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Tiled floors vs timber flooring – which is better? 1

Tiled floors vs timber flooring – which is better?

By DIY, Tile Selection, Timber Look Tiles

You’ve narrowed down your flooring options to tiles or floorboards. But how do you choose between the two? When building or renovating, selecting the right floor can be quite the challenge, as what you decide will have an enormous impact on the overall look and feel of your home interiors.

Some of the factors you should consider include how well the floor type will hold up in high traffic areas, do you want your wet areas to be consistent with the rest of the house and how much of a statement do you want to make?

Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of tiled floors and timber flooring to help you choose the right floor that suits your style and, in the end make you feel at home.

Tiled floors vs timber flooring – which is better? 2
Why you might consider timber flooring

Timber flooring is renowned for its aesthetic appeal. It adds warmth and character to a space not to mention:

  • It’s a tough and durable material
  • Timber is easy to clean and maintain
  • It’s a great insulator and comfortable underfoot
  • Unlike carpet, timber can’t trap dust or pollen
  • Timber comes in a variety of colours, finishes and styles
Disadvantages of installing natural timber flooring

A well maintained timber floor can last for decades, but it’s highly prone to scratches, dents and water damage – especially in the kitchen. Other factors to consider include:

  • Natural wooden floors are expensive compared to tiles and other flooring materials
  • It’s not recommended for wet areas – liquid spills can leave unwanted stains if not cleaned up immediately
  • Regular maintenance is required to prevent damage, this may include sanding, staining, waxing and polishing.
  • Can fade
  • Can be slippery
Why tiled floors are a great idea in your home

It’s hard to beat the natural beauty of timber flooring, and if you have your heart set on a timber floor, you can achieve the same look for less with timber look tiles. With the latest in inkjet technology, you can have a tiled floor that looks and feel like real wood – minus the scratches, staining and fading. By opting for timber look tiles, you get the look of real timber with the benefits of ceramic and porcelain tiles.

Other reasons why tiled floors work well in the home include:

  • Tile flooring options are endless – choose from ceramic, porcelain, granite, marble, slate or timber look in a variety of styles, colours, shapes and sizes
  • They are a strong material making them a great choice for family homes
  • Tiles are moisture and stain resistant therefore ideal for wet areas such as bathrooms, kitchens and in the laundry
  • Most types of tile are eco-friendly
  • Tiles are easy to lay and can be made to fit any space
  • Tiles are an affordable flooring solution
Tiled floors vs timber flooring – which is better? 3
Tiled floors vs timber flooring – which is better? 4
The drawbacks to having tiled floors

With any type of flooring you choose, there will always be a downside or two, but in the case of tiles you can easily overcome them.

Tiles are great underfoot in summer, but they can feel cold during winter – nothing a pair of uggies or a rug can’t fix! Wooden floors in general can be slippery, as can some types of tiles when they get wet. To combat this, make sure you choose a tile with an appropriate slip rating.

The grout between tiles can discolour over time, but the maintenance is minimal when compared to looking after natural timber flooring.

Final thoughts on flooring

To make a decision that’s right for you, make sure you consider your space and how it will be used, and if you need expert advice, our team is just a phone call or short drive away.

Get the best floor tiles in Perth at Ceramic Tile Supplies

Convinced that tiled floors are the right choice for you? Browse through our extensive range of floor tiles online or see the full range of tiles in Perth at our Wangara and Myaree showrooms.

View our range of Floor Tiles

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June 10, 2021
5 tips for buying quality clearance tiles 13

5 tips for buying quality clearance tiles

By DIY, Tile Selection

If you’ve browsed through a tile store, you’ll know the selection of beautiful floor and wall tiles are never ending. But if you’re on a tight budget, it’s inevitable that the cost will be a deciding factor and limit your tile options.

However, if you know what to look out for, you can get a great deal on quality tiles to make your place look good, while still staying within your budget.

Clearance tiles are a great way to save on your tile project, but the key is not to jump straight in and buy the cheapest tile you see first, as there are many poorly manufactured tiles out there. Low quality tiles may not stick to the adhesive well, or they might crack easily, which will end up costing you even more down the track.

Here are 5 tips for finding high quality clearance tiles in Perth.

5 tips for buying quality clearance tiles 14
Tip 1: Find a reputable Perth tile supplier

As mentioned, cheapest isn’t always the best. Do some research and find out which tiles are high quality, best for your use and then find a tile supplier in Perth who stocks a good variety of that style.

Tile suppliers that sell high quality tiles, will often have to make way for new stock. This is when they put their end of line tiles on sale, and when you can get your hands on high quality clearance tiles at a fraction of the original price.

Tip 2: Get your measurements right

Before you even start looking at tile options, do your homework and measure out your space so you know exactly how much you’ll need. This will avoid setting your heart on a product there isn’t enough of or opens up options you didn’t think you could consider.

Tip 3: Know which tile to choose

Which tile will give you the most bang for your buck? For the budget conscious, the type of tile material you choose will make a huge difference to the overall cost. In general, ceramic tiles are the most affordable, but you can find clearance tiles in all sorts of formats if you time it right. Of course, you still want to make sure you’re choosing the right tile for the space you’re working with. If in doubt, seek expert advice.

Tip 4: Shop around

To find the best deals on clearance tiles, you should do some comparison shopping. The best place to start is to search online, but then make sure you head out to visit the store or warehouse, as often you won’t see the full range of clearance tiles available.

5 tips for buying quality clearance tiles 15
5 tips for buying quality clearance tiles 16
Tip 5: Save more by going DIY

Another way you can save on your tile project is by laying your own tiles. If you’ve never done this before, it pays to speak to a professional first. Although installing tiles is a fairly simple process, there are things you need to know to help ensure your project doesn’t end up in jeopardy.

Take a look at our range of high quality clearance tiles in Perth

We’re constantly sourcing the latest and innovative tile products on the market. To make way for new stock, we have a limited supply of end of the line tiles available at heavily discounted prices. Browse some of our clearance tiles or check out our range of clearance tiles in Perth at our Wangara showroom and now available to view at our Myaree showroom.

View our range of Clearance Tiles

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June 10, 2021
Everything you need to know about kitchen splashback tiles 17

Everything you need to know about kitchen splashback tiles

By DIY, Kitchen Tiles, Tile Selection

The kitchen is one of the biggest investments you’ll make when building or renovating your home, so you want to make sure you get things right – tile selection included!

One of the key areas to think about is your kitchen splashback. For a while, glass and acrylic splashbacks stole the show, but kitchen splashback tiles are making a resurgence. They’re more affordable and the design possibilities are endless, with so many different materials, colours, sizes and shape of tiles to choose from.

To help steer you in the right direction, here’s our mini guide to choosing the right kitchen splashback tiles in Perth.

Everything you need to know about kitchen splashback tiles 18
What’s your style?

Are you going for a contemporary minimalist look or maybe you prefer a more traditional country style? If you’re not sure on the style of your kitchen, then a good place to start is by looking for inspiration. Pinterest and Instagram, design blogs, visiting Perth display homes, cafes or restaurants are full of ideas to help you visualise and lock in the style you like, and then put your own spin on it.

What’s your budget?

You may find you’ve decided on the style, only to get the quotes and discover it’s completely out of reach. Do your sums so you know what you’re up against, and what’s going to work with your budget to achieve the look you want.

Kitchen tile colours 

Do you want your kitchen splashback tiles to stand out as a feature or blend into the background, while another element – such as your benchtop takes the limelight? To create a pop of colour and aesthetic appeal, choose a tile colour or pattern that contrasts with the rest of the kitchen. Alternatively, select a similar tone to the other elements to  create a more subtle and consistent look.

Tile size

The smaller the tile, the more grout lines you’ll have, which inevitably will require more maintenance down the track. Sealing the tile grout will help to protect it from food stains, but if you’re after a no fuss solution, then consider a larger format tile. Not only are they easier to maintain, but they’re also quick and easy to install.

Types of kitchen splashback tiles

Ceramic and porcelain are the most common options for kitchen splashback tiles. Ceramic tiles are readily available and affordable. They’re made from a mixture of clays baked at high temperatures, then glazed so they become hard and resistant to water. 

Porcelain tiles are similar to ceramic tiles but they’re fired at even greater temperatures. This makes them practically non-porous and much tougher than ceramic tiles, which is why they do tend to carry a higher price tag.

Don’t be afraid to try one of these popular tile styles for your kitchen splashback design.

Subway tiles

Subway tiles are hands down the most popular choice for kitchen splashbacks. For a timeless classic look, you can’t go past the white subway tile stacked horizontally to give your décor versatility. Try going for a black grout for an edgy look or choose a black subway tile for understated elegance. If you want to make your splashback a feature, opt for a coloured Subway tile. 

Geometric tiles

Black and white geometric designs for splashbacks are very eye catching and are great if you’re going for a contemporary minimalistic style. While a colourful geometric patterned splashback will add vibrancy to your kitchen.

Mosaic tiles

Mosaic tiles come in so many different shapes and vibrant colours. A mosaic tile splashback can really bring your kitchen to life. Kitkat mosaics – otherwise known as finger tiles are one of the most popular mosaic tiles right now that can suit a range of styles.

Everything you need to know about kitchen splashback tiles 19
Everything you need to know about kitchen splashback tiles 20
Glass splashback tiles

Glass tiles and mirrored glass tiles give off an amazing luminous effect and have the ability to bounce light around the room. They’re naturally non-porous, stain-resistant and a great alternative to conventional glass splashbacks. 

Metallic Tiles

Metal look tiles create a dramatic looking splashback. Great to make that kitchen style lean towards the industrial or minimalist style design. For example rusty metal look tiles can really make your kitchen pop when complimented with copper, brass or black matt tapware and accessories. 

Marble look tiles

Nothing exudes luxury and opulence more than marble, and you can recreate this modern interior design trend for less on your kitchen splashback with marble look tiles.

There are many other tile materials you can use for kitchen splashback tiles, including travertine, natural stone and cement. If you choose a porous material, such as cement or marble, make sure the tiles are sealed to protect them.

Done properly, your splashback can make quite the statement in your kitchen. Retrofitting a kitchen splashback though isn’t much fun, so make sure you choose something that won’t date too quickly. It can be costly and difficult to change, so it pays to do a little research before you dive right in.

Speak to the kitchen tile experts in Perth

No matter what style you’re after, you can choose from a wide range of kitchen splashback tiles at Ceramic Tile Supplies. Browse online for inspiration, or discover the full range of kitchen tiles in Perth at our Wangara and Myaree showrooms.

View our range of Kitchen Tiles

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February 18, 2021
Your complete rundown to choosing kitchen floor tiles 25

Your complete rundown to choosing kitchen floor tiles

By DIY, Kitchen Tiles, Tile Selection

Finding the right flooring for your home – especially the kitchen, is one of the most critical design choices you’ll need to make when building or renovating. 

Flooring can influence how your space looks and functions, and it impacts the overall flow of your home. Many Perth flooring experts and interior designers will tell you it’s best to start from the bottom, then work your way up when fitting out your house. 

Tile floors are a natural choice for kitchens over carpet or timber. They’re hard and durable, water-resistant and virtually stain proof. Kitchen floor tiles can withstand heavy foot traffic and everyday wear and tear, and with so many options on offer, you’re sure to find a tile to match your interior style.

So, what are some of the key things to consider when selecting a kitchen floor tile to ensure it will do its job for years to come? Let’s take a look at some expert tips from our Perth tiles team.

Your complete rundown to choosing kitchen floor tiles 26

The type of kitchen floor tile you choose matters

The 3 main types of tiles are porcelain, ceramic and stone. Ceramic and porcelain tiles are similar, which is often where the confusion lies for many Perth homeowners.

Both are made from clay mixtures fired at high temperatures to produce a hard and durable tile, but ceramic tiles tend to be softer than porcelain. People make the mistake of choosing ceramic tiles for kitchen floors because they’re cost effective, but the ugly truth is they aren’t hard enough to withstand the heavy use your family dishes out.

Porcelain floor tiles on the other hand are a mixture of clay and sand. They’re made using heat and pressure to produce a tile that’s harder, denser and less porous than your regular ceramic tile, making it a perfect choice for kitchen floor tiles.

Whether you choose a porcelain, stone or ceramic kitchen floor tile, here’s what you need to think about:

Durable kitchen floor tiles

Is your tile choice going to be tough enough to withstand everyday wear and tear? Check with your tile supplier that the tile has a high resistant glazing and will not wear off over time or easily chip.

What about texture?

Slip resistant tiles naturally make a floor less slippery, but they can be harder to clean and are usually reserved for commercial kitchens. Consider matt or lappato (semi gloss) tiles that you like the feel of or add mats in key areas such as the front of the sink.


How much maintenance is required?

Many Perth homeowners choose tile kitchen flooring because it’s easy to clean. As the space where you prepare and cook your meals cleanliness should always be top of mind. Ask us about which tiles are easy to clean and won’t stain or crack immediately upon impact.

Kitchen floor tiles that complements your space

It pays to plan ahead with your cabinetry selections to ensure your tile choice blends in seamlessly with the design of your kitchen. The cabinet finish can help determine your kitchen floor tile choice as together they create the right feel for your kitchen. You can play with cabinet samples in our Wangara or Myaree showroom when you are looking at the tiles to ease your selection process.

 

The right tile choice will enhance your kitchen floor and look great for years to come.

Your complete rundown to choosing kitchen floor tiles 27
Your complete rundown to choosing kitchen floor tiles 28

Kitchen floor tile experts in Perth

Need a hand with selecting the right tile for your kitchen floor? We have a wide range of kitchen floor tiles to suit your home. Explore our full range of tiles, visit one of our Perth showrooms, or get in touch for expert advice on your kitchen floor tiles.

View our range of Kitchen Tiles

Explore Our Range
February 18, 2021
5 bathroom tile makeover ideas trending right now 33

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.

5 bathroom tile makeover ideas trending right now 34
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
5 bathroom tile makeover ideas trending right now 35
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
Pros & Cons of a tiled pool 43

Pros & Cons of a tiled pool

By Swimming Pool Tiles, DIY, Tile Selection

Swimming pools come in all shapes and sizes and are accessible to all budgets. A tiled pool not only offers the look of luxury but provides a practical resilience to many conditions. Leaving you with a pool that will last long past all the others.

Remember a pool is a tough environment for any product to withstand. With the consistent chemical fluctuation and temperature variance (sometimes just in the matter of moments) all pool products need to be long lasting but they do ware over time or with so many components something may misfire.

You may have heard of or the experience yourself with pool tiles falling off. We do not want this to be a reason why you would not choose such a hard waring product. So “Why do pool tiles fall off”? Let’s provide some in site to this question and many of the leading factors.

More often than not, it has nothing to do with the tiles, rather how they were installed. Before you start trying to repair the immediate tile, it pays to find out why they’re falling off or breaking in the first place. Knowing the reason and how to fix your pool tiles properly, will help prevent it from happening again.

Here are some of the main reasons why your swimming pool tiles might fall off.

Pros & Cons of a tiled pool 44
Lack of expansion joints

When we talk about pool tiles we often refer to mosaics. These are most commonly used due to their size and ability to follow the curves in the organic shapes of pools. However all mosaics come held together as sheets and often a mesh backing is used to do so. At Ceramic Tile Supplies we suggest not to use the mesh backed mosaics in pools for several reasons.

Firstly the backing often covers so much of the tile that the glue does not get through the mesh on to the tile. Second the mesh can rot away and if not enough glue has reached the tile there is nothing left holding it on. We offer paper faced or  polyurethane backed mosaic tile alternatives to combat these problems.

Mesh Backing

Pool expansion joints are an important and often overlooked element of an in ground swimming pool because they protect your pool from damage.

An expansion joint is the gap between the pool coping (edging) and pool deck, and it’s usually filled with caulk or a sealant. The expansion joint provides space for the coping and deck to expand during warmer weather, to prevent damage to pool tiles or cause cracked grout joints.

If you do have expansion joints and notice damage to them over time, make sure you replace or repair it as soon as possible. If water enters under the tile surface it will create problems, eventually resulting in your pool tiles falling off.

Incorrect adhesive products used in installation

You may have purchased good quality swimming pool tiles, but if they’re not installed properly it can also lead to problems. Poor installation of pool tiles usually comes down to the type of products used when installing them.

Choosing the right products is just as important as selecting your pool tiles and should not be treated like tiles you install inside your home. As we all know, indoor tiles are exposed to air while pool tiles are submerged in water. When selecting the grout, adhesive and sealant ensure it is pool rated and if it is recommended to include an additive to increase the products durability.

pH levels in your pool

pH is a measure of the pool water’s total acid-alkalinity balance, meaning how acidic or basic the water is. When the total alkalinity in your pool is low, it can lead to concavity on the surface of the concrete, causing pool tiles to fall off.

To prevent this from happening, you need to pay close attention to the pH level of your pool and adjust it from time to time, to always keep the water balanced.

Pros & Cons of a tiled pool 45
Pros & Cons of a tiled pool 46
Are your pool tiles and decking attached?

If you have a deck, it’s common for the elements to damage it over time. It will also begin to impact your pool if the decking is attached to it. Decking needs room to expand and contract, and this is why when building your pool or deck you should always have some separation between the two.

The key things to remember; make sure you use the right products when installing your pool tiles in the first instance. If you notice your pool tiles starting to fall off, try diagnosing the problem before fixing them back up. If you can’t figure out what the cause is, get professional help.

If you have any questions about swimming pool tiles, contact us and we’ll be happy to assist.

View our range of Swimming Pool Tiles

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January 14, 2021
Why having the right tile for your swimming pool matters 47

Why having the right tile for your swimming pool matters

By Swimming Pool Tiles, DIY, Tile Selection

Lining a pool with tiles creates a silky smooth finish and provides superior durability. But not all tiles are designed to be used for swimming pools.

The most commonly used types of tiles for swimming pools includes glass, natural stone, porcelain and low water absorption ceramic. Here’s what you need to consider when choosing swimming pool tiles.

Something to keep in mind when selecting is always ensure any mosaic tiles that are to be used in a pool are not mesh mounted as you can’t guarantee enough back surface coverage. Mesh backed products generally leave too much glue on the mesh, which doesn’t allow enough adhesive to touch the tile and hold on.

Why having the right tile for your swimming pool matters 48
Glass mosaic pool tiles

Glass mosaic tiles bring a whole new level of sophistication to pools. They’re great because the glass doesn’t absorb other substances, and it can withstand chemicals or algae and fits in to the natural curves of the pool. The challenge of glass mosaics though, is choosing from the vast selection of colours available on the market.

Ceramic Tile Supplies is the Western Australian retailer for TREND Glass Mosaics, who offer a vast colour and size selection of glass mosaics, from pool ready options to custom made mixes and images.

If you like the idea of a mosaic tiled pool, then your best option is to select from the glass mosaics range mounted on the TREND PLUS backing system. This innovative technology removes the need for paper, film or mesh mounting, making it easy to install. The increased surface area of the mosaic allows the tile adhesive to bond effectively with the back of the mosaic.

If you are after a more specific colour selection or pattern, Trend Glass Mosaics are able to custom made on film. Ceramic Tile Supplies have undertaken many projects that include specific mosaic imagery or custom mix selections for client’s swimming pools. These projects just require the time to wait for the custom products to be made up.

Can I use bathroom tiles for my pool?

Bathrooms and swimming pools are similar in that they can have the same kind of tiles applies to their surfaces, but they have to be the right type. If you want to use a bathroom tile for your swimming pool, it needs to be nonporous and have low water absorption ratings. For these reasons, the best option is glazed porcelain tiles.

Glazed porcelain tiles – a popular choice

Porcelain tiles are great for swimming pools as they’re extremely durable and water resistant. Glazed porcelain tiles are vitreous in terms of water absorption, chemical resistance, and they stand up well to the outdoors fluctuation of weather, which is why they’re a popular choice for pool owners.

Porcelain tiles are available in many different sizes including mosaics. However the most common size in porcelain or low water absorption ceramic is 200x200mm as it is still small enough to curve around organic shaped pools. However larger sizes such as 300x600mm are becoming more popular due to the more common square edged pools.

Why having the right tile for your swimming pool matters 49
Why having the right tile for your swimming pool matters 50
What to consider when selecting pool tiles

When deciding on which tiles to use for your swimming pool, consider the following:

  • High wear rating – choose a tile that copes well against exposure to chemicals and the outdoor elements.
  • Water resistance – any area near a swimming pool will naturally be exposed to water so it goes without saying that your tile choice needs to be water resistant.
  • Size – Organic shaped pools tend to look better with a smaller mosaic tile otherwise the tight corners can look like a 50 cent piece. If the pool does not have curved corners then a larger tile can be used (for example 300x600mm).

 

Above all, make sure you do your homework and research which swimming pool tiles will best suit your backyard. If you have any questions about swimming pool tiles, contact us and we’ll be happy to assist.

View our range of Swimming Pool Tiles

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January 13, 2021
What are thin format porcelain tiles? 51

What are thin format porcelain tiles?

By Porcelain Tiles, DIY, Tile Selection

A few years ago, a new tile design started emerging in tile showrooms – thin format porcelain tiles. Today they are trending and more popular than ever.

So, what are thin porcelain tiles and why are they such a great choice for your home or business? Let’s learn a little bit more about them.

What are thin format porcelain tiles? 52
What is a thin porcelain tile (TPT)?

Thin format porcelain tiles or sheets are characterised by their minimal thickness of anywhere between 3mm to 8 mm and often range from 750mm to 1000mm wide and up to 3 meters in length.

Previously, tiles needed to be 10mm to 12mm thick to even be considered for floor tiling, but not anymore.

How are thin format porcelain tiles produced?

Thin porcelain sheets are made out of natural materials such as clays, feldspar, silica and minerals. The tiles are manufactured by placing the natural raw materials and minerals in a kiln exposed to high pressure and temperatures reaching 1,500°C. 

The process itself is called sintering and involves compacting and forming a solid mass of material by heat or pressure, without melting it to the point of liquefaction.

Compaction occurs using two stiff motor-driven belts. The materials are deposited on the lower belt and carried inside the machine, where the combined action of the two belts and compaction rollers allows the material to form. 

What makes this process so effective is that different raw materials and colours can be combined to achieve various looks.

Where are thin porcelain tiles best suited?

Thin porcelain tiles (TPT) can be installed for both indoor and outdoor applications. Because the tiles are so thin, they are easy to cut and shape to fit your intended design.

It’s always best to ask a tile expert to determine the ideal thickness for your application, but in general we often see thin format porcelain tiles used in the home for:

  • Kitchen countertops and backsplashes
  • Bathroom walls and floors
  • Feature walls
  • Fireplaces
  • Exterior cladding
  • Swimming pools/ plunge pools

You can also use thin format tiles for commercial applications including:

  • Feature walls for lobbies and common areas
  • Bathroom walls and floors
  • Front desk design
  • Internals of elevators
  • Countertops
  • Exterior cladding
What are thin format porcelain tiles? 53
What are thin format porcelain tiles? 54
What are the benefits of using thin format porcelain tiles?

Thin porcelain tiles are becoming increasingly popular and there are a number of reasons why:

  • TPT are lightweight (they are generally half the thickness of standard porcelain tiles)
  • The reduced weight enables tiles to be produced in extra-large format such as 1.5 x 3 meters.
  • Low maintenance – they are extremely hardwearing and won’t deform, crack or fade when applied outdoors
  • Many different styles, colours and finishes to choose from 
  • TPT can be laid over existing floors and walls reducing time and cost of removal, and less waste is generated
  • The thin nature of the tile makes it easy to cut using conventional tiling tools suitable to cope with the size.
  • The manufacturing process has a significantly lower environmental impact than standard porcelain tile products

In addition, independent tests have shown that thin format porcelain tiles are nearly twice as strong as thicker, conventional tiles. 

Perth’s thin porcelain tile specialists

Be inspired by Ceramic Tile Supplies’ range of thin format porcelain tiles. Browse our collection, visit our Myaree and Wangara showrooms to view the full range of tiles on display or book a one-on-one consultation. 

Some of Our Thin Format Porcelain Tiles

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November 16, 2020
How to choose the right grout for your tile project 55

How to choose the right grout for your tile project

By DIY, General, Tile Selection

Any ceramic tile project will use some form of grout to fill the gaps between the tiles and to hold it all together. Grout choice is just as important as your tile choice, so it pays to know which grout will work best for your tiles and deliver the best result. 

The two most common types of grout are cement grout and epoxy grout. Let’s compare the two to help you better understand your options when tiling your floors or walls.

How to choose the right grout for your tile project 56
What is cement based grout?

Cement based grout is the most common type of grout and the least expensive. It is made out of a mixture of cementitious powder, sand and water and comes in a sanded and un-sanded form.

Un-sanded grout tends to have a smooth texture. It is created from fine powders and is generally used to join tiles that have seams between 1-1.5mm wide. Sanded grout contains fairly large sand particles that can be seen, often with a gritty look and feel to it. The sand in this grout provides extra bonding that makes it harder to crack. Sanded grout is mostly used for seams 1.5mm or wider. 

When using cement grout you should seal it after application to prevent staining. Cement grout is not recommended for porous tiles like natural stone, because this type of surface combined with the grout is likely to stain. 

What are the pros and cons of cement based grout?

There are both advantages and disadvantages to choosing a cement based grout. Deciding whether to go for cement grout can come down to a few things such as:

Pros for choosing cement grout

  • Easy to install so it is great for a DIY job
  • Easy to clean – after installation, all you need is a wet cloth or, at worst, some light scrubbing to remove grout residue from your tiles.
  • It’s cheaper compared to epoxy grout
  • Wide choice of colours
  • Cement grout has a thicker consistency, so it can hold up well on any wall installation, even in the cases with wider gaps as it shrinks less and bonds well.
Cons for choosing cement grout

  • Needs to be sealed or a grout booster added to prevent staining, mildew and mould (refer to What is a great additive below)
  • Poor colour consistency – different factors such as the minerals in the water, how you mix the grout and humidity can affect the colour of the grout
  • Not waterproof – excessive exposure to water or moisture such as in bathrooms can cause damage to the grout, due to presence of porous features
  • Brittle – corners will crack and flake out over time or crumble if not installed properly
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When should you use epoxy grout?

The stain and chemical resistant properties of epoxy grout make it suitable for high traffic areas such as schools, healthcare facilities, hospitality industry, commercial and industrial settings. \

They are also ideal for environments that experience excessive amounts of humidity or severe cold temperatures.

What is a grout additive?

A grout additive is a water based acrylic liquid added when mixing grout together to make the grout stronger, enhance the colour and make it flexible, which will eliminate cracks in your grout. Grout additive also reduces the porosity of the grout, making it easier to clean and minimising the growth of mould on the surface. We highly recommend adding a grout additive to cement based grout.

Be mindful when using grout additives in cement grout as it sets the grout off faster and there for is required to be cleaned as you go along. Do not leave it until after it has dried to clean off.

Why does grout crack?

Grout crack is common and happens mainly due to movement between two surfaces. You may not know this, but each material in your home is continually moving in tiny increments as a result of humidity, foundation settling, temperature and other factors. If grout in the kitchen or bathroom is a rigid material, it will crack. For example a tiled corner meeting another tiled corner can crack if there is movement in both of the walls due to the above mentioned factors. Or a join where a bathtub and tile meets has pressure applied to it where the bathtub is more flexible and the tile grout not so a crack will form between the two.

Choosing the right grout for your project makes all the difference to the final product. By talking to the professionals at Ceramic Tile Supplies, you’ll get the right advice on the products that will best fit your needs and budget.

Perth’s ceramic tile specialists

Be inspired by our extensive range of stunning bathroom tiles, kitchen tiles, floor and wall tiles. Browse our collection, visit our Myaree and Wangara showrooms to view the full range of tiles on display or book a one-on-one consultation.

November 13, 2020
Your bathroom tiling FAQs answered 58

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 59
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 60
Your bathroom tiling FAQs answered 61
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
Busting the myths on timber look tiles 69

Busting the myths on timber look tiles

By Timber Look Tiles, DIY, Tile Selection

Timber look tiles continue to be all the rage for many home renovators looking for a more cost effective and eco-friendly alternative to wooden flooring. With advancements in technology, ceramic wood tiles do a pretty flawless job these days at mimicking the real deal. Still, there are some that aren’t convinced. 

Have you been tossing up the idea of timber look tiles but you’re on the fence? Let’s put any misinformation floating out there to rest and bust these myths head on!

Busting the myths on timber look tiles 70
Myth #1: Timber tiles look fake

Glazed porcelain wooden floors have come a long way over the years, and although they aren’t the real deal, if installed properly it’s hard to tell the difference. The key thing here is paying attention to your grout lines. For timber look tiles to look as authentic as natural wooden floors, you should choose timber tiles with rectified edges. This ensures the tiles can be laid as close together as possible (around 1mm) with minimal grout required. 

Myth #2: Wood look tiles are hard to maintain

Far from it. Are you forgetting timber look tiles are actually porcelain tiles? This means they are extremely easy to clean. And, unlike its authentic wooden counterpart that don’t do so well when the surface comes into contact with spills, wood look tiles require very little maintenance to retain longevity.

Myth #3: Timber look tiles can’t handle constant foot traffic

Again, being a glazed tile (remembering this doesn’t always mean glossy) they are actually highly durable and scratch resistant. You’ll be perfectly fine walking around in heels on a wooden ceramic floor, but the same can’t be said for real wooden flooring.

Myth #4: Timber look tile floors are too cold

Tiles do have the reputation of being colder than other types of flooring and not absorbing as much heat (which is perfectly ideal in summer). But there are other factors that can contribute to this, such as how much natural sunlight generates heat within your home. And, there’s nothing a few floor rugs or runners can’t fix especially when the product underneath won’t fade!

Busting the myths on timber look tiles 71
Busting the myths on timber look tiles 72
Myth #5: Timber look tile planks will warp over time

The tile planks will not warp over time. There is however the lippage (when one tile is higher than another resulting in an uneven surface) to consider. All tiles can be subject to a variation in flatness due to the manufacturing process. This is why it is not suggested to half off set or brick bond any rectified tile over 200mm in length. However the way to get around this is the thirds rule or stagger lay the timber tile with no more than a 33% overlap at any time. This allows for any curve that may be in the tile to be absorbed in the lay pattern instead of creating an unwanted uneven surface. Sound too complex for you? We recommend leaving the installation to an expert tiler while you take on a different DIY project in the house.

Perth’s timber look tile specialists

Be inspired by our extensive range of quality timber look tiles. Browse our collection  and photo gallery or visit our Myaree or Wangara showrooms to view the full range on display.

Some of Our Best Selling Timber Look Tiles

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September 20, 2020
Timber Wooden Tile

How to choose splashback tiles for your kitchen

By Kitchen Tiles, DIY, Subway Tiles, Tile Selection

A key component to any kitchen design or renovation is your splashback. Functionally, it’s there to protect your walls from spills and splatters, visually it’s something you can have fun with.

Although just a small part of your kitchen, your splashback is where you can inject a lot of personality and make it the focal point of your kitchen. This is especially true in situations where the other elements of your kitchen have a neutral feel.

Tiles are an obvious choice for splashbacks as they are hygienic, durable, non porous, heat resistant and easy to clean. So, how do you go about selecting a tile that complements your kitchen design and adds character? 

A few things to consider when choosing your splashback tile includes the colour, shape, size and grout. Usually it’s a good idea to pick your benchtop first (as your options are more limited), and then incorporate your splashback design around this. 

When looking at tiles, the most durable and low maintenance option would have to be ceramic or porcelain tiles. Porcelain tiles are the tougher of the two, but will generally attract a higher price tag. Luckily, because splashbacks cover only a small surface area, it may be one of those areas you can afford to splash out on (no pun intended!).

Let’s explore what you need to consider in more detail.

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Colour

Your choice of tile colour can either blend subtly into your kitchen design, or you can be a bit more creative with pops of colour that draws attention. So firstly, you need to decide whether you want the splashback to be the standout feature in your room. Whatever you choose, it should work with your overall bench top and cabinetry colour scheme.

As a general rule, use dark tiles where there are no internal corners or assisting elements like cabinet lights or ample brightness to the room by other forms of light prevents dark corners from forming. Lighter shades will help brighten up the room and create a more open airy feel.  

If you opt for a colour similar to your benchtops and cabinets, consider a tile with more texture to add contrast. But choose wisely, as a heavy textured tile can prove harder to wipe down and clean.

Shape

Another way to create impact – if not through your colour choice, is the shape of the tile. Some popular options include incorporating a grid like pattern, geometric, subway style, penny round, chevron, diamond tile and mosaic style patterns.

Size

The size of your splashback area will affect your tile choice. For a clean look, choose large format tiles. This will also cut down on your grout lines but not be the cost effective option. If your splashback area is medium to small, the varying subway tiles make an excellent option as the scale into this size very well. If you are happy with a little more grout mosaics are a great option and come in many fun colours and shapes.

How to choose splashback tiles for your kitchen 76
How to choose splashback tiles for your kitchen 77
Grout

In general, the smaller the tile, the more grout lines you’ll have. If you want to avoid cleaning too much grout, choose a large format tile which will result in fewer grout lines. You can also use a grout additive (booster) or grout sealant in your small tiles to ease the cleaning woes.

Consider using a fine sand Epoxy grout. It’s a little more expensive than cement grout and harder to apply, but it’s a great choice for kitchens because it resists stains, is easy to wipe clean and more consistent in colour.

Aside from your tile colour, there are a number of grout colour options too. A couple of things to take note of:

  • Unsealed white grout will easily pick up stains, so make sure if you do choose a white grout you seal it or use a grout additive.
  • Black grout will accentuate the design, so it’s usually best to incorporate black grout with more neutral tones to create the right impact. It is also suggested with Black grout to use a grout booster to hold the colour.

Lastly, it’s also important to take into consideration the type of cooktop you have or will install. There are different clearance requirements from the centre of the burner to the splashback. Most tiles are glazed at a high temperature making them withstand heat variations from a cooktop however if you are looking at other materials such as natural stone, resin or hand glazed tiles they may require further considerations.

Need some inspiration for your kitchen splashback tile design?

Get inspiration from Perth’s kitchen tile specialists! Take a look at our photo gallery for ideas or browse our kitchen splashback tile collection on display at our Myaree or Wangara showrooms.

Some of Our Best Selling Kitchen Splashback Tiles

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September 15, 2020
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