Quality Tile Installation is Money in Your Pocket Birmingham AL

Ceramic tile and natural stone products are in high demand in both commercial and residential construction. The growth of tile and stone is exciting for those of us making a living on it. In addition, these products add considerable value and profit to the owner. Granite countertops, porcelain tile, glass and metal tiles, and larger format tile are just a few examples of products finding their way into homes and buildings ranging from entry level to the high end. Not long ago, a large tile was thought to be 8 by 8 in. Now, products as large as 24 by 24 in., and in some cases exceeding 3 ft. in size are being used.

Builders and developers are aware of the benefits that tile and stone offer their projects. This is especially true with construction trends as they exist today. It is important to point out as well, that a quality installation is crucial, but unfortunately sometimes becomes an afterthought in the battle to remain competitive. Poor tile and stone installations can be catastrophic to the project, as repairing them are extremely costly. So it is important to get it done right the first time.

The job of the home builder or general contractor is an extremely difficult one. They have to satisfy the desire of their client while ensuring each subcontractor does their job right and on schedule. When it comes to tile and stone installation, the builder needs to look to the tile contractor as the leader, and to trust that the installation products being used and the methods being implemented are done correctly. This doesn't happen overnight. So how does one develop that type of trust? What makes a great tile contractor?

Traits of a successful contractor

Too often tile contractors bidding a project are selected on price alone. This can be a grave mistake if you are the builder or general contractor. There is no disputing the fact that price plays a significant role in the selection of all subcontractors. Even more important, however, is the tile contractor's reputation and track record. Do they have the ability to perform the scope of work you need them to on your projects? Do they have a proven track record when it comes to timeliness, quality, and safety? Do they have a list of satisfied customers? If you do not check these things out prior to letting them on your project, you are at risk.

Successful tile contractors can communicate to the builder his industry standards. They are committed to training throughout all phases of their business. They invest in their most valuable resource: their employees. They probably are affiliated with either a national or local organization, where they are kept abreast of the changes to tile and stone installation methods. In 2007, numerous changes have been made to our industry standards and quality tile contracting companies must be aware of this. They are proactive subcontractors, not reactive ones.

At the National Tile Contractors Association, we are in the process of implementing a GOLD STAR recognition program amongst our membership. The purpose of this program is to allow our members who are serious about differentiating themselves from their competitors a vehicle in which to do so. In order to achieve this recognition, a company must meet criteria set forth by our association's board of directors. The applications submitted by each company for consideration of recognition will be reviewed and approved by experts in the industry. Included in the criteria are the following:

1. Membership in good standing of NTCA
2. History of continuity and integrity (five years)
3. Demonstration of active safety program
4. Continuing education and training program

5. Reference letters from client base as follows:

   1. Commercial: architect and general contractor
   2. Residential: home builder and consumer

It is critical to understand the importance of safety in the selection process of a tile contracting company. In commercial construction, active safety programs are most often a requirement for bid consideration. In addition, hiring a contractor committed to safety provides the owner, architect or builder with a much better chance of a safe work environment, reducing the potential for injury on the jobsite.

Equally as important as a safety program is the demonstration of a commitment to training. Active training programs incorporate new methods, tried and true practices from the past, and involve both classroom and jobsite supervision. A process of measuring performance in both areas needs to be clearly understood. A dedicated employee should be in charge of this program. Commitment to training is a clear indicator that you are working with a contracting company who cares about doing the job right the first time. It speaks volumes about their business ethics and their credibility as a business partner.

When you find tile contractors who possesses many of these qualities, hang on to them. They are money in your pocket.