Before the surface.

The visible tile belongs to a wider set of decisions. Follow the relationship between the finish, what supports it and the conditions already in the room.

Graphite drawing of floor and wall layer relationships; explanatory construction study — A relationship study, not an installation specification.

What happens beneath the finish.

Follow one explanatory room section from the surface you can see to the questions beneath it.

One project section · four conversation stages

The room as it stands.

Start with the visible surface, the adjoining finishes and the records you already have. Keep uncertain construction details as questions.

Look closely

A hairline in a drawing cannot diagnose the actual surface. Describe what is visible and ask what needs investigation.

Ask the installer

What needs checking before the finish is selected?

Discussion focus: existing surface

Illustrated relationships only. A qualified installer confirms the actual construction and specification.

Take this into my brief

Read the section.

Finish & joints

Setting relationship

Existing surface

Choose a layer to discuss.

Agree the tile, intended use, visible edges and joint rhythm. The supplier and installer confirm the actual products and suitability.

The information behind the drawing.

Existing conditions: What is there now? Note previous finishes, visible damage and uncertain areas without trying to diagnose them.
Room use: Describe how the room is used and which areas regularly meet water or wear.
Interfaces: Bring drains, thresholds, cabinetry, fittings and changes of level into the same conversation.
Responsibility: Ask who confirms the preparation, product selection, related works and final scope.

Make the unknowns visible.

A useful survey brief starts with conditions and questions.

Prepare a survey brief