At Historic Decorative Materials, we are committed to transparency and accuracy regarding customer returns, refund eligibility, and product expectations. Because our collections include natural, hand-made, reclaimed, and antique materials from France, Belgium, Italy, and England, it is essential that clients understand the inherent variations in these products and the specific conditions under which returns may or may not be accepted. The following Refund Policy outlines all guidelines for in-stock returns, non-returnable categories, antique materials, storage requirements, and client responsibilities.
Variations and Sample Disclaimer
Hand-made and natural materials inherently exhibit irregularities. Samples provided by Historic Decorative Materials represent only a small indication of a product and cannot serve as exact representations. Variations in size, texture, thickness, shape, and color are normal for materials such as terra cotta tile, glazed tile, limestone, bluestone, wood flooring, and reclaimed architectural elements.
Clients are responsible for understanding the natural characteristics of these products, including the patina, texture, and color differences that define their authenticity. Visiting our showroom, reviewing images, discussing materials with our team, and studying all provided resources are essential steps to making an informed purchase.
Returns on In-Stock Products
Returns apply only to in-stock items and do not include any antique materials. The following conditions must be met:
Materials must be in their original packaging.
Palletized materials must be returned on their original pallets.
Written return authorization is required within 10 days of receipt.
Approved returns incur a 30% restocking fee.
Client is responsible for freight charges both ways.
Materials must be in resaleable condition.
Returns must meet the minimum quantity required for the product.
Non-Returnable and Non-Cancelable Products
Some products cannot be returned or canceled due to their custom, antique, or special-order nature:
Special or Custom Orders (Non-Returnable)
All kiln-fired, made-to-order Historic Decorative Tile Collections
Custom wood flooring and wood treads
Custom stone orders
All sealers, waxes, and care products
Original French Anduze Pottery
All colors and sizes of Poterie de la Madeleine (Provence) glazed terra cotta pottery are non-returnable.
Non-Stock Orders
Orders placed by Historic Decorative Materials with independent suppliers on the customer’s behalf are non-returnable and cannot be canceled.
Antique Materials
All antique materials—stocked or custom ordered—are non-returnable. This includes:
Antique and aged stone
Antique or aged wood flooring
Antique tile
Antique wall tile
Antique sinks
Antique fireplace mantels
Important Notice for 18th Century Antique French Oak Flooring
Antique French oak from the 18th century contains natural and historic characteristics including:
Nail holes
Watermarks
Open knots
Surface cracks
Texture and color variations
No single sample can represent the full range of appearance in any antique lot. Clients should reference NWFA (National Wood Flooring Association) installation guidelines for proper installation of reclaimed and aged oak flooring.
Installation Responsibility
Historic Decorative Materials does not install products nor provide installation instructions. All products must be installed by experienced professionals. We are not responsible for:
Installation errors
Grouting
Sealing or refinishing
Damage from improper cleaning, drying, sealing, or curing
Alteration of materials after delivery
Damage caused by misuse, improper chemicals, extreme temperatures, falling objects, or non–foot traffic wear
Variations in facial dimensions and thickness are within normal industry tolerances.
Storage Responsibility
We are not responsible for damage caused by improper storage of tile, wood, or stone. These materials must be stored in a climate-controlled environment.
After 3 days, materials are considered accepted by the client.
If installation is delayed for weeks or months and materials become warped or damaged due to improper storage, Historic Decorative Materials is not liable.
Additional Policy Information
For full details on delivery, acceptance, freight requirements, and client responsibilities, please review our Terms and Conditions / Shipping Policy.
Making Informed Decisions When Purchasing Natural & Reclaimed Materials
Understanding our Refund Policy ensures confidence when purchasing natural, reclaimed, and antique materials such as French terra cotta tiles, aged French oak flooring, Belgian bluestone, antique limestone, Zellige tiles, and other architectural elements curated by Historic Decorative Materials. These products are valued for their authenticity, variation, and historic character. By reviewing our sample disclaimer, return guidelines, and non-returnable product categories, clients can make an informed decision and prepare appropriately for receiving and installing these unique European materials.
