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Choosing a Kitchen Tile - Help & Advice

Why Have Tiles in the Kitchen

Kitchens need to be a place of hygiene, which tiles can certainly offer. With their ‘fresh’ appearance (particularly gloss finished tiles) and ‘easy wipe’ surfaces, hygiene is one of the first things that come to mind when using tiles in the kitchen.

Secondly, tiles can add significant value to your home when compared to decorating with wallpaper, carpets, vinyl, etc. Therefore, see purchasing tiles as an investment – not a cost!

In addition, tiles are now available in different sizes, colours, textures, materials and designs, giving you the chance to create a unique environment, tailored to your specific tastes.

How Important is Durability in a Kitchen Tile?

Because kitchens are considered an area of ‘high traffic’, which are also home to heavy appliances such as washing machines and fridges, it is important that you choose a floor tile that is hardwearing and scratch resistant. Visit our 'Wear' (PEI) Ratings article for more advice.

Consequently, porcelain tiles and natural tiles (marble, travertine, slate, etc) are the type most suitable for the job (flooring).

Which Colours Should I Choose?

Emphasis should be made on ‘personal choice’ for this answer. However, always consider the colour of your kitchen units and surroundings when choosing the colour/design for your tiles.

Which Size Tiles Should I Use?

Floors – for very small kitchens, you should consider small tiles (e.g. < 30x30cm) to create a good flow. Larger tiles (e.g. 45x45cm +) look best in kitchens that have a lot of floor space where many tiles can be laid without cuts. Large floors also welcome ‘multi-format’ tiles – tiles of the same design that are laid in 2, 3 or 4 different sizes (as a continuous pattern).

Walls – again, this is down to personal preference. Until now, small tiles (e.g. 10x10cm) have been favoured, but times are changing, and so are people’s tastes. Consequently, many people are now looking into larger wall tiles for the kitchen.

Will Tiles Make the Floor Cold on My Feet?

Okay, tiles can feel cool on bare feet, but this may also depend on the surface underneath the tiles. For example, tiling onto wood (which can ‘breath’) will create a warmer feel than tiles that are placed on top of concrete.

Read our 'Warm Up Your Home' article to help convince you that tiles can add warmth to your home. In addition, the following tips will help you create a warm feeling with tiles:

Firstly, under-tile heating is available to radiate warmth through your tiled floor. If you would like to learn more about under-tile heating (which can be purchased at the YTC), visit our products page.

Choose warm looking floor tiles such as creams and terracotta colours to give an impression of warmth in the kitchen. Also, by choosing warm looking colours for the wall (whether this be tile or paint), the effect can be increased.

Suitable Grouts for Kitchen Tiles

Grouts are now available in a wide range of colours that will help disguise your grout lines.  Grouts with antibacterial protection are also available to offer increased protection against bacteria - all available at the YTC!