If you’re planning a home build or renovation in 202627, you’re probably already thinking about design choices, especially tiles. From bathroom walls to kitchen splashbacks to outdoor areas, tiles influence both style and functionality.
This guide breaks down the exact timeline you should follow to buy tiles for your home renovation, common mistakes to avoid, and expert tips to keep your build or reno running on schedule.
Why Tile Timing Matters More Than Ever
Tiles might seem like a late-stage decision, but in reality, they’re one of the finishes most affected by:
- Stock shortages
- Long freight times
- Product discontinuations
- Batch variations
Getting your timing wrong can cause delays, mismatched colours, or last-minute compromises. Getting it right can save weeks, thousands of dollars, and a lot of stress.
When to Start Choosing Tiles: 9–12 Months Before Installation
Tiles are usually installed during the final third of a project, often 3–6 months before completion. But tile selection and purchasing should happen much earlier.
To avoid rushed decisions and mismatched materials, start the tile selection process early. For 2026 projects, begin selecting tiles in late 2025 or early 2026.
This stage includes:
- Comparing styles
- Getting your 3 FREE samples
- Confirming suitability (slip ratings, thickness, finish)
- Cross-checking with cabinetry, benchtops, and paint colours
This early start helps you make confident decisions and avoid last-minute compromises.
When to Buy Tiles: The Ideal 6–9 Month Window
Tile delivery times vary widely depending on the tile type and source. With 1000's of products to choose from on our website we hold the largest range of tiles in Ireland and are ready to ship within the week. However, if you need to order in a tile thats out of stock, or are looking for something custom it can take 8–12+ weeks to import.
The best time to purchase tiles is 6–9 months before installation. Buying during this window helps you:
- Ensure your tiler isn’t left waiting
- Lock in matching batch numbers
- Avoid shipping delays
- Secure stock for specialty tiles
- Avoid product discontinuations - If you see a tile you love, lock it in!
Remember: A tile may be in stock today, but the only way to guarantee it’s still available when you need it is to buy early. Even if we currently have hundreds of boxes on hand, high-demand products can sell quickly, turning a 1-week wait into a 4–8 week delay.
Early Buying Tips: How to Store Tiles Safely
The biggest hesitation people have about early purchasing is storage. But there are easy solutions:
- Ask Delforno to hold the stock - we can arrange to ship your order on the date of your choice
- Use a secure garage or shed
- Rent a small storage unit if you need some extra space
- Tiles are durable, but must be kept dry and protected from impact.
When You Should Buy Tiles Even Earlier (10–12 Months Before Installation)
Some tiles require additional lead time. Buy on the earliest side of the timeline if you’re choosing:
- Extra-large format tiles
- Natural stone or Terracotta
- Handmade or artisan tiles
- Imported ranges
- Coordinated indoor–outdoor porcelain series
These products often have limited production runs and longer import cycles.
I need tiles within the next few weeks, have I left it too late?
Fear not! Here at Delforno we're here to help. We stock a large range of products in our warehouse that are ready to be shipped this week. For urgent orders please add a note to your order, or contact our showroom to talk through your options
If you’re building or renovating in 2026, the smartest move you can make is to start your tile planning today! The end of 2025 is the perfect time to start getting tile samples and finalising your choices.
See all our available tiles online, and if you don't see what you're looking for contact us today!