bathroom, blog, floors, kitchen
If you are planning a renovation project you may by wondering if you can install tiles over your existing flooring instead of ripping everything out. The good news is that it is possible but you need to follow the right steps to make sure your tiles last and look professional.
Table of Content:
Why Install Tiles Over Existing Flooring
How To Know If Your Floor is Suitable
Preparing the Surface Before You Begin
Essential Tools and Materials
Steps to Install Tiles Over Existing Flooring
Common Mistakes to Avoid When You Install Tiles Over Existing Flooring
Why Install Tiles Over Existing Flooring
Choosing to lay tiles on top of your current floor can save time, money and a lot of mess. You avoid the hassle of breaking up and disposing of old flooring and you can move forward with your renovation more quickly. This option is especially appealing for busy households or commercial spaces where downtime needs to be minimal.
How To Know If Your Floor is Suitable
Before you start you need to know if your current floors are suitable. The surface must be stable flat and free from cracks. Materials like ceramic, vinyl or even concrete are usually fine as long as they are in good condition. However carpets, uneven wood floors or anything with water damage will not work.
Preparing the Surface Before You Begin
Preparation is key to a lasting result. Start by giving the surface a thorough clean to remove grease dirt or dust. Fill in any small cracks or gaps and make sure the floor is level. In some cases you may need to roughen the surface slightly with sandpaper or apply a bonding agent to help the new tiles stick properly.
Essential Tools and Materials
Having the right tools will make the job smoother.
1. Tile adhesive
2. Grout
3. A notched trowel
4. A tile cutter
5. Tile spacers
6. A spirit level
6. A sponge and bucket
These basics will cover most installations whether you are working in a bathroom, kitchen or living space.
Steps to Install Tiles Over Existing Flooring
Follow these steps to ensure a neat finish:
1. Plan your layout and mark guide lines on the floor.
2. Apply adhesive with a notched trowel starting from the centre of the room.
3. Place tiles carefully using spacers to keep lines even.
4. Check regularly with a spirit level to maintain a flat surface.
5. Let the adhesive set before applying grout between the tiles.
6. Wipe away excess grout with a damp sponge.
Taking your time during these steps will make a big difference to the final look.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When You Install Tiles Over Existing Flooring
Even with careful planning, small mistakes can affect the outcome. Skipping surface preparation, rushing the adhesive setting time or forgetting to seal your grout can all cause issues like loose tiles or water damage later on.
Updating your space by laying new tiles over your existing floor can save you effort and money while giving your home a fresh new look. The key is to prepare properly, use the right tools and follow the correct steps. If you are not confident in your DIY skills it is always a good idea to call in a professional tiler to ensure the job is done right.
blog, floors, walls
When it comes to transforming your space, picking the right tiles makes all the difference. If you’re deciding between the top tile choices for homes in Gauteng and Cape Town, it helps to know which styles work best in each location. Climate, lifestyle and design trends all play a role in helping you make the perfect choice for your home.
Table of Content:
Top Tile Choices for Homes in Gauteng
Top Tile Choices for Homes in Cape Town
Choosing the Right Tile for Your Home
Top Tile Choices for Homes in Gauteng
Gauteng’s climate is generally warm with dry, cooler winters and summer thunderstorms. Homes in this region benefit from tiles that can handle fluctuating temperatures and the occasional splash of water.
Porcelain tiles
Porcelain tiles are strong, durable and low maintenance, making them perfect for high-traffic areas. They handle Gauteng’s temperature swings without cracking and are available in a wide range of designs and styles to match any décor.
Wood-look tiles
Wood-look tiles give the warm aesthetic of timber without the maintenance issues caused by fluctuating temperatures.
Polished ceramic tiles
Ceramic tiles are affordable, easy to clean and ideal for kitchens and bathrooms. Their water-resistant properties make them a practical option for busy family homes.
Gauteng homes often lean toward modern finishes with neutral colours and sleek designs, making these top tile choices both practical and stylish.
Top Tile Choices for Homes in Cape Town
Cape Town’s coastal climate brings a mix of humidity, sea air and cooler winters. This means you need tiles that can stand up to moisture and remain slip-resistant.
Slip-resistant porcelain tiles
With Cape Town’s rainy winters, non-slip tiles are essential for outdoor patios, pool areas and even bathrooms to prevent accidents in damp conditions.
Natural stone tiles
Natural stone tiles like slate, travertine or granite or concrete look tiles work beautifully in Cape Town’s coastal style homes, offering a textured, organic look that fits the natural surroundings. They’re perfect for adding a touch of luxury to bathrooms, outdoor patios and living spaces. However, it’s important to note that they may require sealing for protection against moisture.
Matt finish ceramic tiles
Matt ceramic tiles reduce glare from the strong Cape sunlight and are great for open-plan spaces with large windows.
Cape Town interiors often reflect a relaxed coastal vibe, so these top tile choices combine functionality with that light, airy style.
Choosing the Right Tile for Your Home
While both regions share the need for durable, attractive flooring, the best way to choose is to consider your home’s environment and your lifestyle. For Gauteng homes, durability and temperature resistance are key. For homes in Cape Town, the focus should be on moisture resistance and a design that complements your home’s coastal charm.
Choosing the right tiles is more than just about looks. It’s about finding the perfect balance between beauty, durability and climate suitability. Whether you live in bustling Gauteng or scenic Cape Town, these top tile choices will help you create a home that’s as practical as it is stylish.
Visit one of our showrooms in Johannesburg, Cape Town or KwaZulu-Natal to explore the best options for your home and get expert advice tailored to your needs.
blog, floors, walls
Renting your space doesn’t mean you have to live with dull floors or outdated kitchen splashbacks. With the right tiles and clever workarounds, you can refresh your home without upsetting your landlord or risking your deposit. Whether you want to add a bit of personality to your bathroom, kitchen or living area, there are renter-friendly tile solutions that let you style your space your way.
Table of Content:
Why Renters Need Flexible Tiles & Flooring Solutions
Peel-and-Stick Tiles: Your Best Friend
Removable Vinyl Tiles for Floors
Tile Rugs: A Trendy, Damage-Free Fix
Temporary Grout Pens and Tile Stickers
Speak to the Experts
Why Renters Need Flexible Tiles & Flooring Solutions
Unlike homeowners, renters need design choices that are easy to install, temporary and non-damaging. Most landlords won’t allow permanent changes like ripping out existing tiles or using adhesives that can’t be removed. That’s where peel-and-stick tiles, removable vinyl flooring and other non-permanent options come in.
These alternatives offer a smart way to personalise your space while still keeping things simple when it’s time to move out.
Peel-and-Stick Tiles: Your Best Friend
Peel-and-stick tiles are one of the most popular choices for renters. They’re affordable, easy to install and don’t require any tools. You simply peel off the backing and stick them directly over existing tiles or smooth surfaces.
You can use them for:
Kitchen backsplashes
Bathroom walls
Accent walls in the living room
Look for moisture-resistant peel-and-stick options if you’re using them in humid areas like bathrooms.
Removable Vinyl Tiles for Floors
Vinyl tiles are perfect for covering up tired or stained floors. You’ll find them in a range of designs, from realistic wood grain to bold geometric patterns. They’re thicker and more durable than peel-and-stick wall tiles, and most don’t need adhesive – they simply float over the existing floor.
These are ideal for:
Rental kitchens
Bathroom floors
Studio apartments with worn-out flooring
Bonus: many vinyl tiles are waterproof and easy to clean, making them as functional as they are stylish.
Browse our range of Vinyl Flooring
Tile Rugs: A Trendy, Damage-Free Fix
If you’re dealing with carpet or uneven flooring, a tile rug might be your best bet. These are made using interlocking vinyl or foam tiles that mimic ceramic patterns but don’t require adhesives. They’re especially popular for creating a tiled “zone” in open-plan spaces.
Think entryways, under coffee tables or even as a stylish solution under your home desk setup.
Temporary Grout Pens and Tile Stickers
Already have tiles but hate the colour or grout lines? Tile stickers and grout pens can breathe new life into old installations. These are renter-friendly hacks that let you transform the look of your tiles without removing them.
Use grout pens to freshen up yellowed grout or match it to your style. Add tile stickers to individual tiles to create a custom pattern or pop of colour.
Important Tips Before You Begin
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Always test a small area first to make sure the product comes off cleanly
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Check your lease to confirm what’s allowed in terms of temporary updates
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Save all original packaging so you can reverse the update before moving out if needed
Speak to the Experts
If you’re not sure which tile solution is right for your rental, pop into one of our showrooms in Cape Town, Johannesburg or Durban. Our team is happy to guide you through easy, stylish options that suit your space and your lease terms.
Ready to refresh your rental? Visit Tiletoria for smart tile solutions that are as flexible as they are beautiful. Whether you’re after removable tiles, design advice or inspiration, we’ve got what you need.
bathroom, blog, floors, kitchen, walls
When done right, statement tiles can elevate your home from ordinary to unforgettable. But there’s a fine line between bold and overwhelming. If you’re dreaming of eye-catching patterns or vibrant colours, the key is balance.
In this blog, we’ll explore how to use statement tiles in a way that feels stylish, not chaotic.
Table of Content:
What Are Statement Tiles?
Choose One Focal Point
Pair with Neutrals
Stick to a Colour Palette
Use Statement Tiles in Smaller Areas
Balance Patterns with Solids
Let Lighting Do the Talking
What Are Statement Tiles?
Statement tiles are tiles that draw attention. Think bold patterns, striking colours, unique shapes or textured finishes. They’re designed to be the focal point of a space — whether it’s a bathroom wall, a kitchen splashback or an entryway floor.
Choose One Focal Point
ribbons shiny 300 x 600 mm
The golden rule? One statement at a time. If you go big on the floor, keep your walls neutral. If your kitchen splashback steals the show, choose simpler cabinets and counters. This keeps the space feeling intentional rather than cluttered.
Try this: Use a bold patterned tile behind your stove or basin, and pair it with plain tiles around it. This lets the statement tile shine without competing for attention.
Pair with Neutrals
Statement tiles love a neutral companion. Whites, greys, beiges and earthy tones help tone things down and give your eyes a place to rest. By pairing your bold tile with a subtle backdrop, you let its beauty stand out without overpowering the space.
Bonus tip: Natural materials like wood or matte finishes can complement bold tiles beautifully.
Stick to a Colour Palette
Even the loudest tile can work if it fits your overall colour scheme. Whether you’re working with cool tones, warm hues or monochrome, make sure your statement tile ties in with other elements in the room — like your cabinetry, textiles or accessories.
Use Statement Tiles in Smaller Areas
Sometimes less really is more. Think about using statement tiles in smaller zones like:
A fireplace surround
These pockets of personality are perfect for playing with bold design without going overboard.
Balance Patterns with Solids
If your tile has a busy design, balance it with plain, solid colours. On the other hand, if your statement tile is a single bold colour, balance it with simple textures or shapes. This helps maintain a sense of calm and structure.
Let Lighting Do the Talking
Lighting can either soften or highlight a statement tile. Soft, ambient lighting can make a bold tile feel more inviting. On the flip side, directional lighting can spotlight textures and patterns for extra drama — just make sure it suits the mood you’re after.
Statement tiles are a brilliant way to bring life and personality into your space. With the right planning, you can enjoy bold, beautiful design without overwhelming the room. Start small, choose your focal point and let your tiles do the talking.
Need help choosing the perfect statement tile?
Visit your nearest Tiletoria showroom or explore our curated tile collections online — we’ve got bold options for every taste and style.
blog, floors, interior design tips, walls
There’s something incredibly satisfying about walking into a space where everything just feels right. Often, you can’t immediately tell why — but your brain knows. More often than not, it comes down to symmetry. Symmetry in interior design plays a powerful role in how we perceive a space. When it comes to tile layouts, symmetrical patterns have a calming effect that makes rooms feel more balanced, welcoming and visually appealing.
Let’s explore why symmetrical tile designs feel so relaxing and how you can use them to create harmony in your home.
Table of Content:
Why Our Brains Love Symmetry
The Role of Symmetry in Tile Design
Spaces That Benefit Most from Symmetrical Tile Layouts
Symmetry Doesn’t Mean Boring
When to Break the Rules
Why Our Brains Love Symmetry
Humans are hardwired to find symmetry pleasing. From nature to architecture, our brains constantly seek order and balance. Symmetrical patterns are easy to process because they give our brains a sense of predictability and stability. In contrast, asymmetrical or chaotic layouts can sometimes feel disjointed or overwhelming.
In psychology, this is known as processing fluency — the idea that the easier something is to understand visually, the more we tend to like it. When tiles are laid in symmetrical, repeating patterns, our minds relax. The space feels more put together, and that ease translates to comfort.
The Role of Symmetry in Tile Design
When planning a tile layout, symmetry can show up in a few different ways:
Grid patterns: Classic, clean and simple.
Tiles are lined up in rows and columns, creating a sense of order.
Herringbone and chevron layouts: These offer a dynamic yet balanced feel.
They add interest while still keeping the overall design cohesive.
Mirror layouts
These involve reflecting a pattern on either side of a centre line, which adds elegance and structure to a space.
Whether you’re tiling a bathroom, kitchen or outdoor area, symmetrical layouts provide a foundation that feels intentional and soothing.
Spaces That Benefit Most from Symmetrical Tile Layouts
Bathrooms and ensuites
tiletoria, paarden eiland showroom
These are places where people go to unwind and reset. A symmetrical tile pattern in the shower or around the vanity instantly adds to the spa-like vibe.
Living areas
Floor tiles laid in a grid or balanced pattern can make an open-plan space feel more grounded and connected.
Kitchens
Splashbacks with a symmetrical layout not only look clean but also help small or busy kitchens feel less chaotic.
Symmetry Doesn’t Mean Boring
Some people worry that symmetrical designs might look too rigid or predictable. But that’s far from true. You can still play with colour, texture and tile size while keeping the layout balanced.
For example, mix glossy and matte finishes or alternate shades within a grid. You get the structure of symmetry with the personality of a more creative design.
When to Break the Rules
While symmetry brings a calming effect, there’s also beauty in breaking the pattern — strategically. Asymmetrical layouts work well in bold feature walls, artistic mosaics or contemporary interiors where movement and energy are the focus. The key is to balance symmetry and asymmetry throughout your home so that one complements the other.
Symmetry in tile design goes beyond just aesthetics — it taps into how our minds perceive and respond to visual information. By choosing symmetrical tile layouts, you’re creating more than just a pretty space. You’re building an environment that feels peaceful, organised and easy to live in.
If you’re planning a renovation or simply looking to refresh a room, consider how the layout of your tiles could impact the feel of your space. A little balance can go a long way.
Need help choosing the perfect tile layout?
Visit your nearest Tiletoria showroom or chat with one of our experts for personalised advice. Your dream space starts with the right pattern.
blog, commercial blog, floors, trends, walls
Tiles are a staple in interior design, known for their practicality, versatility and style. But not all tiles are created equal. Some take things to a whole new level — crafted with rare materials, intricate techniques or luxury finishes that turn them into works of art. Curious to know what the most expensive tiles in the world are and why they cost so much? Let’s explore the world of luxury tiles and what makes them truly special.
Image credit: versace-tiles.com
Table of Content:
What Makes a Tile Expensive?
Sicis Mosaic Tiles (Italy)
Petra Antiqua Tiles (Italy)
Versace Ceramics
Bisazza Mosaic Tiles
Antique Tiles & Historical Replicas
Are Expensive Tiles Worth It?
What Makes a Tile Expensive?
Before we dive into the most luxurious options out there, it’s worth understanding what factors drive up the cost of tiles:
Material
Image credit: tileclub.com
Natural stone like marble, onyx or rare granite tends to cost more than ceramic or porcelain.
Craftsmanship
Image credit: uniquetiles.com
Hand-painted, hand-cut or custom-made tiles involve more labour, which adds to the price.
Brand
High-end brands often carry premium price tags due to reputation, exclusivity and designer collaborations.
Design
Intricate patterns, mosaics or one-of-a-kind styles can raise the cost significantly.
Rarity
Image credit: english-heritage.org.uk
Limited production or hard-to-source materials can make a tile more expensive.
Sicis Mosaic Tiles (Italy)
Image credit: sicis.com
Sicis is known for pushing the boundaries of tile design. Their glass mosaics are often found in luxury hotels and palaces. Some of their collections feature hand-cut tiles made from gold leaf glass or smalti, which is a high-quality Venetian glass. Each mosaic can be fully custom designed, making it both exclusive and eye-wateringly expensive.
Image credit: mgsarchitecture.in
Why it’s special: Sicis blends art with craftsmanship, offering bespoke pieces that are just as much about personal expression as they are about design.
Petra Antiqua Tiles (Italy)
Image credit: petraantiqua.com
Petra Antiqua creates high-end stone tiles with a focus on carving and inlays. Their luxury tiles feature precious metals like gold, silver or platinum embedded into natural stone. These tiles are often used in high-end residential and commercial spaces where opulence is key.
Image credit: casamiauae.com
Why it’s special: The combination of centuries-old stoneworking traditions with modern design makes every tile feel like a collectible piece.
Versace Ceramics
Image credit: versace-tiles.com
If you want glamour underfoot, Versace Ceramics is the ultimate indulgence. Created by the iconic fashion house, these tiles blend traditional Italian craftsmanship with bold, elegant design. Think ornate gold accents, intricate patterns and polished finishes.
Image credit: versace-tiles.com
Why it’s special: These tiles make a statement and elevate interiors with a distinct designer edge that only Versace can bring.
Bisazza Mosaic Tiles
Image credit: tile.expert
Bisazza is a leader in the luxury mosaic market, offering dazzling tile designs that range from classic to contemporary. Some collections feature 24-karat gold or platinum leaf layered inside the glass. Used in boutique hotels, yachts and luxury homes, Bisazza tiles are known for their artistic flair.
Image credit: archiproducts.com
Why it’s special: Each tile is a fusion of innovation and style, crafted to catch the eye and reflect light in stunning ways.
Antique Tiles & Historical Replicas
Image credit: somanyceramics.com
Sometimes, the most expensive tiles are not new at all. Authentic antique tiles from centuries-old buildings, especially Moroccan Zellige or Spanish Majolica, can sell for thousands. Their historical value, age and intricate craftsmanship make them highly sought-after by collectors and designers.
Image credit: tileclub.com
Why it’s special: These tiles tell a story. Owning one is like owning a piece of design history.
Are Expensive Tiles Worth It?
Image credit: elite-tiles.com
For most people, luxury tiles are an investment in beauty, durability and exclusivity. They often become the focal point of a room, elevating a space from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you’re designing a high-end bathroom, a statement kitchen splashback or a bespoke feature wall, expensive tiles can be well worth the cost if you want something truly unique.
From shimmering mosaics to hand-carved stone, the world’s most expensive tiles offer more than just surface appeal. They represent craftsmanship, luxury and individuality. While they may not be for every budget, they’re certainly inspiring and can guide your choices even when you’re working with more affordable options.
Looking to elevate your space with tiles that turn heads? Explore Tiletoria’s premium tile collections for inspiration and discover the perfect fit for your next design project.
