Expert answers to the most common questions UK homeowners ask about choosing, buying, and installing bathroom and kitchen tiles.
## Introduction
Choosing the right tiles for your bathroom can feel overwhelming. With hundreds of options available across the UK, from budget-friendly ceramic to premium porcelain, homeowners face countless decisions. This comprehensive bathroom tiles UK guide answers the most common questions we receive from readers planning their renovations.
## Key Takeaways
Porcelain tiles offer superior water resistance and durability compared to ceramic, making them ideal for wet areas
Expect to pay £25-£60 per m² for tiling labour in the UK, with London prices typically 20-30% higher
Large format tiles (600x600mm or bigger) create a more spacious feel and reduce grout lines
Underfloor heating compatibility depends on thermal conductivity — porcelain and ceramic both work well
Anti-slip ratings (R10-R13) are essential for bathroom safety, particularly in shower areas
## What is the difference between porcelain and ceramic tiles?
The porcelain vs ceramic tile durability comparison comes down to manufacturing and density. Porcelain tiles are fired at higher temperatures (around 1,300°C versus 1,000°C for ceramic), creating a denser, less porous material.
Porcelain absorbs less than 0.5% of its weight in water, whilst ceramic can absorb 3-10%. This makes porcelain significantly more resistant to frost, staining, and moisture damage — crucial for bathrooms and exterior applications.
We've seen countless ceramic tiles develop hairline cracks in high-traffic bathrooms after just five
