Call for Your Quote

What Are The Causes of Cracks in Bathroom Tiles?

Cracked Bathroom Tiles
What Are The Causes of Cracks in Bathroom Tiles?

When properly installed, tiles provide a solid, long-lasting, and functional option for floors and walls throughout the home. However, this does not imply that they have no troubles whatsoever. For many homeowners, cracked bathroom tiles are a source of regret. In addition to detracting from the bathroom’s visual appeal, the cracks are a cause for concern that should be addressed promptly. Rather than just applying a filler to the cracks, it is essential to determine the cause of the cracks to determine if they indicate a much larger issue.

In this article, we will be going over the different causes of cracks in bathroom tiles so you can avoid any further damage in your home’s interior.

Why do bathroom tiles crack?

Cracked tiles on floors and walls are a concern since it can be challenging to determine where the crack originated. In the vast majority of situations, the crack was not caused by a substandard tile but rather by anomalies beneath or around the tile. Typically, cracked tiles result from underlying concerns, most notably improper installation. However, it could also result from drastic temperature changes, fissures in the substrate or surface the tile is put on, carrying too much weight, or even the simple act of dropping a heavy object on them.

To better comprehend how to repair broken tiles, you must determine the problem and proceed accordingly. Here are some further details on some of the most prevalent causes of cracked tiles in the home:

  1. Improper spacing between floor joists

Joists are large beams under your subfloor that hold up everything above it. They keep everything anchored in place. Having huge gaps between two joints allows the plywood to flex too much. A flexing surface under a rock-solid surface creates a gap. When the pressure hits on top of that gap, it will cause it to snap or shatter. This eventually leads to instability of the structure that causes the tiles above to crack. Adding more underlayment structures also help with restricting the flex to prevent the tiles from cracking.

  1. Issues with concrete substrate

The condition of the concrete subfloor also influences the tiles. Here are two types of issues that homeowners may have with their concrete substrate that might lead to broken bathroom tiles:

  • Cracked concrete

If there is concrete beneath your tile and you see a long fissure that runs through numerous pieces, there is likely a crack underneath. Concrete flooring frequently develops cracks over time. Despite this issue, concrete is still considered the most excellent substrate for tiles. When the concrete breaks, it shifts, and the adhesive used to install the tile requires it to shift. The tile responds to the concrete’s cracking by cracking as well.

Observing the formation of cracks is the most effective method for determining whether a fractured substrate caused the tiles to crack. Long cracks running over numerous tiles are indicative of a damaged concrete subfloor. Before replacing the tiles, the ideal solution to this problem is to install a crack isolation membrane. This membrane separates the movement of the tiles from the concrete base in order to prevent the formation of reflecting fissures.

  • Uncured concrete

When new concrete is poured over a structure, it undergoes a process known as “curing.” When laying concrete, it’s best to let it cure or harden for a month or more. During this period, the material loses moisture and shrinks. Otherwise, the concrete will deform as a result of the evaporation of the concrete’s water. The curing of concrete is a dynamic process that helps the particles in the mixture adhere closely together; putting the tiles before the concrete has thoroughly dried stresses the flooring and causes it to develop minute fissures.

  1. Direct impact

If the damage is confined to a specific area (or perhaps a single tile), it was likely caused by the impact of a heavy object. Consider the last time you could have dropped anything significant. Was the object you moved through the entryway a piece of furniture, a skateboard, or a basketball? Did you drop a frying pan when you were attempting to wash it? These things may initially reveal only a minor dent, but the damage might increase over time if the area is subjected to persistent pressure, such as foot traffic. The best course of action in this situation is to immediately repair the shattered tile without affecting the bathroom’s waterproofing system.

The presence of a large load in one area of the bathroom is still another possible explanation. Tile makers must adhere to the ASTM C648 Breaking Strength requirements. This indicates that the ceramic tiles must endure around 115 kilograms of force. Certain specialised tiles have breaking points as high as 180 kilograms. 

  1. Movement within the structure

Excessive building movement brought on by flaws with the blueprint, foundation failure, and ground movement can cause tiles in a home to compress and break under pressure. These cracks can be distinguished from those induced by a direct impact by their tendency to extend across multiple tiles and the absence of surface chips. As soon as these cracks are discovered, they must be repaired, and a waterproofing professional must inspect the bathroom to ensure that the waterproofing system is still effective.

  1. Control joint installation

The majority of homeowners assume that the tile itself causes cracked tiling. However, any flooring repair specialist may tell you that the tile flooring you are walking on is only one layer of a flooring sandwich. On concrete slabs, control joints are installed to prevent the development of cracks. They are used to alleviate tension and movement caused by concrete or masonry shrinkage or expansion. 

Due to this, your contractor should never install tiles on a surface they know will eventually crack. These fissures are strategically placed in the flooring to create weak spots on purpose. However, it is not prudent to place tiles over a concrete slab with control joints. There is a high likelihood that the concrete slab may influence the control joint, resulting in cracked tiles.

  1. Using the wrong type of adhesive

To prevent the formation of cracks, it is also vital to use the proper tile adhesive. If the incorrect adhesive is applied, the tiles will not adhere to the subfloors. Without sufficient support, the tile becomes more susceptible to developing big cracks.

  1. Changes with the weather or temperature

Temperature fluctuations within your home may be modest and should have little effect on the structural integrity of your tiles.  Extreme temperature changes, however, can render tiles more prone to breaking if they are not designed for outdoor use and do not have frost-resistant qualities.

  1. Low-quality tiles were used

Not all tiles are created equal, and certain varieties are unsuitable for particular uses. Since the tiles are the only visible components of the laid floors, most homeowners feel the tiles are at fault. Even while this is typically not the case, it is possible that the contractor installed low-quality tiles in the bathroom. Check the specifications of the tiles before purchasing them in bulk to avoid this error. Purchase tiling from reputable retailers, home improvement stores, and authorised online retailers.

Why should cracked tiles concern you

When bathroom tile cracks are discovered, they must be repaired or replaced immediately to prevent further damage. To preserve the structural integrity of the building, it is necessary to determine the source of the problem in order to prevent further cracking and repair any water damage produced by the cracked tile. Cracked tiles in a bathroom are typically problematic due to the fact that water can leak into the cracks, shorten the lifespan of the waterproofing system, and eventually enter the flooring. The water penetrates the floor and bathtub tiles, compromising your house’s foundation.

There are certainly moisture issues in areas of the home where water should not exist. Therefore, water accessing the subfloor causes the various supporting wood products to rot, impairs the foundation’s structural integrity, and can weaken the concrete subfloor. Moulds, mildew, and other dangerous organisms may also seek sanctuary in cracked tiles through which water has already seeped. This causes homeowners to treat their homes for mould, incurring extra expenses that could have been avoided with prompt tile repair or replacement.

Bottom line

Cracks on the walls, floors, and bathtub are never a good indication. We all want our bathrooms to be pleasant and secure. Whether the broken bathroom tiles are the result of improper installation or inferior materials, they must be repaired the moment you notice the cracks to prevent further damage. Now that you have a more excellent grasp of how and why tiles crack, it is time to consider how to fix them. In most cases, tile fractures may be repaired without requiring a complete remodel. In fact, you can use an epoxy filler to repair small hairline cracks in tile surfaces. For larger, more apparent cracks, you may require professional assistance. With early intervention, the combined services of a waterproofing professional can help decrease or even eliminate the risk of water damage to your home, enhance the attractiveness of your bathroom, and increase your property’s market value.
If you are in need of trustworthy bathroom tile installers in Perth, then GIB tiling is the team you have been looking for! Our considerable expertise and experience in all aspects of tiling enable us to provide a vast array of high-quality services. Whether it’s your bathrooms, kitchen, walls, or floors, indoors or outdoors, we can complete any project on time. When you entrust GIB Tiling with your tiling needs, you will discover that the opportunities for innovative tiling and innovation are limitless.

Why Are Large Format Tiles Necessary for Your Home?

Large Format Tiles Installation
Large Format Tiles Installation

Large format tiles are the way to go when you want a little modern drama while maintaining a clean and streamlined design. They are no longer exclusive to commercial use. They are also becoming popular in residential applications. Due to their expansive size and minimum grout lines, they create a sleek appearance and a sense of space, adding unexpected flair to your house. Due to their exceptional adaptability, large format tiles may be installed in every area of the house, replacing carpeting, wallpaper, wood floors, and existing tile.

In this article, we will be going over why large format tiles are necessary for your home so you can create an aesthetically pleasing interior without the need for expensive renovations!

What exactly are large format tiles?

Large format tiles have a modern, clean, and sleek appearance, but they can also complement the older interior design motifs of traditional homes. They are wall or floor tiles that are larger than the standard 12-by-12-inch size, with each tile able to cover a relatively considerable area, and are often referred to as “slabs.” They are offered in numerous materials, including natural stone, glass, and porcelain. Large format floor tiles are frequently found in supermarkets, hotel lobbies, and even on the exterior of other commercial spaces. Due to technological advancements in digital printing, porcelain tiles can be printed to resemble genuine stone, concrete, metal, wood, and even cloth.

When should I use large format tiles?

Large format tiles are the greatest asset of a shower. One or two large tiles can be used to construct a shower wall, and one large tile with a drain hole cut into it can serve as the shower floor. In reality, even smaller bathrooms can benefit from large format wall and floor tiles. In some homes, large format tiles have replaced smaller tiles as the backsplash behind the sink.

Large format tiles are a fantastic choice for the flooring surrounding bathroom fixtures. Consequently, they make excellent laundry room floors. These tiles have fewer joints that might absorb water, gather dirt, and foster mould growth. The kitchen could very well be the most popular location for installing large format tiles. 

Additionally, they contrast nicely with the appliances, cabinets, and countertops. Large format tiles can also improve a spacious room or an entire floor with an open layout. Smaller tiles with numerous grout lines can overwhelm an area, especially if their patterns are detailed. The sleek, unbroken appearance of most large format tiles can give a room a “dramatic” impression or gravitas. It works nicely in larger rooms or rooms that you want to appear larger than they are.

What are the benefits that come with using large format tiles?

  1. Barely noticeable grout lines

Reduced grout space is arguably the most essential design factor of large format tiles. As a result of the tile’s more excellent coverage, it requires less grout space between the tiles, making it much simpler to achieve a clean, cohesive appearance in the design. The design renders grout lines nearly invisible and creates a wallpaper impression. Large format tiles can serve as an alternative to paint or wallpaper on walls. Also, there is no need to repaint or worry about wallpaper stains in the future.

  1. Aesthetically appealing

Large format tiles offer a variety of aesthetic benefits for interior design. Their spacious and streamlined design provides your home with a more contemporary appearance. They produce an aesthetically pleasing broad surface with an enhanced modern edge. Larger tiles provide fewer grout lines, creating an aesthetically pleasing and smooth surface. Large format floor tiles make nearly every area appear more open and spacious. Longer rectangular tiles will provide the sense of additional space in a room by drawing the eye to the furthest corners.

Despite the fact that it is merely an illusion, the psychological effect can be powerful. The advantages of a large format tile arrangement are especially perceptible in small spaces, such as bathrooms or efficiency apartments, where people frequently feel claustrophobic. Large format tiles can accentuate a spacious area or an open layout. However, smaller tiles with numerous grout lines can overload an otherwise clear space.

  1. Minimal maintenance and effortless cleaning

Large, continuous floors are easier to clean than those with extensive grout lines. In addition, with a large format tile plan, there is less need to scrub the grout, which is notorious for collecting dirt, filth, and germs. Large format floor tiles are almost identical in composition to smaller tiles. Therefore, it is best to adhere to the cleaning instructions for the specific design of your tiles.

Be sure to scrub grout lines periodically because they collect dirt. While the lines between large format tiles are so few, it is not nearly as laborious as cleaning floors with a great deal of exposed grout. Regardless of where it is installed, large format tiles offer the most straightforward maintenance regimen to maintain tiles clean and avoid future damage.

  1. Affordable pricing and installation

Large format tiles can often be purchased and installed for less money. When fewer individual tiles are required to cover a more oversized floor or wall area, materials that mimic genuine stone can be less expensive. Keep in mind, however, that it takes an experienced professional with the best equipment to measure tile exactly enough to avoid wasting material.

Tiles, grout, mortar, and other installation materials are utilised in an efficient installation. And in terms of labour, employees may spend slightly less time installing single tiles with a more significant surface area. But only if they have experience handling them with the appropriate tools.

Due to cutting, alignment, grouting, and the requirement to ensure all tiles are level, installing smaller tiles are more labour-intensive. Since there are fewer grout lines, installing large-format tiles may require less time and effort. Consider the size and weight of large-format tiles as well as the paid time required to transport and handle them. Again, if you’re not a professional, the hard labour and any resulting breakage could erase any savings.

  1. Versatility with tile customization

Does your renovation project require tile pieces with specific dimensions or shapes? This is how they install floors with angled edges, around bathroom fixtures, and in other locations with uneven dimensions. Large format tiles can be sliced into any shape or size due to their size, making them flexible pieces. Large format tile can be fashioned into round or square tabletops, kitchen islands, feature walls for artwork, kitchen countertops, and more.

Large tiles can also be cut into unique shapes for the floor, allowing for an alternative tile layout pattern that would be impossible with standard-sized tiles. Large format tiles have a clear advantage over smaller ones: often, just one large tile must be cut instead of several smaller ones. This reduces the necessity of aligning the borders of multiple-cut tiles. That is, of course, assuming the cuts are made with excellent precision by a trained individual using the appropriate tile saws or manual cutters.

  1. Large format porcelain tiles can be ultralight and long-lasting.

Did you know that porcelain is a common material for large format tiles? This is due to the production procedure. Since it is stamped or pressed before being smelted in fire, its composition is denser than that of other tiles. Therefore, porcelain is highly resilient and can be created in bigger sizes, making it a prefered large format floor tile. 

Despite its increased density and larger size, porcelain tile is far lighter than, for instance, genuine stone slabs. These are some persuasive arguments for the widespread adoption of porcelain tiles with a large format. They can be found in both residential and business settings.

  1. Taking your tiling projects outside of the bathroom and kitchen

It is crucial to realise that tiles are not only utilised in your bathroom and kitchen; more and more homeowners are incorporating them into their reception areas, hallways, living rooms, and even bedrooms. Large format tiles are the best option for tiling a large area of your home and are also suitable for people who wish to seamlessly transfer their indoor tiles into outdoor rooms. 

Large format tiles are a popular choice for people who want to put tiles across a house because of their capacity to make minor areas appear more substantial. Outdoor tiles can expand your living space into the garden and match your home decor. Whenever possible, ensure that the designs of your interior and external tiles correspond.

How to maximise the potential of your large format tiles

Large format tiles give a lively aesthetic and look best in wide spacious areas. It is ideal for matching the grout colour to the tile when laying new tiles. Due to the trim colour contrast, doing so will help expand the area and visually provide a sense of openness. If you want to add a bit of distinction to your home, choose a grout that is a slight shade darker or lighter than the tile itself. This will still give your room a vast appearance, with some colour contrast.

If you stretch the floor tiles up the walls, you may also utilise large format tiles effectively in smaller rooms. This gives the room a cohesive appearance and creates the illusion that it is much longer. Additionally, to maximise a small space, paint the walls a colour that nearly matches the tiles. This will produce a seamless appearance throughout the room. Remember that the lighter the tile and paint colours you choose, the larger the space will appear. When standard rectangular or square tiles do not fit your space, you can create a unique tile design by having the tiles cut into custom shapes, such as triangles, to accommodate your space. 

Bottom line

When selecting tiles for your home, you must consider all the aspects we discussed. Taking the time to prepare and consult with interior design professionals will allow you to install tiles with a uniform appearance throughout your home.

If you are in search of trustworthy tilers in Perth, then GIB Tiling is the team you’ve been looking for! Our dedicated team of tilers is highly experienced and is committed and passionate about bringing innovative ideas to render the services. Our unbeatable rates make us the most popular choice for tile laying Perth residents vouch for.

Top Things to Avoid When Hiring a Tile Contractor

Top Things to Avoid Hiring a Tile Contractor
Top Things to Avoid Hiring a Tile Contractor

When choosing a tile contractor, you expect the job to be completed the right way from the get-go. Sadly, you do not always have the ability to view the contractor’s previous work to determine if you should avoid their services. There are countless stories about everyday people being scammed out of their money by phoney contractors or coming home to a broken floor. Before you make a hiring mistake and ruin your home’s interior, take a step back and be mindful of the necessary precautions. 

In this article, we will be going through the top things to avoid when hiring a tile contractor to avoid paying strangers to destroy your house. 

  1. Do not assume that your contractor is licensed and insured

The absence of adequate credentials is one of the biggest red flags for any contractor. Checking that your contractor is licensed to perform the work you’re engaging them for should be at the top of your to-do list. Always verify that your prospective installation has a valid licence or insurance. Verify if the prospective company has general liability insurance. This insurance protects your home against damage or negligence caused by the contractor, his staff, or subcontractors. You would be well-advised to request a copy of their insurance certificate. 

Check the expiration date carefully. It is prudent to contact the issuing company to confirm if their insurance is in effect. Ensure that they have workers’ compensation coverage. It shields you from liability in the event that a worker is hurt on your property. Be aware that if the contractor lacks workers’ compensation coverage, you will be responsible for any injuries sustained by the contractor or his employees on your property.

  1. Do not hire a contractor without doing a background check

Consider the following scenario: a professional recommends a person with superb installation services, and you employ him blindly. However, it turns out that the professional is really a subpar handyman. This error occurs when background research on the available sources is not conducted. A picture is worth a thousand words, so request high-quality photographs of completed projects. Sift through the portfolio, and you will be capable of distinguishing between the work of a below-average and a high-class installer.

There should be uniform tile spacing and completely straight grout lines. Check that the arrangement is balanced and that any cut tiles are the same size, even if they are located on opposing sides of the room. Consider the windows, doorways, and corners. These are the most difficult areas to work around and should indicate the tile installer’s skill level. Leave if you observe wide gaps, excessive grout, or tiles that do not fit properly.

Even if you receive referrals, you should enquire about their skills, years of experience, credentials, and previous client projects.

  1. Do not consider low prices as a good deal

If you submit your job to multiple contractors for bids, you will likely receive a range of responses. However, if one looks too good (and low) to be accurate, this is most likely a major red flag. This lower rate for you may be the result of cost-cutting elsewhere. Perhaps they aren’t employing the most excellent quality materials, aren’t keeping up with the newest innovations, or, worst of all, aren’t carrying workers’ compensation and other insurance. 

Consequently, they may vanish if a problem arises on the job site. Moreover, what may appear to be a reasonable fee at the beginning of a project might quickly escalate as the work progresses. Choosing the cheapest rate can have substantial negative repercussions in the future, so be sure to weigh all of your options and ask the contractors you’re considering working with what went into their bids. 

  1. Do not start your operation without a contract

Once you’ve discovered a tile installer who fulfils your requirements, request a written warranty. Do not begin employment without a contract. The document should cover the project’s scope, the cost of supplies and labour, the timeline, and payment terms. A competent installer has no qualms about guaranteeing their work. 

You wouldn’t trust a product if it came without a warranty, would you? Never accept a verbal confirmation because talk is cheap, but repairing the job of a sloppy contractor is not. Always insist on getting a written warranty if anything were to go wrong. The contract should specify precisely what is covered and what is not, as well as its duration. A minimum one-year warranty should be part of your agreement with your contractor.

  1. Do not ignore internet reviews

In most circumstances, online reviews will provide insightful information about the contractors you are considering hiring for your tiling job. In general, the more reviews, the better. They have an extensive history of experience, provided most of their clients are satisfied, and their clientele is willing to endorse them. As you investigate a potential installation, keep an ear to the ground. 

Request testimonials, references, and online evaluations on Facebook or Yelp. Please pay close attention to reviews that contain images so you can verify their work. Follow up with citations. Before hiring them, you should also Google their business name to see what information you can find. Better yet, if you have friends or neighbours who have recently completed a renovation, ask them to recommend their contractor. Typically, word-of-mouth recommendations are among the best.

  1. Do not tolerate tardiness

The contractor’s level of passion, devotion, and professionalism will be reflected in their punctuality to scheduled meetings. If they are unable to show up on time for an appointment to discuss your project before you’ve chosen to hire them, you can only picture what it will be like if you decide to hire them. This could result in schedule delays, expense overruns, a lack of response to your inquiries or concerns, and possibly an unfinished project. If a contractor cannot manage their own time to attend meetings, it is likely that they will not be able to manage your project’s timeline effectively.

  1. Do not forget to meet the contractors in-person

It is a terrible idea to employ the installation over the phone without first meeting them in person and conversing with them. Even if it involves bathroom tiles and seems trivial to the majority of people, it must be executed flawlessly, and only a professional may do so. Therefore, we recommend having an in-person meeting with the tile installation crew. 

  1. Do not put up with unproductive communication 

Effective communication before, during, and after a remodelling project significantly affects its success. You want to know immediately that the contractor is receptive to your requirements and concerns, quick to respond, and easily accessible. These are the types of topics you should be discussing with your contractor:

  • A detailed and well-thought-out project plan
  • Describe how they will keep you informed throughout the entirety of your remodel.
  • A plan detailing who will work on your property and when, including subcontractors
  • A means of discussing any cost adjustments
  • A point of contact to whom one can direct any concerns
  • Ways to implement your design recommendations and provide best practices

Suppose you work with someone who never returns your calls or answers their phone. Warning indicators include a lack of consideration for your input, an inability to provide a precise project timetable, a delay of several days in responding, or the provision of few or no design recommendations.

  1.  Do not devalue the benefits of hiring a professional

Now that we have gone over the factors of when to avoid hiring a tile contractor, it is only right to show you the downsides of not hiring a tile contractor in the first place. It may be tempting to save money by delegating the task to a creative family member or conducting a do-it-yourself tile installation project. However, we must warn you that it will cause a severe headache. Therefore, avoid any do-it-yourself tile installation methods and engage a professional instead. 

Avoid a tiling disaster by calling in the experts. You can locate an exceptional tile installer who will execute your project with grace with some deliberation.

If you are interested in hiring the best tilers in Perth, then feel free to visit our website! GIB TILING is a family-owned Tiling Company in Perth. We are a team of professional tradesmen and offer only the highest quality artistry for your floor and bathroom tiling in the Perth metro areas. GIB TILING is one of Perth’s most experienced and reputable tiling companies. We have proved this with our award-winning service. We boast a dynamically young & old, skilled and well-experienced workforce that can respond to any domestic or commercial tiling challenge.

How to find a qualified tiling contractor?

Tile Contractor in Perth
Tile Contractor in Perth

A tiling contractor can add beauty and style to your home or office. When choosing a contractor, you need to be careful because not all tillers are created equal. 

Here are some tips on how to find a qualified contractor who will provide you with the best possible tiling services

  1. Do your research

How to find a qualified tile installer? The first step is to do your research and ask around for recommendations. Start by asking family, friends or neighbours if they can recommend a good tiling contractor. If you can’t get any personal recommendations, then look online and read reviews from past customers. This will give you an idea of which contractors are reputable and which ones to avoid.

  1. Get multiple quotes

Once you have a list of potential contractors, the next step is to get multiple quotes. This will allow you to compare prices and services so that you can make the best decision for your needs and budget. Make sure to get at least three different quotes before making your final decision.

  1. Ask about experience and qualifications

How to hire a tile contractor? When meeting with potential contractors, be sure to ask about their experience and qualifications. You want to make sure that you are hiring a qualified professional who has the experience and skills necessary to do a good job. 

How to find a qualified tiling contractor
  1. Get everything in writing

Before work begins, be sure to get everything in writing. This includes the price, timeline, materials to be used, etc. This will help to avoid any misunderstandings or problems down the road.

  1. Do a final walk-through

Once the job is complete, do a final walk-through with the contractor to make sure you are happy with the results.

The benefits of working with a qualified tiling contractor

There are many benefits of working with a qualified tiling contractor. One of the main benefits is that they have the experience and knowledge to get the job done right the first time. They also have the proper tools and equipment to get the job done quickly and efficiently.

Another benefit of working with a qualified tiling contractor is that they can help you select the right type of tile for your project. They will also be able to give you tips on how to properly care for your tile once it is installed.

Working with a qualified tiling contractor is a great way to ensure that your tile project is completed on time and within budget. It is also a great way to get the high-quality results that you are looking for.

What to do if things go wrong

There are a few things you can do if you’re not happy with the work a tiling contractor has done.

The first thing you should do is talk to the contractor and try to work out a solution. It’s possible that the contractor didn’t understand your expectations or made a mistake that can be easily fixed.

If you’re still not happy with the work, you can file a complaint with the contractor’s licensing board. This is usually only an option if the work was done improperly and it’s not something that can be easily fixed.

You can also take the contractor to small claims court. This is a good option if the damage is significant and you can’t come to an agreement with the contractor.

Current Top Trends in Bathroom Tiles

Current Top Trends in Bathroom Tiles 2
Current Top Trends in Bathroom Tiles 2

No longer is it easy to choose tiles for a bathroom remodelling project. There are so many different styles, shapes, colours, and textures that it can be hard to choose. 

A few years ago, people used tiles because they were suitable for their function (water resistance, durability, low maintenance). Now, how they look is just as important as how they work. Because of this, manufacturers have made more styles available so that homeowners can choose something unique. 

With the help of experts, we have come up with some of the top bathroom tile trends for you.

Graphic patterns

It’s a great accent tile for any room, whether on the wall or floor. The intricate patterns on these tiles will draw you in and win your heart, whether the colours are soft and muted or bright and bold. 

Patterned tiles will keep getting more popular. From subway tiles to ceramic, graphic pattern tiles can be found anywhere, including your bathroom. This style gives homeowners a lot of room to be creative, or they can hire a designer to do it for them. 

Most people who want patterned tiles choose ceramic tiles, but porcelain designs are starting to come out with the same thing. Now, tiles will come in a wide range of bright colours and prints.

Matte finishes 

Matte finish tiles are still trendy. They have a soft but firm style of beauty that doesn’t get too much. Matte tiles don’t show blotches and water traces as quickly as shiny tiles. This makes them perfect for the bathroom floor, particularly in bathrooms with a lot of foot traffic. 

Because they have a low sheen, they are easier to care for. When you put in matte finish tiles, make sure there will be enough natural and artificial light because these tiles don’t reflect light.

The bathroom looks more dramatic when the tiles have a glossy finish. They tend to make things look and feel elegant and well-polished. This is why they still have a lot of fans. 

They work incredibly well in small bathrooms because they reflect a lot of light and make the room look bigger than it is. But because they are harder to clean and could cause you to fall, glossy tiles are often only used on walls or areas of the bathroom floor that don’t get a lot of use.

Go for these tiles if you want elegance that doesn’t shout out its sophistication. They are also fantastic for giving your bathroom a natural look. But if you want something a little more dramatic and eye-catching, glossy finish tiles are the way to go.

Neutral tiles

Neutral colours are used a lot in modern designs, and this will still be true for a long time. Bright colours like blue, red, and yellow aren’t usually found in bathrooms.

Instead, people are falling in love with neutral colours, especially ones that aren’t too bright, like grey and cream. Beige and grey have become very popular as neutral colours that go well together. So much so that a new colour has been given a name and is now available in products. So keep an eye out for the word “Greige.”

Current Top Trends in Bathroom Tiles

You can get ideas for your project by looking at our design ideas. White is a great choice when a bathroom needs a little more light. The bathroom is made to be a place to relax, and these colours add to that feeling. 

Being neutral lets the mind stay calm and relax, making the home feel like a sanctuary. These colours can be used for everything from the floor to the ceiling. 

Subway tiles

Some people might think that subway tiles are dull. Those white rectangles that are 3 inches by 6 inches are often used. But newer subway tiles won’t be the same size or pattern as now. 

In particular, these tiles will come in more colours, bigger sizes, and different patterns than usual. These types are getting broader and longer, and now they can be as big as 8 by 20 inches. 

When you add a different colour grout to the mix, you can significantly change it from the usual all-white look. You can also put tiles of different colours in vertical and lateral bands or use tiles with different patterns to make a beautiful composite image for your bathroom wall.

Homeowners are even starting to mix and match tiles with different patterns or styles to get that distinctive bathroom look we all want. Since subway tiles can be put together in so many different ways, there are no limits to what you can do.

Dimensional tiles

Tile makers aren’t just making more tiles with different colours and patterns; they are also making tiles with different shapes. The most popular shapes for bathroom tiles will range from the traditional rectangle to many other geometric shapes. 

The hexagon is a shape that has become popular again in recent years. Hexagonal tiles of all sizes, colours, and textures are making a comeback in the bathroom, especially on shower floors, where they give a room a unique look.

To take it a step further, use different coloured tiles to make unique patterns and repeat them all over the space. 

When used in smaller rooms, they make the room seem bigger, especially when they are paired with neutral colours. In large bathrooms, they look great in areas like the spa zone or the makeup station.

Planks of wood

Wood planks are just starting to make a name for themselves in the market. Sizes of tiles that aren’t the norm are becoming more and more popular. Most are getting bigger, but you can change the size to fit your needs with planking. 

Most widths are 6 inches, but lengths range from 12 inches to 48 inches. So you can make intricate patterns like herringbone. Realistic wood-grained tiles like oak, maple, and cherry are the most common, but many other ways make them look old, worn, or whitewashed. 

Porcelain wood-grain tiles are great for the bathroom because they are easier to clean and resist water and stains without sacrificing style. The wood grain tiles add to the natural feel that is important in a bathroom. For a more exciting look, you could mix wood grains with natural stone planks or other materials like concrete. This gives your floor a style that you didn’t expect but like.