The type of tile you choose to install in the kitchen or bathroom can have a significant effect on the finished look, so it is important that you have the highest quality product for the task at hand. Shopping at a big box store for tile may seem like the best option, but in the long run, you may end up with uneven tiles or tiles that have significant color variations.
Here are some reasons why it is beneficial to shop at an independent tile store as opposed to a large, discount chain store.
Color and Shading
There is nothing more frustrating than to be near the end of installing new tile in the kitchen or bathroom, only to find that you are one or two tiles short. One of the biggest problems with buying from a big box store is the tile variations.
Each batch of tiles will have a slightly different shade, so if you do not purchase enough of the same batch, there will be a noticeable difference in the shading after they are installed.
Although there may be a color on the front of the box, each box of tile has a shade or batch number on it. Even if the colors are the same, the batch numbers may be different, which means there will be variations in the shading.
It is essential that you make sure the batch numbers and the shading numbers are identical on every box you buy.
Tile Thickness
Another common problem with tiles from a big box tile store is the variation in tile thickness, especially natural stone products, like granite. Finding out that there are several tiles that are significantly thicker in one box than in the other one is a common issue when you buy from big box stores.
This is especially true if you pick up a couple boxes at one location and a few other boxes from a different location, even if it is the same discount chain. Always buy the amount of tile you measured for as well as several extra pieces from the same location.
Quality Products
One of the reasons why a big box store can sell almost the same products cheaper than a local, independent tile store, is because of the quality. Tile from an independent tile store typically is going to be better quality.
Large chain stores tend to get merchandise that was refused by specialty stores. When a specialty store refuses merchandise, the manufacturer has to get rid of the product, so they sell it to the larger chains at deeply discounted prices.
Those stores, in turn, sell the merchandise to their customers at discounted prices. The main problem with this is that the product was initially refused because of the quality.
Choosing the color, type of size of tiles you want to install can be overwhelming, so it is important that you take your time and choose a product that you will enjoy for several years to come. Keep in mind that the flooring in your home is typically meant to last for years, so it is important that you get the highest quality product for your money.
If you need help choosing the best tile flooring for your needs, contact Mees Distributors, Inc. We will be happy to help you with your selection and will make sure you are getting beautiful, quality flooring.