Ceramic Tiles

If you are about to embark upon a wall or floor tiling job within your home in a wet area, an area in need of ’splash back protection’ or light traffic area, then you will in all likelihood be using ceramic tiles.

Ceramic tiles are kiln fired tiles, which have been made using white or red clay. The colour and pattern on a ceramic tile is sealed with a durable glaze, although you can purchase unglazed tiles. Ceramic tiles are ideal for indoor use and do not require extra sealing. Ceramic tiles are often chosen because they are easy to clean, are safe – floor tiles come in non-slip varieties – they have long lasting durability and they come in a vast variety of shapes, sizes, patterns and colours.

Ceramic Tiles Buying Guide

When choosing ceramic tiles, first and foremost ensure they are suitable for the area you intend to use them in. This is especially important with floor tiles, as some tiles may not be suitable for high traffic areas, or outdoor conditions where they may be exposed to frost and wet weather conditions. Consider also if you require non slip tiles and any extra costing that may be required to make the surface you are going to tile waterproof.

When buying tiles for either wall or floor, a general rule of thumb is to purchase an additional ten percent on top of how many you actually need. This allows for accidental breakage and also a little extra if you need to cut the tiles (which can take a little practise to get right). Many shops operate a buy back scheme where they will allow you to bring back unused tiles – so ensure you keep your receipt!

Variety of Ceramic Tiles

There are an astonishing variety of ceramic tiles on the market. Basically though, they can be spilt into wall and floor tiles. Ceramic tiles are generally suitable for floors in the bathroom, kitchen, conservatory and hall way. For walls they are also suitable for bathrooms and kitchens. Most ceramic tiles will come in either a matt, silk or gloss finish, with some varieties available in rustic, textured or glass finish. Ceramic tiles can vary dramatically in size, ranging from 8x 20cm, to 60×60cm. Generally sold in boxes containing enough tiles to cover an area approx 1 square metre, however, some ceramic tiles are sold separately, especially high end and expensive border tiles.

Ceramic tiles come in an infinite number of colours and patterns – including but not inclusive of beige, black, blue, brown, cream, green, grey, orange, pink, silver, terracotta, white, yellow, red, purple, mixed colours and various patterns and pictures. Mosaic and decor tiles can be used to create different effects and styles, as can plain tiles set against dramatic border tiles. You can even get wood effect ceramic floor tiles – perfect for areas where unsealed laminate flooring may be unsuitable, such as kitchens, etc.

Tile Options

Because of the humongous variety of ceramic tiles on the market, your options really are limitless! Many tile outlets will sell sample tiles (most of which can be ordered online) and some tile shops will even ‘loan’ you bulk amounts of tiles so you can see what they will look like in your home.

Things to Consider

When it comes to tiles you should be aware of practicality over fashion! For example, large tiles may be in vogue at the moment, but they may be unsuitable and very difficult to lay if you have a lot of cutting in to do around plug sockets or pipes. Likewise, mosaic ceramic tile patterns can be used to achieve a dramatic and awe inspiring look, but if you do not have the patience of a saint then consider getting a professional in to lay them for you!

Top Tile Tips

When it comes to ceramic tiles, or indeed any tiles, the top tip has to be – be prepared! Have all the equipment you need to hand before you start the job! There can be a surprising amount of tiling equipment required and you should consider the initial outlay cost against that of having a professional tile tradesman do the job for you.

Also remember to file down tile edges, which can be unexpectedly sharp when they have been cut! Always have a spirit level to hand and try to wipe adhesive or grout off tiles fairly quickly, otherwise you will probably end up having to use a specially concentrated acid remover.

Lay your tiles out before starting a job (especially floor tiles) and if an area requires the more than half of the first/last tile to be cut off then try repositioning.

Always allow at least twenty four hours between fitting tiles with an adhesive and doing the grouting. This will allow the tiles to set correctly. Try laying your tiles using a twisting action for better positioning.

Never apply the adhesive to the tile itself, especially just to the corners of the tiles, as when the adhesive dries this can cause the tile to crack and indeed fall off its surface!

Always use tile spacers – they are there for a reason!

Buying in bulk, by the pallet, can save you a small fortune! However, ensure if you are buying end of stock or clearance deals that you have a sufficient supply (at least over ten percent of your required amount) otherwise you run the risk of running out!

Common Tiling Mistakes

For high traffic areas, porcelain tiles are more suitable as they are less likely to chip than ceramic tiles. Also ceramic tiles are usually unsuitable for outdoor areas as they do not handle wet weather well or frosty conditions.

The most common mistake people make is using tiles for areas in which they are not intended. This can be dangerous and costly, so do not be afraid to ask advice from the shop you are purchasing your tiles from and carefully read the instructions.

Also be prepared for the fact that whilst machine produced sealed and glazed ceramic tiles should not necessarily be subject to varying pattern grains and shade, this can happen.

It may also come as a surprise that a lot of people make the mistake of placing tiles upside down! Further reason why laying tiles out before hand and double checking how they look, is a good idea!

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