Porcelain Tiles

If you want floors and walls that handle spills, scrapes and steamy showers, and still look sharp, you’re in the right place. Here’s how to choose, fit and get the most out of porcelain tiles.

 

Are porcelain tiles better than ceramic?

For high traffic or wet areas, yes. Porcelain is denser, harder and less porous, so it handles water and wear better. This makes them ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, hallways and utility rooms. Ceramic tiles are great for walls and lighter-use spaces but, if you're tiling floors, wet rooms or installing underfloor heating, porcelain’s the safer long term option.

 

Are porcelain tiles too heavy for walls?

Not necessarily, but keep these three things in mind:

• Substrate: Standard plasterboard has weight limits; tile backer boards or solid masonry can handle more.
• Tile weight: Check the product page for weight per m² and make sure your wall can take it.
• Adhesive: Use a high grab, cement-based tile adhesive rated for porcelain tiles.

 

Do porcelain tiles need sealing?

Most glazed porcelain tiles don’t need sealing. Polished porcelain can have tiny pores, so a pre-grout sealer and post-grout clean-up is a smart move to avoid haze. Matt and structured finishes are usually good to go.

 

Are porcelain tiles slippery?

It depends on the finish. Look out for slip ratings (like R10+). For example, for wet rooms, shower floors and porches, choose matt or textured finishes with slip resistance. For walls and dry floors, polished porcelain is fine.

 

How much should I order?

Add at least 10% extra for cuts, breakages and awkward corners. Add even more (around 15%) if you’re going diagonal or working with tricky layouts.