Top tips for choosing the best material for bathroom tiles

Both floor and wall tiles are incredible choices when designing a bathroom, and are often sought after by homeowners with various styles. From traditional marble to more modern bathroom tiles, navigating the wide variety of materials and styles can be daunting. Though all tiles will have an aesthetic appeal, certain materials are more beneficial and suitable in a bathroom.

In this guide, we will explore our top tips for choosing the right bathroom tile materials, including what to consider and how a design service can help you choose.

Tip 1) Consider the location of your tiles

When selecting bathroom tiles, it's essential to consider where they will be installed. Different areas of your bathroom have varying demands regarding moisture exposure, foot traffic, and cleaning requirements. For example, if you want shower wall tiles, this will require a material that can withstand large amounts of water and is resistant to staining and mould growth. Our top pick would be porcelain tiles, as this is a highly durable and easy to maintain material. For bathroom floors, consider hard-wearing and non-slip tiles to prevent accidents.

Backsplashes and accent walls, on the other hand, allow for more decorative choices since they don't endure as much wear and tear. Consider using glass, mosaic, or marble tiles to add a touch of elegance and personal style to these areas.

Tip 2) Consider matching the material to your needs

With various tile materials available, consider matching one that meets your specific needs. To create a luxurious and timeless bathroom design, natural stone tiles, such as marble, limestone, and travertine, offer both classic and unique patterns and textures. However, they require more maintenance, including sealing, to protect against stains and moisture.

To enhance natural light and make small bathrooms appear larger, glass tiles are non-porous and easy to clean; however, they can be slippery, so they’re not recommended for flooring.

For a tile material that meets every need, porcelain is the ideal choice for both traditional and modern bathroom styles. Even if you prefer the look of other materials, such as classic marble or natural stone, porcelain can replicate these timeless looks, whilst maintaining their highly durable and easy maintenance qualities. These include ranges such as marble effect, wood effect, and stone effect tiles – perfect for a bathroom.

Compare porcelain tile effects, such as marble effect, against other flooring with our expert guide here.

Tip 3) Focus on safety and slip resistance

Bathrooms can be slippery, especially when wet, so choosing tiles that provide good traction is crucial. Ensuring your bathroom tiles are safe and slip-resistant can prevent accidents, particularly in family-sized rooms.

Consider bathroom tiles with a textured surface or matt finish, particularly for the floor, to enhance grip and reduce the risk of slipping.

Tip 4) Complement your bathroom features

One major consideration is your overall bathroom design. Your bathroom tiles should harmonise with your design and existing features to create a cohesive look. Or, perhaps, create a contrasting design to make certain bathroom facilities an accent feature. Popular modern bathroom facilities include a freestanding bath, wet room, and vanity area.

Consider the size and shape of the tiles as well. Large tiles can make a small bathroom appear more spacious, while smaller tiles can add intricate detail. Mix and match different shapes and sizes to create visual interest, why not explore your creative side with mosaic bathroom tiles. Add decorative borders in areas, such as the shower wall, with glass or our Mother of Pearl collection.

Tip 5) Think about future trends and resale value

While it’s important to infuse your personal style into your bathroom design, it’s also wise to consider future trends and the potential resale value of your home. Choosing timeless designs, such as the popular chequerboard or herringbone layouts, that will appeal to future buyers and stay stylish over time can be a smart investment.

Investing in high-quality tile materials not only enhances the look and feel of your bathroom but also increases the overall value of your home. Consider durable materials, like porcelain tiles, particularly for bathroom flooring. Incorporate modern accents sparingly, such as a feature wall or decorative border, to add a contemporary touch without overwhelming the space.

Tip 6) Use a design service

Choosing a material may make or break a bathroom design project. Navigating the various tiling choices for a bathroom can be challenging. In these instances, a bespoke design service can be highly beneficial, providing expert advice on the best tile materials and styles for your specific needs and preferences. This design service helps bring your ideas to life and aids in creating a cohesive bathroom design with tiles that complement your space.

Fired Earth’s bespoke design service offers insights into the latest trends, and innovations in bathroom tiles, ensuring your space is both functional and modern. With a combination of mood boards and 3D visualisations, we can envisage different tile materials to find the most suitable, offering ideas you may not have thought of before.

Book your design appointment here, or contact the Fired Earth team for more information.

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