Renovating your bathroom can breathe new life into the space, but one area where mistakes are often made is with the tiles. Whether it’s poor planning, incorrect installation, or choosing the wrong design, these errors can end up being costly and frustrating.
With the right preparation and knowledge, however, you can avoid common bathroom tile mistakes and ensure your bathroom renovation looks great and functions well for years to come.
Below are some key mistakes to watch out for, along with helpful tips to guide your Melbourne bathroom renovations.
1. Choosing The Wrong Tile Size
One of the most common mistakes people make when choosing bathroom tiles is selecting a size that doesn’t fit the space properly.
Tiles come in a wide range of sizes, from small mosaic tiles to large format tiles, and exploring different bathroom tile ideas can help you find the right size and style that complements your space.
It’s essential to match the tile size to the size of your bathroom to create a balanced look.
- For smaller bathrooms, large tiles can overwhelm the space and make it feel cramped. Exploring small bathroom tile ideas, like using smaller tiles or mosaic patterns, can help create a more open and airy feel, making the space appear larger and more inviting.
- In larger bathrooms, opting for bigger tiles can reduce grout lines and provide a sleek, seamless appearance. However, it’s important to remember that the grout can also influence the final appearance, so choose a grout colour that complements your tiles.
2. Ignoring The Importance Of Grout
Grout is often an overlooked detail during bathroom tile renovations, but it plays a vital role in both aesthetics and functionality.
The wrong grout colour or an improperly applied grout can create an uneven look or lead to issues like cracking and discolouration.
- Grout colour: While white grout may seem like a safe choice, it can stain easily, especially in high-moisture areas like the bathroom. Consider using a darker grout for a more practical solution that still complements your tiles. Darker grout can also create a striking contrast, especially with lighter tiles.
- Grout type: Choose a grout that is suitable for wet areas, such as epoxy or cement-based grout, to prevent water damage and mould growth. Also, make sure your grout is applied evenly and correctly to prevent cracking or discolouration.
3. Overlooking Tile Maintenance
Tiles are durable, but they’re not invincible. Various tile types have varying maintenance requirements. Failing to choose tiles that are easy to maintain can lead to headaches down the road.
- Tiles made from porous materials, such as natural stone, can soak up water and stains. To avoid damage, these tiles need to be sealed regularly.
- Glossy tiles may show water spots, soap scum, and grime more easily, which can be frustrating to clean.
- Matte tiles tend to hide water spots better but may require more frequent cleaning to prevent grime buildup.
4. Choosing Style Over Functionality
- It’s tempting to select tiles based on how they look, but it’s crucial not to sacrifice functionality for aesthetics. For instance, tiles that look great but are too slippery when wet can pose a serious safety hazard in bathrooms.
- Non-slip tiles are essential for bathroom floors, especially in shower areas. Look for tiles with a textured finish or anti-slip coatings that can help reduce the risk of slips and falls.
- Wall tiles can be more about style, but even then, you should ensure they’re easy to clean and maintain. A tile with a smooth surface will be much easier to wipe down than a rough one.
5. Not Properly Planning Tile Layout
Tile layout plays a significant role in the overall look of your bathroom. A poorly planned layout can make the room feel disorganised or chaotic.
- Symmetry: If you’re using large tiles, it’s important to ensure that the layout is symmetrical to avoid an unbalanced look.
- Pattern design: When using patterned or mosaic tiles, be sure to plan the pattern ahead of time to avoid mismatched designs.
- Tile direction: The direction of the tiles can affect how the space feels. For example, laying tiles horizontally on a floor can make a narrow room appear wider, while laying them vertically can give the illusion of more height.
6. Not Considering The Long-Term Look
Bathroom trends come and go, and while it’s tempting to follow the latest styles, it’s important to think about the long-term look of your space. Tiles can last for decades, so you’ll want to choose a design that will still be attractive in years to come.
- Timeless designs: Classic styles, such as white subway tiles, marble, or neutral tones, can stand the test of time.
- Trendy designs: Bold colours or patterns may be popular now, but could look dated in a few years. If you do opt for trendy tiles, consider using them as accents or in smaller sections rather than covering the entire space with them.
7. Underestimating The Impact Of Lighting
Lighting plays a crucial role in how tiles appear in your bathroom. Without proper lighting, even the most beautiful tiles can look dull and unappealing.
- Consider natural light: If your bathroom has a lot of natural light, it will highlight the true colours of your tiles. If not, plan your lighting carefully to make sure your tiles stand out.
- Task lighting: Use additional lighting around mirrors and countertops to ensure that your tiles are illuminated evenly, especially in darker bathrooms.
Conclusion
Bathroom tile renovations are an essential part of creating a functional, stylish, and long-lasting bathroom. By steering clear of these common mistakes, you can make sure your tiles not only look fantastic but also remain durable for years to come.
From choosing the right materials to ensuring expert installation, every step matters. That’s where Melbourne Superior Tiling comes in. With a strong reputation for high-quality craftsmanship, attention to detail, and personalised service, they make sure your renovation is smooth, stylish, and built to last. Trust the experts to bring your vision to life and avoid costly errors.
Ready to transform your bathroom with stunning results? Contact Melbourne Superior Tiling today for a renovation you’ll love for years to come.
