How to Inspect Porcelain Tiles Before Installation

Many tile problems are far easier to resolve while cartons are still identifiable and the material has not been installed. A structured pre-installation check can identify wrong designs, mixed shade or calibre groups, transport damage, unexpected face variation and quantity shortages while traceability is intact.

The installer, buyer and project representative should work from the approved material and project requirements before setting begins.

Carton and pallet labels can contain design, finish, batch, shade/calibre or packing references. Photograph or retain representative labels until the installation has been accepted.

If cartons are redistributed among rooms or floors, maintain enough identification that material can still be traced if a question arises.

A single carton may not show the full intended graphic variation. TCNA recommends checking compatible shade/calibre and shuffling material from multiple boxes where appropriate.

For strong marble, stone or decorative designs, dry-lay enough pieces to judge repetition, direction and overall blend.

A chipped corner caused by handling is different from an intentional rustic edge, shade movement or printed face variation. Record visibly damaged cartons on receipt and segregate affected pieces so they are not installed accidentally in critical locations.

Use the approved product sample and current technical/visual information when deciding whether something is intentional.

The design sample establishes appearance, but the supplied tile establishes actual dimensions and face mix. Use it to confirm grout-joint width, grid, perimeter cuts and transitions.

If the project requests unusually tight joints, verify that the supplied dimensional variation and applicable installation standard support them before work starts.