What is a Tile Supplier?

A Tile Supplier provides wall and floor tiles for use throughout your home — typically in bathrooms, laundry, kitchen splashbacks, entryways, and living areas (if tiled). They offer a wide range of styles, materials, and finishes, and coordinate with your builder or tiler to deliver the right quantities and specifications on time.



Tile supply must be finalised before tiling begins, and ideally confirmed early enough to inform waterproofing setdowns, screeds, and cabinetry clearances.

What does a Tile Supplier do?

Your supplier will complete works according to your agreed scope of supply.


Typically, they will:

  • Help you select tile types, sizes, and finishes for each area
  • Calculate quantities based on room measurements and layout plans
  • Provide matching grout and trim suggestions
  • Deliver tiles to site according to the construction timeline
  • Offer advice on cleaning, sealing, and product care


Some suppliers also support custom orders or allow showroom selections with your interior designer or builder.

Barry's Toolbox

Don’t leave tile selections until the last minute — different lead times apply for imported, feature, or natural stone tiles. Confirm selections before waterproofing or screeding starts to avoid costly rework.


Also double-check whether your quote includes wastage allowance — most tilers recommend 10–15% extra, especially for patterned or large-format tiles.

What to look for in a Tile Supplier

When reviewing quotes, look for:

  • Tile type, size, colour, and finish clearly specified
  • Inclusions for trims, grout, and adhesive (if applicable)
  • Delivery schedule and lead times for special orders
  • Breakdown by room or area (e.g., bathroom walls, floor, splashback)
  • Warranties and product suitability for wet areas or external use


It’s a bonus if they offer trade discounts or direct builder account coordination.

Before You Begin: What You’ll Need Ready

To get quotes from Tile Suppliers, you’ll need:

  • Floor plan and tile layout (or approximate m² per area)
  • Style preferences: material (ceramic, porcelain, stone), finish (matte, gloss, textured)
  • Feature tile requirements (e.g., niches, herringbone walls)
  • Site address and estimated install date
  • Preferred grout and trim colours (if known)

Average Timeframe

For this task, Pros typically provide quotes within 7-10 business days.

When Can I Expect Quotes?

Timeframes often vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g. a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

 

Don't be alarmed if you don't receive quotes or communication from any Build Buddy Pros straight away. Some work is more complex and the Pro may need time to comprehend your documents or scope of work. Depending on the job, there may even be some work required by the Pro before they are able to quote (e.g. a site visit might be required).

 

If the average timeframe indicated here has passed, and you have not received any messages or quotes, please feel free to contact the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team for an update on quoting for this task.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do tile suppliers install the tiles?

    No — supply and install are separate. Your builder or tiler manages the installation.


How to Complete this Task?

STEP 1

Review and Adjust the Scope of Works

Timeframes may vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g., a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

STEP 2

Confirm Required Documents Are Uploaded

Check that the following required document(s) are uploaded for this task. These are essential to proceed:

STEP 3

Update the Quality Assurance Checklist

Go to the Quality Assurance tab in this task and review the checklist. Edit any details to suit your project requirements. Being clear and upfront helps set expectations with the Pro. Updating the checklist before requesting quotes ensures everyone is aligned.

STEP 4

Request Quotes

Click the orange ‘Request Quotes’ button to start the quoting process.

STEP 5

Review the Quotes

Once you receive quotes:

  • Review each one carefully, including the payment schedule and any special terms
  • Download attached quote documents for detailed review
  • Check each Pro’s profile and read past client reviews

STEP 6

Communicate with the Pro

If needed, message or call the Pro to clarify details or negotiate terms.

STEP 7

Accept a Quote

Choose the quote that best suits your needs. Once you accept a quote, any other pending quotes will be automatically declined. An agreement will automatically be generated.

STEP 8

Complete the Tasks In Your App

New tasks will appear to guide you through this job — follow each step carefully. Make sure to use the Quality Assurance Checklist, and refer to your contract and final Scope of Works whenever needed.

NEED HELP?

Reach Out to Your Build Buddy Pro

If you have any questions or need a hand, your Build Buddy Pro is your best first contact. They’re a licensed expert in their field and can understand the ins and outs of your project. You can message them via the platform, or you can call them directly.


If you have already contacted your Build Buddy Pro and still need further assistance, the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team are here to help. They will be able to guide you on your next steps or help you find answers to any questions you may have.