Quickly find all the answers you need for your tile project, right here, at TILE junket.
Tracy, showroom Interior Designer shares with you Frequently Asked Questions our customers ask. Save time and be prepared for your tile project.
Q. What tiles can I use outside?
A. You can use any tile outside as long as it is very durable. When looking for an outdoor tile, be sure to check the hardness and porosity, you want a hard tile with a high rating and a low absorbency rate. The best types of tiles to use are terra cotta tiles, slate tiles, porcelain, and some natural stones. Check with your tiler, some of these tiles will have to be sealed.
Above: A popular choice for outdoor tiling is bluestone, image via Pinterest
Q. What is the difference between outside and inside tiles?
A. Tiles that can be used outside, can withstand harsh weather conditions so they are stronger than tiles that can only be used indoors. Also, most outdoor tiles aren’t glossy. A glossy tile will be slippery when wet, it is for that reason glossy tiles aren’t used outdoors.
Q. I see that sample tile is chipped; will it chip once we lay it?
A. Not at all – tiles on their own are a little vulnerable and are tossed around making it easier for them to chip or scratch. Once the tiles are correctly installed and grouted they will not be vulnerable, as long as no corners are exposed.
Above: Tiles available at TILE junket, image via Pinterest
Q. Which are bathroom tiles?
A. You can use ANY tile in your bathroom, just check with us because most tiles will need to be sealed in a wet area.
Q. What is better, ceramic or porcelain? What is the difference?
A. A porcelain tile is generally better than ceramic because it is more durable, not to say that ceramic tiles aren’t just as good. Porcelain tiles are known to be used in commercial spaces because they can withstand the high traffic. On the other hand, ceramic tiles are cheaper and require low maintenance, porcelain tiles tend to be pricier and may require special maintenance. Beware of cheap porcelain tiles though, these normally have porosity issues and will cost you more money in the long run anyway.
Q. What tiles can I use in a wet area?
A. You can use most tiles in a wet area. We suggest considering the slip resistance and water absorption rating on a tile if using it in your bathroom or kitchen though.
Above: Darren & Dee’s bathroom The Block, image via Pinterest
Q. Do my tiles need to be sealed?
A. Most natural stones and some porcelain tiles need sealing. Check with us or your tiler if you are unsure.
Q. Do I need to order extra tiles when placing my tile order?
A. It is suggested to order “wastage”. If you have a project that requires many cuts you may need those extra tiles. Also in the laying process tiles could be damaged and need replacing.
Q. Can tiles be used around a fireplace?
A. Yes. Tiles are heat-resistant. They can be used around a fireplace but be sure to use heat-resistant adhesive and binding materials as well.
Above: Patterned tiles on a fire surround can be a fabulous feature and addition to a room, image via Pinterest
Q. What types of tiles are best for the floor?
A. You want to use a very durable tile for the floor. Because your floor sees more wear than your walls, strength is important, especially in heavy traffic areas of your home.
Above: Concrete look tiles are on trend, image via Pinterest
Q. What types of tiles are best for the wall?
A. A wall tile doesn’t need to be as strong as a floor tile, therefore you can use anything.
Above: Subway tiles are a popular choice for walls, image via Pinterest
Q. Can I use a glass tile on the floor?
A. Yes & no. Not all glass tiles are suitable for all surfaces like floors and exteriors. We suggest using glass tiles in small amounts on the floor. Try it on the floor as an area border or an area rug border or center, accent dot or stripe, or on a shower floor.
Q. Will this tile be too slippery on the floor?
A. If the tile is a gloss finish tile, chances are it will be slippery. If you use a smaller tile the grout joins may help prevent some slipperiness. It is suggested to not use in an extremely wet area and not to wear socks on these areas.
If you have any tile questions you need answered, share them with us and we’ll be happy to answer and set you in the right direction.
By Tracy Caporusso
TILE junket showcases the best tiles available in Australia from around the globe, right here in Geelong. Book your complimentary CONCEPT CONSULT today with our Design Team for the best possible result for your tile project.
