Choosing bathroom tiles might seem like a quick task—pick a design you love and you’re done. But when you’re seeking premium bathroom tiles for a renovation or new project, it’s not so simple. Not every tile that looks great in the store will stand the test of time.
Low-quality tiles can lead to issues like cracks, chipped glazes, or colors that shift when wet. To ensure you’re getting authentic quality, here’s what to look for.
Don’t Be Fooled by Looks
A tile’s glossy finish or stylish pattern might catch your eye, but premium bathroom tiles are defined by their durability and craftsmanship.
Hold a tile. It should feel heavy and solid, not lightweight or hollow. Check the back—clay tiles should be dense, not crumbly, and porcelain should show consistent color throughout its body. The glaze, which protects against water and wear, should feel smooth but not overly slick. Watch for small imperfections like bubbles or uneven textures, which can indicate poor production.
Insist on Uniformity
Line up several tiles. Are they identical in size, color, and thickness? Even minor variations can cause problems during installation.
Premium tiles are crafted with precision, featuring clean edges and no warping. Inconsistent tiles lead to uneven grout lines or patterns that don’t align, spoiling your bathroom’s aesthetic. A trustworthy tiles supplier will stock consistent tiles and can confirm their quality and sourcing.
Ratings Are a Guide, Not Everything
Tile specs, like PEI ratings for hardness or water absorption rates, are useful for bathrooms, where low absorption and slip resistance are essential. But numbers don’t tell the full story.
A good tiles supplier will provide real-world insights, explaining how a tile performs in humid, high-traffic bathrooms. If they avoid your questions or push the priciest option without reason, that’s a red flag. Choose a supplier who knows their products and prioritizes your needs.
Verify Certifications
Certifications like ISO or “Made in Italy” can suggest quality, but they’re not always reliable. Some labels are used as marketing ploys without substance.
Ask your tiles supplier for specifics: Where was the tile made? Which factory? Can they provide proof of origin? Premium tiles typically come from reputable manufacturers with strict quality controls. A reliable supplier will share this information, ensuring your tiles can handle a bathroom’s tough conditions.
Examine the Edges
A tile’s edges can reveal its quality. Cheap tiles often have rough or chipped edges, especially at the corners.
Feel the tile’s sides. They should be smooth, with sharp, even corners. Rectified tiles, machine-cut for uniformity, are common in premium lines and ensure tidy grout lines. Even non-rectified premium tiles should have consistent, well-finished edges.
Start with Quality Questions
It’s easy to get drawn in by a tile’s style and overlook quality. Instead, begin with questions about performance: Where was it made? How does it handle moisture and heat? What’s the warranty?
A reputable tiles supplier expects these questions and answers them confidently, providing details about the tile’s origin and suitability. If they’re vague or focus only on a showroom sample, look for a supplier who values transparency.
Be Skeptical of Bargains
Premium bathroom tiles cost more due to superior materials and tighter production standards. If a tile looks high-end but is priced much lower than similar options, be cautious.
Sometimes, a low price comes from overstock or a discontinued line from a quality manufacturer. More often, it’s a sign of a knockoff that won’t last. Ask your supplier to explain the pricing. A trustworthy one will be upfront.
Choose for Durability
Bathroom tiles face daily challenges—water, heat, cleaning chemicals, and foot traffic. Premium bathroom tiles are built to endure while staying beautiful.
Take your time to inspect tiles and choose a tiles supplier you can rely on. Handle the product, ask tough questions, and prioritize performance over price. The right tiles, backed by a reliable supplier, will keep your bathroom stunning for years.
