Bathroom Wall Tiles vs. Floor Tiles: What's the Difference?

Imagine stepping into your bathroom after a long day: the stress melts away as you sink into a warm bubble bath, surrounded by beautiful space you’ve curated. But before you can achieve this spa-like haven, there's an important design decision to tackle: the tiles. Yes, those seemingly simple squares of ceramic or stone play a much bigger role than just looks in your bathroom.

Here at Tiles Universe, we understand the confusion that can arise when choosing between bathroom wall tiles and floor tiles. They might look similar at first glance, but trust us, they're very different! 

Not sure where to start? This guide is designed to be your trusty companion through the world of bathroom tiles, helping you make sure you don’t get  blindsided by the wrong choice. 

Built to Withstand the Elements (or Not)

Picture this: you've put a lot of time into choosing those gorgeous marble tiles for your bathroom floor. They look incredible…until the first time you drop something. 

Floor tiles tend to take a beating. They need to be strong enough to withstand constant foot traffic, potential spills and the occasional dropped object. That's why bathroom floor tiles are created from tougher stuff. Some of the most popular choices of materials include:

Porcelain 

This is the undisputed champion of bathroom floor tiles. Porcelain is incredibly dense, meaning it's highly resistant to scratches, chips and cracks. It's also waterproof, meaning it won’t suffer under wet feet.   

Stone

Natural stone tiles like granite or slate not only look incredibly elegant, but they’re super durable too. However, they require more maintenance due to their porous nature.   

Bathroom wall tiles, on the other hand, have a slightly different job description. They mainly need to resist splashes, moisture and the occasional bump from an elbow. Here, some of the best materials include:

Ceramic 

A popular and affordable choice, ceramic tiles have good water resistance and come in a vast array of colours, patterns and finishes.

Glass

For a touch of luxury, glass tiles add a touch of glamour and can help create the illusion of a larger space. However, they are naturally prone to scratches and require careful cleaning to keep them looking their best.

Weight Matters

Those extra-large floor tiles you’ve been eyeing up? They might not be the best choice for your walls. There are a couple of reasons why this is. 

The first reason, quite obviously, is gravity. Floor tiles are heavier than wall tiles due to their denser composition. This extra weight can put undue stress on your walls, potentially leading to cracks or detachment over time.   

On top of this, heavier tiles mean they require a more robust installation process, which often involves stronger adhesives and specialised techniques. All of this can translate to higher installation costs.   

No Slips

Of course, bathroom floors can get very wet. That's why floor tiles have a special textured or matte finish that provides essential slip resistance. This textured finish helps prevent accidents, especially when stepping out of a shower or bath. Wall tiles, on the other hand, can have a smoother finish, meaning that they often prioritise visual appeal over grip. When picking out your floor tiles, remember: safety first, style second!

Installation

Installing wall and floor tiles require different approaches in order to help them perform at their best. 

Floor Tiles

Floor tile installation is a more involved process. It often involves a subfloor preparation to provide a level surface and the use of stronger adhesives to support the weight of the tiles. This process can be more time-consuming and may require professional installation for larger or more complex layouts.

Wall Tiles

Wall tile installation is generally a simpler installation. Adhesives are still used, but the process is less demanding due to the lighter weight of the tiles.

Maintenance Matters

Both wall and floor tiles need to be regularly cleaned to maintain their good looks. However, the level of maintenance each type needs can differ. 

Floor Tiles

Floor tiles are exposed to more dirt, grime and potential spills. They require regular cleaning with appropriate cleaning products to prevent dirt build-up and maintain their slip resistance.

Wall Tiles

Wall tiles are generally easier to maintain. Regular wiping with a damp cloth or sponge is usually sufficient. However, some tiles may require more specialised cleaning products depending on their finish.

Choosing the Right Tiles for Your Bathroom

Now that you’re a bit more familiar with the difference between floor and wall tiles, it’s time to choose the right tiles for you. Below are some quick tips on how to pick the perfect products for your bathroom: 

• Consider your style: Do you prefer a classic, minimalist or eclectic look?

• Think about the size of your bathroom: Smaller bathrooms can benefit from lighter colors and smaller tiles to create an illusion of space. Larger bathrooms can accommodate larger format tiles and bolder patterns.

• Don't forget the lighting: The colour and finish of your tiles will be affected by the lighting in your bathroom.

• Visit a showroom: Seeing tiles in person is essential to get a true sense of their colour and texture.

Find Your Dream Tiles at Tiles Universe

At Tiles Universe, we offer a vast selection of high-quality bathroom wall and floor tiles to suit every style and budget. Our knowledgeable team can provide expert advice on choosing the right tiles for your project, from selecting the perfect materials to creating stunning design layouts.

We invite you to visit our showroom in London or explore our online collection. Alternatively, you can get in touch with us for more information.