Choosing tiles is one of the most exciting parts of a new-build or renovation – and one of the most important. Whether on the floor, wall, or beyond, tiles need to stand up to daily life, be impervious to moisture in wet areas, and look good for years to come.
When tackling their Warkworth renovation, Art and Matilda Green admit they had “no idea what we wanted”.
“The Tile Warehouse team were so helpful and knowledgeable, showing us different types of tiles and consulting with us on what might work.”
Do you need a little help deciding? We spoke to the experts at Tile Warehouse about what really matters when choosing tiles: from slip ratings to layout and maintenance.
Start with the space
Before choosing tiles, consider where they’ll be used. Tiles perform differently on walls, floors and outdoors. Factors like moisture, foot traffic and cleaning should come first, before the style. Remember, you can usually use a floor tile on the wall, but not always a wall tile on the floor.
Bathrooms need tiles that are water- and humidity-resistant. Floor tiles should be porcelain, slip-resistant and have water absorption of 0.5% or less to meet the NZ Building Code.
Kitchens, living areas and laundries require durable, low-maintenance tiles that can withstand daily use and spills. Outdoor tiles must be weatherproof and highly slip-resistant, as not all indoor tiles are suitable for exterior use.
Choosing tile size, shape and layout
Tile size and layout have a big impact on how a space looks and feels. While large-format tiles are popular, smaller tiles and patterns can work just as well when chosen thoughtfully.
Tile layout can visually widen or lengthen a room. Large-format tiles can make spaces feel more open, while smaller tiles suit detailed layouts and sloped floors.
Finish and texture
The finish of a tile affects both appearance and performance. Choosing the right balance creates a space that looks good and works well every day. In New Zealand homes, textured or matt finishes are often a practical choice for floors, especially in wet or high-use areas. Matt tiles offer better slip resistance when wet and hide marks and water spots more easily. Gloss finishes reflect more light and create a clean, polished look.
Common tile mistakes (and how to avoid them)
Many tile issues come down to quality rather than design. Choosing cheap tiles for floors is a common mistake. Investing in durable, high-quality porcelain ensures long-term performance with fewer hassles post-installation, which is why Tile Warehouse backs all of its porcelain tiles with a 25-year guarantee as part of its commitment to first-rate quality.
Getting advice early helps avoid delays, cost overruns and compromises.
Tile Warehouse staff are always willing to assist with both design ideas and product knowledge.
Visit tilewarehouse.co.nz, or one of the showrooms for expert advice to assist with your design and decision-making
