TTA top tip - 5 Tips for Kitchen Wall Tiles

Here are a few pointers on choosing the correct tile for a kitchen. You can download a free PDF version of this information.

1. Choose your tiles carefully taking advice from a good tile supplier, preferably a TTA member retailer. The latest trend is for very large tiles but they may not suit your kitchen particularly if there are a lot of electrical sockets to cut around. Large tiles are heavy and cannot be fixed to some backgrounds.
2. Prepare carefully. A detailed plan of how the tiles are to be set out can save a lot of cutting and result in a more professional looking finished project. Tiles can add value to your home so be prepared to spend money and time.
3. Don't try and match the colour of the worktop, a contrast or a similar colour to the floor, co-ordinating with the units, will always look more effective. Don't be afraid to mix matt finish tiles with gloss units or worktop and vice versa. Mosaics can be very useful in kitchens which tend to have a lot of switches and sockets to cut round. Mosaics come on a mesh which can be cut with scissors. Tiling an entire kitchen in mosaic could prove expensive. Instead, use mosaics between the worktop and wall units and choose a complimentary tile for the other wall areas.
4. Buy or hire the best equipment, it will save time and money. Drilling holes in tiles is a routine part of any installation and that includes kitchen tiles. To avoid chipping or breaking them when drilling you will need a specialist tile drill.

Before you start download Tile it Right, a free DIY tiling guide which includes tips on tile selection and calculating to number of tiles needed.

Maybe this all sounds rather difficult. Before you start; work out how long it will take you (about three times as long as a professional), how much per hour you earn and how much your house is worth then consider employing a professional.

To find a professional tile fixer, click here to search for your nearest one.

The Tile Association would like to thank Cosmo Ceramics, DTW Tiles, Instarmac/Utra adhesives and 365 Drills for help in compiling these top tips.

If you like the tiles in our illustrations, you will find the contact details for the companies in the directory

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