In a world where trends change faster than you can say "renovation," designers, architects, and tile contractors are always on their toes. With every flip of the calendar, it seems there's a new wave of styles and preferences to ride.
At D&B Tile, we want you to have the knowledge to tackle any project with confidence and creativity. That’s why we have several resources available, such as continuing education courses and community events, to help you stay ahead of the curve.
In this blog, we’ll show you how our commitment to education sets us apart and how it can benefit you when you have to work on remodels, designs, and tile flooring in Palm Beach.
Guide You with Project Specifications
Project specifications are the blueprint for a project. They outline everything from the type of tile to be used to the installation methods and materials required.
The Problems of Incorrect Specifications
You've spent weeks planning, pouring over design details, and selecting the perfect tiles to bring your client’s vision to life. But when you have to bring that vision into reality, you hit a snag.
Here’re some problems designers and architects face when not getting the right specifications for a project:
Mismatched Tiles
A common issue happens when you lay down a floor or backsplash and realize that the tiles don't quite match in color or texture.
Mismatches can throw off the entire aesthetic of your client’s space and leave you with a design that falls short of their expectations.
Subpar Installations
Without clear guidelines on the proper installation methods and materials, designers and contractors run the risk of ending up with a shoddy finish that's prone to cracks, chips, and other imperfections.
Subpar tile installation means your project might not hold up as well over time, and the tiles installed might not last as long as they should.
Delays and Cost Overruns
Perhaps the most frustrating problem of all is the potential for delays and cost overruns caused by incorrect specifications.
When things don't go according to plan, it can throw your entire project off schedule and budget and give you, your client, and everyone involved a hard time.
What Can We Do at D&B Tile?
At D&B Tile, we work with a team of experts to ensure your specifications are on point. We'll start by recommending the perfect tiles for your project, taking into account your client’s aesthetic, budget, and functional requirements.
We'll also give you advice on getting the surface ready for tile installation and choosing the right adhesive and grout. This way, every aspect of your project is done right the first time.
Help You with Design Trends and Inspiration
At D&B Tile, our leadership team will jet set across the world to source the latest and greatest in tile. We're on a mission to find the most innovative styles, patterns, and textures to bring back to our customers.
When you shop with us, you're likely to find the exact product your client described for their dream bathroom, kitchen, or outdoor pool. If you need a specific tile product or look that you can't find in our inventory, you just need to contact us and we'll do everything we can to source it for you.
Now, let's talk about some common tile trends that are currently making waves in the design world:
- Terrazzo Tiles: Inspired by the traditional Italian flooring material, terrazzo tiles are making a major comeback. With their speckled looks and endless color options, they can make any space unique and colorful.
- Large Format Tiles: Bigger is better when it comes to tile sizes these days. Large format tiles create a minimalist look that’s perfect for contemporary interiors. Plus, fewer grout lines mean easier maintenance – it's a win-win!
- Bold Patterns: Bold patterns, such as geometric shapes and intricate florals, are all the rage in tile design. You can use them to make a statement with your floors or add some personality to your walls.
- Natural Stone Looks: Tiles that mimic the look of natural stone, like marble, travertine, and slate, are in high demand. Timeless and durable, they're a classic choice for many design schemes.
Provide Continued Education and Courses
If you want to keep up with changing tile trends and upcoming renovation techniques, enrolling in continued education is a wonderful place to start. That’s why we offer several courses to teach you about practices and products in the industry.
Our courses are designed to meet you where you're at and help you take your craft to the next level.
Led by industry experts, each session is interesting, interactive, and packed with valuable information you can put to use right away.
You don’t have to worry about being far away from our class venues either! You can attend classes in person or participate in virtual sessions from the comfort of your own home.
Finally, many of our courses are accredited by leading bodies such as the AIA, ASID, and IIDA, meaning that you'll earn valuable education credits while expanding your knowledge and skills.
These were some of last year’s seminars:
Tile and Stone Installation Materials and Methods
This seminar by Laticrete® taught ways to prevent problems when installing tile and stone. It gave practical information to architects and construction managers about how to choose the right tile for each situation and how to use the correct installation techniques.
Grout for Tile and Stone
Laticrete® also has this course explaining different types of grouts used to install tile and stone. It also discussed common problems that can happen during installation and how to take care of tile and stone surfaces properly.
Challenges and Solutions for Ceramic Tile and Natural Stone Applications
Last year, Schluter Systems gave this seminar focused on the difficulties you can face when installing ceramic tile and natural stone. It looked at both traditional methods and new technology used in tile installation.
Topics included improvements in tile membranes, dealing with movement, and handling issues like mold in shower areas.
Moisture Management in Tiled Showers
A course by Schluter Systems that addressed the problems of leaks and mold in showers. It compared old and new methods of waterproofing and showed how modern techniques have improved tiled showers.
The seminar covered basic design, execution, and common mistakes, and it made emphasis on the benefits of new waterproofing technology.
Access to a Wide Variety of Products
With one of the most extensive product ranges in South Florida, D&B Tile is your go-to destination for all your project needs. Our experts work with industry-leading brands like Atlas Concorde and Marazzi and handpick each tile to ensure they’re high quality and beautiful.
We offer both in-person and online shopping options. You can visit one of our five South Florida tile stores to browse our extensive product selection, or shop online from your house or workshop.
If your client has something very specific in mind, we can also source specialty products and custom solutions to meet even the most unique project requirements. Just let us know what you're looking for and we'll go above and beyond to make it happen.
Community Events for Architects and Designers
Networking, learning, and inspiration — our community events offer it all! Join us for a series of events tailored specifically for architects and designers, where you can connect with industry peers, attend informative sessions, and get hands-on with the latest products and technologies.
Interested in attending one of them? Here’re some upcoming ones:
Breakfast Event featuring Laticrete's Strata Mat! – February 26th and 27th
Start your day off right with a delicious breakfast at D&B Tile, where we'll be introducing Laticrete's revolutionary product – Strata Mat™. Find out how Strata Mat can transform your tile and stone installations with its exceptional uncoupling performance.
Our team at D&B Tile, along with a Laticrete® representative, will be on-site to answer any questions you may have.
Grout Training for Contractors – March 6th
Prism® SCG is a revolutionary grout that's effortless to use, stain-resistant, and protected with MicroBan®.
During our 2.5-hour event, you'll learn everything there is to know about this product. Discover why it's the most effortless installation option and how its advanced features make it stand out. Plus, you'll have the chance to network with fellow contractors and experience Prism® SCG firsthand.
Coverings 2024: The Global Tile & Stone Experience – April 22nd to April 25th
This event is a must-attend for anyone in the ceramic tile and natural stone industry. With over 1,000 global exhibitors from 40 countries, Coverings immerse yourself in the latest tile and stone trends, mingle with industry peers, and gain the knowledge and connections you need to advance your position and business.
Whether you're a distributor, retailer, contractor, specifier, architect, designer, builder, or remodeler, Coverings has something for you.
Learn More Techniques and Designs for Projects like Tile Flooring in Palm Beach!
Contact D&B Tile today for all your tile needs, education, and inspiration. And if you're looking to remodel or start a project, don't forget to explore our extensive product range from the best suppliers. Call us to learn more!