Common Tile Myths Debunked

image displaying living room tiles for common tile myths debunked blog
Peter Yusuf - January 14, 2025

Myth 1: Tiles Are Only for Bathrooms and Kitchens

The Truth:

Obviously tiles are a top choice for bathrooms and kitchens because they’re water resistant and easy to clean, but that does not mean they should be limited to just these areas. 

Tiles can look amazing in living rooms, bedrooms and even on fireplace surrounds. They’re also perfect for outdoor spaces like patios and balconies since they can handle different weather conditions. 

The functionality and practicality that tiles can offer make them a better choice than other materials like carpet. 

With so many styles, materials and finishes available, tiles can be used in any room.

Myth 2: Tiles Are Fragile and Easily Breakable

The Truth:

Tiles like Porcelain Tiles and Natural Stone Tiles are super strong, tough and durable. They can easily resist cracks, chips and handle everyday traffic with ease. These tiles can even handle heavy traffic or commercial spaces without much wear and tear.

Ofcourse, proper installation and basic maintenance are required, but once these two aspects are taken care of, tiles can last for decades even if your space has kids, pets or has incredible foot traffic.

Myth 3: Tiles Are Too Cold for Comfort

The Truth:

It’s true that tiles feel cool to the touch but that’s not necessarily an issue. 

In hot climates, they help keep your home feeling fresh and comfortable. If you live in a cooler area, you can pair tiles with underfloor heating to make them cozy and warm. Tiles actually conduct heat really well, so they’re perfect for evenly spreading warmth throughout a room. They’re a year round winner when it comes to comfort.

Myth 4: All Tiles Are Slippery

The Truth:

Given that there are an incredible number of options when it comes to tiles, you can find tiles that are slightly slippery, not too slippery or not at all slippery.

Tiles with matte, textured or anti slip finishes give you an amazing grip.

Australia actually has a pretty good slip rating for tiles, so you can check how slippery certain tiles are according to the rating scale.

Usually glossy or slippery tiles are used in walls and backsplashes while non-slippery tiles are used for floor areas.

By choosing tiles with the right slip resistance rating, you can have a safe and stylish space without worrying about accidents.

Myth 5: Tiles Are High Maintenance

The Truth:

Tiles are actually one of the easiest surfaces to care for. 

Most tiles remain clean with just a quick sweep or vacuum and an occasional mop.

Materials like carpet can trap dirt and stains but most tiles are resistant to spills and scratches. Plus, modern grout options are stain resistant and easy to clean, so you don’t have to spend hours scrubbing. 

If you’re looking for a low maintenance option, there can’t be a better option than tiles.

Myth 6: Tiles Are All the Same Size

The Truth:

From tiny mosaics like Kitkat tiles to massive slabs like marbles, tiles come in so many sizes. 

You can pick large format tiles if you want to create a modern and seamless look or want to make a room look airy and spacious. 

Smaller tiles, on the other hand, are ideal for backsplashes, shower accents or even feature walls where intricacy can play its magic.

No only in sizes, tiles also have varieties in terms of patterns.

Myth 7: Natural Stone Tiles Are Always Better Than Ceramic or Porcelain

The Truth:

Natural stone tiles like marble and granite are stunning, but they’re not always the most practical choice. They’re porous and need regular sealing to prevent stains and water damage. Ceramic tiles and porcelain tiles, on the other hand, can mimic the look of natural stone while being easier to maintain. They’re non-porous, more durable and come in a wider range of styles, so you get the best of both worlds.

It helps that Porcelain and Ceramic tiles are also easier to maintain.

Myth 8: Tiles Are Too Expensive

The Truth:

There are tiles for every budget. Ceramic tiles are one of the more affordable options. Porcelain is slightly more expensive than ceramic but still more cost effective than some other options like natural stone tiles.

Marbles and hand painted tiles can be expensive but they come with their own set of perks. Most high end tiles tend to increase the value of your home in the real estate market and hence provide a great return to investment in the longer run.

Most premium tiles are also highly durable. So, if you think about the costs you will save because you won’t require regular replacement or maintenance, these tiles can still be considered budget friendly.

Myth 9: Tiles Are Bad for the Environment

The Truth:

Many tile manufacturers are now focusing on sustainability. Tiles often include recycled materials and their long lifespan means less waste compared to other flooring options. 

At the end of their life, tiles can even be recycled into new products. Look for eco-friendly certifications when choosing tiles to make an environmentally responsible choice.

Myth 10: Tile Designs Are Outdated

The Truth:

Tile designs have come a long way! With advancements in technology, you can now find tiles that mimic wood, stone or even fabric. Unique shapes like hexagons and fish scales are trending, along with bold colours and intricate patterns. Whether you’re into classic styles or modern trends, there’s a tile design to match your vision. Tiles are anything but outdated!

Conclusion

Tiles are stylish, practical and built to last. Hopefully, this blog has cleared up some common myths and helped you see why tiles are such a great choice. Whether you’re renovating your kitchen, upgrading your living room or creating a stunning outdoor area, tiles can transform your space with ease.

At Royal Tiles, we’re passionate about helping you find the right tiles for your home or project. From timeless classics to the latest trends, our collection has something for everyone. Visit our Sydney showroom or explore our online store to discover the perfect tiles for your style and budget.

We also have a team of experts to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today for personalized advice or a free consultation.

Peter Yusuf - Royal Tiles

Peter Yusuf

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Peter Yusuf is a seasoned Sales and Business Development Manager at Royal Tiles in Sydney, Australia, with a proven track record of success in the global architectural and interior design sectors. With over a decade of experience, he possesses a rich understanding of tile selection and design that has helped countless clients transform their spaces. Peter's expertise spans a wide array of materials and styles, positioning him as a trusted authority in the tile industry.

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