Frequently Asked Questions About Tiles, Porcelain Stoneware, Installation and Ordering

Are you planning a bathroom, kitchen, living room, terrace or another project with tiles? In our comprehensive FAQ, we answer the most frequently asked questions about tiles, porcelain stoneware, tile sizes, surfaces, slip resistance, installation, cleaning, samples and delivery.

At VITALE TILES, you will find a large selection of tiles for private, commercial and architectural projects. If you are not yet sure which type is right for your project, Tiles by Type is a useful place to start.

Basics About Tiles and Porcelain Stoneware

1. What are tiles?

Tiles are relatively thin slabs made from ceramic or other mineral materials and used as floor or wall coverings. Modern tiles are available in numerous sizes, colours, surfaces and designs.

2. What is porcelain stoneware?

Porcelain stoneware is a particularly dense type of ceramic tile with very low water absorption. It is durable, easy to maintain and, depending on the product, suitable for floors, walls and outdoor areas.

3. What is the difference between tiles and porcelain stoneware?

“Tile” is a general term. Porcelain stoneware refers to a specific dense ceramic material. A large proportion of modern floor tiles and many products available from VITALE TILES are made from porcelain stoneware.

4. What is porcelain tile?

Porcelain tile is another common term for porcelain stoneware. It generally describes ceramic tiles fired at high temperatures with low water absorption and high density.

5. What is the difference between stoneware and porcelain stoneware?

Porcelain stoneware is generally fired more densely and has lower water absorption than conventional stoneware. This makes it especially useful for demanding applications and, where approved, outdoor use.

6. Are porcelain tiles waterproof?

The tile material itself absorbs very little water. However, a tiled shower or bathroom is not automatically waterproof. Professional waterproofing underneath the tiles remains essential.

7. Are porcelain tiles scratch-resistant?

Porcelain stoneware is highly resistant but not indestructible. For heavily used areas, the technical specifications of the tile should be matched to the intended use. Our technical porcelain stoneware is particularly relevant for demanding applications.

8. How long do high-quality tiles last?

Properly installed and maintained ceramic tiles can remain in use for many decades. This is one reason why timeless design and suitable technical quality are important when choosing tiles.

9. Are tiles hygienic?

Ceramic surfaces are easy to clean and absorb little dirt compared with many other materials. This makes tiles particularly suitable for bathrooms, kitchens, entrances and commercial spaces.

10. Where can tiles be used?

Depending on the product, tiles can be installed in bathrooms, kitchens, living rooms, bedrooms, entrances, staircases, garages, shops, hotels, restaurants, terraces and gardens. Explore our Tiles by Type for an overview.

Choosing the Right Tiles

11. How do I find the right tile for my project?

Start with the intended application, then consider size, surface, colour, slip resistance and thickness. If you are still open to different options, browse our complete tile range.

12. Which tiles are suitable for small rooms?

Large tiles can also work very well in small rooms because they create fewer grout lines. Light colours and a calm layout often make compact spaces appear more generous.

13. Which tiles make a room look bigger?

Large, light-coloured tiles with a relatively calm pattern can visually enlarge a room. Explore our large format tiles.

14. Which tiles are timeless?

Stone, concrete, marble and understated natural colours remain easy to combine over long periods. Browse our stone look and concrete & cement categories for inspiration.

15. Which tile styles are currently popular?

Natural stone effects, travertine, terrazzo, warm beige and earthy shades, large formats and colourful handcrafted-looking wall tiles are currently widely used.

16. Should I use the same tile on the floor and wall?

Using the same design can create a calm and architectural appearance. Alternatively, a neutral floor can be combined with expressive wall tiles, mosaics or decorative tiles.

17. How do I choose the right tile colour?

Consider daylight, artificial lighting, room size, furniture, wall colours and surrounding materials such as wood or metal. Before making a major decision, order tile samples.

18. Should I choose tiles based only on online photos?

Photos are useful but cannot fully reproduce colour, structure and surface. Screens and lighting alter the appearance, so we recommend viewing a physical sample before larger orders.

19. Why do tiles look different in my room than online?

Daylight, artificial light, wall colours, furniture and surrounding materials strongly affect perception. A physical sample therefore provides a better indication than a screen alone.

20. Can different types of tiles be combined?

Yes. Particularly effective combinations often use calm base tiles together with decorative panels, mosaic tiles or colourful wall tiles.

Bathroom, Shower and Kitchen Tiles

21. Which tiles are suitable for bathrooms?

Porcelain stoneware is an excellent choice for bathroom floors and many wall areas. Surface characteristics and slip resistance should also be considered for floors and showers.

22. Which tiles are suitable for showers?

Many wall tiles and porcelain stoneware tiles can be used on shower walls. For the floor, slip resistance, drainage, slope and tile size are particularly important.

23. Are large tiles suitable for showers?

Yes. Large tiles reduce the number of grout lines and create a calm appearance. For level-access shower floors, however, the required slope and drainage solution must be considered.

24. Why is mosaic often used on shower floors?

Small mosaic tiles adapt well to slopes and curved areas. The higher proportion of grout lines can also improve grip.

25. Which tiles are suitable behind a washbasin?

Many wall tiles can be used in this area. Colourful, textured or glossy wall tiles are especially effective for creating an accent.

26. Which tiles are suitable for kitchen splashbacks?

Easy-care ceramic tiles are very practical behind kitchen worktops. Small formats, mosaics and decorative panels can also become an important design feature.

27. Are glossy tiles suitable for kitchens?

Glossy surfaces work well on kitchen walls and are generally easy to clean. On floors, slip resistance and the expected level of use are more important.

28. Can marble-look tiles be used in bathrooms?

Yes. Marble look tiles combine the elegant appearance of marble with the practical benefits of ceramic surfaces.

29. Which tiles suit a modern bathroom?

Large formats, concrete effects, natural stone effects and expressive marble designs are popular options. Smaller decorative or coloured wall tiles can be used as accents.

30. Which tiles suit a Mediterranean bathroom?

Warm earth tones, terracotta, travertine effects and handcrafted-looking wall tiles create a Mediterranean character.

Tiles for Living Rooms and Living Areas

31. Are tiles suitable for living rooms?

Yes. Porcelain stoneware is durable, easy to clean and particularly effective in combination with underfloor heating.

32. Are tiles compatible with underfloor heating?

Ceramic tiles conduct heat efficiently and are generally an excellent surface for underfloor heating. The complete floor construction, adhesive and substrate must nevertheless be suitable.

33. Which tiles create a warm, residential atmosphere?

Warm stone colours, wooden look tiles, travertine and terracotta can create a particularly comfortable appearance.

34. Can tiles really look like wood?

Modern wooden look tiles can reproduce wood grain, colour variation and texture in considerable detail.

35. What are the advantages of wood-look tiles compared with parquet?

They are less sensitive to moisture and generally easier to maintain. This makes them particularly interesting for areas where natural wood requires more care.

36. Can I use the same tile in the kitchen and living room?

Yes. A continuous floor can make open-plan spaces appear larger, calmer and more coherent.

37. Which tiles work well with wooden furniture?

Stone, concrete, travertine and marble effects combine well with wood. The best combination depends on whether the wood is warm, cool, light or dark.

38. Which tiles suit minimalist interiors?

Large concrete & cement tiles or understated stone effects are particularly suitable for reduced interiors.

39. Which tiles suit an industrial interior?

Concrete, cement and metallic look tiles work well with black metal, exposed concrete and industrial architecture.

40. How can tiles be used to create accents?

Use coloured wall tiles, mosaics, relief surfaces or decorative panels on selected areas rather than throughout the entire room.

Tile Effects and Designs

41. What are stone-look tiles?

Stone look tiles reproduce the colours, textures and patterns of different natural stones on ceramic surfaces.

42. What are marble-look tiles?

Marble look tiles reproduce characteristic marble veining and colour variations while offering an easy-care ceramic surface.

43. What are onyx-look tiles?

Onyx is known for expressive, often cloudy and translucent-looking structures. Our Onyx – Marble Look tiles reproduce this decorative effect in ceramic form.

44. What are travertine-look tiles?

Travertine tiles recreate the warm, layered and porous appearance of natural travertine and work particularly well in natural and Mediterranean interiors.

45. What are Ceppo di Gré tiles?

Ceppo di Gré is a distinctive Italian natural stone with visible aggregates. Ceppo di Gré tiles reproduce this characteristic appearance in porcelain stoneware.

46. What are terrazzo tiles?

Terrazzo tiles reproduce the typical appearance of terrazzo with visible mineral fragments in different sizes.

47. What are terracotta tiles?

Terracotta is associated with warm red, orange, beige and earthy shades. It works well in Mediterranean, rustic and modern interiors.

48. What are concrete-look tiles?

Concrete & cement tiles recreate mineral concrete surfaces and are especially suitable for modern architecture.

49. What are metallic-look tiles?

Metallic look tiles reproduce effects inspired by oxidised steel, iron and other metals to create a distinctive industrial appearance.

50. What are decorative tiles?

Decorative panels and tiles feature distinctive patterns, textures, reliefs or motifs and are commonly used as visual accents.

Sizes, Edges and Surfaces

51. Which tile sizes are available?

Tile sizes range from small mosaics and classic formats such as 30 × 60 cm and 60 × 60 cm to 60 × 120 cm, 120 × 120 cm and very large ceramic slabs.

52. What are large-format tiles?

Large format tiles are particularly large ceramic tiles or slabs that reduce the number of joints and create calm, spacious surfaces.

53. What are the advantages of large tiles?

Fewer grout lines create a calmer appearance and can simplify cleaning. Installation, however, places greater demands on the substrate and installer.

54. Are large tiles only suitable for large rooms?

No. Large tiles can also look excellent in small bathrooms because they reduce visual fragmentation.

55. What does rectified mean?

Rectified tiles are mechanically trimmed after firing to create particularly precise edges. This allows a more regular joint pattern.

56. What does RETT mean on tile specifications?

RETT is commonly used as an abbreviation for rectified. It indicates that the edges have been precisely machined.

57. What is a matt tile surface?

Matt surfaces reflect relatively little light and often create a natural, understated appearance. They are particularly common for floor tiles.

58. What is a glossy tile?

Glossy tiles reflect more light and can make colours and structures appear more intense. They are frequently used for walls and marble-effect collections.

59. What does LUX mean on tiles?

LUX is used by many Italian manufacturers to describe a glossy or highly polished finish. The exact definition can vary between manufacturers and collections.

60. What grout width should I use?

The ideal grout width depends on the tile, format, edge, substrate and installation method. Manufacturer recommendations and the advice of the installer should be followed.

Technical Properties of Tiles

61. What does R9 mean?

R9 describes a relatively low slip-resistance class in tests performed with footwear. Such tiles are often used in dry interior areas.

62. What does R10 mean?

R10 provides greater slip resistance than R9 and is widely used in many interior areas. Whether it is sufficient depends on the specific application.

63. What does R11 mean?

R11 indicates a stronger slip-resistant surface and is frequently used for more demanding areas and certain outdoor applications.

64. What do R12 and R13 mean?

R12 and R13 indicate very high slip resistance. Such surfaces are primarily relevant where demanding technical requirements apply.

65. What do A, B and C mean for slip resistance?

A, B and C relate to tests for wet barefoot areas. The correct classification depends on the exact application.

66. Which tiles are suitable for garages?

Garages require durability, a suitable surface and easy cleaning. Our technical porcelain stoneware provides a useful starting point.

67. What are full-body tiles?

With full-body porcelain stoneware, the material effect continues through the tile body rather than being limited to the surface. These tiles are particularly relevant for heavily used technical or commercial areas.

68. Which tiles are suitable for shops and commercial spaces?

Abrasion resistance, load capacity and slip resistance are important depending on use. Explore our technical porcelain stoneware for demanding projects.

69. Are tiles frost-resistant?

Many porcelain stoneware tiles are frost-resistant, but not every tile is automatically approved for outdoor use. Always check the technical specifications of the individual product.

70. Is all porcelain stoneware suitable outdoors?

No. Surface, slip resistance, frost resistance, thickness and intended installation method all need to be considered.

Installing Tiles

71. Can I install tiles myself?

Simple, small areas can be suitable for experienced DIY users. Large formats, wet areas, slopes and complex substrates are better handled by professional tile installers.

72. Which substrates are suitable for tiles?

The substrate must be stable, clean, sufficiently dry and level. Primers, waterproofing or levelling compounds may be required depending on the situation.

73. Why does the substrate need to be especially level for large tiles?

The larger the tile, the more visible substrate irregularities become. Careful substrate preparation is therefore particularly important with large format tiles.

74. How is porcelain stoneware cut?

Porcelain stoneware is very hard. Professional tile cutters, diamond tools or wet-cutting machines are used depending on the tile and format.

75. How do you drill holes in porcelain stoneware?

Suitable diamond drill bits are normally used. Large or expensive tiles should be drilled slowly and carefully.

76. What is the buttering-floating method?

With the buttering-floating method, adhesive is applied both to the substrate and to the back of the tile to achieve as complete an adhesive bed as possible.

77. How much extra tile should I order for waste?

Around 5–10% is frequently added for cuts and reserve. Complex rooms, diagonal installation or elaborate patterns may require more.

78. Why should I keep spare tiles?

Keeping several spare tiles is useful if a tile needs replacing years later. Production batches and collections can change or be discontinued.

79. What are movement joints?

Movement and expansion joints allow movement within the substrate and covering. They should not simply be bridged with rigid ceramic material.

80. Can new tiles be installed over old tiles?

Under certain conditions, yes. The existing surface must be stable, clean and suitable for the new construction. Professional assessment is recommended.

Garden Slabs, Terraces and Outdoor Areas

81. Which tiles are suitable for terraces?

Terraces require products specifically approved for outdoor use, with suitable frost and slip resistance. Explore our garden slabs.

82. Why are outdoor slabs often 2 cm thick?

Two-centimetre porcelain slabs are robust and can, depending on the product and construction, be installed using several different outdoor systems.

83. Can 2 cm garden slabs be installed on gravel?

Many 2 cm garden slabs are suitable for loose installation. The specific product and construction method must always be checked.

84. Can garden slabs be installed on pedestals?

Many suitable 2 cm slabs can be installed on pedestals. This can facilitate drainage and access below the tiled surface.

85. Which tiles are suitable for balconies?

Frost resistance, slip resistance, drainage and the existing construction are decisive. Our garden slabs include many outdoor products.

86. What slip resistance should terrace tiles have?

Outdoor areas generally benefit from stronger slip-resistant surfaces. The necessary classification depends on the exact use and installation situation.

87. Can I use the same design indoors and outdoors?

Yes. Many collections offer a standard indoor tile and a matching 2 cm outdoor version, allowing a visually continuous transition from living room to terrace.

88. Do dark terrace tiles get hot in summer?

Dark surfaces can heat up considerably in direct sunlight. This should be considered especially in areas frequently used barefoot.

89. Which garden slabs suit modern architecture?

Large stone, concrete and Ceppo di Gré effects often work well with contemporary architecture. Explore our garden slabs.

90. Which garden slabs look natural?

Natural stone, travertine and Ceppo di Gré effects create a natural appearance while retaining the practical advantages of porcelain stoneware.

Cleaning and Maintenance

91. How do you clean porcelain stoneware?

For routine cleaning, water and a suitable neutral cleaner are usually sufficient. Always follow the manufacturer's care instructions.

92. Is porcelain stoneware easy to maintain?

Yes. Its low water absorption and durable surface make porcelain stoneware particularly practical for everyday use.

93. Does porcelain stoneware need sealing?

Conventional porcelain stoneware normally does not require the type of impregnation used for many porous natural stones. Special or polished surfaces should still be treated according to manufacturer instructions.

94. How do I remove limescale from bathroom tiles?

Suitable limescale removers can be used on compatible ceramic surfaces. Grout, fittings and nearby sensitive materials must also be considered.

95. How do I remove cement haze after installation?

A professional initial clean may be required after grouting. Products must be suitable for both the ceramic surface and the grout material.

96. Can vinegar be used to clean tiles?

Diluted acid may be compatible with certain porcelain tiles but can damage grout, natural stone and other nearby materials. Dedicated ceramic cleaners are usually the safer option.

97. Are glossy tiles harder to clean?

Not necessarily. However, limescale, fingerprints and streaks can be more visible on dark, highly glossy surfaces.

98. Which tiles are easiest to maintain?

Large matt porcelain tiles with a relatively smooth surface and fewer grout lines are often particularly straightforward in everyday use.

99. How do I clean textured outdoor tiles?

Strongly textured surfaces may require more mechanical cleaning. A suitable brush and cleaner can help remove dirt from deeper structures.

100. Do tiles change colour over time?

High-quality ceramic tiles are very colour-stable. The overall appearance can still change due to dirt, deposits or changes in the grout.

Tile Samples and Choosing Before Buying

101. Can I order tile samples?

Yes. Our Tile Samples category contains a large selection of samples.

102. Why should I order a sample before buying tiles?

A physical sample shows colour, structure, gloss level and feel more accurately than a screen. This can prevent expensive mistakes on larger projects.

103. How quickly are tile samples delivered?

Sample orders are generally delivered within approximately 2–3 days by post or parcel service.

104. Are free tile samples available?

Private customers can currently use the voucher code VT-Muster-2026 to receive two free samples. More information is available on our Sample Delivery page.

105. Can architects request several samples?

Yes. Architects, planners and tile installers can request several samples for projects or material libraries. More information is available under Sample Delivery.

106. Can I compare several samples from the same collection?

Yes. Comparing similar colours, structures or finishes side by side is often very helpful.

107. Does a small sample show the full tile pattern?

Not always. Marble, stone and terrazzo designs can show significantly more variation across a full slab than on a small sample.

108. Why do individual tiles sometimes look different?

Many collections deliberately reproduce natural materials and therefore contain several different graphics. This variation makes the completed surface appear more natural.

109. What do V1, V2, V3 and V4 mean?

These classifications generally describe the visual variation between tiles within a collection. V1 is relatively uniform, while V4 can show significant variation.

110. Can I view tiles in person?

In addition to ordering samples, customers can contact VITALE TILES for advice and visit the showroom in Netstal for suitable projects and products.

Ordering, Delivery and Payment

111. How can I buy tiles online?

Browse the VITALE TILES tile range, select the required product and place your order through the online shop.

112. How long does tile delivery take?

Standard delivery is generally around 2–3 weeks. Further information is available under Delivery and Pickup.

113. Why are tiles usually delivered by truck?

Tiles are heavy. Even a relatively small quantity can weigh several hundred kilograms, which is why larger orders are generally transported on pallets by freight carriers.

114. Where is the delivery unloaded?

Standard freight deliveries are made to the paved kerbside. More information is available under Delivery and Pickup.

115. Are the tiles carried into my home?

No. Due to weight, size and insurance conditions, standard deliveries do not include carrying the tiles into the building. Further transport should therefore be organised in advance.

116. Can I collect my tiles myself?

By arrangement, collection can be organised from the intermediate storage facility in Netstal. Depending on the order, this can significantly reduce delivery costs. See Delivery and Pickup.

117. Which payment methods are available?

VITALE TILES offers payment options including prepayment, debit and credit cards, TWINT, Apple Pay, Google Pay, PostFinance and PayPal. Current options are listed under Payment Options.

118. Can I buy discounted clearance tiles?

Yes. Our Remaining Stock / Outlet contains clearance stock and special offers. Always calculate the required quantity carefully because additional stock may not be available later.

119. What should I do if I need a very large quantity of tiles?

For larger building projects, an individual enquiry is recommended. Availability, production quantities, delivery dates and potential project conditions can then be checked in advance.

120. Where can I find the right tile for my project?

Start with our complete Tiles selection or browse directly by style:

Buy Tiles Online at VITALE TILES

Whether you are looking for new tiles for a bathroom, kitchen, living room, commercial space or terrace, VITALE TILES allows you to compare and order a wide range of ceramic tiles and porcelain stoneware online.

Use our Tile Samples to check colours and surfaces before placing your final order, or browse the complete tile range.

For questions about size, surface, slip resistance, quantity, delivery or suitability for your project, the VITALE TILES team can assist you with your selection.

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Tile & Porcelain Stoneware FAQ | VITALE TILES Switzerland

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120 frequently asked questions about tiles, porcelain stoneware, bathrooms, kitchens, terraces, installation, cleaning, slip resistance, samples and ordering tiles from VITALE TILES.