Dal tile Dimensional Issue

[dirtrunner0519]

I received brand new Dal Tile and after it was installed, the tiles did not line up correctly, some are larger or smaller, some are out of square. This should have been caught by the installer but was not until after. They are going to rip it out and order new.

Is this something common with Dal Tile? I just want to make sure i will not be chasing this issue all project.

 

[txvwnut]

I've seen it with all brands of tile. Bought some marble once to do a backsplash, went through six boxes to get enough that weren't trapezoidal shaped to do the job. My tile project was a bathroom floor. Got the tile from HD as none of the tile stores had what we wanted. There were a few that weren't the same size as the rest in that batch too.

 

[a91syncro]

as a pro tile setter i would say that it is not normal but is common. in order to not see the sizes make sure the installer takes tile from a few different boxes while setting. this will minimize all the small or big tiles being close to one another.

 

[engineer2]

Is this something common with Dal Tile?

Yes. That is why professionals avoid that brand.

 

[dirtrunner0519]

Dal Tile only sells to professional's, i would say 60-70% of spec homes and new home in CA use Dal Tile.

What brand do you recommend?

 

[engineer2]

Dal Tile is sold as a low-end tile at every Home Depot around here.
Go to a couple of real tile stores and tell them what you plan to do.
Porcelain tiles are more durable and harder than ceramic tiles. They generally ring a little when you tap them with a hammer.
When you pick up the tile, all the caliper/caliber and shade numbers on the box should be the same. If there is a snowflake * on the box, it is suitable for outdoor use.
Tips: go with dirt-colored grout, usually dark gray.
Use Laticrete 1776 instead of water to mix the grout.
The sealer that HD sells is fine.