Tiling
Sheet under review by our engineersTiles are ceramic or stoneware slabs laid on floors or walls. They give the final look to your interior surfaces (living room, kitchen, bathroom) and sometimes exteriors. They are glued with tile adhesive, and the gaps between them are filled with grout.
Why it matters for your home
Good tiling is essential for your home's appearance and cleanliness. It protects your floors and walls from moisture and wear. If poorly installed, tiles can come loose, break, or water can seep underneath, leading to costly problems down the line.
The African context
In Africa, tiling is very popular for its coolness and ease of cleaning against dust and heat. You need to pay attention to the quality of the tile adhesive, as a low-grade product won't hold up in the heat and humidity. Common defects include tiles that sound hollow (poorly adhered), badly done joints that quickly blacken, or insufficient slopes for water drainage.
Red flags
- ⚠ Tiles that sound hollow when tapped (a sign of poor adhesion).
- ⚠ Joints of uneven width or that are already crumbling.
- ⚠ No visible slope in the shower or on the terrace for water drainage.
- ⚠ The use of low-grade adhesive (often cheaper but less durable).
Questions to ask
- 1. "What brand and type of adhesive do you plan to use?"
- 2. "How will you ensure flatness and the necessary slopes for water drainage?"
- 3. "Can I see tile samples before installation?"
Cost hint (indicative)
From 5,000 to 25,000 FCFA/m² (excluding tiles), varying greatly depending on the tile quality, the complexity of the installation (pattern, tile size), and of course, the country.
Related terms
At this stage of your project?
An independent DiasporaBuild inspector can verify on site before you pay.