These days, more and more people are opting for tiles to decorate their homes. Tiles are popular because they’re clean, hygienic, moisture-resistant, termite-proof, and easy to maintain. Drawing on my 30 years of experience in tile research and production, JoshuaTiles guides you on how to choose tiles for your new home.
Understanding Different Types of Tiles
Before picking tiles, it’s important to first understand their characteristics. To begin with, here are the main types of tiles you’ll find on the market:
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Glazed Tiles
These tiles have a glazed surface and are made from ceramic or porcelain clay. They tend to have a relatively high water absorption rate, sometimes over 10%, and rely on their thin glazed layer to prevent water penetration. While they’re not as strong as other types, they’re budget-friendly and commonly used for bathroom walls. However, some stronger varieties can also be used on floors.
Furthermore, glazed tiles come in two finishes: glossy (or mirror tiles) and matte. Glossy tiles are reflective and easy to clean, while matte tiles provide a modern, understated look. -
Full-Body Tiles
Made from porcelain clay, these tiles aren’t glazed, and their colour and material are consistent throughout the tile. This makes them highly durable and wear-resistant. In fact, with the current trend towards neutral designs, full-body tiles are increasingly popular for living rooms, hallways, and outdoor pathways. Notably, most anti-slip tiles fall into this category. -
Polished Tiles
Polished tiles are a type of fully vitrified tile with a water absorption rate below 0.5%, making them nearly waterproof. They are created by polishing the surface of full-body tiles to achieve a smooth and shiny finish. Compared to full-body tiles, polished tiles are more refined and suitable for various indoor spaces like bathrooms, kitchens, living areas, and bedrooms.
Moreover, they can replicate natural stone or timber effects, with less colour variation than stone and greater durability. However, polished tiles may have microscopic pores that can trap dirt, leading to stains. To address this issue, many manufacturers now apply a protective seal at the factory, which significantly improves their stain resistance. -
Mosaics
Mosaics are unique tiles made up of small pieces arranged into larger patterns. They’re versatile, intricate, and often used for small wall or floor areas indoors, as well as for creating decorative outdoor features. Additionally, mosaics come in ceramic, marble, or glass varieties. Glass mosaics, with their vibrant colours, are especially popular but can be pricey. As a result, designers often use glass mosaics in bathrooms to create eye-catching effects, adding vibrancy and personality to the space.
Tips for Selecting Quality Tiles
Once you understand the different types of tiles, here’s how to choose the best ones for your home:
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Check the Surface
To start, inspect the tiles for any visible defects like chips, peeling glaze, cracks, bubbles, or pinholes. These issues usually indicate poor quality. -
Ensure Consistent Sizes
Next, make sure the tiles you’re buying are of the same size and specification. Consistent sizing makes installation easier and ensures a polished finish. Tile size deviations should generally be no more than 2%. -
Test for Flatness
After that, place two tiles face-to-face and see if they fit perfectly together. -
Examine the Pattern
Similarly, align two tiles to see if the pattern connects seamlessly. Some designs require four tiles to complete the pattern – lay them out on a flat surface and step back to assess the overall look. -
Check Water Absorption
Additionally, drip some water onto the tile and observe how quickly it absorbs. High-quality tiles repel water, with droplets rolling off the surface. Tiles with low water absorption are usually stronger and more stain-resistant. -
Assess Strength
Strong tiles are less likely to crack or break. A simple test is to hold a tile and lightly tap it with a small hammer. A crisp, clear sound indicates high durability, while a dull or cracking noise suggests hidden weaknesses. -
Verify Batch Numbers and Colour Consistency
Lastly, tiles from different production batches can vary in colour. Check the packaging for batch numbers and colour codes, and aim to buy tiles from the same batch to ensure a cohesive look in your home.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to select tiles that are not only stylish but also durable and functional – ensuring your home renovation is a success. Discover the art of living with JoshuaTiles. Visit their 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.