FAQ’S
Information on some frequently asked questions that you may have
Our frequently asked questions
How can I place an order?
Orders can be placed over the phone in addition to in store.
Do you have an online shop?
Yes, visit our online shop to view some of our tiles that are in stock in addition to prices & sales.
How long will it take to have my order delivered?
Here at The Tile People, we hold a lot of our tiles in stock. If this is the case, they are usually ready to either collect or dispatch within 24hrs of purchase.
However to keep our extensive range, we do have a lot of special order items that have to be prepared and collected directly from the factories. Moreover, due to Covid and Brexit implications, delivery is approximately 4-6 weeks. Please bare this in mind when placing an order.
Is it possible to get some samples?
Of course, samples are very important when it comes to the perfect tile for your project.
If you are local, please visit our store where you can see the tiles in person and take them home with you.
If you are not local, we can still send you cut pieces direct to your door. This can be done either by filling out our online sample form or give us a call and one of our sales staff will be able to help you.
What is the difference between Porcelain and Ceramic?
Ceramic tiles are made from a softer material, usually white, red or brown clay. They are then fired in a kiln at a high temperature and the design is printed on top of the clay biscuit. As they are produced from a softer material, this therefore makes them easier to cut and drill. The porcelain industry and technology are advancing rapidly which means that ceramic tiles have been left behind. Ceramics are now mostly only suitable for wall tiles.
Alternatively, Porcelain tiles are made from more dense materials and natural elements, they are then pressed and passed through ovens to draw out 70% of the moisture. After the design has been applied, they are then fired at extremely high temperatures and cooled down gradually.
90% of tiles we sell are porcelain as the technology used to produce them creates show stopping designs and natural finishes. Due to its hard-wearing nature and extremely low porosity rates, porcelain has little or no restrictions. For example, commercial projects and domestic dwellings can all benefit from the beautiful porcelain tiles created currently.
What are Slip Ratings?
Slip ratings are a grey area in the tile industry. It is also something factories are working extremely hard to overcome. For example, producing Anti Slip Polished Porcelain tiles, Polished Porcelain that has a better slip rating once it gets wet. We would advise that all tiles vary, the R ratings have become more redundant. What is used now is the pendulum test, with a C rating.
R Ratings
R9 – Usually used for polished porcelain in addition to a very smooth surface. Slippery, but can be suitable for bathrooms, kitchens or living room floor.
R10 – This rating is slightly less slippery than R9, this would usually have more of a natural finish.
R11 – An R11 rated tile has a grip feel to it, similarly to light sandpaper.
R12 – Very rare to find these days as R12 tiles are extremely textured. For example, this may seen on public walkways and in train stations.
How can I pay?
We accept all major credit and debit cards, bank transfers and we can accept cash in store. Payment in full upfront secures your order. For larger orders we can take deposits with the balance due before you book a delivery.
How do I maintain the look of my tiles?
Most of our products are made from Porcelain and do not need special care or maintenance. If a product requires special attention, we will inform you when you purchase.