Buying bathroom tiles in Ireland can feel confusing when you're not sure where to begin. There are so many choices, sizes, and styles that it’s easy to feel stuck. But once you know what to look for, choosing the right tiles becomes much easier. Whether you’re planning a small refresh or a full bathroom renovation, this guide will help you make a smart and confident decision.
Choosing the Right Tile Material
One of the first things you’ll need to decide is the type of material. Tiles for bathrooms mostly come in ceramic or porcelain. Each type has different features.
Ceramic tiles are affordable, easy to cut, and come in lots of designs. They are best for walls or light-use floors.
Porcelain tiles are denser and harder. They resist water better, so they’re perfect for wet areas like shower floors.
If you’re planning to tile the floor, porcelain is often the better choice. For walls, ceramic works well and often costs less.
Wall vs Floor Tiles: What’s the Difference?
Bathroom wall tiles are usually thinner and lighter. They don’t have to handle foot traffic. This makes them easier to install and cheaper to buy.
Floor tiles are stronger and thicker. They are designed to hold weight and deal with moisture. When buying floor tiles, check the slip rating. Tiles marked R10 or above are safer for wet areas.
Try not to use wall tiles on the floor. They may crack or become slippery when wet.
Pick the Right Tile Size
Tile size makes a big difference in how your bathroom looks. Larger tiles can make a small bathroom feel more open because there are fewer grout lines. But in tight areas or old homes with uneven walls, small tiles might work better.
Large tiles (60x60 cm or more) are great for clean, modern spaces.
Medium tiles (30x60 cm) are good for most wall and floor uses.
Small tiles or mosaics are often used for feature walls, shower floors, or areas with lots of cuts.
Think about where you’ll be placing the tiles and what look you want before choosing the size.
Match Tile Style with Your Bathroom Look
The style of your tiles should match the look you want for your bathroom. Are you going for something modern, classic, or natural?
Modern Bathroom Tiles
Modern designs are clean, simple, and often neutral. Look for:
Matt finishes
Stone or concrete looks
Soft grey, beige, or white tones
Rectangular tiles in horizontal layouts
These styles make your bathroom look calm and uncluttered. If you want a bold look, consider black tiles or large-format tiles with marble designs.
If you prefer more warmth, wood-effect porcelain tiles are a popular choice. They give the look of wood with the benefits of tile.
Think About Maintenance
No one wants to spend hours cleaning the bathroom. Some tiles need more care than others.
Glossy tiles show water spots and streaks easily. They may need regular wiping.
Matt tiles are better at hiding marks but may feel rougher to clean.
Textured or patterned tiles look great but can trap dirt in the grooves.
Choose tiles that are easy to wipe down, especially for the shower area and splash zones.
Also, pick a grout colour that hides stains. White grout looks fresh at first but can get dirty quickly. Greys or beige tones are easier to keep looking clean.
How Much Tile Do You Need?
It’s important to order a bit more tile than your actual measurements. This covers breakage, cuts, and future repairs. Most experts suggest buying 10% more than you need.
Measure your space carefully. If your bathroom has a lot of corners or tricky shapes, you might want to get even more extra. It’s better to have some left over than to run short mid-project.
Don’t Forget About Tile Edges and Trims
Many people forget to plan for tile trims or finishing pieces. These help give a neat look to corners, edges, and borders.
You can choose metal trims for a modern finish or tile trims that match your tile colour. Some tiles also come with matching skirting tiles or feature strips.
Where to Use Patterned or Feature Tiles
If you want to add interest without going over the top, feature tiles are a great option. Use them on one wall or in a shower niche. Pair them with plain tiles to keep the space balanced.
Mosaic tiles are often used for borders or shower floors. Their small size makes them perfect for slopes or curves.
Don’t mix too many tile styles in one room. Stick to two or three types to keep it from looking messy.
Plan for Installation Costs
Tiles are just one part of the budget. You’ll also need to think about:
Tile adhesive and grout
Labour for fitting the tiles
Tile trims and tools
If you're hiring a tiler, ask for a full quote that includes all these parts. Some tiles, especially mosaics or large formats, cost more to install due to the extra time and effort needed.
Also, check if your walls or floors need prep work. Uneven surfaces can make fitting harder and more expensive.
Check Delivery Times and Stock
Before making a final choice, make sure your tiles are in stock. Some styles may take weeks to arrive, especially if they come from overseas.
If you’re working with a deadline, ask about delivery times. A delay in tiles can hold up your whole bathroom project.
Plan Your Bathroom Right
There’s a lot to think about when buying bathroom tiles in Ireland, but once you know the basics, it becomes much easier. Focus on where the tile will go, how it will look, and how easy it is to clean. Make sure you buy the right size and finish for your needs. Always measure carefully and order a bit extra.
If you’re looking for modern designs, good prices, and helpful advice, Bathroom Outlet is a great place to start. They have a wide range of quality bathroom tiles and fast delivery within Ireland.
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