Tile Guide - Blue Ladder Building

What you need to know

The Great Tile Decision: Tiling Made Simple

A Guide to Bathroom and Kitchen Tiling

When it comes to enhancing your bathroom or kitchen’s functionality, durability, and aesthetic appeal, choosing the right tiling is crucial. You have a variety of options to consider. In this tile guide, we’ll explore different types of tiles, their costs and maintenance requirements, waterproofing considerations, and the pros and cons of various materials and sizes.

Types of Tiles

Tiles remain a popular choice for UK bathrooms and kitchens due to their versatility and durability. Here’s an in-depth look at common types.

1. Ceramic Tiles

Ceramic tiles are a classic choice, offering a good balance of affordability and durability. They’re made from clay that’s been fired in a kiln and are available in both glazed and unglazed varieties. Glazed ceramic tiles are highly water-resistant and come in a wide range of colours and patterns, making them versatile for various design styles.

2. Porcelain Tiles

Known for their exceptional durability and water resistance, porcelain tiles are an excellent choice for high-traffic areas. They’re made from finer, denser clay and fired at higher temperatures than ceramic tiles, resulting in a harder, less porous tile. Porcelain tiles can mimic the look of natural materials like stone or wood, offering aesthetic versatility. They’re frost-resistant, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

3. Natural Stone Tiles

Natural stone tiles, including options like marble, granite, slate, and travertine, offer a luxurious and unique look to any space. Each piece of stone has its own pattern and coloration, ensuring that your tiled surface is truly one-of-a-kind. While beautiful, natural stone requires more maintenance than ceramic or porcelain. It needs regular sealing to prevent staining and can be more susceptible to etching from acidic substances. Despite these considerations, many homeowners choose natural stone for its unparalleled elegance and timeless appeal.

4. Glass Tiles

Glass tiles are perfect for adding a modern, sleek appearance to your space, especially popular for kitchen backsplashes. They reflect light well, which can make spaces appear larger and brighter. Available in a vast array of colours, shapes, and finishes, glass tiles can create stunning visual effects. They’re non-porous, making them highly resistant to stains and bacteria. However, they can be more prone to chipping or cracking than ceramic or porcelain, and their transparency means the adhesive used must be applied with precision for a flawless look.

5. Mosaic Tiles

Mosaic tiles are small tiles, typically 2 inches or less in size, that can create intricate patterns and designs. They can be made from various materials including glass, ceramic, or natural stone. Mosaic tiles offer unparalleled design flexibility, allowing for creative and unique installations. They work well in curved or uneven areas where larger tiles might be impractical. While beautiful, mosaic tile installations typically require more grout, which means more cleaning maintenance. They’re also usually more labour-intensive to install, which can increase overall project costs.

Other Tiling Options

While traditional tiles are prevalent, there are other materials to consider. These options can offer unique advantages in terms of installation, maintenance, or appearance.

We’d be happy to advise on or install any type of tile discussed here. Get in touch!

1. Large Format Tiles

Large format tiles, typically larger than 60cm x 60cm, can make a space feel larger and more open. They’re easier to clean due to fewer grout lines, making maintenance simpler. These tiles are particularly effective in creating a seamless, modern look. However, they require a very flat substrate for proper installation and may not be suitable for highly contoured areas.

2. Wood-Look Tiles

Wood-look tiles combine the warmth and aesthetic appeal of wood with the durability and water resistance of tile. Perfect for achieving a natural look in wet areas, these tiles are typically made of porcelain and can convincingly mimic various wood types and finishes. They’re ideal for spaces where real wood might be impractical due to moisture concerns.

3. Luxury Vinyl Tiles

Vinyl tiles offer a budget-friendly option that’s easy to install and maintain. Modern vinyl tiles, especially luxury vinyl tiles (LVT), can closely mimic the look of more expensive materials like wood or stone. They’re softer underfoot than ceramic or porcelain, making them comfortable to stand on for long periods. Vinyl is also highly water-resistant, making it a practical choice for bathrooms and kitchens.

Cost Implications and Maintenance

The cost of tiling can vary significantly based on materials, size, and complexity of installation. Here’s a general overview:

Tile Type	Cost (per m²)	Maintenance
Ceramic	£20-£50	Regular cleaning; regrouting every 10-15 years
Porcelain	£30-£100	Minimal; occasional deep cleaning
Natural Stone	£50-£150	Regular sealing; careful cleaning to avoid stains
Glass	£50-£100	Easy to clean; may show water spots more readily
Mosaic	£20-£100	More grout to clean; may need occasional regrouting

Waterproofing Considerations

Proper waterproofing is crucial in bathrooms and kitchens to prevent water damage:

Use a waterproof membrane beneath tiles in wet areas.
Ensure proper sealing around fixtures and at wall-floor junctions.
Consider epoxy grout for better water resistance in shower areas.

Always follow manufacturer guidelines and building regulations for waterproofing. If in doubt, feel free to ask us a question.

Tile Size: Small vs Large

The choice between small and large tiles can significantly impact the look, maintenance, and cost of your tiling project.

Type	Pros	Cons
Small Tiles	More design flexibility Better grip in wet areas Can conform to uneven surfaces	More grout lines to clean Can make small spaces feel busy More expensive to install
Large Tiles	Fewer grout lines for easier cleaning Can make spaces feel larger Modern, sleek appearance Less expensive to install	May be more difficult to install Less forgiving on uneven surfaces

It’s important to note that smaller tiles are generally more expensive to install because they take longer to lay. Each tile needs to be placed individually, which increases labor time and cost. On the other hand, large format tiles cover more area quickly, reducing installation time and cost.

When we price our tiling jobs, we charge the least for large format tiles, typically in the range of 300mm x 300mm to 600mm x 600mm. These sizes offer a good balance between ease of installation and aesthetic appeal. They’re large enough to cover area quickly but not so large that they become unwieldy or difficult to handle during installation.

For a balance of style and practicality, consider using larger tiles for main floor areas and smaller tiles for accents or in shower areas where extra grip is beneficial. This approach can help optimize both the aesthetic appeal and the installation cost of your project.

Tiling Extras to Consider

When planning your tiling project, consider these additional elements that can enhance the functionality and appearance of your tiled surfaces.

1. Underfloor Heating

Tiled floors, while beautiful and durable, can feel cold underfoot, especially in bathrooms and kitchens. Underfloor heating systems work exceptionally well with tile and can add a luxurious comfort to your space. There are two main types:

Electric systems: Ideal for smaller areas or retrofitting, these consist of heating mats or loose wires installed beneath the tiles.
Water-based systems: More suitable for new builds or major renovations, these circulate warm water through pipes under the floor.

Underfloor heating not only provides comfort but can also be an energy-efficient heating solution for your home. However, it’s important to factor in the additional installation cost and (possibly) the slight increase in floor height when planning your project.

2. Decorative Borders and Feature Strips

Adding a decorative border or feature strip can break up large tiled areas and add visual interest to your space. These can be:

Contrasting tile strips: Using a different color, material, or size of tile to create a border or pattern.

Mosaic borders: Intricate designs using small tiles to create a decorative edge or feature.

Metal or stone strips: Sleek lines that can define areas or add a modern touch.

Decorative elements can be used to frame a specific area, like a vanity in a bathroom or a cooking zone in a kitchen, adding both style and functionality to your design.

3. Grout Colour and Type

The choice of grout can dramatically affect the overall look of your tiled surface:

Colour impact: Light grout with dark tiles creates a bold, contrasting look, while matching grout colour to tiles can create a more seamless appearance.
Coloured grouts: Beyond just white or grey, coloured grouts can add an extra design element to your tiling.
Epoxy grout: More expensive but highly durable and stain-resistant, ideal for wet areas or spaces prone to staining.
Grout with glitter or metallic flecks: Can add a subtle sparkle to your tiled surface.

Remember that darker grouts are generally easier to keep clean-looking, which can be a practical consideration for high-traffic areas.

4. Tile Trim and Edging

Tile trim pieces are essential for creating neat edges and smooth transitions between different surfaces or materials. Options include:

Metal trim: Available in various finishes (chrome, brass, bronze) for a sleek, modern look.
Plastic trim: A more budget-friendly option, available in colours to match your tiles.
Bullnose tiles: Tiles with a rounded edge for a smooth finish.
Pencil tiles: Thin, cylindrical tiles used to create a refined edge.

Proper use of trim not only improves the aesthetic finish of your tiling but also protects tile edges from chipping and damage.

5. Anti-Slip Treatments and Textured Tiles

Safety is paramount, especially in wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens. Consider:

Textured tiles: Many tiles come with built-in texture for improved grip.
Anti-slip treatments: These can be applied to existing smooth tiles to increase traction.
Mosaic tiles: Smaller tiles naturally provide more grip due to increased grout lines.
Purpose-made anti-slip tiles: These are designed specifically for wet areas and often have ratings for their slip resistance.

When choosing anti-slip options, balance safety needs with ease of cleaning, as more textured surfaces can be harder to keep clean. Adding these extras can significantly enhance the appearance and functionality of your tiled areas, though they will increase the overall cost of your project. Discuss these options with your tiling supplier or installer to find the best combination for your needs and budget.

Adding these extras can significantly enhance the appearance and functionality of your tiled areas, though they will increase the overall cost of your project. Discuss these options with your tiling supplier or installer to find the best combination for your needs and budget.

Conclusion

Choosing the right tiles for your bathroom or kitchen involves balancing aesthetics, practicality, and budget. By considering the types of tiles available, understanding the costs and maintenance involved, and being aware of important factors like waterproofing and size considerations, you can make an informed decision that enhances your space for years to come.

Remember, if you need help with your tiling project, professional tilers and home improvement specialists are always available to assist. They can provide expert advice, high-quality materials, and professional installation to ensure your tiled surfaces meet your needs and exceed your expectations.

Got Questions? We've Got Answers!

When can you start?

In most cases, we can schedule your project within a few days, providing prompt service to address your needs. Additionally, we offer an emergency repair service for urgent situations, ensuring your peace of mind.