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Our Top 10 Best Selling Tiles 1

Our Top 10 Best Selling Tiles

By Commercial Tiles, General, Trends

Choosing a tile for your home can often be harder than it seems.

 

With so many tiles available in a variety of sizes, colours and textures, coming to a final decision is no easy task. Often overwhelmed with choice, new customers will ask us what our best selling tiles are. To help narrow it down, we’ve put together a list of our top ten recommendations below.

Our Top 10 Best Selling Tiles 2

1. Chorus White

A sophisticated replica of natural stone, this highly durable tile made by Keope is used regularly for main floors and bathrooms. The versatile Chorus series is suitable for both internal and external applications in both residential and commercial projects. 

  • Category: Floors 
  • Material: Glazed Porcelain, Rectified 
  • Available in: Matt, Textured, Anti-slip

2. Solid Nude Beige 

This slightly textured subway tile is best suited for kitchen and bathroom walls and is especially loved for splashbacks. If you’re looking to create a designer look, consider using a contrasting grout.

  • Category: Walls 
  • Material: Ceramic
  • Available in: Glossy

3. Downtown Grigio Lappato

One of our best sellers for main floors, this tile is both cost effective and looks great on bathroom floors and walls, as well as larger living areas. Authentic concrete inspired, this porcelain rectified tile is also stain proof and easy to maintain. 

  • Category: Floors 
  • Material: Glazed Porcelain, Rectified 
  • Available in: Semi Polished

4. Trend Plus Ocean Mix

Our number 1 pool water-line tile, this Italian glass mosaic is mounted on the Trend Plus backing system. This innovative technology is fully warranted for swimming pool use and makes installation faster and easier. 

  • Category: Pools 
  • Material: Glass Mosaic
Our Top 10 Best Selling Tiles 3
Our Top 10 Best Selling Tiles 4

5. New Ash Dust

This practical tile embraces the trend of light coloured flooring while still hiding the dust and dirt that usually shows up on white tiling. New Ash Dust is often used to flow from the bathroom into the main floor, keeping the whole house toned together. 

  • Category: Floors 
  • Material: Glazed Porcelain, Rectified 
  • Available in: Semi Polished

6. Timbre-Land Mapple

Our top timber tile, the Timbre-Land Mapple is mostly used in main floors. This great option is both pet proof and maintenance free, providing an excellent economical interior selection for your home. 

  • Category: Floors 
  • Material: Glazed Porcelain, Rectified 
  • Available in: Natural (Matt)

7. Trend Plus Surf Mix 1

Another option in our Trend Plus range, the Surf Mix 1 is a beautiful combination of white and pearl Italian glass mosaic. With soft, rounded edges, this bright tile is one of our top sellers for whole pools. 

  • Category: Pools 
  • Material: Glass Mosaic

8. Two Tone Solid Matt White

A light, rectangular tile range, The Two Tone Solid White Matte is well suited to various splash back lay patterns. We’ve found this great tile option has taken off in bathroom feature walls.

  • Category: Walls 
  • Material: Ceramic
  • Available in: Matt
Our Top 10 Best Selling Tiles 5
Our Top 10 Best Selling Tiles 6

9. Shade De Impressions

An industrial, shabby chic and decorative tile, Shade De Impressions has been used in the past as a feature wall in ensuites, as well as water line tiles and splashbacks. Create a standout feature with the subtle blue, grey and white tones of this beautiful tile. 

  • Category: Floors 
  • Material: Glazed Porcelain, Rectified 
  • Available in: Textured

10. Self More Décor 3

The Self More Decor 3 is a highly popular tile option, used for a variety of purposes including swimming pool water lines, feature bathroom floors and inlays of main floors and entries. 

  • Category: Floors 
  • Material: Glazed Porcelain
  • Available in: Matt

The best tiles in Perth

If you’re looking for quality tiles, look no further than Ceramic Tile Supplies. To learn more about our products, you can browse our range online, contact us with any questions you have or visit our Wangara and Myaree showrooms.

View our range of tiles

  • Veneto Linktec Sandy Beach Mix 25x25mm

  • Roma Silver Grey Matt New

  • Veneto Linktec Torquoise Mix 25x25mm

  • Veneto Linktec Steam White 50x50mm Glass Mosaic 501

  • Palladio Linktec Cloud Mix 25x25mm Glass Mosaic

  • Palladio Linktec Sky Blue Mix 25x25mm Glass Mosaic

  • Trend PLUS 245 20x20mm

  • Traver-Cave White

5 tile trends to look out for in 2021 15

5 tile trends to look out for in 2021

By General, Architects & Builders, Trends

Planning to do some home renovations this year? To give you some inspiration for your next bathroom, kitchen or flooring project, let’s take a look at some of the top tile trends emerging.

As we head into 2021, timber look tiles continue to gain momentum, along with marble imitation tiles and stone look tiles that seamlessly incorporate natural hues.

5 tile trends to look out for in 2021 16
Timber look tiles

A far more affordable, maintenance free and durable solution to natural hardwood, timber look tiles keep evolving, making it ideal for virtually any interior space that needs a little extra warmth and elegance. Great for highlighting functional areas and creating accents in a room, the authentic look of wood tiles can’t be beaten and can be applied both indoors and outdoors.

Because of its waterproofing abilities, we’re especially seeing more timber tiles popping up in bathroom designs. Not confined to the floors, designers are playing with feature timber accents where timber could previously not be used.

Texture trends to look for in wood look tiles include wire brushed, hand scraped, white washed and distressed wood surfaces.

Natural stone look tiles

Stone look tiles are extremely popular in kitchens, bathrooms and even outdoors. Clean, elegant and convincingly real in appearance, tile manufacturers have mastered these looks to recreate tiles in marble, limestone, slate and travertine styles.

Marble look tiles in particular are being used extensively in flooring and in bathrooms. Less porous, more durable, accessible and affordable compared to the real thing, creating that luxe feeling in your home always associated with marble, is now easier than ever.

Square tiles as a feature

Square tiles are the new subway. They are great for splashbacks and feature walls and come in many sizes and colours. Often you will see a design with a smaller square mosaic as a bathroom feature wall or a traditional 200x200mm square non-rectified tile with a repeating pattern adding character to a small floor area.

Play with colour and patterns with the square tile. A square tile can be laid brick bond, on the 45 degree angle or in checker pattern. A handmade traditional tile can call for a Hamptons feel or farm house look where a solid block colour mosaic can give a mid-century or post-modern look to a design.

Floral patterns are a hit

And we’re not talking “grandma’s wallpaper” style approach. Big, bold and bright walls with elements of tropical plants or blossoming flowers, is setting an original and refreshing trend for bathrooms. To achieve the best look, you should only use this style to accentuate and decorate a certain area, not the entire space. Botanical print tiles are especially ideal for bathrooms without a window.

5 tile trends to look out for in 2021 17
5 tile trends to look out for in 2021 18
Metallic imitation

Another tile trend that’s emerging is the metal look tile. This style isn’t for everyone, it’s geared more towards achieving a high-tech, industrial, minimalistic urban feel, or depending on the choice of tile, a vintage retro interior.

Metallic look tiles come in all sorts of shades and effects including a rust effect, oxidized copper, platinum, white gold, steel, aluminium and silver. The use of such cladding creates a very unique design for walls and floors, even work surfaces and countertops. When decorating a room with this style of tile, it’s important to think about how the metallic look will blend with your décor, to ensure the interiors complement each other.

When selecting new tiles for your home, by all means consider the trends to achieve a well-designed room, but stick with your personal preference so that you don’t get bored of the look too quickly, and can enjoy your space for years to come.


View the entire Ceramic Tile Supplies range in our Myaree and Wangara showrooms or online at www.ctsupplies.com.au

View our range of tiles

Applying inkjet technology to tiles 27

Applying inkjet technology to tiles

By Architects & Builders, General

Today, tiles can be produced to mimic natural materials like wood, stone or cement, but have you ever wondered how they are made to look so authentic?

Just like high definition technology used on tv screens, digital inkjet technology has transformed ceramic and porcelain tiles to replicate the appearance of different materials, to a level unmatched by other printing techniques such as screen printing and roto colour processes.

This innovation has become a driving force for new tile manufacturing processes and product offerings. 

Applying inkjet technology to tiles 28
What are inkjet technology tiles?

Using advanced high definition technology, tiles can be digitally printed with high-resolution patterns and designs to imitate various textures like wood and concrete, and 3 dimensional materials like marble, granite and limestone. 

This process creates tiles that are varied and have minimal repetition. So, rather than being limited to a few different patterns, you can metres of an inkjet printed tile without seeing the same pattern twice. The image result is almost indistinguishable from the real thing.

How are inkjet technology tiles produced?

Digital printing delivers a much crisper result and superior detail than other conventional tile methods. The process is similar to how you would use a digital printer at home or in the office, but on a much larger scale.

Controlled by a computer, the printer heads dispense specialty ink onto the canvas (tile surface) to precisely duplicate any high resolution image such as natural stone or wood. The canvas is actually the body of the tile, prior to going into the kilns to be fired.

The machine automatically adjusts to create beautiful designs on smooth, rough and even highly textured surfaces that is applied edge-to-edge to fully cover each tile. 

Today, inkjet printers can utilise 8 or more colours, allowing for a greater range of shades and tones to be created on a tile. This innovation in tile production brings amazing detail, contrast and variations in design.

Applying inkjet technology to tiles 29
What kind of designs are possible with inkjet technology?

The design possibilities using inkjet technology are endless. Designers can combine images, overlay them and alter them to create hundreds of different visuals.

You can produce anything from concrete looking tiles, stone, marble, brick and even textiles. 

Using inkjet technology, you can replicate any type of hardwood to create timber look tiles. And the detail is exceptional as the printer can produce knots and graining patterns that look like the real thing. You can also choose from a variety of plank sizes and styles. 

Why should you choose inkjet technology tiles?

Ceramic and porcelain tiles are cost-effective, highly durable and require little maintenance. The same can be said for ceramic or porcelain tiles produced using inkjet technology. 

This makes them the perfect choice for literally anywhere inside or outside your home, in high traffic areas and wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens. The tile design options that arise from inkjet technology, means you can have a wood-look bathroom or kitchen without worrying about moisture damaging the floor or wall surface. 

Some of the other benefits in using inkjet tiles include:

  • Potential to imitate any image and surface to create the desired look you are after.
  • More affordable are harder than natural stones such as granite.
  • Inkjet technology improves tile production time and quality.
  • Layering of imagery gives the tile more depth and realism.
Perth’s inkjet technology tile specialists

Be inspired by Ceramic Tile Supplies’ superb range of inkjet technology 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.

Applying inkjet technology to tiles 30

Some of Our Inkjet Tiles

How to choose the right grout for your tile project 38

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 39
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
How to choose the right grout for your tile project 40
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.

Tile Trends to Keep an Eye Out for in 2020 41

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!

How To Create A Timeless Bathroom 42

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 43

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.

How To Create A Timeless Bathroom 44

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!

In the spotlight Daniel Lomma Design & Supergres Timber Tiles 45

In the spotlight Daniel Lomma Design & Supergres Timber Tiles

By General, Architects & Builders, TrendsNo Comments

 

 

Perth is all about the weather. On average our days are moderate, our summers are hot and our winters are mild. This means the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors at one’s home is abundant. Balmy summer nights, sunny winter days. It’s no wonder we strive to have an outdoor area to suit our needs whether it be for entertaining or just accommodating our family needs.

In the spotlight Daniel Lomma Design & Supergres Timber Tiles 46

Daniel Lomma Design has embraced our diverse living style and designed The Barnard by creating a living space that draws all living areas together, inside and out. There is balanced flow from the lounge to dining into kitchen as well as kitchen to dining into the outdoor entertaining then garden.

In the spotlight Daniel Lomma Design & Supergres Timber Tiles 47

How has he done this so successfully? By utilising the Travel South Gold timber look tile on the floor, Daniel created subtle visual separations, without any physical bounds. The timber tile allows for a decking style outdoor finish that is hard wearing and ideal for its environment. The same finish has been extended into the inside of the home as an inlay under the dining area. Inlaid as such into the main floor creates that visual separation and seamless flow from outside in.

In the spotlight Daniel Lomma Design & Supergres Timber Tiles 48

There are many uses for a timber tile and for that reason it is becoming more and more popular in our homes. The Travel Series from Ceramic Tile Supplies offers various formats and finishes to accommodate for these uses. For example in the alfresco of The Barnard, Daniel Lomma Designs selected a Strutturato (R11) finish, this more grip like finish helps when the area is wet and creates a non-slip, safe floor environment. However within the home a finish like this would be more tedious to clean so a standard (R9) finish was used, blending in seamlessly with the main floor tile finish as well.

In the spotlight Daniel Lomma Design & Supergres Timber Tiles 49

Another excellent example of location for a timber tile is the floor and wall feature Daniel has designed into the powder room and ensuite. Buy flowing the timber tile from the floor up the wall it creates a stunning contrasting, balanced backdrop to the bath or rich luxe environment for a visitor to the powder room.

Daniel Lomma Design have created a home with thorough thought and insight to how The Barnard will be lived in and how the products used can complement this. A designer will always push products to their maximum and give you a well-conceived design.

 

If you would like to know how this may suit your home contact Daniel Lomma Design or view the Travel timber tile series at Ceramic Tile Supplies Myaree and Wangara showrooms.

 

VIEW THE PRODUCT RANGE HERE

 

Photograpy by Silvertone Photography

 

glazed ceramic tiles

DIY Guide to Wall Tiling

By General, DIY, Tile InstallationNo Comments

Everyone enjoys a good DIY project in their home. Painting, crafts, and other small projects are immensely popular choices. What about something a bit larger, though?

Tiling your wall is a wonderful way to add a new flair to your living or business space. You can do intermittent tiling or go for a retro subway tiles look. Either way, there are a few steps to the process, and it requires quite a lot of patience. If you are hoping to undertake a tiling project and you are looking for tiles in Perth, our showrooms have exactly what you need!

How does one go about starting this sort of project? Here is a very brief guide to start your DIY journey with wall tiling!

Prepare the Surfaces & Yourself

The first step is to make sure the area you will be tiling is clean and clear of obstructions. If there is already wallpaper present on the wall, strip it down to the plaster. Fill any holes or cracks before tiling. Once the space is prepared, you need to be certain you are prepared too.

Here are a few supplies that you should have to keep yourself protected during your project. Your local Bunnings should have all of this.

  • Safety goggles
  • Dust mask
  • Gloves

You will also need to get materials and tools:

  • Tile adhesive
  • Grout
  • Measuring tape
  • Level
  • Trowel
  • Masking tape
  • Cloth

Depending on the style of tiling you are looking for, you may need other supplies. Consult with our tiling experts if you have any questions about specific tile types and installation.

Determine Your Design

Once you have your supplies and tiles, you want to determine your layout.

Beginning from the middle of the tiling space, establish the vertical rows first. Measure your tiles and use a pencil to mark where the tiles will be placed. Lay down a row of tiles with a bit of space between them (depending on how much space you want). Be sure to line up the bottom of the tiles to keep them even.

If you are looking to do a more abstract pattern, take the time to lay out the tiles to set up your pattern. It may also be helpful to number the tiles so you know how many you need.

 

DIY Guide to Wall Tiling 50

Fixing Tiles to the Wall

Before fixing tiles in place, be certain that the surfaces are even. If any tiles are uneven from their neighbours, you may need to get rid of it or use your various tools to adjust it. If the tiles are bevelled or rounded, you will not need a corner trim.

Begin from the centre once again and tile one side all the way over to the edge. Repeat the process for the other side. Use the trowel to place adhesive on the wall.

When spacing out your tiles, you’ll find battens help to determine a starting point. Use the battens to your advantage when attaching tiles, beginning in the corner and working outwards. Use tile spacers to secure space between the patterns and to make it easier to apply grout.

Be sure to remove extra adhesive with a damp sponge as you go. Once it dries, grout is almost impossible to clean.

Take Your Time

Tiling is a rewarding process. Once you finish, the results are beautiful and unique every time. However, taking your time is key to a secure tiled wall.

When approaching difficult spots, like corners or baseboards, use caution. It may even be necessary to search out expert opinions on these areas. There are lots of videos and helpful demonstrations for these situations. If you are uncertain, don’t power through it. Take the time to do it right, and you will enjoy the results even more.

Visit One of Our Showrooms

If you are considering this style for your wall and don’t know where to begin, visit one of our showrooms! Tiling is a great way to spice up any room, and we have plenty of options for you.

 

How To Use Large Format Tiles 51

How To Use Large Format Tiles

By General, Architects & BuildersNo Comments

Large format tiles are the ideal renovate solution for any room in your home. Whether you’re looking for flooring, walling, or even decoration, they can be a cost effective and easy-to-install way to get that updated, contemporary look you’ve been wanting.

Here at Ceramic Tile Supplies, we’re one of the premier experts of tiles in Perth. We have a wide range of tiles to suit any room or outdoor area. Keep reading to learn more about how large format tiles can make your space shine.

What Large Format Tiles Can Do

Imagine your bathroom decked out in this stunning Linea Deep Black tile. Its gorgeous, rich colour gracefully off set by minimal, thin white grout lines. Or, picture your kitchen tiled with our Coverlam Estatuario. Its classy marble-effect underscored by an almost identically pale grout colour can create a smooth, fluid space.

Large format tiles contribute to a contemporary, minimalist aesthetic in any room. Our tiles can help transform any room in your house into a space that feels brand new. These tiles are clean, with an unbroken style that makes a space seem more expansive.

By combining one of our stunning large format tile designs with a similar colour grout, you can achieve an even more spacious look. You can create a sleek design that flows to every corner. And, if you choose to use the same combination on your walls, you’ll instantly create a setting that is striking with a flowing, streamlined aesthetic.

Alternatively, you can also choose a contrasting grout colour, to emphasise the simple elegance of the tile itself and create a feature wall.

 

How To Use Large Format Tiles 52

Not Just Kitchens and Bathrooms

Being waterproof and easy to clean makes tiling an obvious, as well as stylish, choice for kitchens, bathrooms and walling, but they’re not limited to these areas. Our large format tiles combine stunning design with versatility, so they’re fitting for many different spaces.

It might seem odd to consider tiling in your bedroom or lounge, but, unless you can’t live without the cosiness of carpet underfoot, having tile in your living areas doesn’t have to mean clinical coldness. Underfloor heating can ensure rooms lose none of their warmth, while pairing free-flowing large format tiles with contemporary, minimalist furniture can elevate a bedroom or living room to new levels of sleek sophistication.

Quality, Resilience and Sustainability

We have a large selection of quality choices from leading suppliers, and we specialise in showcasing the latest in tile design and technology. Despite their size, our large format tiles are thin and expertly made. They have the quality normally associated with heavier porcelain tiles, but in a lightweight, easier to handle form.

The large format tiles still deliver the same resistance to wear, staining and heat. Plus, even though they are lightweight, they also still deliver durability in an easier to use, more eco-friendly way than traditional tiles.

Choosing The Tile For You

If you want to do some research for yourself, our showrooms in Wangara and Myaree have the widest ranges of large format tiles in Perth. On top of that we don’t just sell tiles. If you’re struggling, our dedicated design team and colour consultants are here to offer their expert advice for all your decoration needs.

Our team will also gladly take care of the technical side of your tiling job. Not only can they tell what tiles look great and where, they can also accurately measure up the right tiling to fit in your space and provide you with a quote for your requirements.

At CT Supplies we pride ourselves on our expert advice and attention to detail, so head on over to one of our showrooms for a chat. Whatever room or space you’re working with, one of our specialist staff will be happy to help you find exactly the right large format tile for you.

 

How To Use Large Format Tiles 53

Reliable delivery, reliable contacts

Once you’ve chose the tiles you want, you might need a little help getting them to your home or office and then installing. True to their name, large format tiles are big (ours measure up to 3×1 metres) and can be difficult to transport.

Luckily, our distribution team have their own trucks, as well as years of experience delivering tiles in Perth, while we also pack orders for dispatch to anywhere in Western Australia. So, once you’ve selected your tiles, you can rest easy and let us handle the heavy lifting.

And, when we’ve fulfilled your delivery, we’d be happy to put you in contact with reliable and experienced tilers in your area who can give you a quote on your installation.

Check Out Large Format Tiles Today

Ceramic Tile Supplies Perth has a variety of large format tiles to choose from. Just pop down to one of our showrooms and find out more!

How Ceramic Tiles Are Made 54

How Ceramic Tiles Are Made

By GeneralNo Comments

The earliest known example of ceramic tiles being made and used was in 4th millennium b.c. Egypt. From there, the trend spread outward through Africa and the Middle East, reaching Europe around the 10th century a.d. and to our tile shop in Perth today!

As one of the more affordable tiling options available, ceramic is a popular choice among customers buying tiles in Perth. While they can still easily be handmade just like they were hundreds of years ago, advances in manufacturing now also allow them to be mass produced by specialised machines.

The Basics

For both handmade and industrially manufactured tiles, a tile body must be mixed. This body is made from clay, which can now be produced with a mixture using the dust of pulverised rocks or even recycled material such as post-industrial glass, instead of having to source it from a riverbed.

After this first step in prepping the material which will make the tiles, the process begins to shift depending on the production process.

Shaping

Handmade

Tiles produced by hand are shaped by hand-rolling the clay. The clay must be flattened to an even thickness, and this is achieved by either pressing the clay out within a wooden frame or using a roller machine. After this step, the tiles are ready to be cut to whatever shape is desired using wire or shaped metal die.

Industrial

In a ceramic tile manufacturing facility, the clay body will be flattened and cut evenly by machines.

An option called dry pressing places the clay body in molds and evenly compacts it at a high pressure Another method extrudes the clay through a mold in the desired tile shape, then slices the tiles evenly with a wire cutter.

In both process, the unbaked clay, or greenware, is then dried to remove any moisture that may cause it to crack later in production.

Glazing

Handmade

After the greenware has been dried, the decorative accents that make each tile unique can be applied.

Glaze is the glossy finish on the top of tiles. It can be layered onto the greenware before or after a first firing. Many ceramic artisans prefer to glaze ceramic as bisqueware, which is unglazed greenware that has been fired once.

Glaze can be painted, sprayed, or rolled with hand tools onto the ceramic tiles, generating about 50 pieces per day that are ready to be fired.

Industrial

Industrial machines apply glaze to the cut tile blanks with a variety of machines.

Primers are applied to the tiles as they pass under a steady, curtain-like stream of glaze along a conveyor belt. After this step, additional glazes that may react with the primer or produce different decorative effects are applied.

Machines such as glaze slingers, glazing drums, disc sprayers, or even inkjet printers expedite this step in industrial settings. All together, these types of machines can glaze around 2,000 square feet of tile each day.

Firing

Handmade

Clay must be heated to harden into tile, and to bring out the colours of a tile’s glaze. The ovens used for this process are called kilns.

Handmade ceramics are made in smaller batches using smaller kilns than the industrial process. Periodic kilns with a singe oven door are the most popular type used in smaller production studios and production rates are limited by their size.

Industrial

Large scale tile manufacturing sends glazed tiles through a roller oven or other style of continuous kiln. This specific conveyor style kiln can heat up to 4,000 square feet of tile on its 125 meter journey through the oven.

Similar to firing practices in the hand-made process, shuttle kilns may also be used, but they are less efficient than the roller oven.

Delivery

After the tiles have been fired and cooled, they are ready to be shipped out to stores such as our tile shop in Perth. Contact us online or stop in to one of our locations to see the new styles we have in stock today.

Choosing the Right Grout Colour—What You Need to Know 55

Choosing the Right Grout Colour—What You Need to Know

By General, DIY, Tile SelectionNo Comments

Have you finally picked out the perfect kitchen tiles? Don’t get too comfortable. Your design work isn’t done quite yet.

Now, you’ll need to find the right grout colour. This might seem like an insignificant factor to consider. However, your grout colour can make or break the look of your whole kitchen.

As specialists on tiles in Perth, Ceramic Tile Supplies has you covered. We’re going to go over everything you need to know about choosing the right grout colour for your kitchen tiles.

Match, Complement, or Contrast

One of the main things you should consider is the style you are going for. For your tiles in Perth, you essentially have three options:

Match

Many people choose to make the grout the same colour as their kitchen tiles. This has many benefits.

For one, it will create a uniform look. Other pieces in your home will be able to take centre stage. This is especially important with modern designs that already have enough flair.

Matching is also good in that it makes a room look bigger. The consistent design gives the illusion that the area is more spacious than it actually is.

Complement

The complementary option is a middle ground between matching and contrasting. It can create space while making a subtle yet impactful statement.

Contrast

Choosing a grout that contrasts with your tile is a bold choice. It should be a decision made with intent. Make sure it matches the theme of the room and your stylistic vision.

If done right, contrast can make your kitchen tiles stand out without looking too busy. It will add a pop of colour and mesh well with your decor.

Take Maintenance into Account

The colour you choose will affect how much maintenance your kitchen tiles require. Lighter shades tend to collect more dirt, requiring you to clean more frequently.

Darker shades, however, aren’t free of maintenance. They tend to produce efflorescence that needs to be scrubbed and removed.

No matter what kind you get, consider sealing options. This will prevent staining and help your tiles in Perth last for years to come.

Test It Out

This probably isn’t the most important decision you’ll ever make. However, you’ll want to be happy with it. You don’t want to feel regret when you look at your kitchen tiles every day.

So why not test it out? Use a piece of plywood to make a mock-up. Place the sample in the room you are renovating. Leave it there for a few days to get a feel for it. This will help you determine if the design is a good fit.

Talk to the Experts

Still can’t decide? We know it can be overwhelming. There is a lot that goes into selecting the right grout colour.

If you are feeling unsure, don’t worry! We are here to help. You can stop by one of Ceramic Tile Supplies‘ showrooms. Our professionals will give expert advice and help you put the finishing touches on your tiles in Perth.

Why Should You Choose Under Tile Heating? 56

Why Should You Choose Under Tile Heating?

By General, Architects & BuildersNo Comments

As the cold weather sets in, it can become less appealing walking barefoot across the tiled areas of the house. Speaking from experience, nothing beats the feeling of warmth underfoot, especially on a brisk Perth morning.

Under tile heating is not a new concept for homeowners. In fact, the Romans used to build houses with empty spaces and tunnels under their flooring. Air, warmed by an open fire, would be channeled through these tunnels to heat up homes during winter. Pretty cool right?

Now that we’re done with our mini-history class, here’s everything you need to know about under tile heating in Perth.

How Does Under Tile Heating Work?

Under tile heating is an invisible heating system powered by either hot water or electricity. It is designed to run under the tiles through a network of conductors or tubing to deliver a controlled flow of warmth.

It can be easily installed in virtually any home. And, it’s energy efficient, non-intrusive and frees up your wall space from radiators or convectors. It’s not surprising that it has become quite popular among homeowners in recent times.

The Benefits of Under Tile Heating

A balanced heating profileThe best part of installing under tile heating is the balanced, comfortable heat it produces across the home. There are no cold spots or draughts that catch you unannounced. It also works great for those who have dust allergies as there are no dust movements being pushed around by fans.

Energy efficiencyOne of the most popular reasons people choose this system is its low running costs. Its surface area is larger than that of a radiator, which allows it to run at a much lower flow temperature while still heating the floors. Its ability to run at a lower temperature means it’s a cheaper system to use: it can be 25% cheaper with a hot water system and as much as 40% cheaper with an electric system.

Compatibility Another great advantage is it can be installed across the home – bathrooms, living room,  terrace, anywhere. It can also be installed across a wide range of floor coverings, from marble to vinyl.

Affordability The combination of energy efficiency and low maintenance costs just screams affordable in the long run. While you might spend an initial larger cost to install, over time, the savings quickly add up. And once installed, you spend close to nothing in maintenance.

Installing Under Tile Heating

By now, you may be asking – can I do this myself? Probably, yes! But should you? Probably not.

Installing heating under tiles in Perth is difficult. That’s why you should work with a qualified installer to guarantee that you choose the right materials, everything is done right, and it’s an economical investment. They’ll be able to offer expert advice and help you calculate the desired temperatures, potential heat loss, the ceiling height and the type of flooring required where necessary. 

If you need help picking the right tiles, get in touch with one of our experts in Perth today at Ceramic Tile Supplies!