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Shade & Dye Lot Variation

Tile Variation & Product Disclaimer Policy

At Tile On, we carefully curate tile collections that reflect the natural beauty and design sophistication of modern surfaces. Many of our products are inspired by natural materials such as stone, marble, wood, and concrete, which inherently contain variations in color, texture, and pattern.

For this reason, slight differences between tiles are not considered defects, but rather a defining characteristic that contributes to the authenticity, depth, and visual richness of the finished installation.

Shade & Dye Lot Variation

Tile products are manufactured in production batches known as dye lots. Because of the nature of the manufacturing process, slight differences in shade, tone, or surface texture may occur between production runs.

For the most consistent installation results, we recommend:

  • Ordering all material for your project at the same time

  • Including an additional 10–15% overage to account for cuts, waste, and future repairs

  • Confirming lot availability before placing additional orders

Tile On cannot guarantee that future orders will match the exact dye lot or shade of previous purchases.

Tile Variation Ratings (V-Rating System)

Tile variation refers to the intentional differences in color, tone, and texture within a tile batch. These variations are created during the manufacturing and firing process and are often designed to replicate the natural movement and character found in authentic materials.

Tiles are commonly categorized using a Variation Rating (V-Rating) system that ranges from V1 (uniform appearance) to V4 (substantial variation). This system helps designers, installers, and homeowners understand the expected level of visual variation within a tile collection.

V1 – Uniform Appearance (Low Variation)

Tiles with a V1 rating feature minimal to no visible differences in color, tone, or texture between individual pieces.
This rating is typically ideal for sleek, modern, and minimalist designs where consistency and uniformity are desired.

V2 – Slight Variation

Tiles rated V2 display subtle differences in shade or texture while maintaining a generally consistent appearance.
These collections provide a balanced, refined aesthetic while introducing gentle visual interest.

V3 – Moderate Variation

Tiles with a V3 rating feature noticeable variation in color, tone, and surface pattern.
This level of variation creates warmth, movement, and natural character, often resembling authentic stone or wood materials.

V4 – Substantial / Random Variation (High)

Tiles rated V4 exhibit dramatic and highly varied color differences from piece to piece.
This creates a distinctive, organic appearance, where each tile contributes to a unique and dynamic installation.

 

Natural and Manufactured Variation

Many of our collections intentionally incorporate designed variation to replicate the character of natural materials.

These variations may include:

  • Color tone differences

  • Pattern variation

  • Surface texture differences

  • Veining or grain movement

  • Slight size tolerances within industry standards

These characteristics are part of the intended design aesthetic and are not considered product defects.

Product Images & Representation

Product photography, digital renderings, and lifestyle imagery are provided to illustrate the general appearance and design intent of each tile collection.

However, due to factors such as:

  • Screen resolution and display settings

  • Lighting conditions

  • Natural variation within production lots

The actual product may vary slightly from images shown online or in marketing materials.

For this reason, we strongly recommend ordering samples prior to purchasing larger quantities to ensure the color, finish, and texture meet your expectations.

Installation Inspection Requirement

All tile must be inspected prior to installation.

This includes checking for:

  • Shade consistency

  • Pattern and design preference

  • Surface finish

  • Size and calibration

If any concerns arise, installation should not proceed until the issue has been addressed.

Once tile has been installed, it is considered accepted by the customer, and installed material is not eligible for return, replacement, or refund.

Installation Responsibility

Tile installation should always be performed by a qualified professional installer who follows recognized industry standards.

Tile On is not responsible for issues resulting from:

  • Improper installation

  • Incorrect substrate preparation

  • Installation technique

  • Environmental conditions during installation

Customers and installers are responsible for ensuring the material is suitable for the intended application prior to installation.

Large Format Tile Considerations

Large format tiles may require specialized installation techniques and leveling systems to ensure proper alignment and surface flatness.

We strongly recommend that large format materials be installed by professionals experienced with advanced tile installation methods.

Samples

Samples are intended to provide a general representation of the product’s color and finish. Due to natural and manufactured variation, a single sample may not fully represent the full range of variation present within the collection.

Questions Before You Order

Our team is always happy to assist with:

  • Product selection guidance

  • Sample recommendations

  • Lot availability verification

  • Installation suitability questions

We encourage customers to contact us prior to placing large or time-sensitive orders.

Contact Tile On

If you have any questions regarding product variation or installation considerations, our team is here to help.

Tile On Customer Support
support@tileon.com