A buyer’s guide to popular bathroom wall tile materials

Wall tiles are key to bathroom design, offering not just protection from moisture but also an aesthetic that can transform any space. When selecting bathroom wall tiles, certain factors must be considered.

Suitability is all important when it comes to bathroom tiles. You need tiles designed for a wet environment and it is imperative you check the tiles you like are slip-resistant. It’s particularly important to ensure you have the right tiles for the job when it comes to wet rooms, shower walls, and even a bathroom floor, as the tile material should be able to repel water and prevent slips. Consider tiles that work well with the bathroom's layout, as well as the overall colour and design scheme of your home.

In this guide, we will walk you through the advantages and disadvantages of each popular tile material for a bathroom wall to help you make an informed decision.

Should you use porcelain tiles for a bathroom wall?

Porcelain tiles are renowned for their strength and versatility, making them an ideal choice for bathroom walls.

For more information, read our buyer's guide on choosing the best porcelain wall tiles here.

Why porcelain for bathroom walls?

Known for their hardwearing properties, porcelain tiles are often used to create stand-out areas in a bathroom, such as a shower or accent walls. Benefits of using porcelain for a bathroom wall include:

• Ease of Installation: With the right tools, porcelain wall tiles can be easily set into place, making them long-lasting and simple to upkeep. Read our guide on maintenance and cleaning tips for porcelain tiles here.

• Durability: Porcelain is less porous than ceramic, making it suitable for wet environments. Up to the challenge of daily wear and tear, porcelain tiles are ideal for behind a splashback and can withstand scratches, spills and stains.

• Variety of Effects: Porcelain tiles can mimic natural materials, offering greater durability in damp environments. Popular tile choices for bathrooms include marble effect and stone effect, replicating these classic looks and making them more suitable. Read our guide on bathroom wall tile effects here.

However, porcelain tiles can be more expensive, attributed to the meticulous craftsmanship and painting involved, ensuring a product that is both high-quality and long-lasting.

Our collaboration with M&S Home includes plain and patterned porcelain tiles, inspired by traditional Indian block-printing. Available in six evocative shades, the Jaipur collection adds both personality and hardwearing elements to any part of the home, from the bathroom to the garden.

Browse through the entire Jaipur porcelain collection here.

Choosing glass tiles for bathroom walls

Glass tiles are ideal for areas like backsplashes or shower walls, which can be functional and provide a focal point. This type of bathroom wall tile resists common bathroom issues, such as stains, mould and mildew, while looking fantastic and trendy.

Why glass for bathroom walls?

Benefits of using glass for bathroom walls include:

• Sustainability: Many glass tiles are made from recycled materials, making them a more sustainable choice compared to other tiles.

• Unique Design: Each tile is distinct, adding to the aesthetic value. From translucent qualities to various colour options, glass tiles' unique designs provide beautiful and contemporary aesthetics, perfect behind sinks and bathtubs.

• Ease of Cleaning: Simple maintenance can be performed with products like Easy Clean Spray to wipe away any water splashes.

However, glass tiles are prone to scratches and require careful installation.

Replicating the look of a marble effect, our Malmo tiles are made of recycled glass and coloured using a state-of-the-art inkjet printing process.

Browse through the entire Malmo collection here.

Should you use marble tiles for bathroom walls?

A variety of natural stone, marble is often used in a bathroom due to its unique veining and ability to enhance light. Marble wall tiles are a luxurious choice and timeless in bathrooms, particularly the use of white marble.

Why marble for bathroom walls?

Benefits of using marble bathroom wall tiles:

• Unique Patterns: Like glass, each marble tile is distinctive and has unique veining patterns making each tile.

• Light Enhancement: The translucence of marble amplifies light, perfect for a small bathroom.

Yet, marble isn’t as durable as some other materials and requires regular maintenance to keep it looking pristine. Consider marble effect tiles when designing a bathroom wall, as they replicate the unique patterns of classic marble, whilst offering long-lasting and durable qualities.

Our Seaspray marble range includes eye-catching mosaics and large tiles suitable for both a bathroom floor and walls. Available in a rich green, these marble tiles help create a unique and aesthetically pleasing space.

Browse the entire Seaspray collection here.

What are the benefits of terracotta tiles for bathroom walls?

Terracotta wall tiles bring a warm, rustic charm to bathrooms, standing out particularly well against neutral tones. These are perfect to be used next to a freestanding bath or as an accent wall.

Why terracotta for bathroom walls?

• Aesthetic Appeal: They offer a timeless and earthy look, perfect for creating rustic and homely feels in a bathroom.

• Durability: Terracotta is robust and long-lasting.

However, these tiles can be difficult to repair and should be professionally installed.

Created by designer Neisha Crosland, this terracotta collection features both architectural and natural element. Suitable for both a bathroom floor and wall, the Neisha Crosland Atlas range features striking patterns ranging from red, indigo and yellow shades.

Browse through the entire Neisha Crosland Atlas range here.

Why choose Fired Earth?

Fired Earth stands out in the tile industry with its bespoke design services, authentic and handmade tiles, and collaborations with renowned designers.

If you are still unsure on which tile material to use, consider utilising a bespoke design service. This service will help visualise your ideas, working with top design experts who will be able to offer their ideas and find the tile material perfect for you. Book your design appointment here.

Get in touch with Fired Earth and explore their services for more information.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to tile a bathroom?

Bathroom tiles come in a range of sizes to fit different spaces and designs. The price to tile a bathroom can vary widely depending on the type of tile and the complexity of the installation.

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