Bathroom Tiles

Tiles are an integral aspect of the bathroom. They make a statement about the style you value and allow you to showcase your personality, making each bathroom a unique space. Choosing the right tiles can often be tricky, but with this guide, we aim to outline the available options and help you find the best choice for your particular needs.

 

What tile material is best for the bathroom?

A key choice many people face when selecting the finish of their tiling is which material is the best option. Although many are similar in appearance, there are a number of differences between them:

• Ceramic: Ceramic tiles are ideal for walls as they are made using natural clay and feature a durable glaze finish which looks superb. They are also easy to clean and maintain, saving you the hassle of constantly trying to keep the bathroom looking its best.
• Porcelain: Made using a mix of clay and sand, porcelain tiles are perfect for both walls and floors due to their scratch resistant nature and high level of durability. The colour also usually runs right through each tile, rather than simply being baked onto the face, which is handy if you happen to chip one. They are also ideal for use in wet rooms and areas which will attract higher levels of moisture as they have a lower water absorbency rate than regular ceramic tiles.
• Natural stone: For a more bespoke feel, stone tiles offer a stunning way to enhance the room. Choose from materials such as travertine, slate and marble for the ultimate finish. These tiles are ideal for floors due to their highly durable, robust nature. The lovely thing with natural stone tiles is that every individual tile will be slightly different, allowing for a really personal touch.

 

What are my design options?

Whether you wish to create a bright and colourful bathroom, or perhaps you would like a more refined, understated setting, there are an abundance of tiles out there for you to choose from. The following are some of the most common examples of bathroom tiles:

• Colourful: If you want a brighter bathroom, there are a vast array of colours available that will give you the exact look you desire. With everything from vivid reds and gorgeous greens to classic monochrome options, there is something to suit every bathroom.
• Patterned: If you fancy something a little different, try opting for some patterned tiles. There are a lot of styles out there, including marble effect, floral patterned, and Damask designs which will give your bathroom a more unique edge.
• Mosaics: For a highly stylish look, mosaic tiles are definitely the answer. You can select tiles which contain either large or small mosaic designs depending on your preference. Available in various colours and finishes including everything from natural stone to iridescent metallic, there's a huge amount of choice here.
• Border: Border tiles are an ideal option when it comes to finishing off the overall look of your bathroom walls. These items can feature anything from subtle to more intricate patterns, allowing you to achieve a more personalised feel. Used in the right places these tiles can be very effective.

 

How many tiles will I need?

It's very important to work out exactly how many tiles you'll be needing before you order as the last thing you want to do is get half way through then realise there aren't enough tiles! It's best to order slightly more (around 10%) tiles than you need to allow for any damage while in transit or while installing them.

You can work out how many tiles you need by using a tile calculator. Many websites have them; all you have to do is take some measurements of the room and type them into the calculator to see how many tiles you'd need to cover the desired surface.

 

How much does it cost to tile a bathroom?

The cost of tiling a bathroom can vary widely based on several factors, including the size of the space, the type of tiles you choose, and whether you hire a professional or do it yourself. For a small bathroom, the cost typically ranges from £500 to £1,200. A medium-sized bathroom will generally cost between £1,000 and £3,000, while larger bathrooms or those with high end materials could exceed £5,000.

Materials are a significant factor in the overall cost. Basic ceramic tiles can be quite affordable, starting at around £15 per square metre, while luxury options such as glass or slate tiles can cost £100 or more per square metre. Labour costs for professional tilers generally range from £100 to £250, depending on the bathroom's size and location. If you're comfortable with DIY, you can save on these expenses, but keep in mind that you'll need to purchase tools and materials yourself, and it may take longer to complete the job.