Top Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Tile

Selecting the right tile for a renovation project is more than just choosing a design that looks appealing. Many homeowners, whether first-time renovators or seasoned designers, fall into common pitfalls that can lead to unnecessary stress, extra costs, or even compromised aesthetics. To help avoid these issues, here are the ten most frequent tile-buying mistakes and how to prevent them.

1. Not Ordering Enough Tile

One of the most frequent mistakes in tile purchasing is underestimating the quantity needed. Waste is not a fixed number, and how much a project generates depends largely on how the tile is being laid. A straight, stacked layout in a simple rectangular room wastes the least, so 10% over the measured square footage is usually enough. Diagonal, herringbone, and chevron layouts require far more cutting around the perimeter, so 15–20% is the safer allowance. Rooms with multiple corners, niches, or curved walls push that number higher again.

The second reason to get the quantity right the first time is the production run. Tile is manufactured in batches, and a box ordered months later may come from a different one. How closely it matches depends on the material: through-body porcelain tends to hold very consistent between runs, while glazed and handmade look tiles are made to vary and are the most likely to read differently alongside the original.

This is why installers set aside what the trade calls attic stock, a box kept back after the job is finished and stored flat, dry, and labeled with the lot number from the original carton. If a tile cracks three years later, that box is the difference between a clean repair and either a visible patch or a discontinued line. The order of operations is straightforward: measure the field, add the waste allowance for the chosen layout, then add one box for attic stock. Tile Mart’s 365-day return policy exists to make that planning easier, so genuine surplus beyond the attic stock can go back long after the project wraps.

2. Ignoring Grout Choices

Grout is often seen as an afterthought, but it plays a crucial role in the overall design. Choosing the wrong grout color can alter the final look significantly. Homeowners should decide early on whether they want a seamless, classic finish or a bold, contrasting effect. Testing grout colors alongside tile samples ensures a cohesive and intentional result.

3. Choosing Tile Based on Appearance Alone

A tile may look stunning, but that doesn’t mean it’s practical for every space. Slip resistance, hardness, and water absorption are key factors to consider. In bathrooms and other areas that get wet, a textured or matte surface offers more grip underfoot than a high-gloss one. Smaller formats suit shower floors, where the additional grout lines add texture and make it easier to shape the slope toward the drain. For high-traffic areas, porcelain is a hard-wearing choice. For those uncertain about the technical aspects, the experts at Tile Mart can help guide them toward the best options for their project.

4. Forgetting About Maintenance

Not all tiles require the same level of care. Natural stone, for instance, needs regular sealing and specific cleaning products, whereas porcelain and ceramic are relatively low-maintenance. Understanding a tile’s upkeep before purchase ensures that homeowners choose a product that suits their lifestyle.

5. Overlooking Tile Thickness

Tile thickness matters, particularly when transitioning between different flooring materials. Uneven tile heights can create trip hazards or awkward transitions. Homeowners should always check the thickness of their floor tile before installation and plan for smooth transitions to achieve a professional and polished look.

6. Skipping Tile Samples

Lighting can dramatically affect the way a tile looks in a space. A tile that appears perfect in a showroom may look entirely different at home. Ordering samples and viewing them under both natural and artificial lighting is essential. Tile Mart offers 5 tile samples delivered with flat rate shipping, allowing homeowners to test colors, finishes, and materials before making a final decision.

7. Buying Based on Price Alone

While budget considerations are important, choosing the cheapest tile can lead to long-term issues. Lower-quality tiles may be prone to cracking, discoloration, or premature wear. Investing in high-quality tiles for high-traffic or visible areas ensures durability, while budget-friendly options can be reserved for accent spaces.

8. Neglecting Tile Layout and Pattern Planning

Tile layout is an art, and without a proper plan, designs can look unbalanced. Sketching the layout beforehand prevents awkward cuts and mismatched patterns. Ideally, tile cuts should be no smaller than two inches wide. For patterned tiles, a dry layout before installation ensures proper alignment. Even with careful planning, flexibility is key, since a design may need adjustments once installation begins.

9. Assuming All Tiles Are the Same

Porcelain, ceramic, natural stone, and glass tiles each have distinct characteristics and are suited for different applications. Assuming they are interchangeable can lead to durability or maintenance issues. Porcelain and ceramic can look nearly identical side by side, for example, yet they differ in density and water absorption, and that difference is what determines where each one belongs. Consulting with a retailer or designer ensures the chosen material is appropriate for the intended use.

10. Failing to Account for Lead Times

Specialty and imported tiles often come with extended production and delivery times, which can cause delays. To prevent setbacks, homeowners should order tiles well in advance and confirm lead times with their supplier before committing to an installation date. The Tile Mart team can check current availability on a specific tile, which is worth doing before a crew is scheduled. Planning ahead ensures that materials arrive on schedule, keeping the project moving smoothly.

Final Thoughts

Avoiding these common tile-buying mistakes can save time, stress, and money, ensuring that the final result aligns with the homeowner’s vision. Whether the project is a single bathroom remodel or a large-scale renovation, taking the time to plan and ask the right questions is essential.