You do not need to arrive with a complete specification. A few measurements, photos, preferences, and notes from your installer will help an experienced salesperson guide you toward suitable choices much faster.
1. Bring Approximate Measurements and the Room Shape
Measure the length and width of the main area. Draw a simple shape and add alcoves, closets, columns, islands, steps, doorways, or separate sections. For walls, record each wall separately and note doors, windows, niches, and other openings.
These measurements help begin the conversation; they should not be treated as the final order quantity. Ask the installer or qualified measurer to verify the area, layout, cuts, and final quantity before purchase.
2. Know the Direction You Like
| Decision | What to bring or consider |
|---|---|
| Shape and size | Square, rectangle, plank, mosaic, small format, or large format—and any installer limitations |
| Color | Warm or cool, light or dark, room photos, cabinet or paint samples, and natural-light conditions |
| Style | Marble, stone, concrete, wood, terrazzo, decorative, minimalist, traditional, or another direction |
| Finish | Matte, polished, satin, textured, or grip—matched to the use and maintenance |
| Application | Wall or floor, indoor or outdoor, wet or dry, residential or commercial, and expected traffic |
You may change your mind in the showroom. These preferences simply give the salesperson a useful starting point.
Need help with proportions? Read How to Choose Porcelain Tile Size and Format →
3. Ask the Installer About Installation Materials
Before ordering, ask the installer to confirm which installation products and quantities the project needs. This may include setting mortar, grout, membrane or underlayment, leveling or patching products, movement-joint materials, sealant, trim, and other system components.
The number of bags cannot be calculated from floor area alone. Coverage changes with the product, trowel size, substrate flatness, tile size, required mortar coverage, mixing, and installation technique.
4. Plan 15–20% for Cuts, Waste, and Future Repairs
Buying only the exact measured square footage is risky. Tile is cut at walls and obstacles, some pieces may be unsuitable for a particular location, breakage can occur, and future repairs are easier when matching material is already stored.
Discuss a 15–20% planning allowance with your installer when the project includes diagonal or patterned layouts, herringbone, many corners, irregular rooms, large formats, selective pattern placement, fragile pieces, or meaningful attic stock for future repairs.
A simple straight layout in a regular room may require less. An unusually complex pattern may require more. The installer should confirm the final percentage after reviewing the layout and actual tile dimensions.
Your Before-the-Store Checklist
- Approximate length and width of every area
- A simple room or wall sketch showing irregular shapes and openings
- Photos of the space in natural and artificial light
- Preferred shape, size, color, style, and finish
- Exact application and expected traffic or moisture
- Installer-confirmed setting materials and estimated quantities
- Installer-confirmed tile quantity and overage percentage
- Budget, schedule, delivery access, storage, and return-policy questions
For four easy questions about suitability and store policies, continue with Understanding Manufacturer Recommendations →
Common Questions
Do I need exact measurements before visiting a tile store?
No. Approximate measurements and a sketch are enough for an initial conversation. The installer should confirm final quantities before ordering.
How much extra tile should I buy?
Discuss 15–20% with the installer for complex cuts, patterns, irregular rooms, large-format tile, breakage risk, or future repairs. Simpler layouts may need less, and unusually complex layouts may need more.
Why should I buy extra tile from the same order?
It covers cuts, selection, breakage, and repairs. A later lot may differ in shade, caliber, appearance, or availability.
Are thinset and mortar two different products?
Thinset is a common name for a type of setting mortar. The correct product depends on the tile and complete installation.
Should the store calculate my installation materials?
The store can help, but the installer should confirm the exact setting mortar, grout, membrane, joint materials, and quantities.
What should I bring to the tile store?
Bring approximate measurements, a sketch, photos, preferences, intended use, installer guidance, and schedule or budget limits.