Tiles

Tiles have been used in the bathroom since ancient Greece. Tiles have evaluated since then and there are many options of tiles available in the market now. Tiles come in different shapes, sizes, finishes, patterns and purposes, which should be considered during the planning stage.

The general rule of thumb is floor tiles can be used on the wall but wall tiles should not be used on the floor as they are not manufactured and durable enough for foot traffic. Some tiles are specifically designed for both applications (tiled completely from floor to ceiling) which gives a more complete look to the bathroom.

BCA require impermeable/waterproofing to 1800mm in the shower and a waterproof junction to all wall/floor junctions.

The pattern of laying the tiles depends on individual taste. Tiles may laid square, on a diagonal, curved or in a herringbone design. The grout, whether white or coloured, can be used to create a bold statement, emphasising the shape, finish, colour of the tile; or blend in to go unnoticed. The smaller the tiles used the more grout.

Calculating Tile Requirements:

To calculate the tile quantities it is first necessary to design the layout of the room and complete the floor plans and elevations. One dimension is completed multiply width with room length to get the total area to cover. Same way calculate the wall area. If the room is uneven divide the room into smaller sections. Calculate the area of each section and sum up all the areas to calculate the total floor area.

Once the total floor area has been calculated it is recommended to add 10-15% to account cutting and wastage. This also depends on the tiles to be used and the way it is laid. Check the wastage ratio with the supplier or tiler.

Decorative Borders

If a decorative border or feature tiles are to be used it is necessary to first identify where they are to be incorporated and then calculate how many pieces are required. To do this, work out how many linear meters are to be covered for each separate area and divide the size of the tile into this measurement. Multiply the width of each tile by its height, then multiply the figure by the number of tiles required to give the square meter requirements of the tile. Make sure this figure is deducted from the total wall tile area worked out earlier and the amount left is the number of body tiles needed. If these are running through the shower area, consideration for the fitting of the shower screen must be made.

Mosaic: Mosaic tiles are distinguished from other kinds of tiles by their size, generally does not exceed 62mm x 62mm. Generally used as borders or features.

Tile Trims: Trims are used to finish a tiled surface and to prevent moisture to penetrate interior walls and construction.

Grouts

Different types and colours of grout are available, each designed for a particular kind of installation and to be used with specific tile sizes, shapes, and colours. Ideally, grout should be flexible and water resisting.

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