Tiles guide
How to choose tile types, sizes and finishes for floors, walls and outdoor areas.
Large-format floor tilesTypes of tiles
Each type suits a different job. Tell us the room and we will point you to the right one.
Glazed vitrified tiles (GVT)
A dense vitrified body with a printed, glazed surface. Because the pattern is printed, GVT comes in marble, stone, wood and abstract looks.
Best for: Living rooms, kitchens, feature walls and shops.
Ceramic wall tiles
Lighter and easier to cut and fit than vitrified tiles, in many colours and patterns.
Best for: Bathroom walls, kitchen backsplashes and other wall areas.
Anti-skid floor tiles
A textured surface that grips, even when wet.
Best for: Bathrooms, balconies, poolsides and busy floors.
Full-body tiles
The same colour runs through the full thickness, so chips and scratches show far less.
Best for: Driveways, patios and heavy-use floors.
Large-format tiles and slabs
Bigger sizes mean fewer joints and a seamless look across a floor or wall.
Best for: Open living areas, statement walls and showrooms.
Typical sizes and where they work
A starting point. Thickness and sizes available differ by brand and series, so ask our team before you order.
| Size (mm) | Where it works | Typical thickness |
|---|---|---|
| 600 x 600 | Bedrooms and bathrooms | 9 to 10 mm |
| 600 x 1200 | Kitchens and living rooms | 9 to 10 mm |
| 800 x 800 | Dining rooms and lounges | 9 to 11 mm |
| 800 x 1600 | Larger rooms and commercial areas | 10 to 12 mm |
| 1000 x 1000 | Lobbies and showrooms | 10 to 12 mm |
| Custom sizes | Steps, staircases and edges | Varies |
Looks and finishes
Choose the look first, then the finish. Matt finishes grip and hide marks, glossy finishes reflect light and make small rooms feel larger, textured finishes add depth to accent walls.
Marble-look
Veined white, grey and green designs give the look of natural marble with easier upkeep. Large sizes carry the veining across a whole wall.
Stone-look
Slate and sandstone-like surfaces with a natural, uneven character. Good for living areas, patios and entrances.
Warm neutrals
Beige and sand tones keep bedrooms and lounges calm and bright.
Cool greys
Grey floors and walls suit modern bathrooms, offices and showrooms.
Outdoor and cladding
Textured, darker tiles for terraces, courtyards and building fronts.
Reference photos of tile ranges. Colours on screen differ from the real product, so see samples before you decide.
How to choose
- Where it goes. Wet areas and outdoors need anti-skid, thicker tiles. Dry living areas can take glossy finishes.
- Size for the room. Large sizes make a room look bigger and cut grout lines, small sizes suit accents and compact areas.
- Colour and light. Light shades open up a small room, dark shades add depth and need good lighting.
- Order a little extra. Add roughly 10% for cuts and breakage.
Mistakes to avoid
- Mixing batches. Shade can vary between batches. Buy all the tiles for a room together, from the same batch.
- Ignoring how the room is used. A glossy tile in a wet area is slippery.
- Choosing size last. Decide the size before the layout, not after.
- Skipping care. Dirty grout lines discolour. Clean them regularly.
Care and cleaning
Sweep or vacuum, then use a damp mop with mild soap or detergent and warm water. Wipe spills early, use furniture pads and avoid dragging heavy items, and clean grout lines regularly so they do not discolour.
Common questions
What is the difference between vitrified and ceramic tiles?
Vitrified tiles are denser and absorb very little water, so they are stronger and suit floors and busy areas. Ceramic tiles are lighter and easier to cut, so they are common on walls.
Can I use tiles outdoors?
Yes, with the right tile. Choose anti-skid or textured tiles of suitable thickness made for outdoor use, and ask us which ranges we stock for terraces, parking and courtyards.
Polished or matt?
Polished tiles are glossy and reflect light but can be slippery when wet. Matt tiles are muted and grip better, which suits bathrooms, entrances and outdoor floors.
Can the same tile go on the floor and the wall?
Many sizes and designs work on both, but a tile made only for walls should not go on a floor. Check the series with us.
What is the benefit of full-body tiles?
The colour runs through the whole tile, so chips and scratches are hard to see. They suit heavy-use floors.
Tile brands we stock
- Simpolo
- Nexion
- Moretti
- Marfil
- Colortile
- Icon
- Itaca
- Adicon
- Rey