What are the latest and most exciting trends in tiling at the moment?
Geometric patterns are a key look at the moment; whether it’s a delicate print on a robust, industrial style tile or an actual cut hexagon tiled in a block pattern. You can mould the look to suit your space with bright bold shades or muted pastels.
Another great tiling trend is concrete, or concrete-effect. This style of tile lends itself well to modern spaces that seek an industrial aesthetic. Large format tiles can create a bold look while small format styles can bring a concrete-look to the most compact of spaces.
Coming in to summer, seamless or open plan living is a reoccurring trend. Topps Tiles have created an exclusive Spaces™ range which features brand new technology called Serafoam, allowing customers to lay their own patio easily and quickly with a 40mm deep tile. The replica 10mm tiles can create a similar, seamless look indoors.
See also: How to Care for Your Wood Decking
What are the pros and cons of getting a professional in to do the job as opposed to doing it yourself (DIY)?
Tiling is certainly a skill that requires practise and if you haven’t got the time you could end up with a poor result. Tilers are trained to produce the most professional finish efficiently.
If you’ve chosen a tricky tile like a crackle glaze that needs a specific sealant, natural stone or an intricate mosaic, a tiler automatically knows what tools and accessories are required. Although Topps Tiles’ in-store specialists are more than happy to advise you, it’s a lot less hassle to employ a tiler who can do it all for you.
It can be expensive to get a tradesman in but the investment will certainly be worth it if they are a reputable tiler as you will get a much more professional finish that will last for years to come.
See also: Make a Statement with your Surfaces this Season
How important is it to do preparation before starting a tiling job?
Thorough preparation is key to producing a professional looking finish; from cleaning down the walls, choosing the right foundation to tile on, and using the correct adhesive for your tiles. All these stages of preparation ensure your tiles will last longer and look better over time.
Besides the bathroom and kitchen, what other rooms can be enhanced with tiles?
Tiling in a living space can be a practical option if you’re not a fan of carpet. A lot of real wood flooring cannot be used in conjunction with under-floor heating, can easily scratch and require yearly maintenance, compared to tiles that are more hardy and require little maintenance.
Tiles can also look amazing when used in imaginative spaces like alcoves, behind bookcases and even as a headboard in the bedroom.
Is re-tiling an old style bathroom a worth while option?
Some tiles can be painted or repaired but if you’re after an instant uplift and injection of ‘new’ then there’s nothing better than re-tiling your bathroom. You can instantly bring an old suite up to date with a new tile and a lick of paint, a much cheaper option than changing your entire bathroom. This is a great idea for an inherited bathroom that you want to put your own stamp on.
What are the essential tools needed to complete a home tiling job?
When tiling a wall or floor you will need a grout float, notched trowel, scraper, tile spaces and a spirit level. It’s also a good idea to invest in a good Stanley knife, sponge, tile nippers and a tile marker pen. You can find a few other things around the house like a bucket for mixing and a wooden batten is really useful for wall tiling as it will ensure your tiles are laid straight and don’t slip in the tiling process.
You also need to make sure you’re safe whilst tiling, so eye protection goggles and gloves are essential.
More specialist equipment includes a manual or electric cutter. The right cutter depends on what tiles you are using so it’s always best to seek advice when purchasing your tiles if you want to do it yourself.
See also: Get the Perfect Flooring for your Property
Are different types of tiles more suited to different areas of the home?
Different areas of the home receive a higher amount of footfall or use and therefore require a hardier tile or perhaps a specialist finish. For floors, it’s most common to use a porcelain tile or natural stone; for added protection against slips and spills a tile with a high anti-slip rating is advised. For a wetroom, a textured tile with an anti-slip finish is essential as they will help prevent slipping when the surface is wet.
Some natural stone is not suitable for certain areas of the home. For example, marble reacts badly to water and can turn yellow over time so try using marble in a hallway or kitchen where it will stay dry. Before purchasing your tiles consult a specialist or read up on the different material types and what they are suitable for.
Do special tiles need to be used for a room with under floor heating?
You don’t need specialist tiles as most floor tiles can be used in conjunction with underfloor heating compared to wood or concrete. If you don’t want to sacrifice a wood finish for under floor heating try a wood-effect tile. This new trend embodies the warmth and the natural aesthetic of wood combined with the practicalities and low maintenance of a porcelain tile. Some wood-effect tiles also have an anti-slip rating, their textured surface making them suitable for wet areas like bathrooms.
What is the best way to decide on colours and styles?
Topps Tiles’ in-store specialists are always happy to help and regularly give customers advice on the best tiles for specific projects. Their online tile visualiser is continually updated with the latest looks and finishes so customers can plan in detail what their space will look like from mosaic splashbacks, feature walls, floor coverings and even grout colours.
Is there any further help and support available?
Topps Tiles’ in-store specialists are always on hand to help and can provide advice and tips, especially when it comes to which accessories to use in conjunction with your chosen tiles.
For more information call Topps Tiles on 0800 783 6262 or visit the website for live chat and instant advice.
See also: Room by Room: The Bathroom
