1. When selecting your tiles – ensure the correct tile is chosen for the particular area you want to tile – i.e. “It is fit for purpose”.

2. Wall tiles cannot be used on the floor because they are not tough enough. It is perfectly fine to use floor tiles on the walls though.

3. Shade variations are inherent in all kiln fired clay products. It is possible that the tiles purchased will be slightly different from the sample or display shown in the showroom/store - this is normal.

4. Always check the batch number on boxes of tiles. It is advised against using different batches in the same area, which are on the same surface plane. i.e. it is possible to use different batch materials on surfaces that are on different vertical planes.

5. Ensure you have allowed sufficient tiles to complete your job. Between 5% and 15% wastage should be allowed for depending on the size of the tile being used, and how many tiles you have to cut to adhere to your tile set out. Note – the bigger the tile the more you should allow for wastage. There is no guarantee that you will be able to purchase the same tile in the same batch number at a later date so it is advised to purchase all your tile requirements at the one time.

6. It is common industry standard to not accept tile claims once material has been laid/installed, therefore always check for colour variations or possible faults in tiles PRIOR to laying. Open two or three cartons and inspect the tiles for correct colour and acceptable shade.

7. Ensure the tiler mixes tiles from three or four different boxes to ensure proper blending of any colour variation that may exist within the tile series.

8. When using glazed ceramic tiles in wet areas, always ensure grout is level with the top of the tile surface. Otherwise, water may penetrate the biscuit base of the tile, leading to surface grazing (where water shading can be seen under the tile glaze)

9. It is recommended an impervious grout (epoxy) be used for all tile joints in wet areas.

10. Make sure substrate surfaces to be tiled are flat to avoid lipping of tile edges.

11. Make sure surfaces are clean and free of grease and particles – to ensure good adhesion of tiles.

12. Before laying your tiles, do a set out on the floor or wall – so you know how the tiles will look according to their shape and size. This will help avoid any unsightly surprises and also odd cuts.

13. It is highly recommended that hidden areas (under the stove, fridges, in pantries and cupboards) or detached areas (toilets and laundry floors) are tiled last so that if extra tiles are needed, securing the same batched product will not be as crucial.

14. Always ensure tiles have been cleaned thoroughly after grouting. If grout is not properly removed, surface staining can occur when dirt sticks to the grout residue – making it difficult to clean.

15. It is worthwhile keeping an extra box or two on site incase repairs are required. This way you have the same batch and can avoid the scenario of tiles being a different colour/size variation OR the original tiles are not manufactured anymore.