Describe the floor and its operating conditions
Separate entrance zones, sales floors, service areas and any exterior circulation. Record whether water, cleaning residues, wheeled loads or frequent deliveries are expected. Ask the project specifier which performance requirements and test methods apply to each zone rather than selecting a generic rating from a catalogue headline.
Wall suitability does not establish floor suitability. Likewise, a visually similar finish may have a different surface treatment or product body. Keep the requested documentation linked to the model, finish and intended application being quoted.
Understand the porcelain label without overreading it
The Tile Council of North America describes porcelain as ceramic tile with water absorption of 0.5% or less. That classification does not by itself establish a particular tile’s slip behaviour, wear performance or suitability for a loading condition. Request the selected product’s information rather than transferring claims from another range.
If exterior use or freeze-thaw exposure is relevant, ask for manufacturer documentation that addresses it. Review the installation system with the responsible designer or installer. A sourcing comparison should not stand in for a site-specific design decision.
Compare quotations against the same fields
| Item | Buyer input or requested evidence |
|---|---|
| Application | Zone, traffic, wet/dry conditions and project requirements. |
| Format | Nominal size, actual size information, thickness and edge treatment. |
| Surface | Exact finish, physical sample, shade range and cleaning expectations. |
| Documentation | Model-linked product data and relevant test reports requested by the specifier. |
| Packing | Pieces and coverage per carton, weight, pallet arrangement and batch identification. |
Approve layout and batch references before release
View more than one face where the range includes patterned or mineral variation. Discuss the intended joint, direction and scale in a representative layout. A small screen image can conceal repetition, edge relationships and the difference between an individual sample and a larger floor.
Before order release, connect the approved sample with the model reference, selected shade, quantity and packing information. Ask how replacements or future additions will be identified. Hyaline’s tile catalogue provides starting formats; the final technical and commercial scope must be confirmed for the chosen model.
Buyer questions
Is every matte tile suitable for a shop entrance?
No. Matte describes appearance, not a universal slip classification. Define entrance conditions and request the product-specific information required by the project specifier.
Should the cheapest price per square metre decide the order?
Compare the same model scope, finish, dimensions, packing and delivery basis. Include any unresolved testing or approval requirements before treating prices as comparable.