Our Customer Tile Style Profile feature takes an in-depth look at some of the fantastic renovation projects our customers complete using products from the Tile Mountain range. This month’s edition sees us catching up with Martin Hook of Mansfield who used our Vertige Wood Effect Grey Outdoor Slab Tiles to create a modern, exterior space to relax and entertain in during the summer months…
What were the circumstances behind the project?
We have only just moved in and the home builder only gave us a patio outside of the patio doors (see photo attached), we wanted a bit more space as the patio so we can entertain family and friends with BBQs and/or just sit out with a drink and enjoy.
Was your choice of decor & colour scheme influenced by the tiles you chose, or did you pick the tiles to fit in with a style you’d chosen for the rest of the room?
We chose the colour as it is very similar to our worktops in the kitchen and I intend on painting all the wood a grey colour as our garden furniture is, we came across these on your web site and really liked the pattern and colour.
What made you decide that the tiles you chose were the right tiles for your project?
There wasn’t a right or wrong tile, as we strolled through your webpage they stood out, it was a close choice with this colour or the brown ones you have. But as I stated above the grey was the colour of choice because it will blend in with the grey wood once all painted next year.
How long did the project take to complete and did you do the tiling yourself or hire a professional tiler?
I started at the end of February 2021, with me working full time I only got to do bits each weekend. I completed laying the tiles by the end of March 2021 which I was happy with as I wanted to get it done before the warm weather gets here (still waiting!). I used tile pedestals as I have four manhole covers in this area, so instead of trying to cut the tiles around each inspection hole I went straight over them and can still access these when needed. All work was completed by myself, no help or plant, all done by hand. I got some quotes and by undertaking the work myself saved between £700-£1500 on labour costs.
What part of the project was most difficult and why?
The most difficult part was digging up the turf, as I chose not to hire any plant I had to remove 30sqm of grass and then dig out 5 tons of soil, all with a wheelbarrow and spade. The 2yr old did help with her toy spade and sandcastle bucket!
Do you have any further decorating projects lined up?
Yes, next on my list to build is a fire pit with wooden swinging chairs around it and lay stone in the seating area, for the evenings to sit around and enjoy the warmth of the fire.
What advice would you give to people considering undertaking a similar project?
Consider doing the work yourself, taking your time with this kind of project will make it worth it in the end. Also think about the added features before laying the tiles or slab, as for my sleeper feature wall this was added at last minute as I was originally only planning on laying the patio level straight to the grass.
What would you say to people who are thinking about buying tiles from Tile Mountain?
Tile Mountain has been fantastic, I have never had to talk to anyone as they are very quick in answering any questions via email. From the day we sat down looking at the website at all the different styles, to the day I received my order there communication has been brilliant. I did have a few defective tiles, but as soon as I contacted Tile Mountain via email I received replacements within a week. Very happy with the service and extremely happy with the product and how it looks.
If you’d like to see your project featured in our monthly Customer Tile Style Profile, simply leave a review of the products you bought and share photos of your completed tiling project on our Facebook wall. If we use your photos on our website we’ll send you a crisp £20 Amazon voucher for your troubles and even make you internet famous for a bit in this very feature.
Here at Tile Mountain, we not only have a huge range of tiles to suit every purpose, we also have a wealth of tiling knowledge gained from over 30 years in the tile industry, (which we’ll do or best to share with you across these very pages).
Whether you’re looking for the perfect tiles for your next home improvement project, are searching for some style inspiration, or simply need a bit of help and advice, you’re in the right place.