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Tile Rescue:

Tile Rescue: When DIY Becomes D-I-Why

Aug 26, 2024 | 4:21 PM

Having the confidence to take on a project by yourself is a lot easier when you know you’re not really by yourself.

“We encourage people to do it themselves if they can or they feel up to it, but if they get started and then they all of a sudden get to a certain spot, you know, we can go in there and guide them through it.”

Those words are especially reassuring coming from Erik Locke. He and his wife Melissa are owners of The Tile Guy Flooring and Renovations. “I can’t tell you how many times my husband has run out the door to help somebody with one little thing,” said Melissa, “Or just quickly go cut a tile for somebody that called in a panic because they cut something wrong…”

And in the case of a homeowner getting to a point that they can’t or don’t want to continue, The Tile Guy can send someone in to finish the project.

A customer wanting to save money by doing it themselves is something Erik and Melissa understand. They both emphasized that The Tile Guy team wants to support those DIYers and help them to succeed.

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Ideally, that success won’t require a rescue at all. When asked about his number one piece of advice, Erik says it all comes down to the prep work and understanding what you’re up against before you get started. Assistance from a tile educator is available at both The Tile Guy locations.

The here-to-help approach continues during delivery. The employee who delivers your flooring materials will also be a qualified installer with advice that can only come through experience. Erik said it’s common for a customer to have questions. Providing answers can be the boost of confidence and the knowledge needed to start out on the right foot.

“I think that one of the biggest differences with us is you’re going to get that personalized service, and you’re going to get that guidance in your own home, not in the aisle of a store,” stated Melissa. She continued on to say that customer service is something they’re proud of. “It’s top priority for us, and not just customer service but old-school, face-to-face, personalized service.”

One last bit of advice for DIYers from Erik was to consider the new vinyl tile products. “It’s really easy, and it’s very quick turnaround time. It’s not days, and there are no grouting and mortar and special saws. It’s simple and straightforward.” He said it’s also less expensive overall, it’s warmer, it won’t scratch or break, and it looks and feels like tile.

You’ll find The Tile Guy’s interactive showroom in Vernon at 4413 29th Street, and their second showroom on Highway 97 in Lake Country.