5 Resolutions for Your Tile Installation Business
We’re a few months past the typical New Year’s resolutions of personal improvements, and while some of us are still going strong, many of us have probably gone back to our normal routines. But how many of us created business resolutions? Since we’re pretty settled in with our personal resolutions, we thought, “why not have some resolutions for making our businesses better together?” So here are five recommended resolutions for your tile installation business: 1. Become a Certified Tile Installer (CTI) We’re starting off big. The number one resolution is to show your customers and peers that you provide the highest quality workmanship in all your projects and the best way to do that is to become a CTI. Plus, when you register for the test at Coverings, you’ll get a $200 discount. But even better than that, when you successfully complete the test D&B Tile will reimburse you for the registration cost and your hotel expenses. Learn more about becoming a CTI at Coverings 2017. 2. Use the Right Resources & Attend Training Events Regularly. Knowledge is power. Tile Installers should make sure they are following recommendations and finding answers to their concerns in the right publications. The best in the industry are the TCNA Handbook and ANSI Specifications. You can find training events from CTEF, NTCA, manufactures, and even at your favorite distributor, D&B Tile Distributors. We often host events at our 9 South Florida locations and you can find the latest events on our D&B Tile Events page. 3. Plan Ahead Many challenges can be avoided by initial planning and preparation. A mockup of the tile installation will help you effectively plan and communicate with the property owners, architects, designers, and general contractors. You should also plan ahead for expansion joints (also known as movement joints or movement accommodation joints), any special installation materials required (such as crack suppression), and any overage in material that may be required (for example, additional tile to accommodate damages or additional mortar to accommodate warpage). 4. Follow the Requirements for a High-Quality Tile Installation The CTEF published the Top Ten Requirements for a High-Quality Tile Installation, and we definitely recommend following them. From hiring the right skill-level to Crack Isolation Membranes, we couldn’t agree more. Providing your customers a quality installation will grow your business and keep happy customers that trust your work. 5. Check in With Your Customers After Installation Customer experience has always been important to growing a business, but these days it is essential to focus on providing a great experience. Following up with your customers will show them you care, allow you to obtain feedback on the work, and give you an opportunity to thank them for their business. Happy customers will usually be willing to give you testimonials or referrals and help you grow your business.