Installing a tile backsplash can transform the look of your kitchen or bathroom. However, getting the right bid for your tile backsplash project is key to ensuring it stays within your budget. Here’s a guide on how to get bids for a tile backsplash that meet both your design and financial needs.
Define Your Project Scope
The first step is to decide on the details of your tile backsplash project. This includes:
- Area to be tiled – Countertops, range area, full wall etc. Measure the dimensions.
- Tile material – Ceramic, porcelain, glass, metal etc.
- Tile size and shape.
- Pattern – Subway, herringbone, mosaic etc.
- Accent tiles – Border, niche, decorative tiles.
- Grout color.
- Additional materials needed – Backerboard, thinset, grout, trim pieces.
Provide this project scope to contractors when requesting bids. A detailed scope helps them provide accurate pricing.
Get Contractor Referrals
Reach out to friends, neighbors or realtors to get referrals for tile contractors that have done good work for them previously.
Check reviews and ratings of contractors on HomeAdvisor or Angie’s List. Verify that they have licensing and insurance.
Narrow down to 3-4 well-reviewed contractors that work in your local area to get bids from.
Request On-Site Estimates
Do not rely on phone estimates alone for your tile backsplash. Schedule site visits with the shortlisted contractors so they can inspect your space and conditions.
This allows contractors to identify any underlying issues and give a more accurate quote for the job.
Compare Bids and Contractors
Once you receive all estimates, compare bid amounts and what is included in each contractor’s scope of work.
Some additional points to weigh:
- Portfolio and examples of previous tile projects.
- Years of experience with installing tile backsplashes specifically.
- Knowledge of current trends and skills to execute your design vision.
- Warranties offered on workmanship.
- Availability to start and complete the project within your timeline.
Review Payment Terms
Understand payment terms expected by the contractor upfront:
- Deposit or downpayment required to start work.
- Progress payments – Preferably tied to completion milestones.
- Final payment – After completion, inspection and your acceptance.
Avoid contractors asking for full payment upfront. Require lien waivers before making payments.
Get it in Writing
Always get the full scope of work, quote, payment terms, project timeline etc. documented in a written contract before work begins.
The contract should also specify the remedies if either party fails to meet contractual obligations.
A clear, written agreement protects both the homeowner and contractor.
Communicate Selection Clearly
Notify the chosen contractor and decline the other bids in writing.
Provide the go-ahead and deposit (if required) for the selected contractor to confirm your acceptance.
Reconfirm start date, project timeline and other expectations before allowing work to commence.
Bidding and selecting the right tile contractor takes research and care. But the result is a stunning new backsplash that transforms your space while fitting your budget. With an organized, thorough bidding process, your tile backsplash project can be a dream realized!
Frequently Asked Questions
How many bids should I get for a backsplash project?
3-4 bids from reputable contractors is ideal. Too few bids may not reveal the best value. Too many can be time consuming to manage.
What questions should I ask contractors when bidding a backsplash?
Ask about their experience, insurance/licensing, portfolio, client references, warranty on work, project timelines and payment terms.
Should I choose the lowest bid for my backsplash?
Not necessarily. Weigh the full scope of work, materials, experience and warranty against the bid amount. The lowest bid may not provide the best overall value.
What is an acceptable deposit amount for a backsplash contractor?
10-25% of total quote is typical for a deposit to secure materials and start date. Avoid paying in full upfront.
Should I get lien waivers from my backsplash contractor?
Yes. Require lien waivers for each payment to ensure the contractor pays for all project materials and labor.
Conclusion
Bidding a tile backsplash takes some legwork to find experienced contractors, get comprehensive quotes and evaluate all aspects of each bid. Managing the bidding process thoroughly allows you to land on a contractor that combines high quality craftsmanship with the best value. With clear communication and expectations set, your contractor can then seamlessly handle bringing your backsplash vision to life.