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glazed ceramic tiles

Unglazed VS. glazed ceramic tiles

By Bathroom Tiles, DIY, Kitchen Tiles, Tile Selection

Simply put – glazed ceramics have a smooth, glossy surface that is created by adding a liquid glass to the clay body. Unglazed ceramics (as the name suggests) aren’t glazed and instead are often solid or speckled subdued colours with no shine. 

Both unglazed ceramics and glazed ceramics hold many practical and aesthetic benefits. Whereas some people enjoy the shiny cleanness glazed ceramics offer, others enjoy the raw earthiness unglazed ceramics present. Depending on your personal preferences and requirements will determine which option will be best to choose. 

Read further to discover whether you should choose unglazed or glazed ceramics.

Unglazed VS. glazed ceramic tiles 3

Glazed Ceramics

A ceramic glaze is a thin layer of material that is applied to the surface of a porcelain and ceramic object in order to give it a protective layer.

Glazes can be made from a variety of materials, including ash, feldspathic, lead, salt or tin, and are typically applied using a brush, sprayer or are dipped carefully into the glaze depending on the ceramic itself. They can come in many finishes not only the gloss that we all know but semi gloss, matt and satin.

Glazing involves firing a piece of ceramic first, this initial firing is called the glost firing, then the overglaze decoration is applied, and then lastly it’s fired again to set the glaze.

Glazed ceramics are a more common choice of ceramic tile that can be used for a wide range of flooring and functional purposes. Glazed ceramics are also great options for outdoor areas, wet areas and commercial use due to their non porous and slip resistant surfaces that can be applied into the glaze.

Unglazed Ceramics

Unglazed ceramics are simply ceramic materials that have not been given a coating or “glaze.”

Without the glaze, this leaves the surface of the piece of ceramic the same colour as the body. Most unglazed products on the market are top grade porcelain and fired until vitrified (glass like state) making their surface almost as non porous as a glazed tile.

Unglazed ceramics are often used for commercial purposes as they can hide blemishes and chips better than glazed ceramics. Commercial tiles often face high traffic, resulting in more wear and tear of the ceramic tiles. With unglazed tiles, the body is the same as the face so it’s less noticeable if the tile faces damage or wears. Due to the discreteness of marks and blemishes on unglazed tiles, this means there’s less urgency for maintenance thus, reducing maintenance costs.

With functional pieces like bathroom sinks or vanity sets, these are commonly sold as glazed; however, there are unglazed ceramic tiles available for such purposes. Unglazed ceramic tiles for vanity sets require vitrified qualities or a similar mixture/make up that would allow the tiles to perform the same or better than glazed ceramic tiles for a sink.

ceramic floors
bathroom floors

Bathrooms

If you’re tossing up between glazed or unglazed ceramic tiles for your bathroom, it’s important to consider the practicality of each option. 

Glazed ceramic tiles are the most popular choice amongst customers. Great to use on the walls and floors because they’re tough, easy to clean and have a great range of images. 

These days manufacturers  have the ability to print images onto the glazed ceramic tiles, offering a great variety of patterns and bright colours. Inkjet is an impressive piece of technology which gives us the ability to digitally print high-resolution patterns and designs. Many choose to use Inkjet to mimic many different kinds of textures such as marble, granite and limestone. The result is impressive, almost impossible to distinguish from the real-life material.

It’s important to note that the Australian NDIS requires a non-slip standard to all of their bathroom floors to ensure the safety of the carer and client. Non glazed ceramics are often used because of the bigger range of non-slip options. 

Although non-glazed ceramic tiles have long relied on their non-slip qualities, glazed tiles are now taking over the non-slip category. Previously non-slip was made by adding sand to the glaze and the result was not a nice finish, imagine sandpaper. Now, with multi layered glazing techniques and new glaze chemistry, the glazed tile can be certified for many of the non-slip requirements. 

However, not all glazed ceramics meet the standards. The higher slip ratings  are still only available in un-glazed due to the relief patterns on the tiles to create the higher anti slip ceramic tiles (i.e. diamond and rock finish).

For bathrooms (whether it be for commercial or residential purposes) it’s always a good idea to double check the slip resistant rating required for the space. From here, you can then select the best tile to match your requirements. If unsure, speak with our team for assistance. 

Kitchens

Similarly to bathrooms, when choosing your kitchen tiles it’s important to consider the slip ratings required for the space. Depending on whether it’s for a commercial setting or for your home kitchen, will change the slip rating requirements. 

For commercial kitchen floors, one of the most common and best choices are unglazed vitrified porcelain tiles that have high slip ratings. These tiles often come in ‘matching coving’ which means that the Australian standards are met across the board. These tiles are often specialised to have a relief pattern to allow for users to be raised slightly above the grease or water that may be on the floor causing the slip hazard. 

For home kitchen ceramic tiles, unglazed vitrified tiles is an extreme option and unnecessary in most cases. For residential purposes, glazed tiles are most likely to be used. The glazed tiles on the market are more cost effective and have a wider range available – which is very appealing for home owners.

Most residential projects prioritise image clarity, variation and colour brightness. Aesthetics  are put at the forefront for most home projects, making the glazed ceramic tiles a very attractive choice. In fact, many instantly shy away from the commercial grade unglazed vitrified ceramics due to their less refined appearance.

kitchen floors
Unglazed VS. glazed ceramic tiles 4

CT Supplies Unglazed Ceramic Tiles

If you’re on the hunt for high quality unglazed ceramic tiles, look no further than our TopCer and Marazzi (Tracks and Graniti) non-slip options.

The Topcer range comes in many colours and is liked by the commercial builders, designers and architects for its soft solid colours that can be mixed into a pattern or paired with the matching corner edge coving. You’ll often spot the Topcer range in commercial kitchens, cafes, restaurants, schools and sports facilities. Where durability meets aesthetics, Topcer is an excellent choice.

The Murazzi range has a larger format option in the high slip ratings that is often used on commercial balconies and entry areas.

In conclusion – which wins?

The question of glazed VS. unglazed was more of an issue about 30 years ago when glazing techniques were still being refined. Back then there were different levels of glazing and many would be only suitable for residential low traffic areas and only a limited range was suitable for commercial purposes. 

Glazed porcelain tiles are now made strong and tough enough to withstand even high traffic commercial applications. Therefore high quality glazed porcelains are not only the more common product on the market now but are the best option for most uses.

Often, it can come down to budgets and aesthetics when choosing between unglazed and glazed ceramic tiles. The best approach is defining your budget first and then seeing what your options are. If you’re installing ceramic tiles in a sensitive area such as a commercial kitchen or NDIS bathroom – ensure the non-slip requirements are met.

When in doubt, chat with our CT Supplies team!

Choosing the ceramic tiles for your home or business is a big decision. It’s often the first component of the interior people see when walking into a space. It makes sense that you take the time in deciding which ceramic tiles to install and ask any questions that pop up along the way. 

We recommend popping into one of our showrooms (Myaree or Wangara) and seeing the tiles in person. We have a wide range of glazed and unglazed ceramics to choose from that are always best seen in real life rather than over a screen. 

Check out our opening times, and we look forward to having you down here soon!

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July 13, 2022
Tile Trends: Subway Tiles 13

Tile Trends: Subway Tiles

By General, Architects & Builders, Bathroom Tiles, DIY, Kitchen Tiles, Subway Tiles, Trends

If you’re currently renovating your Perth kitchen, redesigning your bathroom or, you’re simply a lover of interior design – you would have stumbled across subway tiles. Subway tiles are growing in popularity, and taking platforms such as Pinterest and Instagram by storm. Once you discover the sheer class and sophistication of subway tiles, you can understand why they’re becoming a must-have for every Perth home.

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What are subway tiles?

Subway tiles have obtained their name from the iconic walls of the New York subway system.

Although at first the idea of “subway tiles” might suggest negative connotations (stifling underground train station perhaps?), you best cast those thoughts aside as subway tiles embody a classic vintage aesthetic that is incomparable. Generally, subway tiles are rectangle ceramic tiles laid horizontally with a 50% offset. However, over time, subway tiles have been modernised and experimented with to offer a great variety of design options for homes.

Explore more about subway tiles below.

How to include subway tiles in your Perth home

Extremely versatile, subway tiles can be incorporated in your home in countless ways. Our favourite ways to add subway tiles to your home… 

1, Kitchen splashback. A lot of time is spent in the kitchen – cooking, hosting and spending time with the family. You want to make sure your kitchen embodies just as much class and character as the rest of your home. Including subway tiles in your kitchen splashback makes for an eye-catching and impressive feature, making you feel confident hosting your next event.

2. Bathroom feature. The bathroom has been dubbed as one of the most important rooms of the house when it comes to design. It makes sense when you consider that every person that visits your home, is going to at one point or another, visit your bathroom. That’s why subway tiles are becoming an increasingly popular design feature for Perth home renovations.

Benefits of subway tiles

Subway tiles have a long list of benefits varying from their visually grabbing design to their easy installation. 

  • Subway tiles are available in many shapes, sizes, textures and colours. With such a great variety, you can create a unique subway tile feature that fits your home aesthetic.
  • Stain-resistant and easy to clean, you can use a white vinegar cleaning treatment or even spray and wipe to clean your subway tiles. Due to their easy-to-clean design, this makes subway tiles even more of an excellent choice for kitchens and bathrooms. 
  • Affordable addition to your home interior. If you’re currently acquiring quotes for your home renovations, you will know how easy it is to exceed your budget. Subway tiles are fantastic as they’re not only high quality but also affordable.
  • Timeless design that never goes out of fashion. When making aesthetic choices for your home renovations, you want to make design decisions that last a life-time. Considering how quickly fashion trends change, this can be very difficult. One of the great benefits of subway tiles is that they never go out of style and always offer a classic feature to your home. 
  • Easy installation. Renowned for their stunning pattern, depending on the subway tile design you’re after they’re surprisingly easy to install. When it comes to installing ceramic tiles we always recommend hiring professional tilers. The last thing you want is your new tile design breaking or deteriorating due to poor workmanship. Invest in the installation and it will pay off in the long run.
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Tile Trends: Subway Tiles 16

Creative subway tile ideas

Since subway tiles were first installed in the New York subway, interior designers world-wide have played with the classic design. With a great selection of different patterns, you never have to worry about having the same design as your neighbour. Other variations of the subway tile include:

  • Herringbone
  • Double Herringbone
  • Chevron
  • Stackbond
  • Mosaic
  • Diagonal Herringbone
  • Vertical

Alongside choosing your subway tile pattern, you can also play with the colours and textures of the tiles. You can keep your design minimalist and classy with white or, you can add a splash of colour to match the interior of your home. Many people choose to mix and match colours, choosing different hues of blue or selecting two complimentary colours to add a pop to your room. The options are truly endless, browse our offerings and find your dream design.

How we can help!

Talk with our Ceramic Tile Supplies team today for expert advice and help for your tile needs. We’re only a phone call away and are always happy to answer any and every question.

View our range of tiles

  • Tile Trends: Subway Tiles 17
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    Veneto Linktec Sandy Beach Mix 25x25mm

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    Roma Silver Grey Matt New

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    Veneto Linktec Torquoise Mix 25x25mm

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    Veneto Linktec Steam White 50x50mm Glass Mosaic 501

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    Palladio Linktec Cloud Mix 25x25mm Glass Mosaic

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    Palladio Linktec Sky Blue Mix 25x25mm Glass Mosaic

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    Trend PLUS 245 20x20mm

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    Traver-Cave White

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December 10, 2021
Slip resistant bathroom tiles for aged care and disability 25

Slip resistant bathroom tiles for aged care and disability

By Architects & Builders, Bathroom Tiles, Slip Resistant, Slip Resistant Tiles
Slip resistant bathroom tiles

Reduce the risk of slips, trips and falls with non-slip bathroom floor tiles.

Slipping and falling is a major cause of home injuries for the elderly, children and people with reduced abilities. By installing non-slip floor tiles in wet areas such as the bathroom and toilet you can minimise the risk of injuries from these dangers without making your wet areas look like a 90’s hospital.

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Safe and modern slip resistant tiles for the bathroom

There is no need to compromise on tile selection when it comes to upgrading your bathroom to a slip rated floor. There are rectified tiles that have the modern look but still provide the required specifications. At Ceramic Tile Supplies, we stock a wide range of rectified and non-rectified, modern slip resistant tiles, great for making a bathrooms look fresh, modern and safe.

What to consider when choosing non-slip bathroom tiles

Commonly non-slip tiles are fully vitrified, glazed porcelain, due to their use in commercial applications. However now you can purchase a more cost effective standard glazed porcelain tile that will provide any domestic home with a floor that looks like a designer tile but is considered suitable for disability safe wet areas.

These tiles are available in all your normal tile sizes however installing smaller tiles can help provide even more traction. This is because they require more grout in between them, which adds to the overall texture of the floor and creates enhanced footing.

What makes a non-slip tile different from a normal tile?

Tiles come in various finishes, the non-slip varieties usually have an abrasive grip added to their glaze which is fired in when manufactured or the surface is textured in a particular way to create grip and friction when in use.

To determine the amount of grip or friction on the finish a tile can be graded with a slip-resistance test. There are 3 types of slip tests; Pendulum, Oil-wet inclining platform (or ramp) and Wet-barefoot inclining platform Test. All test the tiles friction against movement. 

As a guide for when selecting a slip resistant tile for residential bathrooms aim for P3 from a Pendulum test, R10 from the Oil-wet ramp test or B from a wet-barefoot ramp test. Just keep in mind anything with more grip will make life harder when it comes to cleaning your everyday bathroom.

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Slip resistant bathroom tiles for aged care and disability 28
Why choose non-slip tiles for your accessible bathroom design?

Porcelain tiles in general are waterproof, durable, cost effective, easy to clean and come in many different stylish options. A non-slip tile with a textured surface is just like any other quality tile, but with the added benefit of slip resistant properties, making it a safe and sensible floor solution for your home.

Upgrade your bathroom with the safest non-slip floor tiles in Perth

If you need to minimise slips or trips in the bathroom, speak to our experienced team today about our range of quality slip resistant bathroom floor tiles. Come visit us at our Wangara and Myaree showrooms or get in touch.

View our range of Slip Resistant Tiles

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August 16, 2021
5 bathroom tile makeover ideas trending right now 37

5 bathroom tile makeover ideas trending right now

By Bathroom Tiles, DIY, Tile Selection

Stuck on how to take your bathroom design to the next level? The answer lies in your tile choice! And in 2021 it’s all about bathroom feature wall tiles. 

Looking beyond the functional benefits of bathroom tiles, adding a stylish feature wall is a great way to enhance a key element in your bathroom such as your vanity, shower wall or a freestanding bathtub. 

To give you some design inspiration, here are our top 5 trending feature wall bathroom tiles in Perth homes.

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Timber look tiles

You’re probably used to seeing timber look tiles on floors, but they’re also perfect for bathroom feature walls. Creating a natural style in bathrooms is all the rage right now, and the rich earthy tones of timber tiles do it justice. Stone look tiles are also growing in popularity and is another way you can nail a natural looking bathroom design.

Matt finish bathroom tile

For a soft look that makes an impact, you can’t go past a matte finish as the bathroom tile of choice for your feature wall. We’re increasingly seeing more Perth homeowners opting for a matte style tile in the bathroom, and why not – it looks classy and modern, and they’re still easy to maintain.

Patterned bathroom tiles

Patterned or decorative tiles proved quite popular in 2020, and we predict this trend will follow through for months to come. Whether you’re going for an urban look, boho style, art deco or vintage feel in your bathroom, the wide choice of patterned tiles available makes it easy to create that wow factor for virtually any interior style. To ensure they really stand out in your bathroom, only apply them to a single wall, or for something different you can also consider laying them on your floor. The end result? Nothing but impressive.

Bathroom mosaic tiles

Want to make a real statement in your bathroom? There are so many different ways you can add interest to your bathroom feature wall when using mosaic tiles. Firstly, they are available in different materials such as natural stones, porcelain, metallic and glass. To make your decision even harder, mosaic tiles come in a wide variety of stylish shapes, colours and patterns including hexagon, fishscale (fan), herringbone, penny round, chevron and lantern. You can create interesting effects depending on how you lay them. 

Of course, installing mosaic bathroom tiles as a feature wall will take a bigger chunk out of your budget, but it’s well worth it when you see the finished product.

mosaic tiles perth
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Metallic look bathroom tiles

Add a touch of luxury and glamour to your bathroom with a metallic tiled feature wall. Metallic look bathroom tiles draw the eye in with its mirrored motif, rich tones and decorative appeal, making it ideal as a standout feature wall. Want next level? Try 3D shaped metallic tiles for extra dramatic effect.

Perth’s bathroom tile experts

Whether you’re after a natural, traditional or contemporary style, you can choose from hundreds of bathroom feature tiles at Ceramic Tile Supplies. Browse online, drop us a line or check out the full range of bathroom tiles in Perth at our Wangara and Myaree showrooms.

View our range of Bathroom Tiles

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February 17, 2021
Your bathroom tiling FAQs answered 48

Your bathroom tiling FAQs answered

By Bathroom Tiles, DIY, Tile Installation

Retiling your bathroom for the first time? Whether you’re taking it on as a DIY project, or you’re having a professional tiler handle it for you, there may be some things you’re scratching your head about. 

Tiling your bathroom is a little bit different to tiling other areas of your house, so it pays to understand what’s involved. Here are some answers to common questions we receive about bathroom tiling.

Your bathroom tiling FAQs answered 49
What type of bathroom tile should I choose?

Not all tiles are suitable for the bathroom because they get exposed to condensation and moisture. Glazed ceramic or porcelain tiles are the most practical options.

Ceramic tiles are affordable and simple to look after. They aren’t as hard wearing as porcelain tiles, but as bathrooms are not high traffic areas, ceramic tiles are perfectly fine to use on your floors and exceptionally good on walls.

Porcelain tiles are denser and tougher than ceramic, and also easy to look after. They’re suitable for both floors and walls. If you’re after a natural stone look, you can achieve this with full body porcelain tiles that look almost identical to natural stone tiles.

When it comes to your bathroom floor, make sure you choose a tile that has some slip resistance to avoid any future accidents.

If you have a small bathroom and want to create the illusion of a bigger space, consider using plain coloured or subtle patterned tiles and stick to a single shade. Avoid too many patterns or grout lines, as this will only make your bathroom appear smaller. 

Should I do full height tiling?

It all depends on the size of your bathroom and your budget. The benefits of tiling your whole bathroom is that your painted walls don’t get exposed to the humid environment and moisture, which can lead to mould, harbour germs and require more regular maintenance.

How do I get my walls ready for tiling?

It is imperative that your walls are clean and free from dust when preparing your surfaces for tiling. If you’re laying your own tiles, make sure you, patch, prime, and waterproof your walls before spreading adhesive.

Make sure your areas are waterproofed to prevent any possible leaks in the future. If you have a professional tiler laying your tiles then you don’t need to worry about this as most include this in their quote, but cleaning your walls beforehand will save your tiler time and ensure they are prepped and ready to go.

 

What’s the easiest way to tile around bathroom fittings?

It’s best to remove your fittings first before you tile. This helps to prevent any damage to your fittings and will allow for a neater finish with your tiling. Also, if you need to replace any fittings later on, it’s more difficult to remove if it’s been tiled in.

If you’re starting your bathroom from scratch, your bath and shower trays should be fitted and plumbed in first, then tiled. This ensures the edges of the bath or tray and covered to help create a watertight seal.

Your bathroom tiling FAQs answered 50
Your bathroom tiling FAQs answered 51
Do I need to apply silicone on bathroom tiles?

Silicone is important because it ensures the joints are sealed making your tiles waterproof. Silicone is applied after tiling and grouting to any areas that are susceptible to movement cracks.

Is it a good idea to tile over tiles?

Tiling over tiles isn’t as straight forward as it sounds, but it is possible. It’s an effective way to save time and money on your renos, while also keeping waste out of landfill. However, if your tiles are showing signs of damage or wear, you’re better off ripping them out to avoid bigger issues down the track. The remaining tile will also need to be roughed up or scored for the new tiles to adhere to the face. This can be quite difficult with some of the quality tiles as this is something that tiles are made to withstand to some extent. 

What’s a tile trim and do I need it in the bathroom?

A tile trim is used to neatly finish the edges around your tiled area and cover up any exposed or cut edges. It can also protect the edges of the tiles from damage and cracking.

Perth’s bathroom tile specialists

Be inspired by Ceramic Tile Supplies’ extensive range of bathroom tiles. Browse our collection and photo gallery, or visit our Myaree or Wangara showrooms to view the full range of bathroom tiles on display.

Some of Our Best Selling Bathroom Tiles

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September 23, 2020
7 ideas to feature subway tiles in your bathroom or kitchen 60

7 ideas to feature subway tiles in your bathroom or kitchen

By Subway Tiles, Bathroom Tiles, DIY, Kitchen Tiles, Tile SelectionNo Comments

Versatile. Durable. Affordable. Aesthetically pleasing. What’s not to love about subway tiles?

By tradition, these rectangular tiles are usually twice as long as they are tall. But despite their simple structure, subway tiles lend themselves to many different design possibilities.

It’s the one tile that never grows out of style, so if you’re looking for a failsafe solution to your bathroom or kitchen, here are 7 ways you can incorporate subway style tiles.

Classic subway

Since its early 1900s debut in New York subway stations, the timeless subway tile continues to be a popular tile choice in kitchens and bathrooms. The classic look takes its cue from conventional brickwork using a white repeating bond pattern – often referred to as running bond or offset brick. This white tile, white grout layout creates a seamless effect and is the most common subway tile pattern you’ll come across.

Stack them up

Different lays can add interest to a classic white subway tile. Large subway tiles stacked horizontally bring out a clean and contemporary look to your bathroom or kitchen design. Or, flip them over and install them vertically to evoke height and create an illusion of taller walls and higher ceilings.

Herringbone at 90 degrees

Named for its similarity to fish scales, this arrangement of rectangles in an L-shaped pattern creates a sense of movement and visual interest by drawing the eye up. In this layout, tiles are arranged so that the end of one vertical tile meets the side of a horizontal tile at a 90 degree angle. It works well for taller spaces like a shower.

If you want to take your herringbone design to the next level, bevelled edged subway tiles will add even more dimension to your space. Many interior designers love this modern look to the classic flat subway tile.

Herringbone at 45 degrees

Another impressive herringbone design is to rotate your subway tiles at 45 degrees. This pattern looks great on floors or walls. It works well for smaller spaces because it keeps your eyes moving around the room making it appear larger than it is. If you want to draw attention to a specific area, then herringbone is the way to go.

Basket weave

Interchanging pairs of horizontally and vertically laid subway tiles creates a grid-like pattern that resembles – you guessed it a woven basket. For the real wow factor, go for a contrasting tile and grout. This will give your weave design a more distinct effect. If you want to be original, a double basket weave pattern will produce an even more modern look.

Mix up the grout

Who said your grout has to be white? One of the easiest ways to modernise your space is to apply a different coloured grout (and it makes for easier cleaning too). Popular choices include black and dark or light grey. Dark grout will make white subway tiles pop out, as will the opposite of black tiles and white grout. If you want to create a more edgy and industrial feel, than a contrasting grout is what you should be aiming for.

Experiment with colour and texture

The original subway tiles were always white, but nowadays subway tiles come in a wide variety of colours, sizes and textures. Make the look of your space your own by experimenting with different shades and surfaces to achieve a trendy yet timeless design. One way you can do this is with colour blocking, which is a great way to break up white tiles.

We’ve all heard how mirrors can help elongate a space and make it look bigger, and you can also achieve the same effect with mirrored subway tiles.

Perth’s tile specialists

Be inspired by Ceramic Tile Supplies’ wide range of premium subway style tiles. Browse our selection of classic and modern designs, or visit our Myaree or Wangara showrooms to view the full range on display.

June 1, 2020
Tile Trends to Keep an Eye Out for in 2020 61

Tile Trends to Keep an Eye Out for in 2020

By Bathroom Tiles, Architects & Builders, General, TrendsNo Comments

Are you decorating your bathroom for the first time or renovating an old, tired look? Either way, we understand the feeling. The new year is time for a new look.

Adding tiles to your bathroom or replacing old ones will keep it looking modern, fashionable, and fresh. To keep this private space looking new, we recommend keeping an eye out for tile trends coming in 2020. Tiles, like paint colours or clothing styles, go in and out of fashion, so you want to keep a finger on the pulse of trends for bathroom tiles.

Here are some trends to look out for in 2020 and tips for tiles Perth homeowners will love:

Decorating and Renovating

If you’re decorating or renovating your bathroom to look more fashionable, you will need to look out for a style that appeals to you but doesn’t sacrifice on quality or functionality.

Finding something that looks modern yet remains in style with the existing home is a challenge many buyers face. But with the right bathroom tiles, you can find something to satisfy your desires and practical needs.

When decorating, one helpful tip is that you can create a light and glamorous bathroom with pastel colours, glass tiles, or more organic looks.

The right bathroom tiles and the right placement also can help change the whole vibe of the room. This New Year, look out for tiles that will make your room look more spacious. Large, airy spaces are the new trend for 2020.

Vibrant and bold looks are also in, so decorate your walls and floors with strong styles whilst keeping them classy. Remember, practical can be pretty.

Style and Design

We have a whole range of tiles on offer, so look out for great designs that are set to be popular in 2020. The four style and design categories to consider are colour, texture, decor, and natural aesthetics.

1) Colour

You want to match your tiles to the colour of your bathroom, whether that is the current colour or a new shade that you’re planning on painting.

Light pastel colours will be popular in 2020. We have a range of pastels and mixed colours for you to peruse, including our Trend glass mosaic ranges and our Solid subway tile range.

Bi-colour tiles and contrasting colours are also promising to be popular as people move toward bold and quirky looks. You can accomplish this by pairing solid colours on the same wall in different patterns and textures.

2) Texture

Textured styles are on the rise. This can be done in two ways; the texture you feel or the visual patterned texture on the tiles. When it comes to feel it is fun to play with the use of smooth, glossy, lappato, satin, embossed or rough tiles. But keep in mind smooth tiles are easier to clean but the rougher tiles have a better grip which can be practical for a bathroom floor. For a visual textural look it is great to use a mix of a highly patterned tile (think floral look, natural stone look or concrete look) mixed with a basic non patterned tile. Check out our Alabastro, Carrara, and Busker series for a variety of textured styles.

This year, textures are important as part of the Bohemian look, which is quirky and artsy. Designers using a combination of textured walls and floor tiles with decorative feature elements.

3) Decorative

Decorative tiles with patterns and shapes on them are popular for 2020. A little bit of bohemian, a geometric shape and the mosaic look are all promising styles for the New Year.

We have a range of mosaics, from ceramic and glass to porcelain and stone. The Scales and Penny-Round series are especially popular and eye-catching.

For decorative styles, check out the Herringbone, Brick Crystla, and Ciment series. Whether you like geometric or floral designs, we have options for you.

4) Natural

The natural look is going to be a popular one in 2020. The top natural materials include stone, concrete, or timber-look. These come in greys, browns, and white tinges. The charm of these simple and effective tiles lies in their organic look.

For stone options, we have a wide selection, from the Chorus series to the Mystone and Scot.

Popular concrete options include the Busker line, Downtown, and Evoque lines.

The timber styles that render the best au naturel look are the Cherokee and Supergres series.

Get in Touch With Us Today

If you’re looking for a new bathroom look, then now is the time to check out tile trends for 2020. Stay ahead of the curve by shopping now for the coming year. You also can stop by one of our tiles Perth showrooms in 2020 and see what’s trending!

December 29, 2019
How To Create A Timeless Bathroom 62

How To Create A Timeless Bathroom

By Bathroom Tiles, DIY, General, Tile SelectionNo Comments

Without a doubt, one of the most functional rooms in the house is the bathroom. It’s always in use and frequently exposed to water, chemicals, heat, and humidity. This means your bathroom can suffer more wear and tear than any other room in your home.

This private space always seems to be one of the first rooms up for consideration for a makeover. It’s often re-modeled because of its importance in the home and since it’s used by every member of the family. If you’re looking to redecorate your bathroom and create a timeless space, you need to select a design that won’t go out of style anytime soon. You also want to give off a pleasant, fresh look.

Keeping an eye on the current trends is always something we enjoy to do. It’s easy to get carried away when decorating your home with recent interior design updates, but when it comes to the bathroom, creating a timeless classic will add style and longevity.

Here’s how you can do it.

Choose Terrific Tiles

Bathroom tiles in Perth are now trendier than ever. Ceramic tiles help create a unique elegance all the way from its size, shape, and colour. With such a large spectrum of tile designs available, homeowners will have no trouble finding a style that suits their liking. We always suggest shapes like hexagons and rectangle variations as they add intrigue to any bathroom.

Moreover, when compared to other tile materials, ceramic presents an affordable option without disrupting your style. These tiles are very durable which will keep your space current and increase the value of your home. Specialist bathroom tile companies in Perth, like Ceramic Tile Supplies, will help you achieve a timeless and organic feel within your home.

Keep Colours Plain and Traditional

Shades of white, cream, and grey go a long way. They give you more room to play with the colour of bathroom accessories. Decorating using a neutral tone will not only provide you with a more classical look, but these colours never go out of style and go well with just about any other colour!

How To Create A Timeless Bathroom 63

Diamond Rhombus shape mosaic tile looks great with various shades of grout

If you are decorating your walls, our Albastro Grey Mosaic tile will beautifully compliment the main accessories of your bathroom.

Pick the Right Stone

The most popular and classical materials include stone, marble, and ceramics. These stones offer luxury and quality when used appropriately. One of our personal favorites is the ceramic stone as it is very hard wearing and easy to clean. Not to mention they offer infinite design opportunities.

A popular design in Perth is the Peronda Ground Silver. It’s safest for wet floors with its anti-slip texture. It creates a cool atmosphere in the bathroom and compliments other accessories.

Add Lighting

Lighting is always a matter of individual choice and style. This depends on your overall bathroom style and furnishing, but if you’re still looking for timelessness, adding extra lighting is a great idea.

After natural light, there is a wall and ceiling lighting. Wall fixed sconces and crisp white shades are delightful when contrasted with bathroom tiles. For the ceiling, a chandelier adds beautiful light and sparkles the room.

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Use a Classic Tub

The bathtub doesn’t need to be as flamboyant as you may think. The freestanding tub may be the most classic bathroom element that never goes out of style. Classical shapes are called so for a reason. They are much more practical and tend to match with more in the bathroom.

Final Thoughts

Regardless of taste, it’s important to think about the future of your bathroom. Will it look as fresh in five, ten or even twenty years? Homeowners don’t want to keep tweaking, especially with bathroom tiles. If you begin the design process with a clear head, your bathroom will remain timeless.

Need help choosing the right tiles for your bathroom? Stop by one of our showrooms today!

November 15, 2019
Creating the Perfect Bathroom Tile Feature Wall 65

Creating the Perfect Bathroom Tile Feature Wall

By Bathroom Tiles, DIY, Tile SelectionNo Comments

A feature wall is a unique in that it differs from the other walls in the room, usually in pattern, colour, or finish. It can add pzazz to a room that could otherwise be flat or boring. For bathrooms, homeowners may run into a problem finding a balance between design and functionality. A bathroom feature wall need to withstand hot and humid conditions without compromising style. Using bathroom tiles is an excellent way to hit that perfect balance of style and function.

Range of Tile Options

Ceramic, porcelain, glass, marble, and more — there are plenty of different types of bathroom tiles to pick from for your unique bathroom feature wall. Here’s a few, just to get you started.

Ceramic Tiles

The most common bathroom tile comes in several colours, sizes, textures, and styles to suit any design. They’re perfect for DIY homeowners, since they’re easy to install and maintain. Best of all, they’re moisture resistant making them perfect for your bathroom. You can really add a dramatic flare to your bathroom and create a mosaic or go subtle and have a single colour. The possibilities are endless.

Porcelain Tiles

Porcelain tiles have an elegant finish and do not fade or crack. They go well in almost any room, are durable and sturdy.They are also non-porous, which makes them highly resistant to staining and moisture. With dedication to installation and upkeep, the finished product can be breathtaking, especially when used on a bathroom feature walls.

Glass

With superior stain resistance and easy upkeep, glass is a great choice. They’re also more suited to walls than to flooring, due to the possibility of chipping.

Marble

Marble adds a level of sophistication to any room, especially in smaller applications.

Matt, Gloss, Glaze, Satin?

Surface finishes are just as important as the type of material chosen for the tile. Glazed and gloss finishes are shiny, slippery, and reflective, which makes them excellent for bathrooms, and they are available in an array of colours, textures, and styles. Satin finishes are the middle ground between matte and gloss tiles, are less reflective than glazed, and are easy to clean and maintain. Matte finishes are soft to the touch, not reflective, durable, and easily combined with gloss or satin finished bathroom tiles for contrast.

Creating the Perfect Bathroom Tile Feature Wall 66

Diamond Rhombus shape mosaic tile looks great with various shades of grout

Design and Implementation: Bringing It All Together

There are tons of ways to use bathroom tiles to brighten up and stylise a room that’s not typically thought of as “stylish”. Geometric patterns using large, differently-finished tiles adds depth and contrast. Bright, vivid colours can add character and shine. Dark, muted colours can create a sleek and modern look. A combination of several different types of bathroom tiles adds not only functionality, but creativity. You can use straight lines to elongate a room, zig zags and curves to add movement, or solid shapes to establish patterns and stabilise the room. The design is completely customisable because every individual tile element is also uniquely customisable. Where the design goes is up to you–that’s the best part of using bathroom tiles for your feature wall!

Ceramic Tile Supplies in Perth and we have experts that can help you from the design phase all the way to the finishing touches. Need help picking the right tiles for your bathroom feature wall? Visit one of our showrooms today!

September 20, 2019
How to Tackle Tough-to-Clean Tiles & Grout 67

How to Tackle Tough-to-Clean Tiles & Grout

By General, Bathroom Tiles, DIY, Tile MaintenanceNo Comments

Whether you’ve recently had tiles in Perth installed and are preparing to seal your grout, or regular wear has your grout looking less than brand new, there a few popular at-home, do it yourself solutions many homeowners swear by to get their grout grime free.

Tips From The Professionals:

At the tile shops in Perth, we all know nothing ruins the appearance of a beautiful tile like dirty grout. Before we begin looking at the different approaches to cleaning grout, keep in mind these important tips to get your tile looking brand new.

  • Don’t rush: Let your grout cleaner sit for ten to fifteen minutes before you continue for the best results.
  • Use the right tools: A small, stiff brush than can fit within your grout lines is the key to getting any and all buildup off.
  • Rinse, don’t repeat: Mop or wipe down your recently cleaned tile and grout with warm water and mild cleaning detergent to pick up any remaining loosened residue and prevent streaking.
  • Test a sample: Especially on coloured grout, test all of these solutions on a small corner to confirm that any chemical reactions will not produce discolouration.

OPTION ONE: STEAM CLEANING

The least strenuous, time consuming, and least chemically abrasive option, particularly suitable for those who don’t want to be scrubbing tile on their hands and knees or who are concerned about chemical contact around themselves, children, or animals, is steam cleaning.

Be advised that this solution will remove any sealant on your grout so it is best used on older grout that is due to be resealed. However, as there is no chemical reaction in this cleaning process, it is ideal to use on coloured grout as there is no risk of discolouration.

If you do not wish to purchase your own steam cleaner, many hardware or home improvement stores offer rental options that may be suitable for your needs. Be sure to use the appropriate grout cleaning attachment, such as a steam hose and a small brush, for the best results.

Tile Grout Cleaning

OPTION TWO: BAKING SODA AND VINEGAR SOLUTION

This option is not suitable for grout used on natural stone, as the vinegar may stain or damage natural tile, but is otherwise very convenient as the ingredients are very commonly found already within your home.

The first step is to mix a 3:1 solution of baking soda and water to produce a thick paste that can be generously applied directly on the grout lines. You should then spray a 1:1 solution of vinegar and water onto the paste which will cause the two ingredients to react by bubbling. Once the bubbling ceases, scrub away the paste then wipe or mop up any remaining residue.

OPTION THREE: BAKING SODA, DISH SOAP AND HYDROGEN PEROXIDE SOLUTION

Similar to the option above, this solution can also be made with commonly found household items. A solution of 1 tablespoon dish soap, 1/4 cup hydrogen peroxide, and 3/4 cup of baking soda creates a cleaning paste that can be applied in a similar manner to the baking soda and vinegar solution. Let the solution bubble and sit for the recommended ten to fifteen minutes then scrub, rinse, and mop.

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OPTION FOUR: OXYGENATED BLEACH

Chemically, using bleach is the strongest cleaning option we can recommend, though not necessarily the most effective depending on the state of your grout. Mix two tablespoons of bleach thoroughly into two cups of water, and use as quickly as possible for the best results. Make sure to also use a synthetic bristle brush to prevent your tools from breaking down in reaction to the chemical agents in bleach. Apply the solution in sections to your grout, let sit, scrub, and rinse as usual.

Particularly tough to clean spots with deeper stains or more build-up can be treated with small amounts of pure bleach. It is recommended you wear gloves and use sufficient ventilation when using this treatment option to protect your skin, lungs, and eyes from the harsh chemicals found in bleach.

If you are struggling with tough to clean grout, and would like more information or a professional assessment of your cleaning needs, contact us today at our premiere tile shops in Perth to see how we can help you get your tile and grout gleaming like new.

July 24, 2019
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