Marble Tiles

When buying tiles for use on the walls and floors throughout the home, there are few more opulent materials to consider than marble. Indeed, with the exception perhaps of limestone and granite, marble tiles feature a level of sophistication and luxuriousness that cannot be rivalled by lesser products that comprise ceramic, glass, travertine, slate or porcelain materials. In fact, marble represents a richness that was at one time associated only with the upper echelons of society. Today, however, high quality marble tiles for floors and walls can be purchased at relatively low prices, especially in comparison to the equally lavish granite and limestone alternatives.

As a natural stone substance, marble is slightly more porous than granite and almost as durable and long lasting. However, the higher porosity is a cause for concern for many buyers who choose marble tiles but fail to have them installed correctly. Indeed, it is essential that marble tiles are effectively sealed when used in areas that are likely to be exposed to moisture. If marble tiles are not properly sealed, water damage can be caused to the underlying surface, which may mean that the tiles themselves can be dislodged or the wall underneath suffers rot, damp or mould growth.

The main advantage of buying marble floor and wall tiles is that they boast a truly exquisite look of which there are numerous styles available. Marble is the natural material of choice for those who want a durable and hard wearing surface that looks every bit as expensive as limestone or granite. In fact, many marble tile products are significantly more expensive then either of the aforementioned materials, such is the stone’s unique combination of practicality and opulence. Although the premium range marble tile products are not for those who are counting their pennies, many other types of marble tiles are available at significantly reduced prices.

Moreover, the various styles and colours of marble tiles that are available to buy for use in the home provide customers with plenty of variety. The most classical type of marble floor is the premium ‘cappuccino’ style, which features an exquisite yet subtle blend of lightly speckled colours and wispy, mottled shades of beige. Another common variety of marble tile comprises mixed lemon, beige and grey colours of different shades and tones that are finished with a glossy polished effect. Two tone beige mosaics comprising a natural marble effect are also a popular choice of wall tile, whilst ‘latte’ style linear mosaics are also currently in fashion. Nevertheless, by far the most common type of marble tile is the black and white polished floor tile. Other popular styles include mixed colour mosaics, black and white mosaics, tumbled matt white marble and the delightfully subtle natural beige tile, which is suitable for both walls and floors and typically measures 10 x 10 cm.

Of course, there are many other types of marble tiles from which to choose and with the exception of cost the matter usually hinges on personal taste. Furthermore, as mentioned above, marble tiles can be used in any room of the home, so customers often purchase the same style of marble in order to maintain a consistent look and feel throughout the home. Moreover, providing the marble tiles are properly sealed, these natural stone products are perfect for bathrooms, kitchens and conservatories, although they are predominantly used in and around hallways as their sumptuously exquisite nature provides a key talking point for guests. Equally, marble is a robust and versatile material that can withstand the heavy demands imposed on busy hallways.

In regard to installing marble tiles, this is usually no problem for the average DIY enthusiast where small tiles are involved, especially those used in bathroom and kitchen mosaics. However, larger marble floor tiles must be left to the professional tile fitter, who will be familiar with handling heavy tiles and will have all the necessary tools and equipment to the job correctly. Furthermore, as mentioned above, marble is more porous than granite, so it requires sealing before it can be used in moist or wet environments. In order to ensure that the sealing process is carried out correctly, it is usually necessary to employ the services of a professional tradesman.

Nevertheless, many people will choose to undertake their own marble tile installations, regardless of whether they are to be fitted on walls or floors. When carrying out a DIY marble tile installation, it is first necessary to effectively prepare the walls and floors. In this respect, walls must be stripped bare, made even and thoroughly cleaned and dusted. Bathrooms and wet rooms require installations that adequately protect the underlying wall from exposure to moisture, which can seep through if the marble tiles are not properly sealed. Indeed, mould, mildew and damp are common problems that are caused by poorly sealed marble tiles and mould especially can have a particularly damaging effect on human health. Thus, fully waterproof PVC membranes are usually attached to slender wooden frames that often support water resistant backboards onto which the wall tiles are stuck.

Furthermore, when installing marble floor tiles, it is important first to dry lay the tiles into straight and perpendicular columns. It is not necessary to lay out all the tiles individually, although this can be undertaken if it adds to the DIY enthusiast’s peace of mind. What is important, however, is that the correct positions for the first rows and columns of tiles (those that are nearest the edges of the walls) are marked out using a pencil. A margin of equal length ought to be left around this template or outline that separates it from the wall. Indeed, whilst the outlined area marked in pencil will determine where the vast majority of marble tiles will be placed, the outer edge will require tiles that are cut precisely to size (walls are rarely perpendicular to one another).

Finally, care should be taken not to break or incorrectly cut tiles but it is nevertheless worth buying a number of extra tiles to provide a sufficient buffer or margin of error. Of course, dealing with marble tiles is certainly no easy task, so mistakes should be expected and factored into the project. Furthermore, it is essential to have all available equipment, tools and supplies to hand before fitting the tiles, which includes cutting tools, grouting equipment, a spirit level, square edge level, suction cups, tape measure and, most importantly of all, the humble pencil.

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