Frequently asked questions
Answers about ordering, shipping, installation, and returns. Still stuck? Email info@shopmosaictile.com or call 888-207-8453.
Ordering & Pricing
Most of our products are sold by the piece. Many subway tile products are sold by the square foot. Each product page clearly identifies the pricing unit and shows the coverage provided by each piece.
Measure the length and width of your area in feet and multiply them to get square footage. Then add about 10% extra for cuts, waste, and future repairs. Every sq ft product page has a built-in calculator that does this for you and fills in the quantity.
Yes. Most products have an "Order a Sample" button on the product page. Samples let you check the color, finish, and texture in your own lighting before placing a full order.
Yes. We sell genuine products from Boutique Stone, Boutique Ceramic, Peel & Stick Mosaics, ELIDA, and ELIDA CERAMICA—the same product lines many customers previously saw or purchased at major home improvement stores. Shop Mosaic Tile acquires overstock and discontinued inventory and resells it independently. If you are matching an existing installation, compare the exact product name or item number, dimensions, color, material, and finish, or contact us with a photo of the tile or original box label. Because tile can vary between production lots, even the same product may not be an exact shade match. Shop Mosaic Tile is an independent reseller and is not affiliated with or endorsed by any manufacturer or retailer.
Yes. Half-pallet and full-pallet orders get tiered discounts. See our Pallet Deals page. Contractors, designers, and builders can also apply for a wholesale account for ongoing pricing.
Shipping & Delivery
Standard shipping within the contiguous United States is $19.95 for Peel & Stick-only orders, waived only when that order exceeds $300. For other tile, shipping is $24.95 through 12 pieces, $39.99 for over 12 through 24, $59.99 for over 24 through 36, $79.99 for over 36 through 48, and $99.99 above 48 pieces. Subway tile sold by square foot uses the same prices at up to 15, over 15 through 30, over 30 through 45, over 45 through 60, and above 60 sq. ft. Mixed orders use the highest applicable standard tier. Sample-only orders retain free standard shipping. Express adds $24.50/$49/$73.50/$98 for other tile and $31.75/$63.50/$95.25/$127 for subway across the first four quantity tiers, capped at the fourth tier for larger orders. Peel & Stick Express remains $11 per started 15 pieces; samples add $11.75 per shipment. Mixed express upgrades add together. Destination and special-service exclusions apply; checkout shows the applicable charge. See our Shipping Policy for details.
Standard orders typically ship within 1–2 business days and arrive in 3–7 business days depending on your location. Express shipping is available at checkout for a faster transit time. Pallet orders ship LTL freight and take a little longer to schedule.
Larger orders ship by LTL freight, and the carrier needs to call you to schedule a delivery appointment. Without a working phone number your shipment can be delayed or returned, so we require one on every order.
Freight is delivered curbside by appointment. The carrier will not carry it into your home or garage. If you do not have a forklift or loading dock, add liftgate service so the driver can lower the pallet to the ground.
Inspect your shipment before signing for it. Note any damage on the delivery receipt, then email photos to info@shopmosaictile.com within 48 hours of delivery and we will make it right.
Products & Installation
Check the Application spec on each product page. Products marked "Floor & Wall" are rated for both. Products marked "Wall Only" — including most subway tile, liners, trim, and peel and stick — should not be installed on floors.
Where the manufacturer makes a recommendation, we list it in the Specifications table on the product page. As a general rule, joints under 1/8 inch use unsanded grout and wider joints use sanded grout.
Natural stone and handmade tile vary from piece to piece, and screen colors differ from real life. That variation is part of the material, not a defect. If exact color matters, order a sample first.
Yes, if you can. Tile is produced in batches and shade can vary slightly between them. Ordering everything at once — including your 10% overage — keeps the whole job consistent.
Peel and stick works well for kitchen backsplashes and accent walls. We do not recommend it for shower surrounds, tub enclosures, or floors.
Returns & Support
Except for closeout items, returns are accepted within 30 days of delivery for unused product in the original packaging. Installed tile cannot be returned. Closeout items are final sale and cannot be returned; other clearance or discontinued items may also be final sale. Full details are on our Refund & Return Policy page.
The customer covers return shipping unless the product arrived damaged or we sent the wrong item, in which case we cover it.
Email info@shopmosaictile.com with your order number and what you would like to return. We will send return instructions.
Email info@shopmosaictile.com or call 888-207-8453. We answer during normal business hours, Pacific time.
Planning a tile project can raise a lot of questions. Below are answers about choosing tile, measuring your space, installation, shipping, returns, and caring for your purchase. For product-specific guidance, please contact us before ordering.
Choosing and Ordering Tile
How do I choose the right tile for my project?
Start with the installation area and the performance you need. Wall tile is not always rated for floors, and some materials require extra care in wet or high-traffic spaces. Check the product description for the tile’s material, finish, dimensions, and recommended applications. If you are unsure, contact us with the product name and details about your project before ordering.
Can I order a sample before buying tile for my project?
Yes. Samples are available for $2.99. We strongly recommend viewing a sample in your space so you can see the color, texture, finish, and appearance under your lighting before placing a full order. Samples are representative, but natural materials and production lots can vary.
How do I calculate how much tile I need?
Measure the length and width of each area and multiply them to calculate square footage. Add the totals for all areas, then include extra material for cuts, waste, breakage, and future repairs. Product pages list the square footage covered by each piece or box. For complex layouts, ask your installer to confirm the final quantity.
How much extra tile should I order?
We recommend ordering 10–15% more than your measured square footage. Simple layouts may need about 10%, while diagonal patterns, rooms with many corners, mosaics, and projects requiring extensive cuts may need closer to 15% or more. Keeping a few spare pieces also makes future repairs easier.
Will every tile look exactly like the photos or sample?
Not always. Screen settings can affect how colors appear, and natural stone, ceramic, porcelain, and glass may vary in shade, veining, texture, size, and finish. These variations are often part of the material’s character. Review several pieces and blend tile from multiple boxes before installation for a balanced appearance.
Installation and Care
Can this tile be used on floors, walls, showers, or backsplashes?
Suitability depends on the specific product, material, finish, and installation environment. Review the product page before ordering. Shower floors, submerged areas, outdoor installations, and commercial spaces can have special slip-resistance, waterproofing, freeze-thaw, or code requirements. Confirm those requirements with a qualified installer or local building professional.
Do I need a professional tile installer?
Professional installation is recommended, especially for natural stone, mosaics, showers, floors, large-format tile, and complex patterns. A qualified installer can evaluate the substrate, waterproofing, movement joints, setting materials, grout, layout, and applicable building codes. Installation labor and related costs are not included with your tile purchase.
Does tile need to be sealed?
Many natural stones and some porous or unglazed materials should be sealed before grouting and periodically afterward. Glazed ceramic and porcelain generally do not require surface sealing, although the grout may. Always follow the tile, sealer, grout, and setting-material manufacturers’ instructions, and test products in an inconspicuous area first.
What grout color and joint size should I use?
Grout choice affects the finished look: a matching color creates a more continuous appearance, while contrasting grout emphasizes the pattern. Joint size depends on the tile, sheet spacing, variation, and installation requirements. Test the grout color first, and ask your installer or grout manufacturer to confirm the appropriate product and joint size.
How should I clean and maintain my tile?
Use a pH-neutral cleaner suitable for the tile material and wipe spills promptly. Avoid abrasive pads and harsh or acidic cleaners unless the manufacturer specifically approves them. Acidic products can damage natural stone and some finishes. Follow the manufacturer’s care instructions, maintain grout and sealant as needed, and test any new cleaner in a hidden area.
Shipping and Delivery
When will my order ship?
Orders generally ship within three business days after payment confirmation. Orders placed after 1:00 PM Pacific Time, on weekends, or on holidays begin processing the next business day. Peak periods, promotions, and unusually large orders may require an additional 1–2 business days.
How long does delivery take?
Estimated transit time after shipment is typically 2–3 business days to the West Coast, 3–5 business days to the Mountain and Central U.S., and 5–7 business days to the East Coast. Carrier delays, weather, and other circumstances can affect delivery dates.
How much does shipping cost?
Standard shipping within the contiguous United States is $19.95 for Peel & Stick-only orders, waived only when that order exceeds $300. For other tile, shipping is $24.95 through 12 pieces, $39.99 for over 12 through 24, $59.99 for over 24 through 36, $79.99 for over 36 through 48, and $99.99 above 48 pieces. Subway tile sold by square foot uses the same prices at up to 15, over 15 through 30, over 30 through 45, over 45 through 60, and above 60 sq. ft. Mixed orders use the highest applicable standard tier. Sample-only orders retain free standard shipping. Express adds $24.50/$49/$73.50/$98 for other tile and $31.75/$63.50/$95.25/$127 for subway across the first four quantity tiers, capped at the fourth tier for larger orders. Peel & Stick Express remains $11 per started 15 pieces; samples add $11.75 per shipment. Mixed express upgrades add together. Destination and special-service exclusions apply; checkout shows the applicable charge.
Will my order arrive by parcel carrier or freight?
Smaller orders and samples usually ship by FedEx Ground or UPS Ground. Larger or heavier orders may ship on a pallet through an LTL freight carrier. Freight delivery is normally curbside and requires an appointment and an adult present to inspect and receive the shipment. Lift-gate, limited-access, or special delivery services may involve additional charges.
How do I track my order?
We will email tracking information after your order ships. Registered customers can also check their order history from the My Account page. For freight shipments, the carrier will contact you to arrange a delivery appointment.
What should I do if my tile arrives damaged or incorrect?
Inspect all material immediately. For parcel shipments, photograph the product and packaging and email us within 48 hours of delivery with your order number. For freight, inspect the pallet before signing, note visible damage on the delivery receipt, and refuse the shipment if the damage is significant. Proper documentation helps us work with the carrier and resolve the claim quickly.
Returns, Changes, and Professional Orders
Can I return unused tile?
Except for closeout items, unused products in their original packaging may be returned within 30 days of delivery. Customers are responsible for return shipping unless the item arrived damaged or incorrect. Installed tile cannot be returned, and partial boxes may not qualify. Closeout items are final sale and cannot be returned. Other clearance or discontinued items may also be final sale. A 15% restocking fee will apply for all returns.
Can I change or cancel an order?
Contact us as soon as possible. We process orders quickly and cannot guarantee changes or cancellation after fulfillment has started. An order that has already shipped cannot be canceled and must follow the return process.
Do you offer wholesale pricing for contractors and designers?
Yes. Contractors, interior designers, builders, and property managers can apply for professional pricing and project support through our Wholesale program. Eligibility, volume discounts, sample availability, and payment terms are reviewed as part of the application process.
Still have questions?
Email info@shopmosaictile.com with the product name or link, your project type, required square footage, ZIP code, and any installation questions. Our team will help you find the information you need before you order.
Still have a question?
We are happy to help you pick the right tile or work out how much you need.