CERAMIC TILES · FLOORS & WALLS
WHAT WE ASSESS
Before ordering materials, we check flatness, strength, cracks, moisture and the available installation height. Existing coverings require a site-specific assessment of adhesion and the proposed system. An attractive tiled finish cannot compensate for an unsuitable substrate.
Porcelain, ceramic and natural stone differ in their material properties and installation requirements. Wet areas need a planned waterproofing system, including junctions and penetrations; tile grout alone does not waterproof the substrate.
Tile size, joint layout, room axes and cuts around doors, drains and niches are coordinated before installation. For long formats and staggered rows, we check tile flatness and the manufacturer’s approvals; a half-offset layout is not suitable for every product.
Materials, tile size, room geometry, removal work, substrate preparation, waterproofing, cuts, skirting and junctions affect the price. Floor and wall areas, along with additional work, are shown separately in the quotation.
SCOPE OF WORK
A balanced grid. The starting axis and cuts at the edges determine whether the surface looks harmonious; large-format tiles require particularly careful substrate preparation.
Staggered rows create movement. With elongated tiles, the offset and possible lippage are assessed for the selected product; a one-third offset may be more suitable than a half offset.
Require suitable tile sizes, a defined axis and more planning for cuts and material quantities. The pattern, tile size and joint layout are approved before installation.
The work and included services are governed by the written quotation and the findings of the existing-condition assessment.
PROJECT CHECK
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Common patterns include a straight grid, half-offset, third-offset and staggered layouts; suitable formats also allow herringbone or modular patterns. The specific layout is determined by tile size, tolerances, room geometry and manufacturer guidance.
In some cases, yes, provided the existing surface is sound, load-bearing, clean and prepared for the specified system. Build-up height, doors, waterproofing and connections must also be checked. Blanket approval without a site visit would not be responsible.
Building elements and finishes move as temperature and moisture change. Existing structural joints, division into areas and perimeter junctions must be accounted for in the laying plan and chosen system; a visually continuous rigid joint does not replace them.
An installation-only price is comparable only if tile size, substrate, cuts, waterproofing, skirting, materials and grouting are defined in the same way. After measuring the site, we prepare a quotation with clearly itemised work.
Technical background: Sika Switzerland: installation guidelines for large-format tiles. Product and system requirements are checked for the specific project.
Planning a project outside our core region? Send us the location, scope and preferred timeframe. We will assess whether we can support your project.