Frequently asked questions.

Floor tiles are generally hardier and more durable than wall tiles and can be applied on walls. Wall tiles are not recommended for floors as they aren't designed to withstand foot traffic or abrasive forces.

Ceramic tile is a general term for tile made from clays and other inorganic raw materials fired to hardness. Porcelain is a denser, lower-absorption type of ceramic, generally harder-wearing.

Polishing exposes microscopic pores that can trap spills, making them harder to clean. Clean spills quickly before they dry.

Ensure the tiles chosen are durable and suitable for their intended application and environment.

Tiles with lower water absorption are more compact with higher mechanical strength. Wall tiles (higher absorption, lower strength) shouldn't be used on floors; porcelain and floor tiles can be used on walls if desired.

Measure the areas and keep your plans on hand. Buy an excess for wastage, breakage and future replacement, a general guide is 5-10% for normal installation and 15-20% for diagonal layouts or rooms with many curves and corners.

Larger tiles can make a room look more elegant and spacious, with fewer grout lines. They may cost slightly more.

Properly installed and maintained ceramic tiles can last many years, with porcelain being the longest-lasting.

Tiles are made from natural materials fired at high temperatures, so some variation occurs within and between batches. For many designs this variation is intentional, giving a natural character.

This is efflorescence, soluble salts rising to the surface of a cement-based substrate. It can be cleaned with mild diluted acid or vinegar and usually clears over time unless there's ongoing rising damp.

Ensure floors and walls are straight, check for necessary treatments, remove dust and mark out fixture locations. Dry-lay tiles to check shades and patterns.

Remove excess grout residue, use a wet vacuum for suspended residue, protect tiled areas while working nearby, avoid foot traffic for roughly 4-10 days, and avoid vibration and hammering near newly installed areas.

Sweep or vacuum regularly before wet mopping, avoid metal pads/brushes, use gentle pH-neutral cleaners without hydrofluoric acid or ammonia, wipe polished tiles dry to prevent water spots, and use neutral concentrated cleaners for unglazed tiles.

A gentle all-purpose cleaner with water and a soft cloth, sponge or non-metallic brush. Rinse thoroughly and dry. Avoid ammonia, which can discolour grout joints.