Everything You Need to Know Before Installing Kitchen Tiles

A well-planned kitchen is not just about aesthetics, it needs to handle spills, heat, and daily wear while still looking great. If you’re remodelling or setting up a new kitchen, finding the perfect tiles goes beyond just picking a pretty design; it’s about choosing what truly works for your lifestyle and daily needs. From measurements to materials and budget planning, here’s everything you need to know before installing modern kitchen tiles design.

Measure the Size and Dimensions of Your Kitchen

Before purchasing tiles, accurately measure your kitchen’s dimensions. This step helps determine the number of tiles required and avoids unnecessary wastage.

• Measure the length and width of your kitchen walls and floors using a measuring tape.
• Consider areas like countertops, backsplashes, and additional nooks that might need tiling.
• Calculate the total square footage to estimate the number of tiles needed, keeping a buffer of 10-15% for breakage and adjustments.

Set a Budget

Tile costs can vary significantly based on material, design, and brand. They can range from budget-friendly to high-end and setting a budget beforehand will help narrow down your choices and prevent overspending.

• Consider the cost of tiles per square foot.
• Take note of additional expenses like adhesives, grout, labour charges (if hiring a professional), and tile-cutting 
• Compare different brands and suppliers to find the best deal without compromising durability and style.

Choose the Right Tile Size

The size of your tiles plays a significant role in how spacious and seamless your kitchen looks. 

• For small kitchen designs

Large format tiles in sizes like 800x1600mm or 800x800mm create an illusion of space by minimising grout lines. This gives a seamless and open look to your compact kitchen. You can also use 2×2 (600x600mm) tiles in light shades like white, cream, or beige to enhance brightness and make the kitchen feel more airy and inviting.

• For large kitchens

You have more flexibility, but medium to large-sized tiles keep the design cohesive and visually balanced. A mix of large tiles and border detailing can add character to expansive kitchen floors without making them look too monotonous.

• Backsplashes

Smaller tiles or mosaic patterns work best for detailing and intricate designs. Subway tiles, herringbone patterns, or colourful mosaics create eye-catching focal points, making your backsplash stand out as a design element.

Select the Right Material

Picking the right tile material is essential for longevity and performance. Two of the most recommended materials for kitchen tiles are ceramic and vitrified tiles.

• Ceramic Tiles

These are popular for kitchen walls and backsplashes due to their affordability and diverse design options. They resist spills and stains, are easy to clean, and are available in multiple finishes. 

• Vitrified Tiles

These tiles are manufactured through a process that makes them denser, stronger, and more water-resistant than ceramic tiles. They are ideal for kitchen flooring because they resist stains, scratches, and moisture. Vitrified tiles are slightly more expensive than ceramic tiles but are worth the investment for a long-lasting kitchen floor.

Explore Tile Designs for Different Kitchen Areas

Once you’ve determined the size and material, it’s time to choose the right design. The kitchen has multiple tiling areas, each requiring a different approach to style and functionality.

• Walls

Kitchen walls need tiles that are visually appealing yet easy to clean. For a simple kitchen design, glossy ceramic tiles, subway tiles, or light-coloured options are preferred for their uncluttered look. If you want a bold look, consider patterned tile like floral or geometric for an accent wall. You can also opt for cup and fruit-themed tile designs, which add a playful yet stylish element to your kitchen’s backdrop.

• Floors

Since kitchen floors endure spills, stains, and foot traffic, opt for anti-skid tiles for better grip and resistance. Light shades like beige and grey create a clean, spacious feel. If you prefer a natural aesthetic, wood-look tiles bring warmth, while stone-finish tiles add an elegant and earthy touch. For a modern vibe, geometric patterns or marble-finish tiles can elevate the space.

• Backsplashes

Backsplash tiles protect walls from oil splashes and moisture while adding a decorative element. You can go for mosaic tiles to bring a pop of colour and texture, making the space vibrant. Even subway tiles can offer a timeless appeal, seamlessly fitting into both modern and classic kitchens. 

• Countertops

Countertops should be durable and easy to maintain while complementing the overall kitchen aesthetic. Tiles in granite look provide a robust and sophisticated feel, while marble-look ones bring a luxurious touch. Both options are great for achieving a polished and elegant kitchen design. Other than these, a solid black colour countertop can also work wonders in bringing style to your kitchen.

Conclusion

With the right choices, your kitchen can be transformed into a functional and visually stunning space that stands the test of time. Explore Orientbell Tiles’ extensive collection to find the perfect tiles for your kitchen and bring your vision to life!