When it comes to bathroom tiling, it can be hard to decipher between floor and wall tiles. Are they the same? What are the differences? And which type of tile should you choose for your bathroom project? 

At Tile Space NZ, we have the expertise to help you understand the key distinctions between bathroom wall and floor tiles. With that in mind, we have put together this quick little guide to help you make the best tile selection for your bathroom. 

Here’s what you’ll discover, 

• Floor and Wall Tiles 101: 
  • How is a floor tile different to a wall tile? 
  • Can you use the same tiles for the floor and walls in the bathroom? 
• Styling Floor and Wall Tiles: 
  • Can I use the same tile on the shower walls and floor? 
    • Matching Floor and Wall Tiles
    • Contrasting Floor and Wall Tiles
    • Multi Tile Bathroom
  • Should bathroom floor tiles be the same as on the wall? 
  • Should floor tiles be bigger than wall tiles? 

Floor and Wall Tiles 101: 

How is a floor tile different to a wall tile? 

Floor tiles can be heavier than wall tiles because they have to withstand more wear and tear from foot traffic and furniture. Floor tiles are porcelain (unless they use a natural stone) in a different base mixture and are fired at a much higher temperature, making them solid and non-porous. Non-porous tiles are ideal for flooring because they provide improved hygiene and durability. 

Featured Guide: 5 Amazing White Bathroom Tile Ideas for NZ Homes

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Can you use the same tiles for the floor and walls in the bathroom? 

Light Grey 90 | Beren

You can use porcelain tiles on the bathroom floor and walls (the exception is decorative porcelain with 3D textures; they are only wall grade because they aren't flat). Ceramic tiles can only be used on walls and are not suitable for floors. 

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Styling Floor and Wall Tiles: 

Should bathroom floor tiles be the same as on the wall? 

It’s totally up to you! Depending on the size of your bathroom, having a consistent tile style across both floor and walls can create an elegant look and make the space feel bigger. Alternatively, mixing different textures and colours can result in a more dynamic aesthetic. 

See below for some stunning examples of different bathroom tile styling; 

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Matching Floor and Wall Tiles 

Tiles used in this design: 

Onyx Unique Matt Tile and Timeless Marmore Matt Tile

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Contrasting Floor and Wall Tiles 

Tile used in this design: Goroka Gris 20 Tile

You can also try: Ladakhi Gris 20 Tile

Related Guide: 6 Bathroom Mosaic Tile Ideas That Will Make Your Jaw Drop

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Multi Tile Bathroom 

Tiles used in this design: 

Feature Wall - Metaline Iron Matt 60x120

Wall - Artisan White Gloss 13.2

Floor - Affogato Mid Grey Matt 60

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Can I use the same tile on the shower walls and floor? 

Pink Classic 60 | Medley

Yes, you can use the same tile on the shower walls and floor as long as it is suitable for both applications. A consistent tile style can look phenomenal, especially in an enclosed space like a shower. Showers are excellent places to make a statement with a featre wall and floor. 

Featured Guide: Coloured and Textured Bathroom Tile Trends

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Should floor tiles be bigger than wall tiles?

Tiles Used: 

Walls - Invisible Light Matt 60x120, Invisible Light Satin 120x260

Floor - Waterfall Gray Chevron

It is a matter of personal preference. Traditionally, smaller wall tiles are combined with larger floor tiles to add contrast and texture. 

But, larger wall tiles look great in smaller bathrooms as they create the illusion of space. 

Related Guide: Laying Bathroom Vinyl Flooring in NZ: Complete Step-By-Step Guide

Want to explore your tile options? Head over to our Floor and Wall Tile collection to browse hundreds of choices! 

At Tile Space, we understand that it can be difficult to make the right choice for your bathroom. 

With our wide range of tiles and expert advice, we will help you pick out the perfect floor and wall tiles to complement each other. Come see us in-store or browse our tiles here.

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