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Ceramic Tile
Obtaining
Estimates If you’re planning a remodeling job, it’s
important to carefully examine contractor options as
well as their estimates. After choosing a contractor,
work closely with them to determine the plans of your
project as well as the cost of the ceramic tile. A
professional contractor will determine what you want
and give you an approximate cost for the project. Ask
your contractor if this is just an estimate or an
itemized bid. An itemized bid will list all necessary
materials, labor, permits, and taxes. For more
information contact a local tile contractor.
Selecting Tile
Materials In order to make the best choice in ceramic
tile materials, your contractor will need to know the
following. First of all, where will the tile be used?
On walls, floors, or counter tops? Inside or outside?
Will the tile be exposed to wetness or freezing
conditions? A tile professional normally draws a
sketch which details the area to be tiled, including
its dimensions and any special features. Certain tiles
should be used in specific situations. You may like
the way a tile looks, but it may not be heavy enough
for hallway use or it may absorb water which would not
be good for a kitchen. Your tile contractor can direct
you to the appropriate tile for your situation. Ask
about the grade of your tile selection. Seventy-five
percent of all tile in this country is of standard
grade, which is high quality. In regard to color,
remember dark colors make a room appear small, while
lighter colors open up a room. Cost is also an
important factor. Your tile professional can give you
a cost per square foot which includes materials,
labor, and design.
Types and
Styles Tiles have a sturdy reputation for function and
efficiency. Tiles are water resistive, heat
reflective, and ornamental. A tile professional can
help you choose the best tile for your situation. Here
is some tile language which will be helpful to you.
Glazed wall tile is white gypsum or terricata colored
tile with a colored glaze used on walls. Pabba tiles
are made from clay, shale, or porcelain, and are
one-half inch thick and usually used on floors. Pabba
tiles absorb water and are not used for wet interior
areas, outside areas, or areas that will freeze.
Quarry tiles appear to be made from stone, but are
actually made from clay. These tiles are usually used
for floors, countertops, or walls because of their
thickness. They can also be used indoor/outdoor.
Mosaic tiles are two inches square or smaller,
unglazed, and colored with a pigment. Mosaic tiles can
be used on floors, countertops, and walls. For further
information on ceramic tiles see your local tile
specialist.
Choosing a
Contractor Selecting a ceramic tile contractor is very
important to the outcome of your job. As with any
contractor, get more than one estimate on your job.
Ask for a list of references from each contractor.
Contact some of the references and ask about the work
performed. Be sure your contractor is fully insured.
When meeting with a contractor, be sure you both
completely understand what is needed. That way the
contractor can give you an accurate estimate for the
work to be done. The contractor should be very
specific when bidding on your job. Bids should reflect
the cost of materials, labor, taxes, and permits.
Also, it’s good to know how long the job will take.
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