How to prepare for a tiler (and get a better job for less)

Order the right quantity, from one batch

Add 10% to your measured area for cuts and breakages, and 15% for herringbone, chevron, diagonal or Victorian geometric layouts. Order it all at once so every tile comes from the same production batch — shade and size vary between batches, and a top-up order six weeks later will not match.

Keep the spares. In five years, a cracked tile with matching stock is a one-hour repair; without it, it is a new floor.

Get the sequence right

Tiling sits in a specific slot in the programme, and moving it costs money:

• First-fix plumbing and electrics complete and tested, including shower valve and any recessed niches.
• Underfloor heating installed and pressure-tested, screed laid and dried.
• Substrate prepared — boarding, plastering or levelling, all fully dry.
• Tiling, tanking first where relevant.
• Second fix: sanitaryware, sockets, skirting. Silicone last, after everything is fitted.

Practical things that save a day

Deliver tiles to the room, or as close as possible — carrying 40 boxes up three flights is a chargeable half-day. Clear the room completely and protect the access route. Confirm working power and water. Sort out parking, and tell us in advance if there is no permit available.

If you are living in the property, agree which bathroom is out of action and for how long, and where the dust barrier goes.

Decisions to make before we start

Grout colour. Silicone colour. Tile layout and where the pattern is centred. Where the cuts fall — there is always a cut somewhere, and you should choose whether it hides behind the door or under the bath. Trim type and finish at external corners. Niche size and position.

Every one of these is free to decide on day zero and expensive to change on day three.

What to check when the job is done

Run your hand across the surface for lippage. Tap a few tiles for a hollow ring. Check every internal corner is silicone, not grout. Check the grout is fully compacted with no pinholes. Check the falls in a shower with a jug of water. Then get the guarantee in writing.