Straight answers
Tile questions, answered.
The things every renovator, builder and specifier asks us - answered without the jargon.
What's the difference between porcelain and ceramic tiles?
Porcelain is fired denser and absorbs less water, making it suitable for floors, heavy traffic and outdoor use. Ceramic is lighter and easier to cut - ideal for walls and splashbacks. We'll steer you to the right body for each area of your project.
What does 'rectified' mean?
A rectified tile has been precision-ground after firing so every edge is perfectly straight and every tile exactly the same size - allowing tighter grout joints and a cleaner, more architectural finish.
How do slip ratings work?
Floor tiles carry slip-resistance ratings (such as R ratings and P ratings from wet pendulum testing). Wet areas, pool surrounds and external paving each have recommended minimums - we match the rating to the application and provide the documentation your certifier needs.
How much extra should I order for cuts and waste?
As a rule of thumb allow around 10% extra for straight-lay patterns, and more for diagonal lays, herringbone or spaces with many cuts. We calculate quantities with you at quoting so you're not caught short mid-lay.
Can I take samples home?
Yes - seeing a tile in your own light matters. Take samples home or to site from the showroom, and A&D clients can have samples and boards couriered to the studio.
What are lead times like?
Stocked lines are typically available quickly; indent and custom-import orders vary by mill and shipping schedule. Every quote confirms availability and lead time for your specific quantities before you commit.
What are PC items?
PC (prime cost) items are the fixtures in a building contract - tapware, basins, baths and similar. We supply PC items for bathrooms and kitchens so surfaces and fittings are selected together and arrive coordinated.
Where do you stand on engineered stone and silica?
Australia banned engineered stone benchtop fabrication from 1 July 2024, with stricter crystalline-silica processing rules following for all materials. We supply silica-safe alternatives such as porcelain slabs and can provide compliance context for specifications - see our Silica Information page.
Do you offer trade and project pricing?
Yes - builders, tilers, architects and developers receive project pricing on volume quantities, staged deliveries aligned to the build programme, and a dedicated contact. Ask via the contact form or phone.
Do you deliver?
Yes - delivery is arranged at the time of order, to your door or direct to site. Costs depend on quantity and location and are confirmed on your quote. See the Delivery Service page for details.
Something else? Ask us directly.