Why use tiles?
Tiles are beautiful. Stylish and inviting, they reflect the colours of nature and bring these qualities to your décor. A wide choice of classic and modern designs and textures are available to enhance interiors and exteriors.

Tiles offer superior durability and are easy to maintain. They are made of environmentally friendly materials and are ideal for environments where allergies are a concern.

Also, tiles have one of the lowest cycle costs compared to other floor coverings. Unlike carpet, wood, and vinyl, they may never need replacing.

What makes a quality tile?
A quality tile offers

• strength of construction appropriate to its usage situation
• quality base material
• consistency of colour and glaze, for best visual effect
• accuracy of dimension and proportion, for easy installation and a superior final appearance

For best results, rectified (laser cut) porcelain tiles are the ultimate in colour-consistent, highly durable tiles for home and commercial usage.

What is the difference between ceramic and porcelain tiles?
Ceramic tiles use ceramic clay as their body material. The colour is applied to the top of the tile in the form of a glaze, which is then fired onto the tile body at very high temperatures. Ceramic tiles are porous, so can absorb moisture, making them prone to expansion and contraction in wet and frosty conditions.

Porcelain tiles are made from pure porcelain, which is relatively non-porous. This means that they admit a minimum amount of moisture and are less prone to cracking in frosty conditions. They are also harder wearing, and have consistent colour running through the body material.

Can all tiles be used on both the walls and floor?
No. All floor tiles can be used on the walls, but not all wall tiles are suitable for floor use. Ask for advice from your tile supplier or tile installer if you are unsure.

I need tiles. Where do I start?
Start by measuring the areas where you want the tiles - approximate measurements (in metres) are fine, as you generally need to allow for a few extra tiles to cover installation. We also recommend keeping some spare tiles in case of future repairs to the floor.

Then consider the colours you are trying to match. If possible, bring samples of paint, joinery, carpet, and any other materials that you need to co-ordinate, with you when you come tile shopping. We will be happy to spend time advising you on colour and material options.

How do I find a good tiler?
We have our own tilers and offer a quality installation service to the greater Auckland area. please visit our Installation Page for information.

We are also happy to recommend other tile installers that we know provide a quality service. Please contact us if you require a recommendation. It is worthwhile asking around for recommendations from friends and associates to get a good tiler.

Other FAQs:

How will my floor/wall need to be prepared?
Your tiler/installer is best qualified to assess your walls/floors and will advise regarding waterproofing, levelling, tile underlay, and other considerations.
If you are laying the tiles yourself, come and talk to us so that we can provide advice and possible recommendations for sources of further information.

What about underfloor heating?
Underfloor heating is sold and installed by specialist providers. We are happy to recommend suppliers if you should require a referral.

Should I lay the tiles myself?
If you feel confident that you can do a satisfactory job, then you may wish to install yourself. Otherwise, our recommendation is always to seek a quality result, which depends on both purchasing quality tiles and ensuring a professional quality installation. As you will probably only install tiles once in each situation, it makes sense to do it once and properly!

How much grout will I need?
1kg of grout is enough to do 1m2 using a 3mm spacer

How much adhesive will I need?
25kg bag of adhesive will do 8m2 on the floor with a 10mm trowel
25kg bag of adhesive will do16m2 on the floor with a 6mm trowel

Useful links

Ceramic Tile Projects & Resources - http://floorstransformed.com
The Tile Doctor - http://thetiledoctor.com
Flooring Guide - www.flooringguide.com/how-to/ceramic
Installing Tile - www.infotile.com.au/features/installing/contents.shtml

Manufacturers Websites

Porcelanosa - www.porcelanosa.com
Tau Ceramica - www.tauceramic.net
Azulev - www.azulev.com
Atlas Concorde - www.atlasconcorde.com
Mapei - www.mapei.it