Tiling your home isn’t cheap, so the last thing you want is to waste money on avoidable mistakes.
From bold checkerboard layouts to glossy mosaics, there’s no shortage of tile inspiration around. But before diving head-first into the latest trends, it’s worth understanding the practical and financial implications — and how to avoid costly missteps.
1. Cutting Corners to Save Money
Trying to save a few dollars by choosing bargain tiles or DIY-ing your installation might seem smart at first, but it often leads to higher expenses in the long run.
Tile Type Comparison (Cost vs Durability)
| Tile Type | Average Cost (AUD/m²) | Lifespan (Years) | Maintenance Needs | Common Use Area |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ceramic | $20–$40 | 10–20 | Low | Walls, floors (low traffic) |
| Porcelain | $35–$70 | 20–30 | Low | Floors, wet areas |
| Natural Stone | $60–$120+ | 30+ | Medium–High | Feature walls, luxury spaces |
| Vinyl Tile | $25–$50 | 10–15 | Low |
Budget floors |
Tip: Investing in better quality tiles up front often saves money over time due to reduced repair/replacement costs.
2. Choosing Tiles That Don’t Suit the Space
Function matters just as much as looks — especially in wet or high-traffic areas.
Tile Suitability by Room Type
| Room Type | Best Tile Finish | Slip Resistance Needed | Avoid These Tiles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bathroom floor | Matte / Textured | R10+ (anti-slip) | Glossy or polished tiles |
| Shower walls | Satin / Semi-gloss | Moderate (R9–R10) | Textured or porous tiles |
| Kitchen | Porcelain / Glazed | R9+ | Highly textured (hard to clean) |
| Living areas | Matte / Wood-look tiles | Optional | Rough surfaces (dust traps) |
Always check the slip rating (R-rating), especially for bathrooms and outdoor areas.
3. Not Ordering Enough Tiles
Underestimating tile quantity is one of the most common budgeting mistakes. Tile batch colours can vary slightly, so it’s crucial to order enough in one go.
Recommended Extra Quantity Guide
| Project Size (m²) | Suggested Overage (%) | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| < 10 m² | 15% | More cuts, more breakage risk |
| 10–30 m² | 10% | Standard allowance |
| 30+ m² | 5–8% | Fewer cuts per tile |
Note: Always round up. It’s better to store spares than risk mismatched replacements later.
4. Picking the Wrong Grout Colour
Grout might seem like a small detail — but visually, it can make or break a tiled space.
Grout Colour Do’s and Don’ts
| Tile Colour | Recommended Grout | Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| White or light | Light grey / beige | Bright white (stains easily) |
| Mid-tone grey | Matching grey | High-contrast dark grout |
| Patterned/feature | Neutral mid-tone | High-contrast tones |
| Dark or black | Charcoal or black | White (harsh and dirt-prone) |
Bright white grout requires more frequent scrubbing or sealing to maintain its look.
Final Thoughts
With the right planning and product knowledge, you can avoid common tiling pitfalls and get the finish you actually want — without nasty surprises.
Discover the art of living with JoshuaTiles. Visit our showrooms in Melbourne Keysborough and Kilsyth or give them a call at 03 9701 5569 / 9761 7119. Your path to a stunning kitchen begins with Joshua Tiles.