One more observation to point out: Doing it properly requires a diagonal trim on the brick that are directly next to the border.

Good catch, fordhammsw
I was going to note that (a) less grout is actually less busy, and (b) there are still cracks to fill to make it flush and solid. But I guess you should address the pattern issue first. (Eep, I pity all involved, as that looks like a big project! but there's always something...)

I certainly understand your frustration. It's important that you get what you originally wanted, and if you don't think you can live with this, then you need to get the installers back to redo it; however, I am not recommending that for many reasons. Instead, I think you might come to appreciate the smaller grout lines, as cleaning will be easier, there will ultimately be less staining of the grout, and it will be a little bit easier to walk on. I think it looks awesome and will look even better when grouted!!

You should get what you asked for. It's not the customer's problem to worry about how long things take -- rather, the contractor should contact you when he thinks he's about to change the agreed plan. He hoped for some reason that you wouldn't object to a fait accomplit.

I was hoping the grout WOULDNT be flush with the bricks, but rather look more like real mortared brick where the face of the brick is more prominent. I don't see how this is possible here.

I am not a pro-tiler, but have made pro-tilers rip out tile they laid in a pattern that I hated (before grout). It is a demo. The tile (and I am guessing brick) is attached with thinset. It has to all be chipped back up, and the product generally cannot be reused. If you hate it after you see the test grout area, I would still make the start over because you are going to be living with it for a long time.

Yay! Renovations are stressful, everything feels so urgent. I hope that this turns into something you can laugh about later.

I didn't realize the brick was set or I wouldn't have posted the alternative design... sorry greenfish.

HI -- I am going to go against the grain on this one ... I like this so far and actually think once it is grouted it will look better than the inspiration photo . My only concern is the trim edge and how that is being done . You are looking at an unfinished project . I don't like so much grout showing and I think that makes it look like a DIY job . This I think will look more refined and more for an interior than an outdoor patio . I think they did a great job , the pattern is consistent and straight and has a good mix of colors and looks level . And it is probably too late to change to match the example photo anyway . I really don't see a problem here .

thanks Lefty-you are with my mother and husband on this one. They did do a professional job, no doubt about that.

I LIKE it ! It is not the "same 'ol -- same 'ol" ---- i.e, it's different ! The pattern would look awesome on a bigger area too.

From the perspective of the front door -- notice how the pattern looks like arrows pointing into the house and also pointing toward the door? A subtle message for guests when they arrive -- "come on in" --- and then when it's time to leave -- "this way out."

Often the 'screw ups' that I get so upset about turn out to be something I would have chosen to begin with had I known how the completed project would look. Somehow I never remember this while I'm having a meltdown & going berserk because a project has deviated from my expectations.

I have literally stumbled onto unique, one-of-a-kind results this way and received many compliments on the outcome. Sometimes, I even let them think it was my plan from the beginning! ;o)

Always be present for a tile or hardwood floor job. I have prevented many wrong tile or hardwood floor job completions that were started on a "wrong foot" that way. It must be very frustrating for the contractor having to do it over again.

Thin grout in between any tiles in my opinion is better simply because grout is sandy, course and picks up dirt like crazy, which then makes the pattern off because the grout in the main walking area will be darker than the cleaner grout on the sides. Otherwise, you will be on your knees scrubbing the grout to get it clean. Observe tile floors in fast food places - they use wide grout lines...ick... I used normal grout lines on tile I laid at my back door and with the tile being a lighter color, the grout is a real pain to look at, clean, etc., and I do cover it with a rug:)

However, there is one thing I want to mention to anyone doing tile work - there is a grout that is made of fine, round glass beads, comes in colors, goes better with glass tiles, not as opaque as cement type grout. Dries hard as nails. More expensive, but every time I look at the backsplash of glass tiles I did in my bathrooms, I wish I'd have gone the glass bead route. Oh, well, live and learn.

Wow glad it seems to all have worked out!

Most truly professional tile setters that follow TCNA standards, and have years of experience
know what is best in layout and grout joint sizing for the materials. Start with qualified installers, listed on the NTCA website .
The key situation here was lack of communications, as is typical. We are not mind readers.
However, if there is any doubt about the design have your installers do a mock up or a dry lay out , where you can see and discuss the pros and cons.
Job looks great to me and I somehow knew you were going rug shopping anyway.
There are also many sealants and enhancers on the market which would make these bricks pop. Also new grouts that are stain proof ie. epoxies and new urethane premixed.

I have to jump in here just to tell you it looks absolutely beautiful. It may not be what you expected so I can understand your initial upset, but it's gorgeous. I hope in a week you end up loving it. But a reminder: Seal it. Seal it and seal it again. From a maintenance standpoint, you will actually be happier down the road with smaller grout joints.

I have to agree with those who said smaller grout lines are better, especially in an entrance way. Your idea of concave grout lines to mimic a walkway would be a nightmare to clean as they would capture every drop of water, dirt or mud being mucked into the house. You would need to invest in scrub brushes, not rugs. Your tile job is beautiful and the multicolored brick is eye catching. I'm betting you will love it when it is complete. Can't wait to see the final product!

Looks gorgeous and I like the pattern you went for.

your daughter's posture/expression says it all !!

Just curious, did you use a sealant on the top?

I agree with the bright side. It is actually even nicer than the inspiration photo, and with the grout will be even better. Something tells me you will love it in the end!

I know this is an old feed, but I am curious to how you feel about your brick floors now? What size bricks did you get and from where? Thanks

Hi-I’m pretty happy with it! I think I would prefer a simple running pattern but the herringbone is beautiful too. I looked at several reclaimed options too, but I actually liked the Home Depot thin brick and it was easy to install and inexpensive.