Ceramic Tile: Our samples include a variety of imported and domestic tile colors and patterns. Variations in shade, shape, and surface texture can occur between production lots because of very slight differences in heat intensity and moisture content during the manufacturing process that cannot be exactly duplicated from one manufacturing run to another. Our samples, therefore, are examples of the average or typical color ranges and not meant to imply an exact match. Colors from one production lot to the next may be lighter or darker than the samples on display. Ceramic products manufactured to imitate natural stone will show an even greater variation between individual tiles to achieve the "authentic natural stone" look.
Natural Stone (marble, granite, limestone, and slate): No two pieces of stone will ever look exactly the same because stone is a natural product, formed over many years under many varying circumstances and conditions, which result in wide variations in natural markings. Even a stone cut from a larger block of stone will have veins and shades that differ in color from the source stone. Because color, shading, fissures and surface irregularities are the result of natural processes that cannot be controlled, the stone installed in your new home will look somewhat different from both the samples on display and the stone installed in the models. This is to be expected and is not cause for concern. The machine-applied finish (factory filler) of stone floors brings out the deep natural coloring of the stone, but does not prevent the stone from being porous and is subject to staining. To keep your stone floors beautiful, New West Designs, Inc. recommends that Customers pursue a regular program of maintenance.
Ceramic & Stone Installation: Again, color variations and surface irregularities are natural and normal and not considered defects. The Installer determines the exact layout at the time of installation depending upon the actual size and shape of the stone or tile, the exact dimensions of the area to be covered, and the guidelines established by New West Designs, Inc. Because allowances must be made for undulations in the floor or variations in the thickness of the tile, New West Designs, Inc. does not recommend use of tight grout joints in the tile floor installation. Industry standards are 1/4” and where possible New West Designs, Inc. uses a standard of 3/16”. Tile larger than 12x12 has a tendency to vary more in size and shape from tile to tile and may require a somewhat wider grout width to allow for the variations. Small hairline cracks may develop in the tile or stone flooring installed over concrete slab due to characteristics inherent in the concrete that cannot be completely eliminated. These small hairline cracks are not structurally significant, and are not considered defects in installation of product.
Grout: Grout colors will vary from the samples on display because of variations in temperature and humidity at the time of grouting. When the same color is ordered for both countertops and floors, Customers should be aware that the colors could vary due to different installation methods, conditions, and dates of installation. Use of a contrasting grout color may enhance the natural irregularities of the ceramic tile or natural stone causing the grout lines to appear uneven. As grout is a cement product and drying conditions along with variation in dye lots exist, an exact match with the samples viewed is neither implied nor guaranteed. As with any cement product color variations from one area to the next are normal and will not be considered defects.
Dark Colored Grout or grout that is contrasting to the tile will accentuate minor imperfections that occur naturally in the tiles. It is suggested not to use dark contrasting grout with the standard white tub and shower tile.
Efflorescence (a whitish powder) can appear on the joints or along the edges of the tile. This is a chemical reaction of soluble salts and water, common to all cement products. This material is harmless and can be removed by using a stiff bristle brush with clean water. It may take some time before it will completely disappear through normal use.
In the event repairs are needed in the future, it may be impossible to match the original color. There will be shade variances with any new application.
Glass/Metal: Glass tile and metal products are hand-made and artistic; variation in color, shade, tone, size and surface texture is normal. In many cases, there will be folds, wrinkles, cracks and bubbles in the material. These characteristics are inherent to the manufacturing process and are not considered defects. Variations in surface texture will affect COF (Coefficient of Friction) test results. Expressed COF test results are not guarantees of minimum or maximum thresholds of performance.
All copper will patina due to oxidation (darkens or turns green). Do not use acids, alkaline, strippers or solvent based sealers on copper as it may remove the antiquing. The aforementioned chemicals may cause stainless steel to pit or rust. Care should be taken not to scratch or dent metal.
Plank/Rectangular Tile Installation: All tiles will have some warpage, which will be accentuated with plank and rectangular tiles. This is not a defect of the material or workmanship, but due to the manufacturing process, and should be expected. Manufacturer’s require any tile that will be laid staggered, be at no more than 33%, with a minimum 3/16” grout joint. New West Designs, Inc. will NOT lay any rectangular ceramic or porcelain tile at a 50% stagger, as per manufacturer’s recommendation.
Maintaining ceramic tile is minimal if done on a regular basis. It is truly a low-maintenance material.
For daily cleaning, sponge down your ceramic tile countertop or wall tile with the manufacturer's recommended tile and grout cleaners or with a non-abrasive household cleaner. Be sure to clean spills as quickly as possible so that the grout or tile does not become stained.
For heavier cleaning, there are cleaning products, sold in your local grocery store, that can be used to remove soap scum, hard water deposits, and mildew stains. You'll want to consult the cleaner's manufacturer instructions to make sure the product is compatible with your type of tile. After cleaning, rinse well and wipe dry for more shine. Textured tiles may require mild scrubbing with a soft brush or electric polisher/scrubber.
To avoid scratching the surface of the tile, never use abrasive cleaners or steel wool. Do not use bleach or ammonia, on a regular basis; these products can discolor your grout.
Depending on your lifestyle, sealing of the grout joints on your countertop or wall tile may be an option. After the installation process is complete and your grout has had ample time to cure, sealing the grout can provide protection from dirt and spills, by slowing down the staining process. Ask your Design Consultant for more information about sealing.
Keep in mind that ceramic tile is very durable, but not indestructible. Do not use a ceramic countertop to sit or stand on, or as a cutting board. Ceramic tile or grout can crack or chip under extreme force.
Also, please remember, it is the responsibility of the homeowner to maintain all caulked areas.
