Terrapin Tile & Construction

Being one of the few ceramic tile contractors on Vashon Island, we contracted with Terry of Terrapin Tile for our kitchen and bath remodel.  To tell you the truth, first impressions DO count and we should have sensed trouble at the beginning.  Terry gives the impression he has a huge chip on his shoulder and to say he is "not a pleasant person" would be giving him the benefit of the doubt.    But we agreed to proceed (we really didn't have much choice) and the work progressed well at the beginning.  We left him alone and let him do his job without any interference.  He arrived each day with a huge aggressive dog he left barking in his truck or chained to the bumper (without asking us) and causing major problems with our own pets.  Progress payments were made along the way.  Then when the work was approximately 90% complete Terry announced that he was starting on a large project for another homeowner and we were left on our own to finish the project he had started in our home.  Just like that.  The last 10% of the job included some rather complex tile cuts and a large part of the grouting, definitely the most difficult part of the job.  It was a scramble to find someone to finish Terry's work.  His total lack of professionalism was appalling and we are surprised he is still in business.  But being Vashon with limited options available for homeowners I guess you have to take what you can get.  It's really a shame.  We would NOT recommend Terrapin Tile under any circumstances.