It’s really hard to find good tilers.
There are a lot of reasons…
For starters, it’s hard work. We get worn out, We’re expected to push it really hard.
We have to be really smart. There’s a lot to think of, we have to be able to put together very complex projects and know a lot about many different things.
I could go on and on, but the point is…If you want someone in your house you can depend on to do a great job, you’ll have to do a pretty fast character read.
You’ll have to use your intuition and your gut to make a decision.
So, what should you look for?
I’m in the field, I see and feel the climate of construction, I know people, so I may have some insight here.
Let’s check out a few things to look out for when hiring a tiler:
1. Do they talk about the process, how it’s built…Do they GEEK out about what they DO? Do they understand the mechanics of working with tile?
If I’m having someone work at my house, I want them to geek out on what they are doing. I want to know that I have the most competent technician out there that’s “into it”.
It’s a good sign if your tiler is really into what they do.
Very important and added points if they’re into what’s BEHIND the tile…If your tiler starts speaking quickly and in words you don’t understand about their waterproofing or what products they use…PAY WHATEVER.
The stuff underneath your tile is just as important as the tile itself. If that sounds weird to you, don’t get tile until you spend some time looking into what I mean.
2. Will they try their BEST?
Maybe just ask them that.
I don’t care if someone has done tile for 15 years, if the person will take shortcuts when they’re not “feeling it” you don’t want them around.
They have to try when it’s cold, try when they’re hungry, try when Mama died, try at ALL TIMES.
What I mean is, if they have a bad cut, but they’re a little upset about a flat tire, WILL THEY LEAVE IT?
A great tile installer will ALWAYS TRY THEIR BEST. No matter the circumstances. A great installer cares!
3. Does this person have any CONTENT?!
You have to do your research. I’m not talking about checking for reviews or insurance or any of that surface stuff.
I’m talking about spending time on the social media or website and being able to get a good overall look at HOW things are done.
HOW will your project be built? Do they cover things before they work? Who’s doing the work? Does that person talk on film and show what they are doing, day to day.
It’s super important with a tiler because everyone does things differently.
I’d say the most important part you’re trying to find out from the content:
DOES THE TILER FILM THEMSELF OR TAKE PICTURES?
Are they proud of the cleanliness of their job site? Do they like how they did that one cut?
What does their finished walk through look like?
Any company you hire should have a DIGITAL FOOTPRINT. They’re not afraid to make public what they DO!
IT MATTERS to see and know what you’re going to get with your own two eyes.
Finished photos and legends shouldn’t be enough. Watch the actions.
Maybe better, a job walk.
4. So, you’re a tiler…will we get along?
You’ll be spending a ton of time withy our tiler working in your house, maybe even right near your bedroom.
Do you all get along? Do you share similar values? Would you let this person use your bathroom?
Anytime you have ever dealt with anyone, it’s gone a lot better if you get along.
Do that, but with your tiler.
4 SIMPLE things! But dig deep, ask the hard questions, spend a little time.
Remember, you’re looking for a personality type, when it comes to tile. You’re not buying the tile job, you’re buying the person DOING the tile job.