When starting your tiling project, whether it's for your dream bathroom, a stylish kitchen, or a stunning outdoor patio, forward planning is crucial. One aspect that often goes overlooked is the calculation of required tiles. While it might be tempting to order only the exact number of tiles needed, experts recommend adding at least 15% extra to your order. This seemingly small step can have a significant impact on the success and efficiency of your project.
1. Cutting Wastage: Precision is key when cutting tiles to fit the unique dimensions of your space. However, walls are not always straight and some patterns require different cuts. By ordering an additional 15% of tiles, you provide your contractor or yourself with ample material to account for the angles and corners that work with your space and design. This prevents delays and additional costs that could arise from having to reorder tiles, adjusting your project timeline or worse, getting the tiler back for a second round!
2. Handling Design Changes: Home improvement projects can evolve as they progress. You might decide to alter the layout, adjust patterns, or accommodate unforeseen obstacles. Having extra tiles readily available allows you to adapt to these changes seamlessly. Imagine being able to make design decisions without the fear of running out of materials or compromising the integrity of your vision.
3. Future Repairs and Replacements: Tiles are durable, but accidents happen. A cracked or chipped tile can disrupt the aesthetic of your entire space. By having spare tiles on hand, you create a reserve that matches your original batch, ensuring that any necessary repairs or replacements in the future seamlessly blend with your existing design. This forward-thinking approach can save you the hassle of trying to find a perfect match years down the line.
4. Limited Availability and Batch Differences: Tiles come from various batches, and their colors and patterns can sometimes vary slightly. If you only order the exact number of tiles you need, you risk receiving a batch that looks slightly different from your initial selection. Having additional tiles from the same batch ensures consistency in appearance, as well as providing a safety net against any potential future unavailability of the specific tile you've chosen.
5. Cost-Effectiveness: While ordering extra tiles might seem like an unnecessary expense upfront, it's a strategic move that can save you money in the long run. If you find yourself needing more tiles after the initial order, you might end up paying higher prices for smaller quantities due to shipping costs.
