Most people choose tiles based on looks alone. And while aesthetics matter, the wrong tile in the wrong space can mean ongoing headaches — cracked grout, slippery floors, costly maintenance, or a finish that dates fast.
Here's what we tell every client when they're standing in a tile showroom.
Function before form
A tile that looks beautiful in a magazine spread might be the wrong choice for your space. High-traffic areas need durable porcelain. Wet areas need slip-resistant finishes. Outdoor spaces need frost and weather resistance. Always start with where the tile is going, not what it looks like.
Size affects the look, and the install
Large format tiles (600x600mm and bigger) make a small bathroom feel bigger and reduce grout lines. But they also need a flatter substrate and more precision to install. Small mosaic tiles look stunning as feature walls but require more labour. Both are great choices — just understand what you're signing up for.
Grout colour is half the story
The same tile can look completely different with different grout colours. Light grout against light tiles creates a seamless look. Dark grout against light tiles makes the pattern pop. Dark grout also hides dirt better in high-traffic areas — practical for kitchens and entrances.
Buy 10% more than you need
Always order extra. Tiles get cracked during install, future repairs need matching tiles, and tile batches can vary in colour. Having 10–15% extra means you've got spares for the next 20 years. Once a tile range is discontinued (and they all eventually are), you can't replace it.
Cheaper isn't always cheaper
Budget tiles often need replacing or recovering issues sooner. Quality tiles last decades. Spending a bit more upfront usually saves money long-term — and the cost difference is usually less than you'd think when spread across the life of the renovation.
Need a hand choosing the right tiles for your project? Our team's been helping Adelaide homeowners pick the right tile for the right space for years.
