Why tile is popping up everywhere in Belize
Why tile is popping up everywhere in Belize
Porcelain tile requires porcelain thin set. However, the staff at most tile stores will say it’s fine to use. And many of the folks laying tile will say the same thing-- despite instructions (or a warning) on the thin set bags (that are for ceramic tiles) it’s not suitable. For what seemed like the longest time, porcelain thin set could not be found in country, so perhaps people were improvising. Others went to Mexico or Guatemala for the correct product. Will your tile pop up right away? No. But in a few years, it will begin failing.
Other tile stories:
Have you noticed tile surfaces that have non-matching tiles? This is typically because the tile store runs out of tile or discontinues it. Perhaps a person thought they got enough tile but are a little short. So they go back to the store only to learn it’s gone, cannot be ordered, and there is no option but to use something else. Buy extra!
Another reason for all the non-matching tiles, is perhaps a person purchased an existing property and a few years down the road something unexpected happens (such as there is a leak in the shower, one needs to knock out the tile around the faucets—because it was not installed properly) and there is none of the same tile around because it was done so long ago. Therefore, the only choice is to have a contrasting tile and make it work. Sometime, people want to enclose what was a porch or do an extension, but they can’t find the right tile, so they make the most of the situation by having contrasting tile.
Insider Tips for a Smoother Tile Store Experience:
Before getting your heart set on a tile, ask the store clerk if all the tiles on display are in stock. You may be surprised that they aren’t, and they will eliminate several, saving you time and agony.
Don’t be under the impression that if the store sells you a tile (to look at take home, etc.) that they have it. The stores don’t think twice that they sold you one tile, you decided you like it, only to learn that was the only one they had.
Where to Find Tile in Dangriga:
Hummingbird
Creative Tiles
A&D’s
Belize Tile & Stone in Belize City usually carries the porcelain thin set.
