How to Brief Your Tiler: A Guide to Successful Tiling Projects at Home
Embarking on a tiling project at home can be an exciting endeavour that adds beauty, functionality, and value to your space. However, to ensure a smooth and successful outcome, it's crucial to establish clear communication with your tiler.
A well-executed tiling project begins with a comprehensive and detailed briefing that outlines your expectations and requirements. To ensure your vision is understood and achieved, we’ve created a guide covering all the points you’ll need to discuss with your tiler before securing the job.
Define Your Objectives
Before contacting a tiler, it's important to establish your objectives for the project. Determine the desired outcome, whether it's a specific tile design, colour scheme, or functionality requirement.
Consider the purpose of the area being tiled and how it will be used. Are you looking to create a feature splashback in the kitchen where both form and function are integral, or are you simply wanting to give your fireplace surround an aesthetic overhaul? This clarity will enable you to effectively communicate your vision to the tiler.
Research and Gather Inspiration
Browse through interior design magazines, online platforms such as Pinterest, and social media to gather inspiration for your tiling project. Save images that resonate with your desired aesthetic and overall look.
Sharing these visuals with your tiler will help them understand your preferences and guide them in realising your vision. Go a step further and put together a moodboard, including specific hardware and paint colours for the space, so you can see how they will pair back with the tiles. The clearer you are with your visuals, the better, so start pinning now.
Measure and Calculate
Before briefing your tiler, accurately measure the area to be tiled. If it’s a tricky space to measure, try to get as close to accurate as you can so that you have a good estimate to work from as your starting point. These measurements will provide essential information regarding the quantity of tiles needed and assist in estimating costs.
Discuss budget and timeline
Openly discuss your budget and timeline expectations with your tiler during the briefing. Establishing a realistic budget will enable the tiler to suggest appropriate tile options, adhesive materials, and finishes that align with your financial plan. Moreover, clarifying the project's timeline will ensure both parties are on the same page regarding deadlines and availability.
Material Selection
During the briefing, discuss the type of tiles you envision for your project. Consider factors such as durability, maintenance requirements, and visual appeal. If you have specific tile options in mind, share them with your tiler. They can provide valuable insights into the pros and cons of different materials and help you make informed decisions. Tile samples are available to purchase at all tile shops, so do your research and cast your net wide so that you don’t miss out on any hidden gems. Using Google as your starting point is a great way to get a sense of what’s out there, but nothing beats touching and viewing the tiles in person.
Surface Preparation
Thoroughly discuss the condition of the surface where the tiles will be installed. If there are any existing issues, such as cracks, unevenness, or moisture problems, address them during the briefing. Your tiler may recommend necessary repairs or modifications to ensure a stable and long-lasting tile installation. Extra prep of the surface area will increase the cost of your project, but it’s nothing compared to the cost of retiling down the track!
Layout and Design
Communicate your desired tile layout and design to your tiler. Explain any patterns, borders, or focal points you would like to incorporate. Consider the scale and proportion of the space to ensure the design complements the overall aesthetic of the room. Collaboration with your tiler in this phase will ensure the best possible outcome, and again, this is where tools like Pinterest will be your best friend in terms of communicating the desired look and feel of the space.
Finishing Details
Discuss finishing details, such as grout color, trim options, and sealing requirements. These seemingly minor details can significantly impact the overall look and longevity of the tiled area. Sharing your preferences with the tiler will allow them to recommend suitable finishing options and ensure a cohesive and polished final result. Many tilers are able to custom colour grouting to suit your tiles, so be sure to see if this is an option for your space, too.
Clear communication and a comprehensive briefing are vital elements for successful tiling projects at home. Remember to maintain open and ongoing communication throughout the project, as it will foster a positive working relationship and lead to a stunning end result. With a well-briefed tiler, your tiling project will transform your home into a space of beauty and functionality.
All images sourced from Pinterest