During National Tile Week, we are celebrating ties in all their beauty. From ceramic through to natural stone, the choice is endless. Tiles have undergone a transformation over the years. Once viewed as simply a practical solution for the bathrooms or kitchen, tiles are now seen as aspirational surface covering for walls and floors, creating a design statement in the home similar to wallpaper and vinyl. Not only are tiles hardwearing and easy to maintain, but they offer an array of design styles and effects, making them a versatile option in today’s busy home environment.

So what are they main benefits of tiles?

• Tiles are hardwearing, making them an ideal option for busy areas in the home where they will be subject to heavy use and general wear and tear
• Through the advancements in technology, tiles can now replicate the look of a range of different materials such as real stone, wood and marble, creating the desired look at a fraction of the cost
• Ceramic tiles are waterproof which means you can use them in wet areas, and are also easy to cut and install by yourself helping save money on expensive labour costs

What are the different types of tiles?

Ceramic tiles

• Ceramic tiles are incredibly versatile. Just about any design or effect can be printed onto them, creating a whole host of different looks and effects
• Hardwearing and easy to install
• Great conductors of thermal energy so work well with under floor heating
• Waterproof making them well suited to wet rooms and there is no need for special preparation before installation
• British Ceramic Tile’s ceramic tiles are all British manufactured

Porcelain Tiles

• A longer manufacturing process means porcelain is usually more expensive, but it is a very hard-wearing, stylish material, perfect for busy high traffic areas in the home
• Porcelain tiles can be used both inside and outside
• Harder structure means special cutting tools may be needed for installation

Natural Stone

• Stone tiles area a natural material and can include a wide range of different types including marble, slate, limestone and sandstone to name just a few
• Work well under floor heating to create a warmer feel in the home
• The most hardwearing tile, natural stone often out lives the actual building so while they are expensive, they are an investment purchase