What to Expect When You Buy Tile Online from Tile Outlets of America
Posted by TOA's Blog Team on Jul 14th 2016
If you are looking to buy tile online, you'll find many options at Tile Outlets of America. You'll also find that we are as ready to help you and answer your questions online as we are when you visit us at our stores in Fort Myers, Sarasota and Tampa, Florida.
Here's more perspective on Tile Outlets' online shopping experience.
Curtis Harmon Explains What to Expect When You Buy Tile Online
TOA: What kinds of products can be ordered from Tile Outlets of America online?
CH: Virtually all of our stone, floor tiles, wall tiles, and mosaics and trims are available online. The only exception might be discontinued or clearance items.
For example, Manager Specials are only available in-store.
TOA: What kinds of samples are available online?
CH: We currently offer mosaic samples online for $1.99 with free shipping included. Also, lots of other products can be purchased by the piece, which can serve as a sample as well.
TOA: What shipping options are available?
CH: Online we currently offer FedEx shipping, with choices including Ground/Home Delivery and also Express Saver for a slightly faster ship time.
Overnight options and freight options are available upon request.
Generally, FedEx is best for mosaics, trim, decorative tile in small quantities. Freight is best for floor & wall tile or stone in large quantities. If you choose freight, we will call you to discuss details.
You can also opt to pick up your order directly from the Fort Myers, Sarasota or Tampa stores.
TOA: When should people plan on contacting customer service for shipping questions?
CH: We have some FAQs and other shipping information available online that I suggest everyone always take a look at first.
>> See Tile Outlets of America's Customer Service Policies
Definitely reach out any time an online order consists of large quantities of floor/wall tile. Most mosaic and decorative tile orders are self-explanatory and ship simply via FedEx.
When it comes to larger orders, we will need to work hand and hand with you to develop the best shipping method. Tile and stone orders can quickly get very heavy and, as a result, shipping costs get expensive fast!
Curtis demonstrates the shrink-wrap machine for protecting tile samples.
TOA: What happens with an abandoned online shopping cart?
CH: Abandoned online shopping carts often happen because the tile or stone order is large and you would like to discuss shipping options with us.
If and when you abandon your shopping cart, you can expect to receive e-mail to remind you of your most recently viewed items. We provide you with our contact information in case you do have questions before making your purchase.
An example of an abandoned shopping cart email from Tile Outlets of America
TOA: Tile Outlets recently acquired a shrink-wrap machine specifically for online shopping orders. How are you using it?
CH: The shrink-wrap machine helps us mainly so we can provide support for otherwise fragile and flexible mosaics. It keeps the items free of dust, and protects them from scratches when they are being stored or transported.
More specifically, here's how the machine works.
We'll place a mosaic sheet or samples (and cardboard underneath for support) between two sheets of thin, perforated plastic. When this is placed into the machine, the edges get fused, and a heated fan blows hot air through the chamber causing the plastic to shrink. It leaves you with a factory seal, and much needed support for storage or transport.
Curtis holds up a mosaic tile sheet that has been shrink-wrapped.
TOA: What else should people using eCommerce on TileOutlets.com expect?
CH: Definitely expect us to always be trying our best to make your dream a reality. We understand that every tile project is different, and it is very common to end up working one-on-one with us via telephone or e-mail to accomplish said dream.
If you have questions you may call or e-mail and we are committed to responding as quickly and efficiently as possible.
TOA: Thank you, Curtis.
Is there a question about buying tile online from Tile Outlets of America that we haven't addressed? Please let us know.