Fish Scale Tiles

 Fish scale tiles bring soft curves and a repeating pattern to kitchen splashbacks, bathroom walls and feature areas. Here's what to consider when choosing a colour, planning the layout and finishing the edges.

 

What are fish scale tiles?

Also known as scallop, fan or mermaid tiles, fish scale tiles have a curved, pointed shape that creates a repeating pattern. You can use them on a kitchen splashback, feature wall or even a shower wall (if the product is suitable for that location); see our bathroom wall ideas for an example of fish scale tiles used on a feature wall.

 

Which colours work best in bathrooms and kitchens?

There's no wrong answer; it all depends on the mood you're after.

• Calm and airy: Whites, greys and sage green.
• Coastal and fresh: Blues and teals.
• Warm and playful: Blush pinks, clay and light terracotta.
• Bold and graphic: Inky navy or jet black against pale walls.

Colours look more intense on curved glazes, so always order a free tile sample and check it in your lighting before you commit.

 

Are fish scale tiles hard to clean?

Not usually. Clean the fish scale bathroom tiles with a soft cloth and a cleaner suitable for their finish. For limescale, use a tile-safe remover and test it on a small area first. Pay attention to the grout joints and curved edges, where soap residue or limescale may collect.

 

Can I use fish scale tiles in a shower?

Yes, on a shower wall if the product is suitable for that location and the wall behind it is properly waterproofed. The fish scale tiles in our range are wall tiles, so they should not be used on a shower floor.

 

How should I lay fish scale tiles?

The direction of the points changes the look of the pattern:

• Points down: Creates the classic mermaid-scale look.
• Points up: Gives the pattern a fan-like appearance.

Start your layout from a key focal point, like a basin tap or bathroom mirror, and lay out a few tiles before fixing them to see where the pattern will meet the edges of the wall. Also think about grout colour while planning the layout: a contrasting grout will pick out each curved edge, while a closer colour match will give the pattern a softer look.

 

How do I finish the edges?

The curved outline can leave an uneven exposed edge, so plan where the pattern will stop before fitting. A suitable tile trim can give an open edge a neat finish; check its depth against the tile thickness and adhesive bed. At internal corners, follow the tile and sealant manufacturer's guidance for the joint.

 

Do fish scale tiles need sealing?

Not the tiles themselves. If they're glazed ceramic or porcelain, they're already sealed. However, if you're tiling a wet area, sealing the grout is a smart move (unless you're using epoxy grout, which doesn't need it).