Choosing The Perfect Tile: Porcelain

August 29, 2023
5 min read

Tiling might seem like a straightforward decision, but dive a little deeper and you'll discover a vast ocean of choices, each with its unique allure and benefits.

With the rising cost of renovations and the enormous variety available, the choice of tiles becomes even more critical. They're not just about covering surfaces; they're about making statements.

Among these myriad options, porcelain tiles stand out as a perennial favourite. But why? Let's delve into the world of porcelain to understand its enduring appeal and how it can transform your spaces, be it in the heart of Berkshire or beyond.

1. Why Porcelain?

When venturing into the world of tiling, it's essential to understand your materials. At the top of the list, especially for bathroom and kitchen tiling, are porcelain tiles. But what sets them apart?

Porcelain tiles are a refined version of their ceramic counterparts. Crafted from denser clay and fired at soaring temperatures, they aren't just about the aesthetics – they're built to last. Their hardy nature ensures they resist common household enemies like moisture, stains, and daily wear and tear. This durability doesn’t just make them a favourite among homeowners; it's why any seasoned tiler would sing their praises too.

Beyond the practicality, porcelain tiles offer a versatility in design that's hard to rival. Be it a rustic, traditional setup or a sleek, modern look you're aiming for, porcelain seamlessly fits the bill. So, when thinking of renovating or just sprucing up a space, porcelain should undoubtedly be a material to consider.

2. The Finishes

Stepping into the realm of porcelain tiles, one quickly realises the variety isn't just limited to patterns and colors, but also extends to finishes. This choice, often overlooked, plays a pivotal role in determining both the functionality and ambiance of a space.

A polished porcelain tile, with its glossy and reflective surface, can magnify light, adding a touch of luxury and spaciousness to rooms. It's an especially fantastic choice for living areas and hallways, where the sheen can uplift the atmosphere. However, a note of caution: while they're a visual delight, they might not always offer the best grip, particularly when wet. This could make them less ideal for bathrooms or high-moisture areas where safety is paramount.

On the flip side, matte porcelain tiles offer a more understated elegance. Their non-reflective surface provides better traction, making them a safer and more practical choice for wet zones. Beyond the practicality, the subdued finish lends itself to contemporary designs, granting a warm and cozy ambiance that's both stylish and functional. In essence, your choice between polished and matte goes beyond aesthetics; it's a balance between visual charm and practical utility.

3. The Area

Porcelain tiles are versatile, but like any design element, context is key. Understanding which type of tile suits a particular area ensures longevity and maximises the beauty and functionality of the space.

Floors, for instance, are high-traffic zones, requiring materials that can withstand the daily wear and tear. Porcelain, with its robustness, easily stands up to this challenge. It's a popular choice for both kitchen tiling and bathroom tiling, where resilience against moisture and stains is essential.

While porcelain's sturdiness makes it a shoo-in for flooring, it's worth noting that its weight and cost could make it an overkill for certain wall tiling applications, especially in areas where lighter and more cost-effective options could suffice.

Considering the specific needs of each room is paramount. Wet rooms or bathrooms benefit from non-slip finishes, while a polished look might be more suitable for living areas. Kitchen backsplashes, though not exposed to direct foot traffic, do face occasional splashes and spills, making porcelain's stain-resistance an asset. Each area presents its unique challenges, and porcelain, in its various forms, often emerges as a solution.

But, like any seasoned tiler would advise, it's all about fitting the right tile to the right space.

4. Choosing a Supplier

With your decision to opt for porcelain tiles comes another critical juncture: selecting the right supplier. It's tempting to equate price with quality, but the two aren't always directly proportional. A keen eye and informed perspective are vital in making the right choice.

There's a stark difference between premium and subpar tiles, both in feel and longevity. High-end tiles, sourced from renowned suppliers, tend to have a more consistent colouring, refined finish, and greater durability. Brands like Porcelanosa and Minoli stand as stalwarts in this high-quality domain. Their tiles, though on the pricier side, exude sophistication and are crafted to endure the test of time.

However, for those operating on a more modest budget, there's no need to fret or compromise on aesthetics. Tile Giant, for instance, offers a diverse range of porcelain tiles that are wallet-friendly without skimping on quality. It's a testament that quality tiling doesn’t always have to carry an exorbitant price tag.

We have a relationship with tile companies in Berkshire, Hampshire and Surrey. We're always happy to recommend you to a supplier based on your desired tile.

Wrapping this up.

Embarking on a tiling journey, whether for a rustic Berkshire abode or a sleek urban dwelling, requires more than just a cursory glance at designs. It demands an understanding of materials, finishes, applications, and the right suppliers to make your vision come to life.

Porcelain tiles, with their versatility and durability, have proven themselves to be a staple in the tiling world. From the polished glamour of a living area to the muted elegance of a matte-finished bathroom, the choices are vast but not overwhelming when approached with knowledge.

Remember, it's not just about selecting a tile but about choosing the right tile. The essence of a well-tiled space lies in the harmony between its aesthetic appeal and its practical functionality. Guided by expert insights and informed decisions, you can transform spaces into timeless masterpieces that speak volumes of your style and vision.

In the end, whether you're in search of the perfect bathroom tiling solution, a kitchen makeover, or any other tiling endeavour, the world of porcelain offers a rich tapestry of options. Navigate it with care, and the results will be nothing short of spectacular.

If you're looking for quality, experienced tiling services in Wokingham, Bracknell, Crowthorne, as well as surrounding areas - be sure to get in touch either by calling, filling out our contact form or by using our cost calculator.

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August 29, 2023
5 min read

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