GENERAL
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We offer complimentary sample swatches because we believe that seeing the tile in your own space — under your lighting and throughout different times of the day — is essential to making the right choice. Each swatch is a small cut from the actual tile, providing a reliable color reference and including all relevant pricing and sizing details. Our goal is to ensure you’re completely confident and satisfied with your selection before making a purchase.
Yes, we offer exclusive trade discounts for contractors, builders, designers, architects, and other tile industry professionals. For details and eligibility, please contact our store directly — we’ll be happy to assist you.
To register your business with us, simply visit our showroom and bring your business card or company details. We’ll need some basic information, including your company name, address, and contact information.
We encourage clients to gather as much inspiration and as many ideas as possible before visiting. It’s helpful to have an estimate of the square footage needed for your space, including a buffer for waste. If possible, bring along any paint swatches, countertop samples, or cabinet finishes to give us a complete picture of your design vision.
Don’t have those details yet? No problem! Our experienced design consultants are here to help you bring your vision to life and create the perfect look for your space.
We stock the majority of our tiles in our on-site warehouse. Most items are available for next-day pickup, excluding special orders or products that are currently back-ordered.
Yes, we offer delivery services throughout the Island. Delivery fees vary based on the location and size of the order. Tile stores victoria BC
Yes, we offer delivery services throughout the Island. Delivery fees vary based on the location and size of the order.
Technical
Frost resistance refers to a tile's ability to endure freeze-thaw cycles, which largely depends on its water absorption rate and porosity. Tiles that absorb more moisture are more vulnerable to damage, as water expands when it freezes, potentially causing cracks. This characteristic is crucial to consider when choosing outdoor flooring in regions that experience freezing temperatures.
The V-Shade classification system measures the degree of variation in tone, shade, and texture among tiles produced in the same batch. Rated on a scale from V1 to V4, V1 tiles exhibit minimal or no variation, while V4 tiles show significant differences from one piece to another. Plain black or white glossy tiles typically fall under the V1 category due to tighter production tolerances. In contrast, V4-rated tiles are often chosen for their more natural, handcrafted appearance, offering greater diversity in color and pattern with less uniformity.
Tiles imported from Italy or Spain are often crafted from premium-quality porcelain, known for its higher density, durability, and enhanced slip resistance. These products adhere to strict standards for pattern consistency, color accuracy, and dimensional precision. To maintain these high standards, we carefully source materials from China and Turkey, selecting only reputable manufacturers whose products meet comparable quality benchmarks.
The term "dye lot" refers to a specific batch or shipment of tiles from a single production run. Since tiles are man-made, slight variations in size, color, and pattern are normal between different dye lots.
While natural stone and porcelain tile may appear similar at first glance, there are key differences between them. Porcelain is non-porous and requires no maintenance, making it highly resistant to staining and ideal for both wet and dry environments. Natural stone, on the other hand, is porous and must be sealed to prevent stains, but it offers a unique, organic beauty that cannot be fully replicated by man-made materials. The advantage of porcelain tiles in its durability and ease of care, while natural stone is valued for its one-of-a-kind aesthetic and timeless appeal.
We recommend placing your tile order in advance to ensure availability when you're ready to install. Ordering all your tile at once also helps avoid variations in color or size that can occur between different dye lots.
"Rectified" refers to tiles that have been mechanically trimmed to achieve perfectly straight, 90-degree edges. This precision allows for thinner grout lines—typically as narrow as 1/16 inch—creating a sleek, seamless look. In contrast, non-rectified tiles have slightly rounded or beveled edges, making wider grout lines necessary. Rectified edges are commonly used with porcelain tiles for a clean, modern finish, while non-rectified edges are more typical of ceramic wall tiles, where tight grout lines are less critical.
Slip resistance is measured using different testing methods, and in our product descriptions, you’ll commonly see two: the Dynamic Coefficient of Friction (DCOF) and the German DIN 51130 standard.
DCOF measures the level of friction on a tile surface when wet, simulating real-life walking conditions. General guidelines for DCOF ratings are:
DIN 51130 uses a ramp test to assess slip resistance based on the angle at which a person begins to slip. Results are categorized from:
Please note: These classifications are based on tests conducted in controlled environments and do not represent the complete safety profile of a flooring material in real-world conditions. Tile stores victoria BC
INSTALLATION
The type of tile suitable for your shower floor largely depends on the drain style you choose. For square or round drains, mosaic tiles are ideal because their smaller size makes it easier to create the necessary slope toward the drain. With linear drains, you have more flexibility to use larger format tiles, which can create a sleek, seamless look. However, it’s important to consider slip resistance when selecting larger tiles for wet areas. Mosaic tiles are often preferred for shower floors because their numerous grout lines provide better grip and stability in slippery, wet conditions, and they are generally easier to install. Tile stores Victoria
All types of marble and natural stone are porous and need to be sealed to protect against stains and moisture penetration. Usually, stone tiles are sealed before grouting and require regular resealing over time, depending on the frequency of cleaning and usage.
Yes, we carry a full range of products—from grout and mortar to heated floor systems.
When purchasing tile, it’s important to factor in extra material to cover cuts, breakage, and potential installation errors. We also recommend keeping some spare tiles from the same dye lot after installation to address any future repairs or damage. The amount of waste needed depends on the tile size and the complexity of the layout—larger tiles and intricate patterns like herringbone typically require more allowance. A common guideline is to add about 10% extra to your total square footage. If you’re unsure, feel free to consult your contractor or one of our sales associates for advice!
As authorized dealers, we offer products from reputable brands.
Porcelain and ceramic tiles are manufactured materials and are less porous than natural stone tiles. They tend to be more durable and stain-resistant, so sealing is usually not necessary. However, for extra protection, you can apply an impregnating sealer to porcelain or ceramic tiles if desired.
Any type of tile can be used for a backsplash! While ceramic subway tiles are a classic choice, the possibilities for your kitchen are virtually endless. Larger format tiles or slabs can create a bold, seamless look with fewer grout lines, making cleaning easier. Alternatively, natural stone mosaics, available in various shapes and sizes, can complement your countertop and add a touch of elegance.
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