Do's and Don'ts of Bathroom Tiling: Choosing the Right Materials

Do's and Don'ts of Bathroom Tiling: Choosing the Right Materials

Tiling a bathroom is a significant home improvement project that can dramatically enhance the space's functionality and aesthetic appeal. However, selecting the right materials is crucial to ensure durability and style. Here’s a guide to the do’s and don’ts of materials used in bathroom tiling.

Do's:

1. Choose Water-Resistant Materials

Porcelain Tiles: These are highly water-resistant, making them ideal for bathrooms. They are also durable and come in various styles and colours.

Ceramic Tiles: Like porcelain, ceramic tiles are water-resistant and versatile. They are slightly more porous than porcelain but still a good choice for bathroom walls and floors.

Glass Tiles: Perfect for shower walls and backsplashes, glass tiles are non-porous and resist mould and mildew.

2. Consider Slip-Resistance

Textured Tiles: For bathroom floors, especially in showers, opt for tiles with a textured surface to prevent slipping when wet. Look for tiles with a high coefficient of friction (COF) rating.

3. Use Epoxy Grout

Epoxy Grout: Unlike cement-based grout, epoxy grout is water-resistant and less prone to staining and cracking. It is ideal for high-moisture areas like bathrooms.

4. Opt for Mold-Resistant Materials

Sealed Natural Stone: When choosing natural stone like marble or granite, ensure it is properly sealed to prevent moisture penetration and mould growth.

Mold-Resistant Boards: Use mould-resistant backer boards behind tiles in wet areas to protect against moisture damage.

5. Plan for Easy Maintenance

Large Format Tiles: These reduce the number of grout lines, making cleaning easier and reducing places for mould and mildew to grow.

Don'ts:

1. Avoid Porous Materials

Unsealed Natural Stone: Unsealed marble, limestone, and other natural stones are porous and can absorb moisture, leading to staining and mould issues.

Terracotta Tiles: These are highly porous and can absorb water, making them unsuitable for bathrooms unless properly sealed.

2. Don’t Use Low-Quality Adhesives

Water-Sensitive Adhesives: Avoid using adhesives not specifically designed for wet environments, as they may break down over time when exposed to moisture.

3. Avoid Using Soft Woods

Softwood Trims: Materials like pine can warp, rot, and deteriorate when exposed to moisture. Opt for treated wood or moisture-resistant alternatives.

4. Don’t Overlook Proper Sealing

Unsealed Grout: Cement-based grout should be sealed to protect against moisture and staining. Unsealed grout can absorb water, leading to mould and discolouration.

5. Don’t Neglect Underlayment

Skipping Waterproof Membrane: In wet areas, always use a waterproof membrane or underlayment beneath tiles to prevent water from seeping into the subfloor, which can cause structural damage.

By following these do’s and don’ts, you can ensure that your bathroom tiling project is beautiful and long-lasting. Proper material selection and installation practices will provide a durable, water-resistant surface that withstands the unique challenges of a bathroom environment.

Ps The above image is the bathroom that was tiled 20 years ago by Colin. Now that's stayed the test of time!