How to choose the right tiles
For your bathroom
When it comes to renovating your bathroom, one of the most important decisions you will make is choosing the right tiles. Finding the perfect tiles for your bathroom means selecting tiles that not only enhance the aesthetics of your bathroom but also withstand the unique challenges of the space.
Tiles are a great way to add style and personality to your bathroom, but with so many options available, it can be difficult to know where to start. This article will provide you with some helpful tips on how to choose the right tiles for your bathroom.
We’ll discuss the latest bathroom tiling trends, discuss considerations for tile materials, provide guidance on selecting tiles for walls and floors, offer tips for small bathrooms, highlight the best grout options, and inspire you with creative tile layout ideas.
With this information, you’ll be able to make an informed decision and create a bathroom that you will love for years to come.
Bathroom Tiling Trends
Tiling your bathroom is becoming increasingly popular. Tiles come in a variety of colours, shapes, and sizes, allowing you to customise your bathroom to your own personal style. They are also incredibly durable and easy to clean, making them a good choice for bathrooms that are used frequently. Additionally, tiles are water-resistant, making them ideal for bathrooms that are exposed to moisture.
Tiles are also incredibly versatile, and provide a simple way to add texture and visual interest to a bathroom, making it look more inviting and luxurious. Furthermore, tiles are relatively inexpensive, making them a great option for those on a budget. With all these benefits, it's no wonder that tiling your bathroom is becoming more popular!
In recent years, bathroom tiling trends have shifted towards creating elegant and serene spaces. Neutral tones such as soft greys, whites, and warm beiges are popular choices, creating a timeless and calming atmosphere. Geometric patterns, metro tiles, and large-format tiles are also in vogue, while incorporating natural stone elements like marble,
wood-effect tiles, or textured surfaces adds depth and character to the bathroom.
Check out our article on the latest tiling trends for 2023 for more tips!
Consider The Material Of Your Tiles
It’s important to consider the overall look and feel of the space and the ways in which it’ll be used when deciding which tile material is the right fit for your bathroom.
The material you choose should be able to withstand the moisture and humidity of the bathroom, as well as be easy to clean and maintain – after all, you want your tiles to be able to withstand the wear and tear of everyday use. The material should also be able to complement the overall design of the bathroom, whether it be modern, traditional, or something in between. Most importantly, your tiles should also be able to provide a safe and comfortable environment for you and your family.
Ultimately, the material you choose should provide a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing look for your bathroom.
Ceramic tiles are a popular choice due to their affordability, wide range of available styles, and easy maintenance. Porcelain tiles offer excellent durability and resistance to moisture, making them ideal for bathroom floors. Natural stone tiles, such as marble or travertine, provide a luxurious and unique look but require more maintenance, while glass tiles are great for creating accent walls or adding a touch of sparkle to the bathroom.
Tiles For The Bathroom Wall
When it comes to choosing the best style of tiles for your bathroom wall, there are a few factors to consider.
First, let’s talk about functionality. The size of the tiles should be appropriate for the size of the wall. For a small wall, smaller tiles such as 4×4 or 6×6 inch tiles are a good option. For a larger wall, larger tiles such as 8×8 or 12×12 inch tiles are a better choice. Additionally, the shape of the tiles should be taken into consideration. For a classic look, go for square or rectangular tiles, or opt for hexagonal tiles for a more modern look.
Consider the overall style and desired ambience you want your bathroom to have. Patterned tiles are a great way to add texture and interest to the bathroom wall, while metro or mosaic tiles are always a solid choice for a classic look. For a more modern look, chevron or herringbone patterns provide a stylish option. Glossy tiles reflect light, creating a sense of spaciousness, while matte finishes offer a more subdued and sophisticated look. Experiment with different sizes and patterns to create focal points or feature walls.
When it comes to colour, there are a variety of shades to choose from. Neutral colours such as white, grey, or beige are a perfect choice for a timeless look. For a more modern look, bright colours such as blue, green, or yellow are perfect for a sunny, vibrant decor.
Tiles For The Bathroom Floor
Similarly, there are many different styles of tiles to choose from when it comes to tiling your bathroom floor.
Rectangular tiles are a popular option, as they can be laid in many different patterns and create a neat, classic look. Square tiles also work well, especially in smaller bathrooms, as they can be laid out in a variety of geometric designs that are simple yet elegant. Mosaic tiles are another great choice, as they can be used to create a vibrant effect and can be found in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colours. Alternatively, Victorian floor tiles can bring an elegant, classic aesthetic to a bathroom. Finally, hexagonal or octagonal tiles can add a unique touch to the space, with their distinct honeycomb-like patterns.
Most importantly, choosing the right tiles for the bathroom floor is crucial for safety and durability. Look for slip-resistant tiles with a textured surface or a matte finish. Large-format tiles create fewer grout lines, making cleaning easier and giving the illusion of a larger space. Consider complementing the wall tiles to create a cohesive and harmonious look.
Tiles For A Small Bathroom
Choosing tiles for a small bathroom can be a little bit more complicated, and there are a few key elements to think about.
Firstly, bear in mind that lighter colour tiles will make the room appear larger, while darker tiles can make it feel cramped. Secondly, you can utilise large tiles to create a smoother, more spacious look, while small tiles can make the room seem busy and cluttered. Finally, a good tip to know is that glossy tiles will reflect light and make the bathroom look brighter, while matt tiles will absorb light and make it look darker.
To make a small bathroom appear more spacious, opt for light-coloured tiles. Soft pastels, whites, or neutral shades can create an open and airy feel. Large-format tiles or rectangular tiles laid horizontally can visually expand the space. Mosaic tiles can be used as accents or borders to add interest without overwhelming the area.
Put simply, when selecting tiles for a small bathroom, opt for light, large, and glossy tiles to create an airy and spacious look.
Best Grout For The Bathroom
Grout is not just functional – it also plays a significant role in the overall aesthetics of your bathroom. When selecting grout colours for a bathroom, it is important to take into account the colour of the tiles being used.
For a clean and effective look, neutral tones such as white, grey, and beige are ideal. For more vibrant colours, such as blues and greens, a light grey grout can help to accentuate the tile colour. For lighter-coloured tiles, such as white, a darker grout is recommended to create contrast and define the tiles. Lastly, for darker tiles, such as black, a lighter grout helps to keep the bathroom looking bright and airy.
Opt for grout that is moisture-resistant and easy to clean. Cement-based grout is commonly used and comes in various colours to complement your tiles. Epoxy grout is highly resistant to stains and water, making it suitable for high-moisture areas. Consider using grout sealers to protect and maintain the appearance of your grout.
Getting Creative With Tile Layouts
A creative tile layout can transform your bathroom – as long as you choose the right layout for the space!
One popular option is to create a grid pattern, which is a classic look that will work in any size or shape bathroom. For bathrooms with odd shapes, a herringbone pattern is a great choice as it can be used to create interesting designs with the tiles. For small bathrooms, a chevron pattern can be harnessed to create an illusion of more space, while a basketweave pattern is a good way to add a touch of elegance and texture to the bathroom decor. Mosaic tiles can also be used to create intricate patterns or eye-catching focal points.
Experiment with tile orientation, alternating colours, or combining different tile sizes for a unique and personalised look.
Maintaining and Cleaning Bathroom Tiles
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your bathroom tiles looking their best. Clean them regularly with mild, pH-neutral cleaners suitable for your tile material, and avoid abrasive cleaners that can damage the surface. Wipe up spills promptly and use mats or rugs in high-traffic areas to protect the tiles. You should also seal grout lines to prevent staining and mould growth. Check out our guide on everything you need to know about maintaining your tiles.
