All you need to know about porcelain floor and wall tiles | General FAQs
Thanks to their durability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal, porcelain tiles have become a popular choice for both wall and floor applications. However, navigating the world of porcelain tiles can be overwhelming without the right information. To be confident in your purchase, we have looked at and answered common queries to help you become well-equipped to make an informed choice.
This guide will answer some of the most common questions on porcelain floor and wall tiles, looking at what to consider before buying and the importance of a reliable tile supplier.
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General porcelain wall tiles FAQs
What makes porcelain tiles suitable for walls?
Porcelain wall tiles are an excellent choice for areas with high humidity, such as bathrooms and kitchens, as they are highly resistant to water absorption.
What is the difference between a porcelain and ceramic tile for walls?
Porcelain tiles are denser and less porous than ceramic tiles, making them more suitable for high-moisture areas like bathrooms and kitchens. They are also more durable and resistant to stains.
Can porcelain wall tiles be used in wet areas like bathrooms?
Porcelain tiles are highly water-resistant, making them suitable for wet areas like bathrooms and laundry rooms. The low water absorption rate prevents moisture-related issues such as warping or mould growth. Consider porcelain tiles for shower walls and splashbacks in bathrooms.
Find out more about porcelain wall tiles with our buyer's guide here.
General porcelain floor tiles FAQs
How durable are porcelain floor tiles?
Porcelain floor tiles are renowned for their exceptional durability. They are highly resistant to scratches, stains, and wear, making them an ideal choice for high-traffic areas such as hallways, kitchens, and living rooms. The durable nature of porcelain makes it highly resistant to cracking, ensuring a long-lasting and low-maintenance flooring solution.
Can porcelain floor tiles be used in outdoor spaces?
While porcelain tiles are primarily designed for indoor use, specific outdoor-rated porcelain tiles are available. These tiles are thicker and more robust, designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and temperature fluctuations.
Browse through our entire range of outdoor porcelain tiles here.
Are porcelain floor tiles suitable for underfloor heating?
Porcelain tiles are an excellent choice for underfloor heating systems. Their ability to conduct and retain heat efficiently makes them compatible with various radiant heating methods. Make sure to check the manufacturer's guidelines for installation and that they are suitable for underfloor heating.
Find out more about porcelain floor tiles with our buyer's guide here.
Porcelain tile cost FAQs
Are expensive porcelain tiles worth the investment?
High-quality porcelain tiles may come with a higher price tag, but they can offer superior durability, advanced manufacturing technologies, and unique designs. Consider the long-term benefits, including reduced maintenance costs and an extended lifespan.
Are there cost-effective alternatives to porcelain tiles?
While porcelain tiles offer unparalleled durability, there are budget-friendly alternatives available, such as ceramic tiles. These options may be suitable for areas with lower foot traffic or where the aesthetic demands are not as high.
Although porcelain tiles may be more expensive than other materials, this is reflected in their quality and longevity. Porcelain tiles are known for their high durability, and long-lasting benefits, which make them suitable for all room types.
Porcelain tile colours FAQs
Do the colours of porcelain tiles fade over time?
High-quality porcelain tiles are designed to resist fading, even in areas exposed to direct sunlight. Advanced glazing technologies ensure that the colours remain vibrant and true to their original appearance. To maintain the tile's aesthetic appeal, following proper cleaning and maintenance practices is essential.
Browse our top maintenance and cleaning tips for porcelain tiles here.
Can I mix and match different coloured porcelain tiles in the same space?
Of course! Mixing and matching colours and patterns of porcelain tiles can create unique designs, defining specific areas within a space. It all depends on your preferences and the environment you would like to construct. We recommend maintaining a cohesive theme to avoid a chaotic or overwhelming look.
At Fired Earth, we provide a bespoke design service to help bring your ideas to life before installation begins. This way, you can experiment with different coloured and patterned porcelain tiles, figuring out which style works best. Our designers can also offer ideas you may not have thought about to get the most out of your space.
Book a design service appointment today.
Porcelain tiling FAQs
Can I install porcelain tiles on existing tiles?
Yes, porcelain tiles can be installed over existing tiles if the current surface is in good condition and properly prepared. It's crucial to clean, level, and prime the existing tiles to ensure a strong bond with the new porcelain tiles. However, for best results, consulting with a professional installer is recommended.
What should I look for in a tile supplier?
When selecting a tile supplier, consider prioritising their reputation, product variety, and customer service.
From our small beginnings in the Oxfordshire countryside, we have grown our extensive tile collection and have 26 Fired Earth showrooms across the UK, where our customers can browse and seek expert advice. Our tiles are handmade where possible, and we work with some of the best designers in the country.
Contact the Fired Earth team today, or visit your nearest showroom.
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