Recently, the Design Build Planners met with Nanci McCarthy to discuss a few projects currently in design and development. We took the opportunity to ask her a few questions. Nanci, one of our favorite Trade Partners, is the Branch Manager for Best Tile. Best Tile has been providing tile material, accessories, and supplies to homeowners and trades people for 50 years. They have showroom locations from Vermont to North Carolina.
DBPlanners: What is the newest, hottest trend in tile?
Nanci: Gray is coming back! Although most still favor the warm beige tones, we’re finding more and more
Plank tile
people coming around to the “cool” side with the soft gray tones and larger format tiles. Plank tiles (6” x 24”) are also becoming a huge favorite with many for both walls and floors!DBPlanners: What are your personal thoughts on different material such as glass, metal, stone?Nanci: Personally, I love the mix of the elements and the depth that using these products can offer to a tile design.DBPlanners: What common mistakes do homeowners and/or remodelers make regarding tile?
Nanci: “This tile is too big for the space” is a very common misconception made by both home owners and remodelers. The fact is “Large and Light” is the objective to make a seemingly small space appear bigger.
DBPlanners: What should we know or ask about tile decisions that most people don’t know or ask?
Nanci: Stone and grout maintenance seems to be one of the largest concerns and misconceptions people have in 
regards to tile usage. What is of the utmost importance for everyone is comfort and confidence that their stone and grout products will be relatively low maintenance. QSEAL, a fabulous product that I highly recommend, provides stain and chemical resistance for stone tile. Grout products themselves, such as Tec Power Grout, and additives like VanHearron Grout Once make the grout maintenance free. People should definitely not be afraid to use stone and/or light colored grouts these days!
If you would like a free 15-minute phone consultation regarding your next remodeling project contact the staff at Design Build Planners to schedule.
Nanci McCarthy works from the Keyport, New Jersey Best Tile showroom. If you live locally and tile is required for your next remodeling project, make certain to visit Nanci. Simply tell her that Jason or Neil Parsons referred you and she will apply our professional discount where applicable.