Below you will find FAQs on tiles, followed by FAQs on service.
Frequently Asked Questions - Tiles
Q. What is the difference between Porcelain and Ceramic tiles?
A. Porcelain tiles are made using a more refined clay than is used for ceramic tiles and are fired at a higher temperature making them the more durable of the two. Porcelain tiles are of a higher quality than ceramic tiles.
Q. Can all tiles be used on floors and walls?
A. No. As a general rule, most porcelain tiles will be suitable for use on walls and floors, while ceramic tiles are mostly used on walls. However, there are many exceptions to this rule and we therefore recommend that you refer to our Product Details table for each tile for accurate guidance.
Q. How do I know if a tile is anti-slip?
A. Tiles which have anti-slip surfaces will be given an R rating ranging from R9 to R13, with R9 being the lowest slip resistance and R13, the highest. R ratings will be listed in the Product Details table for each tile.
Q. What is a rectified tile?
A. Rectified tiles are porcelain or ceramic tiles which have been cut to a precise size with a near perfect straight edge. This allows for neater and narrower grout lines and a more professional finish.
Q. What tiles are suitable for underfloor heating?
A. All floor tiles are suitable for underfloor heating, although we recommend that you use larger tiles requiring less grout lines as grouting does not conduct heat very well. If using underfloor heating in areas which are likely to get wet or slippery, you will still be able to choose from our wide variety of slip-resistant tiles.
Q. What tiles should I use in my wet room?
A. As with any room which is likely to become wet and slippery, we recommend that you use floor tiles which have an anti-slip rating of R11 or over for maximum safety.
Q. How can I avoid shade variation in my tiles?
A. Tiles are produced in very large batches which can cover over 100,000sqm at a time. When the manufacturers produce a new batch, there can be slight a discrepancy in the shade of the colour. Always check that the batch numbers are the same on each box of tiles to minimize shade variation. We also recommend mixing tiles from different boxes when laying them to ensure an even mix.
Q. What size tile trim do I need?
A. When selecting your tile trim, always use one size up from the depth of your tile to allow for the adhesive needed to hold the trim in place.
Q. Do I need to seal my tiles?
A. Sealing is done to protect your tiles and grouting against dirt, erosion and water penetration. While most porcelain and ceramic tiles will not need to be sealed, the following tiles will normally require sealing:
· Polished Porcelain
· Crackle Glaze
· Quartz
· Natural Stone (Granite, Quarry, Slate, Travertine, Polished and Unpolished Marble)
Grout will also need to be sealed. You will need to wait 48 to 72 hours for the grout to dry and cure before sealing.
Q. How do I calculate how many boxes of tiles I will need?
A. Multiply the length and width of the area you wish to tile (in metres) to find out the total SQM required. When you have chosen your tile, enter the SQM figure into our tile calculator and it will automatically tell you the number of boxes required. We recommend that you add an extra 10% to allow for cuts and wastage.
Q. What tiles are suitable for use around a wood burning stove or fire-place?
A. Porcelain tiles are ideal for use around wood burning stoves or areas that are exposed to high heat. Ceramic tiles can also be used but might show some crazing in the tiles.
Q. Can I tile over old tiles?
A. Yes, you can tile over old tiles, but your new tiles will only be as secure as the old tiles that they are attached to. Any problems with the old layer becoming loose, will become a problem with the new layer. The surface of the existing tiles would also need to be free of mould, mildew and be completely level. For best results, we recommend that you always remove old tiles from the area to be tiled and prep the area thoroughly. This could involve re-skimming the wall but will be well worth the extra effort. This will ensure the future stability of your tiled area and will give a much better look to the end result.
Frequently Asked Questions - Service
Q. Do you provide samples?
A. Yes, samples can be ordered for most tile or flooring products from our website with free delivery.
Q. Can you deliver to my home?
A. Yes, all orders placed through our website will be delivered to your kerbside.
Q. Will I need to sign for my goods?
A. Yes, you will normally need to sign for delivery. If you are unable to be home, please arrange for a neighbour to sign on your behalf or request alternative arrangements when ordering and we will do our best to accommodate you.
Q. How long will it take to deliver my goods?
A. Usually within 3 to 5 working days.
Q. How much do you charge for shipping?
A. Delivery is charged at £25 per order, with free shipping on orders over £300.
Q. Will all the tiles be delivered from the same batch?
A. While we endeavour to make sure that each order of tiles is from the same batch, this is not always possible. We recommend that you inspect all tiles prior to installation to avoid any potential batch shading problems.
Q. I bought too many tiles for my project; can I return them?
A. We will be happy to accept returns on any unopened boxes if they are undamaged, in their original packaging and suitable for resale. Please let us know within 14 days of receiving your goods and they will need to be returned to our depot within 14 days of letting us know. You will need to pay for return delivery. Damaged goods will not be refunded.
Q. What do I do if my tiles are damaged or my order is incorrect?
A. In the unlikely event that your order is damaged or incorrect, we will be happy to issue you with a refund or exchange. Please examine goods carefully on arrival and let us know of any problems as soon as possible. We will, of course, absorb the cost of returns in these instances. Please check out our Terms & Conditions for more details. If only one or two tiles are damaged, we recommend that you use these tiles on areas where cutting is necessary.
Q. Can I return my tiles if I change my mind after receiving them?
A. We will be happy to accept returns on any unopened boxes if they are undamaged, in their original packaging and suitable for resale. Please let us know within 14 days of receiving your goods and they will need to be returned to our depot within 14 days of letting us know. You will need to pay for return delivery and possible restocking fees. Damaged goods will not be refunded.
Q. Can I return discounted or clearance goods?
A. No, we cannot accept returns for discounted or clearance goods.
Q. Can I cancel my order once it's been placed?
A. Yes, you can cancel an order once it's been placed, but charges may apply if the order has already been despatched.
Q. What if I need to make additions to my order?
A. If you need to make additions to your order, simply place a new order through our website and write the batch number in the comments section at checkout. We will do our best to provide you with a match, but this may not be possible in a few exceptions.
Q. What payment types do you accept?
A. We accept payment by Debit or Credit Bank Cards; PayPal; Apple Pay and Klarna. Why not take advantage of spreading your payments out with Klarna?
Q. Do your prices include VAT?
A. Yes, all of our prices include VAT.