Tiles are one of those materials that can be overlooked during the planning stage, but they play a huge role in how a space performs, not just how it looks. Whether you’re working on a residential build, a commercial fit-out, or a large public facility, choosing the right tile for the right environment can make or break a project. With so many options available, it pays for contractors to be knowledgeable about the basic types of tile, what they’re best suited for, and what to watch out for when installing them.
Let’s break down the main types of tile you’re likely to come across and how to use them wisely.
Ceramic tiles are among the most widely used due to their affordability and versatility. They are made from clay, fired at lower temperatures than porcelain, and typically come glazed.
Indoor walls and low-traffic floors (e.g., residential bathrooms and kitchens).
Cost-effective, easy to cut and install.
Less durable and more porous than porcelain.
Denser and fired at higher temperatures, porcelain tiles offer greater water resistance and durability. Available in glazed or full-bodied varieties.
High-traffic floors, commercial spaces, wet areas, and outdoor use (when textured for slip resistance).
Highly durable, water-resistant, low maintenance.
More difficult to cut and often more expensive.
Including marble, granite, slate, limestone, and travertine, stone tiles offer a premium finish and unique look, but require more maintenance.
High-end residential, feature walls, commercial lobbies, and exterior use, depending on stone type.
Visually striking, durable if sealed properly.
Requires sealing, variation in quality, and higher installation cost.
Small tiles (often glass, stone, or ceramic) mounted on mesh sheets, mosaics are often used for decorative or detailed work.
Splashbacks, shower niches, pool areas, and accents.
Flexible design applications, easy to apply to curved surfaces.
Time-consuming to install; grout lines may be more difficult to clean.
Handmade tiles are gaining popularity for patterned designs, especially in boutique commercial settings.
Interior floors and walls, where design impact is a priority.
Durable, visually unique.
Porous, needs sealing, can be prone to staining.
In any space where water or spills are likely, e.g. bathrooms, kitchens, entranceways, or outdoor walkways, slip resistance is non-negotiable. The New Zealand Building Code (NZBC) outlines requirements for slip resistance depending on the environment and use. Choosing tiles with the correct surface finish and certified slip rating is essential, especially in commercial or public settings where safety liabilities come into play. It’s important to look at the R-rating or P-rating system, depending on your supplier, and make sure the tile surface isn’t too smooth underfoot.
Moisture is one of the biggest enemies of tiling. Porcelain tiles are a good choice in high-moisture zones due to their low porosity. They absorb less than 0.5% of water, making them ideal for wet areas, outdoor patios, or places subject to freeze-thaw cycles. In contrast, ceramic and natural stone tiles are often more porous and may require extra protection like waterproof membranes beneath the surface or a sealing product applied after installation. Ignoring water absorption rates can lead to issues like mould, efflorescence, or tile delamination.
Even the best tile won’t perform well on a poor surface. The substrate must be flat, stable, clean, and dry before tiling begins. Different tiles have different tolerances, so larger-format tiles, for example, demand a higher degree of flatness to prevent lipping or cracking. If the surface moves or flexes, the tile job won’t last, and rectifying that after installation is far more costly than doing the prep right the first time.
Not all adhesives and grouts are created equal, and using the wrong one can compromise the entire installation. Contractors should use adhesive products suited to the tile type and substrate. Flexible adhesives are crucial for underfloor heating or timber substrates, where movement is more likely. Epoxy grout is worth considering in commercial kitchens, food prep areas, or high-moisture environments because it’s water-resistant, stain-resistant, and chemically durable.
Tiled surfaces need room to breathe. Thermal expansion, substrate movement, and structural shifts can all put stress on tile installations, especially over large floor areas. Without proper movement joints, tiles can crack or lift over time. Movement joints, either along perimeters, at transitions, or set intervals within large tiled expanses, help accommodate this stress. These joints must be flexible and compliant with industry standards.
Tiles may seem like a design element, but they’re a practical consideration involving compliance, longevity, and performance. Choosing the right type of tile for the job isn’t just about what looks good, it’s also about knowing what will last, stay safe, and meet client and code expectations.
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