A Beginner’s Guide To Choosing Ceramic Tiles

Choosing the right ceramic tiles for your home can feel overwhelming with all the options available, especially if you’re new to tile shopping. As one of the most versatile and cost-effective flooring options, ceramic tiles offer durability, style, and a price point that’s hard to beat. But how do you ensure you’re making the right choice with so many types, finishes, and designs on the market?

Having worked with countless homeowners at Ross’s Discount Home Centre, I’ve helped many navigate the process of choosing ceramic tiles in Perth. From classic looks to modern finishes, ceramic tiles can transform any room when selected carefully to suit your design and lifestyle needs. So whether you’re re-tiling a bathroom, upgrading a kitchen, or refreshing your entire home, this guide will walk you through the essentials of how to choose ceramic tiles that combine style with functionality. Let’s dive in and explore the qualities that make ceramic tiles a solid investment and, most importantly, help you pick the perfect option for your space.

What Makes Ceramic Tiles Unique?

Ceramic tiles have been a popular choice for centuries, and it’s no surprise why. These tiles are crafted from natural clay, fired at high temperatures to create a hard, durable surface that can withstand daily life. What sets ceramic tiles apart from other types is their incredible versatility. They come in countless styles, colours, patterns, and textures—from classic and understated to bold and contemporary. Plus, they’re economical, offering great value without sacrificing style or quality. Whether you want to refresh a small bathroom or redo your entire kitchen, ceramic tiles provide a unique blend of beauty and practicality that fits any budget.

Read our article, The 101 of Ceramic Tiles, for more in depth information on ceramic tiles, including the different types, grading and a cleaning guide..

Choosing Ceramic Tiles Based on Texture and Finish

When it comes to ceramic tiles, the texture and finish are just as important as the colour and pattern. The texture can completely change the look and feel of your space. Glossy ceramic tiles, for instance, add brightness and a sleek, modern look, perfect for creating a clean and elegant feel in kitchens or bathrooms. Matte finishes, on the other hand, offer a softer, more natural look that hides dirt and smudges better, making them great for floors or high-traffic areas.

If you’re aiming for a rustic or natural appearance, textured or wood-look ceramic tiles can give you that cosy, earthy feel. These finishes can mimic the look of natural stone or wood but come with all the benefits of ceramic, like easy maintenance and durability. So, think about the mood you want to create in your space – from the glossy glam of a modern kitchen to the warm, inviting feel of a rustic living area, there’s a ceramic tile texture and finish that’s just right for you.

Trends in Ceramic Tile Design

When choosing ceramic tiles, it’s worth considering the latest tile design trends to add a modern touch to your home. This year, geometric patterns like hexagons, chevrons, and Moroccan-inspired designs are very popular, bringing visual interest and unique character to any space. Bold colours are also making a comeback, with deep blues, rich greens, and bright yellows adding a vibrant, timeless look to kitchens and bathrooms.

Natural textures are also trending, such as wood-look tiles or those mimicking natural stone, offering warmth and the appearance of natural materials without the maintenance. For a vintage vibe, patterned ceramic tiles are back, adding nostalgic charm that suits both classic and contemporary interiors. No matter your style, there’s a ceramic tile trend that will complement your home perfectly!

Choosing Ceramic Tiles by Purpose

When selecting ceramic tiles, it’s essential to consider their purpose and where they will be used in your home. Ceramic tiles are incredibly versatile and durable, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the right ceramic tile based on your specific needs:

Ceramic Floor Tiles

If you’re choosing tiles for flooring, ceramic floor tiles are an excellent option due to their strength and ability to withstand heavy foot traffic. For most flooring needs, opt for tiles between 30 and 45 cm square for a balanced look, or choose larger tiles up to 60 cm square to create a modern, spacious feel. In areas like bathrooms or kitchens where moisture is a concern, select ceramic tiles with a slip-resistant finish to ensure safety.

Ceramic Wall Tiles

In terms of wall tiles, glazed ceramic wall tiles are your best bet. They’re easy to clean, low-maintenance, and resistant to water, making them ideal for kitchens and bathrooms. For areas that require extra protection against water, like shower walls or splashbacks, consider glazed ceramic or mosaic tiles for added durability and style.

Ceramic Tiles for Benchtops

If you’re considering ceramic tiles for benchtops, porcelain ceramic tiles are often the preferred choice due to their superior durability. They’re water-resistant, stain-resistant, and easy to clean, making them perfect for kitchen use. Additionally, porcelain tiles resist scratches, burns, and harsh chemicals, maintaining their appearance even in high-use areas.

Ceramic tiles offer both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits for various purposes around your home. Whether you’re updating your floors, enhancing a kitchen splashback, or creating a custom benchtop, choosing the right ceramic tile will provide a stylish and cost-effective solution that meets your needs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Ceramic Tiles

Choosing ceramic tiles for your home can be exciting, but it’s easy to make a few mistakes along the way. One common mistake is selecting tiles without considering the space they’ll be used in. For example, choosing a glossy tile for a bathroom floor might seem like a great idea, but it can be slippery when wet. Instead, opt for a matte or textured finish to ensure safety.

Another mistake is underestimating the amount of tile you need. Always measure carefully and order a bit more than required to account for cuts, breakage, or future repairs. And don’t forget to think about the grout! The colour and width of your grout lines can dramatically affect the overall look—white grout can highlight your tile pattern, while a darker grout can hide dirt and add contrast.

Finally, some people focus too much on cost and end up choosing a lower-grade tile for high-traffic areas, only to find they need to replace it sooner than expected. At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we always recommend balancing quality with budget—and remember, we’re here to help you find the best value for your money!

Our Range of Ceramic Tiles

At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we’re proud to offer one of Perth’s most extensive selections of ceramic tiles. From durable glazed and unglazed options to versatile porcelain and eye-catching mosaic tiles, we have it all under one roof. Whether you’re aiming to elevate your bathroom, add a stunning kitchen splashback, or upgrade your flooring, our range has something to suit every space and style.

Our ceramic tiles are designed with longevity in mind. Manufactured to meet high standards, they’re built to withstand daily wear and tear, making them a smart choice for any home renovation. And for those looking for a budget-friendly option without sacrificing style, our tiles start at an unbeatable $15 per square metre—offering exceptional value that’s hard to find elsewhere in Perth. If you’re unsure which tile best fits your project, our knowledgeable team is here to guide you through your options.

Conclusion

Choosing ceramic tiles for your home can seem overwhelming, but with a bit of guidance, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect fit. Ceramic tiles are a fantastic choice—they’re durable, versatile, and available in a variety of styles, making them a top pick for any room in the home.

When thinking about how to choose ceramic tiles, consider where they’ll be used, the level of foot traffic, and the desired look and feel of the space. A glazed ceramic tile may be ideal for splashbacks or bathrooms, offering a beautiful, low-maintenance finish, while unglazed tiles provide slip resistance and durability for high-traffic areas. And don’t forget to consider size and colour; these can significantly influence the space’s overall look.

At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we’ve helped Perth homeowners select quality ceramic tiles for over 50 years. With an extensive range and expert advice available, we make choosing ceramic tiles simple and straightforward. Visit our Guildford showroom or explore our online collection to find tiles that match your style, suit your space, and meet your budget.

View our Online Ceramic Tile Range