How to Prepare for a Meeting with a Tile Contractor - Part II

4. Do you have a budget in place for the tile installation?

5. Choose the shape and color of your tile and choose the color of the grout. If you have not selected tile ask the contractor if his company has a showroom or where he would recommend you shop for tile.

6. Can the tile contractor leave samples for you?

7. Obtain an estimate for the tile installation without the cost of the tile included and with the cost of the tile included.

8. Does the tile have to be sealed? If so, is there an extra charge? Are there advantages to have the area sealed?

9. How can I find out about the quality of the materials the contractor will be using?

10. How long after the tile installation can the floor be walked on?

11. Have each contractor evaluate the square footage of the tile installation project and ask them to include it in their written estimate.

12. Ask the tile contractor how much it will cost to have the existing floor removed and prepared prior to the tile installation.

13. Ask for references of previous customers and addresses for any that might be willing to let you see their completed tile installation project.

14. Is there a guarantee on the work? If so for how long? Does it cover cracking, sinking and possible drainage issues?

15. Ask for a written proposal that includes all tile installation details and guarantees. A proposal should include: materials to be used, begin date, completion date, and price and payment schedule. Certify, in writing, that there will be no "extras" or cost variations during the project execution.

16. Ask the contractor whether he will obtain a permit or whether you should. (CAUTION: When a home owner obtains the permit, he/she is the one who is liable.)

How to Prepare for a Meeting with a Tile Contractor - Part I

When you are a planning a home improvement project one of the most important steps in the process is that of finding reputable contractors to perform the work for you. 

It is not an easy process for some, particularly if you are unfamiliar with what is involved in the contractor's line of work. This is often true when it comes to discussing a tile installation project with a tile contractor.

Don't Hesitate To Ask Your Future Contractor All You Want
There are some very important questions you should ask a contractor when you meet with them to obtain an estimate for your tile installation project.

Be sure and get more than one estimate and do your best to make sure when you compare the estimates, you have enough information to compare apples to apples and oranges to oranges. 

If a question arises after the appointment, do not hesitate to call the contractor for more information.

Follow This Guide Line and Be comfortable To Ask Anything Else You Want

1. Obtain a drawing of the area where you plan to have to tile installation.

2. Gather background information on each contractor you are planning to talk with. Visit their website, contact the Better Business Bureau or similar organization, and talk with anyone who has used the contractor.

3. Determine the time frame in which you would prefer to have the project done.