In practice, many issues do not arise during installation, but much earlier, at the point of purchase. Poor decisions often only become apparent later: slippery surfaces, unsuitable formats, or higher-than-expected maintenance.
In this guide, we highlight the ten most common mistakes when buying tiles and explain how to avoid them from the start. Whether you are planning classic tiles for indoor spaces or durable outdoor slabs for exterior areas, careful planning saves time, money, and frustration.
1. Choosing the Wrong Tile for the Intended Area
Wall tiles are not floor tiles – and outdoor is not indoor
One of the most common mistakes is assuming that a tile can be used anywhere. Indoor requirements already differ between wall and floor applications, while outdoor areas add factors such as frost, temperature fluctuations, and substructure.
For vertical surfaces, wall tiles are designed for moisture resistance and decorative flexibility. For exterior use, outdoor slabs are specifically developed to withstand weather conditions and mechanical stress.
Practical tip: First define where the tile will be used – only then decide how it should look.
2. Underestimating Slip Resistance (R9–R11)
What slip ratings really mean
Choosing the right slip resistance for each area
Slip resistance is essential in wet areas such as bathrooms, showers, entrances, and outdoor spaces. Many buyers choose very rough surfaces for safety reasons, only to realise later that these can be harder to clean.
For exterior areas, it is advisable to use products specifically intended for outdoor use, such as outdoor slabs with appropriate surface finishes.
Practical tip: Slip resistance should match usage – living areas, bathrooms, stairs, and terraces all have different requirements.
3. Ignoring Tile Calibre and Dimensional Tolerances
Why tiles are not always exactly the same size
Why reordering later can become a problem
Tiles shrink slightly during firing, resulting in natural dimensional tolerances known as calibre. This is normal, but often overlooked. Problems arise when tiles are reordered later and come from a different production batch.
Practical tip: Always order sufficient reserve material from the same batch to ensure a consistent joint pattern and alignment.
4. Calculating Too Little Waste Allowance
Why 5–10% extra is often not enough
A waste allowance of 5–10% is only a guideline. The actual amount depends heavily on:
- Room geometry and layout
- Installation pattern (e.g. diagonal or offset)
- Cut-outs and transitions
Larger formats usually require a more generous reserve.
Practical tip: The more complex the room and the larger the tile, the more conservatively you should calculate.
5. Prioritising Appearance Over Everyday Practicality
Glossy vs. matte surfaces in daily use
Colour, texture, and maintenance considerations
Glossy tiles look elegant but show water marks and fingerprints more easily. Very light colours can appear less calm depending on grout choice and lighting.
Options such as stone-look tiles or wood-look tiles often provide an excellent balance between design appeal and practical everyday use.
Practical tip: Consider lighting conditions – daylight and artificial lighting can dramatically change how a surface appears.
6. Not Planning Indoor and Outdoor Areas Together
Seamless transitions require early planning
Many homeowners want a seamless visual transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. This only works if suitable variants are available from the same series.
For outdoor areas, outdoor slabs are designed for frost resistance and structural stability, while maintaining visual continuity.
Practical tip: First choose the overall look or series, then select the appropriate indoor and outdoor versions.
7. Choosing Large Formats Without Considering the Substrate
Large formats demand precision
Large-format tiles create a calm, modern look but require an extremely even substrate and professional installation. Even small imperfections can lead to hollow spots or edge lipping.
Practical tip: With large formats, the quality of the substrate often has a greater impact on the final result than the tile itself.
8. Comparing Only the Price per Square Metre
Why cheaper tiles can become more expensive in the long run
The square metre price alone does not reflect total costs. Important factors include:
- Quality grading and breakage
- Waste percentage
- Installation complexity
- Durability and maintenance
A good starting point for comparison is the full range of tiles. Budget-conscious buyers may also consider the outlet and clearance section.
9. Overlooking Maintenance and Cleaning Requirements
Surface choice determines long-term effort
Maintenance is often underestimated. Highly textured surfaces may trap dirt more easily, while very dark or glossy tiles can show marks faster.
Practical tip: Think of maintenance as a design factor: how the tile cleans and ages is just as important as how it looks.
10. Not Ordering Samples
Why images never tell the full story
Online images are helpful, but they cannot fully represent colour, texture, and surface feel. Lighting and surrounding materials strongly influence perception.
That is why tile samples are invaluable. They allow you to test the tile in the actual space before committing.
Practical tip: Place samples on the floor, view them at different times of day, and compare them with wall colours and furnishings.
Conclusion: Choosing Tiles with Confidence Instead of Surprises
Most tile-related issues can be avoided by considering application area, slip resistance, batch consistency, waste allowance, and everyday practicality from the beginning. Ordering samples and planning carefully provides clarity and confidence.
Start with an overview of tiles, explore outdoor slabs for exterior areas, and secure your decision with tile samples.