Understanding the Distinction: Essential Facts About Bathroom Tiles for Floor and Wall Usage Before Your Renovation
Choosing the Right Tiles for Your Bathroom: A Guide
When it comes to renovating or decorating a bathroom, selecting the right tiles can make all the difference. Here are some essential factors to consider to ensure you make an informed decision.
Firstly, it's crucial to check the specification of the tiles before buying. According to Claire Garner, founder and director of Claire Garner Interior Design Studio, this is especially important for bathroom tiles due to their exposure to moisture and foot traffic.
The key differences between bathroom floor tiles and wall tiles lie primarily in durability, slip resistance, and suitability for each surface.
Durability
Floor tiles are thicker, sturdier, and more wear-resistant than wall tiles. They have higher PEI (Porcelain Enamel Institute) ratings, indicating wear resistance, and higher breaking strength. This makes them more suitable for withstanding foot traffic and heavy use.
Slip Resistance
Floor tiles, especially those for bathrooms, often have textured, slip-resistant surfaces to prevent slipping on wet floors. Wall tiles do not require slip resistance since they are vertical. When choosing bathroom floor tiles, it's essential to consider slip resistance ratings alongside water resistance.
Water Absorption and Suitability
Floor tiles have lower water absorption rates, making them suitable for wet conditions on floors. Wall tiles, on the other hand, are more porous and may not endure the impact or traffic well.
Leo Wood, founder of Kinder Design, suggests leaning into bolder choices for smaller bathrooms to avoid a drab and poorly thought-out appearance. Bold colors, geometric patterns, and contrasting textures can help establish a tailored and design-led aesthetic for a bathroom.
If you're drawn to natural finishes, opt for a ceramic tile that recreates their appeal with added durability, sustainability, and low maintenance. Encaustic tiles can be used across both bathroom floors and walls, and their matte, tactile surface finish is appreciated by Leo Wood.
When choosing tiles for bathroom walls and floors, it's crucial to triple-check the manufacturer's guidelines regarding the slip rating, water resistance, and weight. Examining tiles in person or ordering samples is recommended if unsure about their suitability for a specific application.
Porcelain tiles are typically the safest bet for bathroom floor tiles due to their durability, low maintenance, and affordability. For larger format tiles, it's advisable to check the weight before affixing them to the walls, as suggested by María D. Arraez, director at the Spanish Embassy in London and the UK representative for Tile of Spain.
Lee Thornley from Bert and May suggests using patterned tiles to create a design statement or a mural-like effect on bathroom walls. If a tile is suitable for both wall and floor applications, it will usually be stated clearly by the manufacturer.
In summary, bathroom floor tiles are designed for higher physical stress and wet conditions on horizontal surfaces with better durability and slip resistance. Wall tiles are lighter, more porous, and designed for vertical applications without heavy wear requirements. By considering these factors, you can create a stylish and functional bathroom space.
[1] PEI Rating Guide [2] Tile Comparison Guide [3] Slip Resistance Guide
- For bathroom renovations, scrutinizing the tile's PEI rating, as it signifies wear resistance, is vital.
- In the case of bathroom tiles, durability, slip resistance, and suitability for both floor and wall surfaces are essential factors.
- Beyond practical aspects, bold colors, geometric patterns, and contrasting textures can enhance the aesthetic of smaller bathrooms.
- If you prefer natural finishes, consider ceramic tiles that mimic their appeal with added durability, sustainability, and low maintenance.
- Porcelain tiles, known for their durability, low maintenance, and affordability, are usually the best choice for bathroom flooring.
- Patterned tiles can create a design statement or murals on bathroom walls, making them a great option for making a bold style choice.
- Before buying bathroom tiles, it's essential to examine the manufacturer's recommendations, especially regarding slip rating, water resistance, and weight. Ordering samples or checking them in person is recommended for uncertainty about their suitability.
