The Disadvantages of Wall Tiles

When renovating a room which requires a waterproof wall, the first option many of us will turn to is traditional ceramic tile. However, it’s worth considering the lifetime value of your choice before making your final decision.

Installation

Firstly, ceramic tiles are not simple to install. They require meticulous planning, a selection of specialist tools, and myriad materials to adhere them to the wall. Some homeowners may wish to tackle this job themselves, but most of us will choose to use a professional, so in addition to the cost of your tiles you must also factor in the cost of a tiler.

Time Consuming

Whether you choose to fit your tiles yourself or use the services of a skilled tradesman, it will be a time-consuming job. You may have to wait for a professional to be available before starting – and finishing – your project. If you decide to undertake the job, you must be prepared to spend a lot of time on the job if you want a professional finish.

Preparation

Unlike PVC wall panels, which can be installed on rough surfaces or even on top of existing wall coverings, traditional tiles need a smooth, even surface. This means you need to strip the wall you are working on of everything, such as any remaining tiles and adhesive, and rub the wall down until you have a uniform, flat surface. Again, this can take time and a lot of effect.

Requires Specific Tools

The installation of ceramic tiles does require specific tools, such as a saw to cut the tiles to size. If you do not already own these tools, buying them will add significantly to the cost of your project. This is why many people will opt for the skills of a professional, who should already have all the relevant tools needed.

Brittle Material

Once on the wall, traditional tiles are prone to damage. The material is liable to chip or crack if anything if scraped across or smashed into it. Once the damage is done it is also quite difficult to repair and replacing the tile may be the only option, which can be costly and time consuming.

Price

Compared to alternative wall coverings, traditional ceramic tiles can be the most expensive option. From the tiles themselves, to the hiring of a professional to fit them and the replacement of any tiles which get damaged, the total cost of choosing traditional tiles can soon mount up.

Permanence

Although traditional tiles feel heavy and sturdy, they are inflexible, fragile, and prone to breakages. Unfortunately, this does not make them the durable, long-lasting wall covering of choice.

Difficult to Remove

If you do break a tile, or if you choose to redecorate, removing your traditional tiles may not be that easy. As you have to attach tiles to the wall with strong adhesive and grout in between the tiles to keep them in place and watertight, there is a lot of material to remove before you can start replacing them. It’s worth bearing this in mind before you embark on a renovation project – choosing neutral tiles may be one way of being able to change the look of a room without having to remove the tiles.

Prone to Cracks

As mentioned about, tiles are prone to damage and can be damaged very easily. Apart from leaving your tiles looking tired and worn, cracks can also let in condensation which will affect the adhesive and the water resistance level of your wall.

Alternative Options

However, all is not lost. There are many alternative options on the market, from paint and concrete to PVC wall panels. You may think we’re biased; because we believe that bathroom wall panels make the best wall covering. They are easy to install – you can do it yourself with no specialist skills or tools, you don’t even need grout, and they can be fitted directly over existing tiles – and even easier to maintain, requiring only a wipe clean to keep them looking like new.

They are also extremely durable, so they will last a lot longer than traditional tiles, and the absence of grout helps to keep mould and mildew at bay, making them more hygienic.

If you’re not still sure whether wall panels are right for you, give our friendly expert team a call today on 0800 22 77 77 for more information.