blog, commercial blog, floors
Cracked floor tiles can be frustrating and unsightly, especially if you’ve invested in high-quality flooring. Whether it’s a hairline fracture or a full-on break, cracked tiles can ruin the look of your space and even become a safety hazard. But what causes floor tiles to crack in the first place? Here are the top seven reasons and how to prevent them.
Table of Content:
Poor Subfloor Preparation
Incorrect Tile Installation
Heavy Impact or Dropped Objects
Structural Movement or Foundation Shifts
Using the Wrong Type of Tile
Extreme Temperature Changes
Gaps or Weak Grout Lines
Final Thoughts: Protect Your Tiles
Poor Subfloor Preparation
A weak or uneven subfloor is one of the biggest reasons tiles crack. If the surface beneath the tile isn’t stable, it can shift over time, causing stress on the tiles and leading to cracks. To prevent this, ensure your subfloor is level, firm and properly prepared before installation.
Incorrect Tile Installation
Tiles need to be installed correctly to last. If they’re not laid with the proper adhesive or spacing, they may not bond properly to the surface, making them more prone to cracking. Always use the right adhesive for the tile type and ensure even spacing to allow for slight expansions and contractions.
Heavy Impact or Dropped Objects
Accidents happen! Dropping a heavy object, like a cast-iron pan or a large piece of furniture, can crack floor tiles instantly. While some tiles are more impact-resistant than others, no tile is completely immune. To minimise damage, choose high-quality, durable tiles for high-traffic areas and use rugs or mats in impact-prone zones.
Structural Movement or Foundation Shifts
Over time, buildings settle, and structures shift slightly due to environmental changes. This movement can create stress on tiles, leading to cracking. Expansion joints and flexible adhesives can help accommodate minor shifts and prevent tile damage.
Using the Wrong Type of Tile
Not all tiles are created equal! Some tiles are designed for walls and may not withstand the weight and pressure of foot traffic. Ensure you’re using floor-grade tiles for your flooring to prevent premature cracking and wear.
Extreme Temperature Changes
Sudden temperature fluctuations can cause tiles to expand and contract, leading to cracks over time. This is especially common in outdoor areas or rooms exposed to direct sunlight. Using tiles rated for thermal expansion and installing them with appropriate grout spacing can help prevent temperature-related cracking.
Gaps or Weak Grout Lines
Grout does more than just fill the gaps between your tiles—it also helps distribute pressure evenly. If grout lines are weak, cracked or missing, tiles become more vulnerable to movement and stress, increasing the risk of cracks. Regularly inspecting and maintaining your grout can help keep your tiles intact for longer.
Final Thoughts: Protect Your Tiles
Cracked tiles can be costly and frustrating, but understanding their causes can help you prevent future damage. Investing in proper installation, choosing the right tiles and maintaining your flooring will keep your space looking beautiful for years to come.
Looking for high-quality, durable floor tiles? Visit your nearest Tiletoria showroom or browse our collection online!
blog, floors, walls
Choosing between gloss and matte tiles can significantly impact the look and feel of your space. Each finish has its unique benefits, making it essential to understand the differences before making your decision. Whether you’re designing a kitchen, bathroom, outdoor or living area, here’s everything you need to know about gloss vs. matte tiles.
Table of Content:
Gloss Tiles
Matte Tiles
Which One Should You Choose?
Final Thoughts
Browse our range of Gloss Tiles
Browse our range of Matte Tiles
Gloss Tiles: Sleek, Shiny, and Reflective
Glossy tiles are known for their polished, mirror-like finish that reflects light beautifully. They add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any space.
Key Benefits
Brighter Spaces
Their reflective surface bounces light around the room, making smaller areas appear more open and airy.
Easy to Clean
Spills and stains wipe away effortlessly, making them a great option for kitchens and bathrooms.
Luxurious Appeal
Gloss tiles bring a high-end, polished look that complements modern and classic designs alike.
Best Used In
Bathrooms
riviera cuadrado botanical green 132 x 132 mm
Adds brightness and a spa-like feel.
Kitchens
Perfect for backsplashes and walls, making cleaning up grease and splashes easier.
Small Rooms
Enhances the sense of space with its light-reflecting properties.
Things to Consider
Gloss tiles can be slippery when wet, making them less ideal for high-traffic floor areas, especially in homes with kids or elderly residents.
Matte Tiles: Subtle, Understated, and Elegant
Matte tiles have a soft, non-reflective surface that exudes warmth and sophistication. They offer a more natural and organic aesthetic, perfect for modern and rustic designs.
Key Benefits
Non-Slip Surface
bali stone matt 150 x 150 mm
Matte tiles provide better grip, making them a safer option for floors, especially in wet areas.
Conceals Smudges
Dirt, water spots, and fingerprints are less noticeable, making maintenance easier in busy households.
Natural & Timeless Look
The muted finish blends effortlessly with various décor styles, from contemporary to industrial.
Best Used In
Floors
Ideal for bathrooms, kitchens and high-traffic areas where slip resistance is key.
Outdoor Spaces
Works well on patios and balconies due to its non-slip nature.
Rustic & Minimalist Interiors
Complements natural materials like wood and stone.
Things to Consider
Matte tiles don’t reflect light, so they may make a space feel slightly darker. If used in a small or low-light area, pair them with good lighting.
Which One Should You Choose?
Your choice between gloss and matte tiles depends on the space, functionality, and overall aesthetic you want to achieve.
For a bright, modern, and luxurious feel → Choose gloss tiles.
For a subtle, warm, and practical finish → Go for matte tiles.
pavilion light grey 600 x 600 mm
For the best of both worlds → Combine both finishes for a stylish contrast!
Final Thoughts
Both gloss and matte tiles have their advantages, and the best choice depends on your lifestyle and design preferences. Whether you love the sleek appeal of gloss or the natural charm of matte, Tiletoria has a wide range of tiles to suit your needs.
Visit your nearest Tiletoria showroom or browse our collection online to find the perfect tiles for your space!
Browse our range of Gloss Tiles
Browse our range of Matte Tiles
blog, floors, trends, walls
If you’re planning to refresh your home or workspace in 2025, tiles are a surefire way to bring style and personality into any space. This year’s tile trends are all about bold choices, creative combinations, and timeless designs re-imagined with a modern twist. Let’s dive into the top tile trends of 2025 that will transform your spaces.
Table of Content:
Bold Colours: Dare to Make a Statement
Matte Meets Gloss: The Perfect Pairing
Various Shapes Together: A Geometric Adventure
Colour Drenching: Unified Elegance
Classic Meets Modern: Best of Both Worlds
Pattern Play: Unleash Your Inner Artist
Zellige: The Glossy Showstopper
Tile Drenching: Floor-to-Wall Elegance
Statement Backsplashes: Make It Pop
Metallic Tiles: Shine Bright
Texture Tiles: A Feast for the Senses
Large Format Tiles: Bigger Is Better
Pantone’s Mocha Mousse: Warm and Inviting
Let Your Tiles Tell a Story
Bold Colours: Dare to Make a Statement
Neutral tones are taking a back seat in 2025, as vibrant and bold colours dominate tile design. Deep greens, rich blues and fiery terracottas are making waves, injecting life and energy into interiors. Whether on a feature wall or across your flooring, bold colours are perfect for adding character and depth to any room.
Matte Meets Gloss: The Perfect Pairing
Why choose between matte and gloss when you can have both? Combining matte and glossy tiles creates a dynamic contrast that’s visually striking and incredibly stylish. Use matte tiles as the foundation and sprinkle in glossy tiles as accents to add texture and dimension. The interplay of finishes catches the eye and elevates your design game.
Various Shapes Together: A Geometric Adventure
This year, it’s time to mix things up—literally. Pairing square tiles with subway tiles or hexagons with rectangles is trending. The variety of shapes creates an eclectic and artistic vibe that feels fresh and exciting. This trend allows you to unleash your creativity and design a space that’s uniquely yours.
Colour Drenching: Unified Elegance
Colour drenching is all about using a single dominant colour throughout the space, but with a twist—play with different shades and hues to add depth and interest. This trend creates a unified and immersive look, making your room feel cohesive and sophisticated. It works particularly well in bathrooms, kitchens and even living areas for a high-end, designer feel.
Classic Meets Modern: Best of Both Worlds
Marry the charm of classic tiles with the sleekness of modern designs. Think vintage-inspired tiles combined with contemporary patterns or minimalist layouts. For instance, pair timeless white subway tiles with a modern geometric border for a look that’s both nostalgic and fresh.
Pattern Play: Unleash Your Inner Artist
Patterned decor tiles are still a top choice for 2025. From Moroccan-inspired motifs to intricate florals and geometric designs, these tiles add personality to your floors, walls and splashback. Use patterned tiles as a focal point, letting them shine in otherwise neutral spaces.
Zellige: The Glossy Showstopper
Zellige tiles are making a grand entrance this year. Known for their high-gloss finish and slightly irregular edges, these tiles come in a variety of colours and add a handcrafted, artisanal feel to spaces. The gloss reflects light beautifully, making rooms appear larger and brighter. Perfect for kitchens, bathrooms or feature walls, Zellige tiles are here to dazzle.
Tile Drenching: Floor-to-Wall Elegance
Why stop at the floor? Tile drenching—using the same tile on both floors and walls—creates a seamless and cohesive look. This trend works particularly well in bathrooms, giving a spa-like feel, or in open-plan spaces for a sleek, uninterrupted flow.
Statement Splashback: Make It Pop
A stunning splashback can completely transform a kitchen or bathroom. Go bold with metallic finishes, vibrant patterns or bold colour choices. Statement splashbacks draw the eye and add a layer of luxury to your design.
Metallic Tiles: Shine Bright
Metallic tiles and finishes are stealing the spotlight. Gold, silver and bronze tones bring a touch of glamour and sophistication. Use them as accents or go all out for a futuristic, luxe vibe. Metallic tiles are particularly stunning in kitchens and bathrooms, reflecting light and adding a chic edge.
Texture Tiles: A Feast for the Senses
Tiles with textured surfaces are in demand for 2025. Whether it’s a 3D effect, ribbed patterns or a natural stone look, textured tiles add depth and interest. These tiles are perfect for feature walls or as subtle details in understated spaces.
Large Format Tiles: Bigger Is Better
Large format tiles continue to trend for their ability to make spaces feel expansive and modern. They’re ideal for open-plan areas or creating a sleek, minimal look with fewer grout lines. Choose bold colours to make a statement or natural finishes.
Pantone’s Mocha Mousse: Warm and Inviting
Pantone’s Colour of the Year, Mocha Mousse, is a versatile, warm tone that works beautifully in tile design. Whether used on floors, walls or backsplashes, it brings a comforting and earthy vibe. Want tips on incorporating Mocha Mousse into your home? Read our blog on Pantone’s Colour of the Year for ideas and inspiration.
Let Your Tiles Tell a Story
2025 is all about bold choices, creative combinations and timeless elements with a modern twist. Whether you’re revamping your kitchen, bathroom or outdoor spaces, these tile trends will help you create a home that’s stylish, functional and uniquely yours. Ready to explore? Visit your nearest Tiletoria showroom and start designing your dream space today!
bathroom, blog, floors, kitchen, walls
As we welcome 2025, it’s the perfect time to refresh your home with simple updates that can make a huge impact. Whether you’re aiming to breathe new life into your bathroom, kitchen or living space, a few thoughtful changes can completely transform your home without the need for a major renovation. Here are some easy, budget-friendly updates to kick off the new year and give your home a stylish new look.
Table of Content:
Reimagine Your Walls with Tiles or Wallpaper
Upgrade Your Flooring for Instant Elegance
Update Your Bathroom with New Sanitaryware
Revamp Your Kitchen with Simple Changes
Add Statement Pieces to Your Outdoor Space
Add Some Personality with New Accessories
Reimagine Your Walls with Tiles or Wallpaper
A fresh coat of paint can do wonders, but have you thought about elevating your space with tiles or wallpaper? Wall tiles, like classic subway tiles, marble tiles or large format tiles, can add texture and style to any room. Whether you’re updating a backsplash in your kitchen or refreshing your bathroom walls, tiles are a durable and stylish option.
For a more flexible update, try wall tile stickers or wall decals to add an instant pop of pattern and personality to your space without the commitment of permanent fixtures.
For something softer, consider updating your walls with wallpaper. Choose a bold print or a soothing neutral tone to suit your style. Wallpaper is a great way to introduce colour, pattern and texture into a room with minimal effort.
Upgrade Your Flooring for Instant Elegance
One of the easiest ways to make a statement is by updating your floors. Whether you’re opting for vinyl, laminate or classic ceramic tiles, new flooring can instantly enhance the aesthetic of any room. Vinyl flooring is perfect for a low-maintenance, yet stylish update that works well in kitchens, bathrooms and even living areas.
If you’re looking for something more luxurious, marble or porcelain tiles can create a high-end look, particularly in bathrooms and entryways. Laminate is another great option for a stylish floor on a budget, with a wide range of designs, including those that mimic wood, stone and other natural materials.
Update Your Bathroom with New Sanitaryware
The bathroom is one of the most important areas to refresh, and small updates can go a long way. Start by swapping out old bathroom taps for something sleek and modern. A new tap can completely change the look of your basin or bathtub without breaking the bank. Pair it with a new vanity or a stylish mirror for a cohesive, updated look.
Tiletoria, Paarden Eiland Showroom
Consider upgrading your shower as well. Installing a new shower head, along with a stylish new shower screen or a fresh set of wall tiles, can instantly make your bathroom feel more luxurious. For an even more quick and easy update, consider adding a shower panel vinyl. These vinyl stickers are easy to install, provide a contemporary look, and are available in a range of designs to suit your personal style, making them a great choice for a fast, affordable bathroom transformation.
Revamp Your Kitchen with Simple Changes
Your kitchen is often the heart of your home, so why not give it a refresh? Start with easy changes like swapping out kitchen taps for a modern design. A new sink can also make a world of difference—whether you’re choosing a sleek, contemporary look or a timeless farmhouse style, the right sink can elevate your kitchen instantly.
Another easy update is updating your backsplash with fresh, on-trend tiles like subway tiles, decor tiles or even mosaic tiles for a fun, unique twist. New countertops or a fresh coat of paint on cabinets can also give your kitchen a new vibe.
Add Statement Pieces to Your Outdoor Space
Don’t forget about your outdoor area when refreshing your home. A simple way to update your garden, patio, or balcony is by laying down new outdoor tiles or swimming pool tiles. These tiles are designed to withstand the elements while providing a stylish, functional surface. For added safety, choose slip-resistant tiles, which are perfect for wet areas like patios, poolside and balconies, ensuring your space is both beautiful and practical.
Adding decorative elements, like new outdoor furniture or plants, can complete the look and make your space more inviting for family gatherings or quiet evenings outside.
Add Some Personality with New Accessories
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of accessories. New cushions, throws, and rugs can instantly refresh a living room or bedroom, while adding a decorative mirror or a new set of lighting fixtures can bring a space to life. Whether you choose vibrant decor or more muted tones, accessories can elevate your space with minimal effort.
The start of a new year is the perfect time to revamp your home with easy, stylish updates. From updating your flooring with new tiles to adding fresh wallpaper or swapping out old bathroom taps, small changes can make a huge difference in how your space looks and feels. Whether you’re focusing on one room or tackling multiple spaces, these simple home updates will help you start 2025 with a fresh new look.
Ready to get started? Explore our range of tiles, sanware, vinyl, laminates and more to find everything you need to refresh your home for the year ahead.
bathroom, blog, floors, kitchen, walls
The holiday season is here, and there’s no better time to give your home a festive upgrade. Whether you’re hosting family dinners or enjoying cosy evenings at home, these stylish tips will help you create a space that’s both functional and festive.
Table of Content:
Create a Festive Feature Wall
Upgrade Your Bathroom for Guests
Make Your Kitchen Holiday-Ready
Add Warmth with Flooring
Incorporate Festive Greenery
Bring the Festive Vibe Home
Create a Festive Feature Wall
Transform your living room, bathroom, or kitchen with a stunning feature wall. Use decor tiles, subway tiles, or even large-format tiles in rich greens, deep reds, or metallic hues to capture the holiday spirit. A well-designed tile feature wall adds character and becomes a conversation starter during festive gatherings.
Pro Tip: Pair glossy ceramic tiles with subtle lighting to make your feature wall sparkle.
Upgrade Your Bathroom for Guests
Holiday guests mean extra bathroom traffic, so why not make a statement? Swap out your old fixtures for sleek bathroom taps in brushed gold or chrome to add a festive glow. Consider adding a stylish vanity, mirrors, or a new basin to refresh the space.
Quick Upgrade: Add a decorative touch with marble tiles around your mirror or vanity for a luxurious feel.
Make Your Kitchen Holiday-Ready
The kitchen is the heart of the home during the festive season. Upgrade your kitchen taps and sinks for a sleek and modern look. Install a colourful backsplash with subway tiles or decor tiles to bring in holiday colours like red, green, or gold.
Pro Tip: Choose porcelain tiles for your kitchen floor – they’re stylish, durable, and easy to clean after holiday feasts.
Add Warmth with Flooring
Set the tone for your festive decor with upgraded flooring. Vinyl or laminate flooring in warm wood tones can add a cosy and welcoming vibe to your home.
For outdoor areas, outdoor tiles in neutral shades can create a seamless flow between your indoor and outdoor spaces – perfect for holiday entertaining.
Pro Tip: Use swimming pool tiles to add festive accents to outdoor spaces or even as creative tabletops for your patio.
Incorporate Festive Greenery
Tiles and accessories are great, but a touch of greenery can make your space feel alive. Pair your tile designs with natural decor like wreaths, garlands, and potted plants. For a cohesive look, match the greenery to the tones in your wall tiles or floor tiles.
Try This: Use marble tiles or decor tiles as bases for your holiday centrepieces to add elegance to your table decor.
Bring the Festive Vibe Home
Whether you’re updating your bathroom, sprucing up your kitchen, or giving your floors a refresh, these festive home upgrades will help you create a stylish and welcoming space. Explore our range of tiles, bathroom accessories, kitchen fixtures, and more to bring your holiday vision to life.
Ready to transform your home? Browse our range and start your festive upgrades!
bathroom, blog, floors, kitchen, walls
Creating a healthy home environment is more important than ever, and choosing the right flooring and wall materials plays a massive role in your overall well-being. When it comes to creating a space that’s both beautiful and beneficial to your health, tiles are a standout choice. Let’s dive into the health benefits of using tiles, from your kitchen to your bathroom, and even outdoors.
Image Credit: Shutterstock
Table of Content:
#1: Tiles Are Hypoallergenic
#2: Easy to Keep Clean and Sanitized
#3: Tiles Improve Indoor Air Quality
#4: Tiles Help Regulate Temperature
#5: Tiles Are Durable and Reduce Waste
#6: Tiles Are Great for Wet Areas
#7: Tiles Are Non-Toxic
#8: Versatile Design Options for Every Room
Invest in Healthy Living
#1: Tiles Are Hypoallergenic
If you suffer from allergies, you’ll love the hypoallergenic nature of tiles. Unlike carpets that can trap dust, pollen, pet hair, and other allergens, tile flooring is much easier to clean. With a simple sweep or mop, you can keep your tiled floor free from irritants, making it ideal for people with allergies or asthma.
Best areas to use: Everywhere! But especially in high-traffic areas like the living room and bedroom for a fresher, cleaner atmosphere.
Image Credit: Adobe Stock
#2: Easy to Keep Clean and Sanitized
Tiles, whether porcelain or ceramic, have non-porous surfaces, which means they don’t absorb dirt, bacteria, or mould. This makes them a healthier option compared to materials that can trap bacteria, especially in moist environments like kitchens and bathrooms. Plus, with advances in large format tiles, cleaning is even easier with fewer grout lines to maintain.
Best areas to use: Kitchen floor tiles, bathroom floor tiles, and bathroom wall tiles.
Image Credit: igdbuilding
#3: Tiles Improve Indoor Air Quality
Did you know that tiles don’t release volatile organic compounds (VOCs)? Many other types of flooring materials, like certain woods or synthetic options, emit these chemicals, which can negatively impact indoor air quality and your overall health. Tiles help maintain a healthier air environment, which is especially beneficial for households with young children, pets, or anyone with respiratory conditions.
Best areas to use: Bedrooms, living spaces, and any area where you spend a lot of time.
Image Credit: Adobe Stock
#4: Tiles Help Regulate Temperature
Tiles are known for their thermal stability, which means they don’t trap heat the way other flooring materials do. In the summer, tile flooring can help cool down your home. During winter, they work well with underfloor heating systems to keep your home warm and cosy. This helps regulate your body’s temperature and creates a more comfortable living environment.
Best areas to use: Kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces like patios.
#5: Tiles Are Durable and Reduce Waste
One major health benefit that often gets overlooked is the reduced stress from worrying about constant replacements. Porcelain and ceramic tiles are extremely durable and can last for decades, reducing the environmental impact of frequent replacements. In the long run, this creates a more sustainable and stress-free home environment.
Best areas to use: High-traffic areas like hallways, kitchens, and outdoor patios.
Image Credit: iStock
#6: Tiles Are Great for Wet Areas
Tiles are water-resistant, making them perfect for moisture-prone areas. In bathrooms, for instance, using bathroom tiles, bathroom floor tiles, and bathroom wall tiles helps prevent water damage and the buildup of mould and mildew, which can be harmful to your health. This is a significant advantage over materials that are less resistant to water.
Best areas to use: Bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor areas exposed to the elements.
Image Credit: Shutterstock
#7: Tiles Are Non-Toxic
Porcelain tiles and ceramic tiles are made from natural materials, like clay, and do not contain toxic chemicals. This makes them a safer choice for homes, especially those with children who spend a lot of time on the floor.
Best areas to use: Children’s play areas, nurseries, and living rooms.
Image Credit: iStock
#8: Versatile Design Options for Every Room
Tiles are available in a wide range of designs and sizes. You can opt for large format tiles to create an elegant look with minimal grout lines or mix and match different patterns for a unique space. Choosing the right floor tile or wall tile can also brighten up your home, making it feel more inviting and relaxing—both great for mental health.
Best areas to use: Kitchen tiles, living rooms, and bathrooms for a personalised touch.
Invest in Healthy Living
Choosing tiles for your home is an investment in your family’s health and well-being. Whether you’re renovating your kitchen, remodeling your bathroom, or enhancing your outdoor area, tiles offer a clean, hypoallergenic, and durable solution. Remember, a healthier home is a happier home, and with tiles, you’re on the right path.
Image Credit: iStock
Ready to create a healthy living space? Start planning your next tile project today!
