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FAQs

TILES & STONE DIRECT – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

General Tile Questions

What is the difference between porcelain and ceramic tiles?

Porcelain tiles are denser, less porous and more durable than ceramic tiles, making them ideal for high-traffic areas, bathrooms, kitchens and outdoor spaces. Ceramic tiles are lighter and often more suitable for walls or lower traffic areas.

If you're choosing between porcelain and ceramic tiles for your project, porcelain is generally the best option for durability, water resistance and long-term performance.

What are large format tiles and are they on trend?

Large format tiles (typically 600x600mm and above) are one of the biggest tile trends in UK homes. They create a seamless, modern look with fewer grout lines and are ideal for open-plan living spaces, bathrooms and kitchens.

They are especially popular for:

  • Contemporary bathrooms

  • Kitchen floors

  • Indoor-outdoor living spaces

  • Minimalist interior designs

What colour grout should I use?

Grout colour can dramatically change the final look of your tiles.

  • Matching grout creates a seamless finish

  • Contrasting grout highlights the tile pattern

  • Mid-tone grout is practical for busy family homes

If you're unsure, our showroom teams can recommend grout colours based on your tile choice and lifestyle needs.

Bathroom & Wet Area Questions

Are porcelain tiles suitable for bathrooms and showers?

Yes. Porcelain tiles are ideal for bathroom walls and floors because they are water-resistant, durable and low maintenance.

When choosing tiles for a shower floor, always check the slip rating to ensure adequate grip in wet conditions.

What tiles are best for a family bathroom?

For busy households, we recommend:

  • Slip-resistant porcelain floor tiles

  • Easy-clean wall tiles

  • Neutral tones for long-term appeal

  • Larger tiles to reduce grout lines

Porcelain is particularly popular because it resists stains, water damage and wear.

Are your tiles compatible with underfloor heating?

Most porcelain and ceramic floor tiles are compatible with underfloor heating systems. Tiles are excellent conductors of heat and work extremely well with both electric and water-based systems.

Always check the individual product specification or speak to our team for guidance.

Outdoor & Garden Tile Questions

Are porcelain paving slabs frost-proof?

Yes. 20mm outdoor porcelain slabs are frost-proof because they are vitrified and non-porous. They do not absorb water, which means they won’t crack during freezing temperatures.

Porcelain paving is one of the most popular choices for UK gardens due to its durability and low maintenance.

What are the best tiles for a garden patio?

For outdoor patios, we recommend 20mm thick porcelain paving slabs. They are:

  • Slip resistant

  • Frost resistant

  • Fade resistant

  • Low maintenance

  • Resistant to algae and moss growth

Porcelain paving is ideal for modern garden designs, outdoor kitchens and extending your living space outdoors. Shop our outdoor tile collections here. 

What does slip rating (PTV or R rating) mean?

Slip ratings measure how resistant a tile surface is to slipping, particularly in wet conditions.

  • R9 / Low Slip Resistance – Suitable for dry indoor areas

  • R10 – Suitable for kitchens and bathrooms

  • R11+ – Recommended for outdoor patios and wet areas

Higher ratings mean better grip and safer surfaces.

Measuring & Ordering Questions

How do I calculate how many tiles I need?

To calculate tile quantities:

  1. Measure the length and width of the area

  2. Multiply them together to get square metres (m²)

  3. Add 10% extra for cuts and wastage

  4. Add 15% for herringbone layouts

We always recommend ordering slightly extra to account for breakages and future repairs.

Should I order extra tiles?

Yes. We recommend adding:

  • 10% extra for standard layouts

  • 15% extra for complex patterns

This covers cuts, breakages and wastage during installation.

Installation & Preparation

Can I tile over existing tiles?

In some cases, yes - if the existing surface is stable, level and properly prepared. However, for best results, removing old tiles is recommended.

Always consult a professional tiler before tiling over existing surfaces.

Can I install tiles myself?

DIY tiling is possible, but for best results we recommend using a professional tiler, particularly for large format porcelain tiles, natural stone or outdoor paving.

What adhesive should I use?

The correct adhesive depends on:

  • Tile type (porcelain, ceramic, stone)

  • Tile size

  • Surface type

  • Indoor or outdoor use

Our in-store experts can recommend the right adhesive and grout for your project.

Delivery & Collection

How will my tiles be delivered?

Small orders may be delivered via parcel carrier. Larger pallet orders are delivered kerbside via tail-lift lorry.

Drivers cannot move tiles inside your property due to insurance restrictions.

What should I do if my tiles arrive damaged?

Please inspect your order upon delivery. Any damages or shortages should be reported within 3 days with photographic evidence.

Do not install damaged tiles before contacting us.

Cleaning & Maintenance

How do I clean porcelain tiles?

Porcelain tiles are low maintenance and can be cleaned with standard household cleaners. No sealing is required.

Do natural stone tiles need sealing?

Yes. Natural stone is porous and requires sealing to protect against stains and moisture.

Porcelain tiles do not require sealing.

Trade & Professional Questions

Do you offer trade accounts?

Yes. We offer trade accounts with competitive pricing, stock availability and rewards benefits.

If you're a tiler, builder or bathroom installer, visit your local Tiles & Stone Direct showroom to register.

Can I collect tiles from my local store?

Yes. Many tile ranges are available for immediate collection from our 7 UK locations. Please contact your local store first to check availability.