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Types of tiles
Ceramic & Porcelain
Ceramic and Porcelain tiles are often described as similar but there are key differences between the two. Ceramic tiles are generally cheaper but are more porous (absorb water), less hard wearing and stain resistant than Porcelain tiles. Porcelain tiles are much more dense, harder, stain resistant and harder wearing. Porcelain tiles are great for high footfall areas and can also be used externally.
Mosaic
Originally used in ancient Greece and Rome, Mosaic tiling has had a resurgence over recent years due to a large variety of colours, finishes, shapes and sizes that are now readily available. Mosaic tiles are great for unconforming spaces such as curved walls, wet room floors and uneven walls. Whichever mosaic tile you go for, it never fails to make an impact on the room.
Types of natural stone
Marble
Marble tiles are formed under intense heat and pressure and it is quarried all over the world. Each piece is entirely unique and is instantly recognisable from its large veins, swirls and variety of colours. Like all types of natural stone it should be sealed to give additional stain resistance and to reduce absorption. Marble tiles always give a feel of luxury and quality.
Limestone
Limestone is formed over millions of years and is very dense, heavy and durable. It comes in a wide range of colours and textures but most commonly in neutral colours with a matt finish. Limestone is a great option for either floors or walls and like all types of natural stone it should be sealed to give additional stain resistance and to reduce absorption.
Terracotta
Terracotta is made by heating clay at high temperatures in a kiln and it comes in a reddish brown colour (think garden plant pots). Terracotta has been used for centuries due to its toughness and the ability for use internally and externally. Terracotta tiles can be used either sealed or unsealed and can even be glazed to increase durability and add colour. They offer a Mediterranean and rustic feel.
Slate
Usually coming in different thicknesses in each pack Slate tiles are easily identified by their dark grey colour and rough textured finish. Slate tiles are usually a bit cheaper than other natural stone tiles.
Granite
Granite is well known for its durability and elegance from its speckled finish. It is an extremely dense material that isn’t as porous as other natural stones and is also less prone to staining. Often used for kitchen countertops and vanities, the durability of granite makes it a great option for high traffic floors. There are a range of colours of granite available and like all types of natural stone it should be sealed to give additional stain resistance and to reduce absorption.
Travertine
Travertine is one of the most popular types of natural stone. It is a form of limestone that comes in neutral colours with a matt finish and it is characterised by its little holes. It can be purchased with these holes either filled or unfilled and like all types of natural stone it should be sealed to give additional stain resistance and to reduce absorption
Quartz
Quartz is a man made product made from 90-95% stone dust and the rest is resin. It often has a shiny finish and resembles granite, but the speckles are more metallic. Quartz can’t be used with under floor heating and requires a two part adhesive containing liquid latex rather than water.
Split face
Split face tiles are made up of many different strips of stone all stuck together in a random pattern and don’t have grout joints. They offer a 3D appearance due to the different thickness of each stone piece. Each tile has a toothed edge on each side to interlock with the next tile.
Tile Patterns
Brick Bond
One of the most popular and traditional tile patterns. Brick bonds can work well pretty much anywhere but especially on kitchen splashbacks and bathrooms.
Rectangular Stacked
Having rectangular tiles stacked on top of each other is becoming more popular as it can create a contemporary feel especially when using subway tiles.
Square Brick Bond
Using a brick bond pattern but using square tiles can work nicely when using smaller tiles.
Stepladder
Stepladder or vertical brick bond can make a room feel higher than it is and also creates a contemporary statement.
Diamond
Often used on floor tiles this pattern uses square tiles simply turned on their head.
Block Herringbone
Sometimes called 90 Degree Herringbone this pattern is often used on floors, driveways or when using block paving.
Basket Weave
This pattern looks similar to traditional parquet and can create something more exciting out of any old rectangular tile.
Modular
Originally used for traditional flagstone flooring this pattern gives the perception that it is randomly scattered. More commonly in recent years this pattern has been used for garden paving.
Chevron
Chevron tiles can create an interesting and unique pattern that can become a stand out feature in any contemporary room.
Square Stacked
A very traditional tile pattern where square tiles are stacked one on top of another.
45 Degree Herringbone
An extremely striking and en vogue tile pattern. The diagonal layout of rectangular tiles creates a real feature. 45 Degree Herringbone is popular on both floors and walls.
Staggered Brick Bond
Staggered brick bond or running bond is similar to a normal brick bond pattern but instead uses a 70:30 layout rather than the traditional 50:50 of brick bond. This pattern can help make rooms look wider and is generally used with larger tiles.
Stepladder Large Format
The vertical stepladder or vertical running bond is used for larger tiles. This pattern should have a ratio of 70:30 to help with any bowing.
Staggered Square
The same pattern as staggered brick bond but uses square tiles.
Double Block Herringbone
The same pattern as Block Herringbone but double up. This pattern looks better when using longer rectangular tiles.
Windmill
The Windmill uses cuts to create a decorative and striking design. The nature of using a pattern that requires cuts will create more wastage and will take longer to create.
Hexagon
The hexagon format creates an instant statement with its geometric style.
Fan
Depending on which way around fan shaped tiles are laid they can offer many different looks, whether it is an Art Deco look, a Mediterrainian look or giving the perception of fish scales. This is a nice option if you are looking for something a little bit different,
