protecting the property during the construction/renovation?

The contractor should take reasonable precautions such as covering large furniture items and surfaces, wearing shoe coverings, and closing and locking doors when leaving the property for breaks (if you are not present on the work site). 

12. What are your approximate start and end times each day on the job? 

This information is useful. It helps you know what to expect as far as noise levels, if you need to be present during the activity, and if any items need to be moved out of the way at key times. 

Final Thoughts on Interviewing and Hiring Tenant Improvement Contractors

When the time comes to hire your next tenant improvement contractors, asking the above questions will help you find someone qualified and capable of successfully completing the job. By partnering with our experienced team, you can rest assured that your commercial tile installation will be done right, within your timeline and budget, and with minimal change orders. Contact us to schedule a free consultation to learn more about our commercial tenant improvement services. 

Flooring is an important part of every business venue. It can make a statement about your company, and it can also affect the way your customers and employees interact with your space. This is especially the case with tile, since there are several variables involved in not only selecting the most appropriate type for the workspace, but ensuring it’s properly installed. In this blog, we’ll describe the characteristics of good commercial tile, as well as how to determine if your tile installation was done correctly.

Characteristics of Good Commercial Tile

Tile is easy to clean, making it a great choice for many commercial settings. However, in order to be deemed appropriate for a commercial location, tiling should fit the following set of criteria: 

Increased durability for high-traffic

Tile that is manufactured for commercial use is typically more durable than residential tile and can withstand heavier traffic.

Slip resistant

You’ll want to make sure to select a tile that is slip-resistant to protect both your workers and customers. For example, if you’re installing tile in a kitchen, choose a tile that is rated for wet areas. Grout can be a major contributor to slips and falls and must also be good quality

Coordinated to match the space

There are many types of tile designs and colors available, so be sure to choose one that will complement the style of your business.

Climate-appropriate

Tiles that are designed for colder climates may not be suitable for warmer climates, and vice versa. If your business is located in a cold climate, choose a tile that is resistant to frost and moisture. Slate and ceramic tiles are good options for cold climates, as they are both durable and moisture-resistant. Tiles in warmer climates should be resistant to heat and sun exposure. In this case, porcelain and concrete are good choices.

Checking for Quality in a Commercial Tile Installation

Even if you’re not a flooring expert, there are several ways to determine the quality of a tile installation. The condition of each tile, type of grout, and spacing in between tiles and walls can make the difference between quality workmanship or an installer that took shortcuts with poor results. One minor defect can affect the appearance and safety of the entire installation.

Look for the following features to verify the integrity of your tile installation. When evaluating these factors, view the flooring from a customer’s perspective and in normal lighting for your location.

Even grout lines

Grout lines should be consistent and straight, with no gaps between the tiles. There should be no excess grout on tile surfaces.

No gapping between the tiles and walls

To inspect for gaps, place a straight edge against the tile and wall, and look for any spaces in between both areas. A properly done installation will not have any gaps. Additionally, corner and side wall cuts should be clean.

Proper alignment

Tiles that are installed correctly will be even with each other, with no gaps or ridges between them. This ensures a level surface and a seamless look. Placing a level tool on top of a few tiles will verify they are all the same height.

Coordinated colors, patterns, and designs

 A carefully coordinated installation results in a beautiful and polished floor that impresses customers. Ceramic tile edges should be sharp and at perfect right angles without broken corners.

Tiles are not chipped or cracked

Tiles that have been installed properly should not have any visible damage such as cracks, depressions, holes, specks, spots, and cavities, as they could lead to water damage over time.

Tiles are firmly attached to the floor

This ensures that the adhesive the installer used is strong enough and won’t come loose over time.

Conclusion

Flooring is a critical part of any commercial space. As one of the most visible qualities, it can make or break the first impression of your business. That’s why it’s important to choose the right type of flooring for your needs and to have it installed by professionals. If you’re looking for tile installation services for your business, contact us today to schedule a consultation to assess your specific needs and provide you with a custom quote. We’ll work with you to find the perfect tile solution for your space and ensure that it’s installed correctly, so you can enjoy its benefits for years to come.

When it comes to whether or not tile installation services have been done right, when you know, you know. 

A job done right is not only a work of art, but it is also easy on the eyes and brings a certain calm to a space. 

We’ve all been there, in a hotel lobby or bathroom and your eyes are just drawn to the imperfections of the work. Patterns and spacing is off, lines are not clean, or grout lines look a bit bloated in some areas over another. It’s like a bad car accident–you can’t help but notice, stare and wonder what happened?

While a well-executed commercial tile job can be durable, stylish, and cost-effective, a poorly done job will do way more damage to your reputation. Tile work never gets a second chance at a first impression because of its permanence. Quality tile craftsmanship should be free of aesthetic disruptions, pleasing to the eye, and if it’s not, you may as well just rip it all out and start over.

Here’s how to tell if your tile installation was done correctly.

Tell-tale Signs to Look for Right Away

Some tiles are uneven

While flexible materials like vinyl are more forgiving, stone and ceramic tiles will accentuate irregularities like high or low spots on floors. Your tile is only as good as your underlayment, which means a smooth, hard, level surface free of debri. Tiles with edges that stick up or sit higher than others are not only prone to chipping, but also present a tripping hazard to all those who pass  your employees and your customers.

Tiles that butt up against the walls

Unless they are irregularly shaped, ceramic and stone tiles tile should be laid out with a comprehensive plan in mind before any tile is ever laid. This means a solid game plan for how tiles will meet in corners, against walls and other fixtures and should have even spacers between them to create uniform grout lines. Tiles that are too close to walls can crack or come loose as building materials expand and contract due to humidity and temperature changes.

Sharp edges

Outside corners around cabinet bases and walls should be mitered and smooth to prevent injuries.

Tiles sound hollow when you tap on them

If mortar is not spread evenly on a tile before it is put in place, it is very easy to trap pockets of air beneath the tile. Gently tap on tiles with the handle of a screwdriver. If it sounds hollow, the tile should be replaced before it cracks

Cracked, uneven, or bubbled grout

Grout lines should be evenly filled and smooth when dry. Grout that is too watery will shrink and crack as it dries. Bubbles in the grout can occur if it wasn’t firmly packed into the joints between the tiles. Any cracks or holes will allow water to seep behind the tiles and should be repaired immediately.

Adhesive or grout left on the surface of the tile

After the grout is applied but before it sets completely, the excess should have been removed and any remaining haze wiped away. Once the grout has cured completely, it is much harder to get it off.  With vinyl flooring, excess adhesive can ooze up between the tiles and should be removed before it dries. Once it is dry, it can be very difficult to remove without damaging the finish.

Water doesn’t bead on the tile or grout lines

Unglazed tile and most types of grout will need to be sealed to make them water-tight. Unsealed tile and grout will discolor and absorb moisture. In wet areas, like bathrooms and kitchens, water seeping through or between the tiles can cause toxic mold to grow behind them and water damage to walls and subflooring. Sprinkle some water on the tile and grout. It will bead on sealed surfaces. Even more, for areas where water is involved, a vapor barrier is a must between your tile and its underlayment.

Large gaps are filled with small pieces of tile

Unless a mosaic look is what you are going for, filling in large gaps with shards of tile and grout is not the solution. Cutting tile can be tricky, but the pros know how to do it right without jagged edges, uneven cuts, and unsightly gaps filled with grout or slivers of tile.

Don’t Settle for Substandard Tile Installation Services

And while some tiling issues are purely cosmetic, others can even be hazardous. In either case, it’s important to recognize the signs of bad tile installation before it’s too late. The right tile partner can make all the difference.

Always inspect your installer’s work early and often and if it’s someone you have worked with for the first time, assume nothing.  Repairs are much easier to make before the grout has fully cured.

 The professionals at Brooks Tile,  Inc. are dedicated to managing every detail of your commercial tiling project. With over 40 years of experience in large scale tile installation services and 6,000 jobs completed, you can expect expert installation that is done with the utmost attention to detail, on time, and on budget. Check out our portfolio and schedule a consultation today.

One of the most common questions asked when planning for a large tile job is what kind of tile should be used – porcelain vs. ceramic tile? 

These days, advancements in tile manufacturing and tile glaze techniques have brought about so many design choices, that to the average eye, the two are not all that different. 

In fact, both types of tiles, if glazed, have almost identical characteristics with regards to durability. It’s only when you are agonizing over seemingly identical tile samples in Sacramento, that it’s nice to know a little bit about what’s underneath so you can make an informed decision.

Porcelain Vs. Ceramic Tile Compared

Porcelain

Price	Generally costs ~60% more
How it’s made	Made of refined clay, minerals and water  Fired in a kiln at higher temperatures (Up to 2,300°F) Can be glazed or unglazed
Pros	Harder, denser, less porous, harder to stain, less likely to crack, better at cold temperatures, requires less frequent and easier cleaning
Cons	Can be harder to cut (wet saw with a diamond blade) and install
Water absorption	0.5% of water
Great for	Commercial and home – High traffic areas, high moisture areas, and outdoors
Applications	Kitchens, flooring, walls, bathrooms, laundry, patios, countertops

Ceramic

Price	$.50 – $50+/square foot
How it’s made	Made of clay, sand and feldspar  Fired in a kiln at lower temperatures (1,800-2,000°F) Can be glazed or unglazed
Pros	Can be easier to cut (simple tile cutter) and install, flooring stays cooler in warm climates
Cons	Softer, porous, susceptible to stain, requires frequent deep cleaning
Water absorption	0.5%-3% of water
Great for	Commercial and home – low-traffic areas, low-moisture areas, warmer climates
Applications	Kitchens, flooring, walls, high-end custom designs of interior spaces

Porcelain Tiles

As a general rule porcelain tends to run a little higher in price than its ceramic counterpart, but it may not always be the case depending on the durability rating and design. Porcelain also has the reputation for being nearly impermeable and does not chip as easily. Cleaning and maintenance is also fairly easy, but again that all depends on whether or not the tile is glazed. Overall, porcelain is the material you would go to for high-traffic, high-moisture spaces both indoors and outdoors – kitchens, patios, showers, lobbies, hallways, and baths. 

Though porcelain tile can be more expensive, the savings can be realized through less maintenance. Porcelain tile also doesn’t require special cleansers, a vinegar and water solution will most always do the trick.

Ceramic Tiles

On the other hand, ceramic tile can be a little less expensive to install because it tends to be easier to cut. However, because ceramic tiles are more porous, they are recommended for lower traffic areas and walls because they are more prone to staining and chipping. The porous nature of ceramic tiles can make them more susceptible to absorbing moisture and may cause cracking in colder climates. 

Maintenance and upkeep of ceramic tiles can also be a little more work. Ceramic tiles typically require more frequent, deeper cleaning.

Key Factors in Tile Selection

When choosing tile for a job, be it a kitchen, bath, or even an outdoor patio space, the following should be taken into consideration:   

• Proper installation
  No matter what material you choose, the end result is only as good as the skill level of your installer. Tile installation is a highly technical skill. The best installers are not only skilled at their craft, but also have an eye for design to ensure that every piece is laid with consideration of the bigger picture. 
• Check the ratings
  Whatever you choose, most tiles come with durability and weight ratings for both floor and wall applications. Be sure to check what your selected tile is rated for to ensure the product is best suited for your specific needs.
• Maintenance and upkeep
  If properly maintained, with frequent cleaning with the recommended cleanser for your specific tile, and in some cases, annual sealing, tile can last a lifetime in a home or business.
• Price
  The cost can vary widely depending on the total project surface area, type of tile selected, and the complexity of the design. Planning a tile job is the perfect balance of all three.

Porcelain Vs. Ceramic Tile: You Make the Call

When it comes to porcelain vs. ceramic tile, there really is no magic answer – one is not indisputably better than the other. 

Like most construction projects, the answer sometimes comes down to personal preference, and sometimes what someone likes is the only factor that matters. Who loves a beautiful arrangement of tile that’s been installed poorly or is damaged? No one. 

While price, durability, ease of install, and overall use, are the pillars of any construction material choice in our minds, professional installation of whichever tile you choose should always be considered. Working closely with a tile installation team can ensure you make the right choice for your project. 

In most cases, no matter what material you choose, if it’s installed by an expert tile pro, and maintained over time, just about any tile material will work. 

Brooks Tile has over 40 years of experience in both commercial and residential tile installation. We work with both porcelain and ceramic tile, and are eager to collaborate with you on your Sacramento tile installation. Contact us for more information on our expert installation services and to schedule a consultation for your next project. 

Choosing tile contractors for your home remodeling projects can spell the difference between a successful project and one that flops. Whether you want a contractor to give you fireplace tile ideas, small bathroom tile ideas, or help you install tile flooring that looks like wood, you should not just settle for anyone you come across.

Unfortunately, the process of finding a reliable contractor is never straightforward. People have had horrible experiences of being defrauded or ripped off by contractors they picked blindly, and you want to avoid going down the same route.

Fortunately for you, we have put down a list of red flags to look out for when  hiring a tile contractor. We want to ensure you only hire a person with the skills, experience, and knowledge to do the job correctly. That way, you can have the peace of mind that tile installation in your home will happen professionally to your heart’s content for years to come.

Is the Tile Contractor Credible?

An excellent approach to checking a tile contractor’s credibility is scrutinizing their profile on social media and the internet. Platforms like Yelp and Facebook provide basic details about a contractor’s past and performance.

In addition, user reviews and customer service examples will help you know if the contractor is on top of their game. Besides, you should be able to see videos and photos of their work.

While at it, you also want to verify the contractor’s contact information. Can you find their phone number or street address online? Does the information they provide match what is on their website?

The red flag is flying high if you can’t find credible information about the contractor online in this digital age. In addition, if a contractor is unwilling to provide their business’ street address, something is off about them.

The Tile Contractor Is Not Licensed, Bonded and Insured

Lack of proper credentials or certification is one of the biggest red flags when considering tile contractors. Checking if they are licensed should be high on your priority list when deciding whether to hire them. If they don’t have a license or are on a “buyers beware” list for some form of a license violation, avoid the contractor for apparent reasons.

It’s also crucial that your tile contractor is insured. Without this necessary documentation, you could become a victim to a scam artist or be held liable for injuries and damages.

Low Ball Rates

For example, you will get a range of quotes from contractors when you want to find out the tile floor installation cost or cost to retile a shower. However, if one seems too low to be true, that’s probably a red flag that you should avoid the contractor.

The lower rate may indicate that they will cut costs and do a less than perfect job. You will end up spending more in the long run as you will have to find someone else to redo the job to your satisfaction.

Final Thoughts

When looking for a tile contractor, you want one who will help you meet your tile installation goals with the highest level of efficiency and most minor inconvenience. That is why you should look for a licensed, insured, and credible contractor with fair rates based on the market prices. In addition, look for a reputable contractor who works with you based on your timeline, budget, and design without trying to arm-twist you.

Don’t take shortcuts when looking for tile contractors, as the one you find can stand in the way of accomplishing your dream. Contact Brooks Tile Inc. for reliable tile installation services that you can count on in the greater Sacramento area.