A decision you can check
- 01
Measure the designed joint
Use the layout joint rather than the smallest gap between sample tiles. Calibrated and pressed tiles can require different joint allowances.
- 02
Check tile sensitivity
Highly polished, soft or textured surfaces may scratch or trap pigment. Test a sample and follow both tile and grout guidance.
- 03
Match exposure and maintenance
Wet rooms, food areas, exterior work and stain-prone floors can justify different performance and sealing choices.
- 04
Specify colour and movement joints
Approve grout colour under project lighting, but do not fill required movement joints with ordinary grout.
Write a specification someone else can check
Grout does not waterproof a shower; the approved assembly below the tile manages water.
Very narrow joints do not eliminate tile size variation or substrate movement.
- Measure the designed joint
- Check tile sensitivity
- Match exposure and maintenance
- Specify colour and movement joints
Convert the decision into quantities
Enter the measured geometry in the Tile Calculator, replace defaults with the selected product coverage and round only at the final purchasable unit. List accessories and preparation materials separately so a coverage change does not silently scale unrelated items.
Mixing water, washing timing and cleaning technique affect colour and joint strength.
Verify at order and delivery
Check the exact local designation or product code, performance class, size, colour or batch where relevant, stated coverage, yield, density or capacity, ordered quantity and accessory compatibility on the written order. Inspect delivered tile installation before installation and isolate damaged or mismatched material while return and replacement options remain open.
What usually throws the order off
- Selecting tile from ceramic or porcelain name alone
- Ignoring the product use rating
- Choosing grout before joint width
- Using grout in required movement joints
Frequently asked questions
What must the tile installation specification identify?
Make the scope checkable against these decisions: measure the designed joint; check tile sensitivity; match exposure and maintenance; specify colour and movement joints. Record the exact local designation or product, performance class, dimensions, finish where relevant, accessories and controlling technical document.
Which calculator default changes after product selection?
Replace whichever default the exact tile installation controls—coverage, yield, density, dimensions, package quantity or capacity—while keeping the verified project geometry unchanged.
Who should approve a substitution?
The owner and responsible designer or installer should confirm in writing that the substituted tile installation preserves required performance, appearance, compatibility, installation method and documented supplier or project acceptance criteria.
Technical references
These references support the measurement and planning method. Product instructions, the site and applicable local requirements control the final installation.