You've taken the initiative to start a tile flooring installation business; you have good installers and a keen business instinct: Now all you need is to locate a few suppliers of kitchen tiles, then you can go out and get your customers. The kitchen is the most popular room to remodel, no question about it, so you should have no problems finding them.

Homeowners are concerned not just with the look of their homes, but with the resale value if they choose to sell down the road. Each kitchen tiles provider understands this and will have a varied selection of materials and price ranges for your customers to choose from. Before you get started, take the time to think about a few things:

1. Consider what manufacturers of kitchen tiles have to offer for this room. Consider every aspect of the design, from the floor up.

2. Think about your bottom line. Using discount kitchen tiles in your projects can save both you and your customers some money. You can also buy in bulk to save money.

3. Know which types of kitchen tiles are environmentally friendly; homeowners are more conscious of using sustainable resources these days.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Use the tried-and-true ceramic kitchen tiles for the floor

There are so many advantages to using ceramic tile. It's water-proof, relatively inexpensive and comes in a variety of colors. This is what many homeowners have in their homes because it's so easy to maintain.

I recommend: Browse through the product galleries at the reputable Mohawk Industries. Check out the selections of residential tile at American Olean.

Install granite kitchen tiles on countertops in customers' homes

Granite slabs are great for kitchen counters, but for many folks, they're just too expensive. Granite tiles are a great alternative, and if your installer lays them close together, the seams are almost nonexistent, leaving a smooth, beautiful surface.

I recommend: Check out the selections available from BuildDirect. You can order large quantities factory-direct at StoneLocator.com.

Find kitchen tiles for designing unique wall applications

Backsplashes are very important to homeowners who love to cook. These are made up of tiles that extend up the wall from the counter; they can be anywhere from four inches high to a couple of feet (like behind the stove). The backsplash serves to protect the walls from splatters and stains but also adds a decorative element to the kitchen.

I recommend: For the eco-conscious homeowner, suggest the recycled glass tile sheets from CoolTile. Show your customers the abstract tile sets at Tile By Design, which offers wholesale pricing.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you're having trouble finding quality tiles for your customers, go to the website of a builder's association and try to find a kitchen tiles directory that can give you ideas of suppliers to check out. These sites may also have kitchen tiles information that can give you some tips on doing a quality installation.
• •  Make a kitchen tiles list of the different types of products you offer. This will help jog your memory when a customer asks you a question. For example, make a list of 'green' tiles, like those made from cork or recycled materials, so you can be ready if your customer wants this type of product.