Can You Use Porcelain Floor Tiles on Shower Walls?
Porcelain floor tiles have gained popularity for their durability and aesthetic appeal in various home applications, so you might wonder if they are suitable for shower walls when it comes to bathroom design. When considering options for your shower renovation, it’s crucial to know that porcelain floor tiles have far more potential than they do underfoot.
As part of this article, we’ll examine the pros and cons of installing porcelain floor tiles on shower walls.
In addition to their water resistance and wide range of design options, porcelain tiles come in a variety of shapes and sizes, including wood-look tiles and white tiles. To help you make an informed decision about your bathroom tiles, we will also discuss potential drawbacks and recommend alternative options.
By the end of this article, you will be able to decide if porcelain floor tiles are a good choice for your shower walls.
Porcelain tiles: what are they?
A porcelain tile is a type of ceramic tile made from finer, denser clay and fired at high temperatures. As a result, porcelain tiles are not only highly durable but almost impervious to water due to the process. In areas where moisture is prone, such as bathrooms and showers, porcelain tiles have a low absorption rate of less than 0.5%.
Can You Use Porcelain Floor Tiles on Shower Walls?
The answer is yes! However, you should understand the differences between floor tiles and wall tiles in order to make the right decision.
- Thickness of material: Usually, floor tiles are thicker and more durable to withstand foot traffic, but wall tiles are not affected by this.
- Texture of the surface: You can create a more tactile, dimensional effect when you use porcelain floor tiles on walls. However, if you want a smoother, more polished look, use wall-specific porcelain tiles.
- Considerations for size: On walls, large tiles can look sleek and modern, but in order to avoid awkward fittings around edges or corners, they may need to be cut properly.
Porcelain vs. Ceramic Tiles
Ceramic tiles are also made from clay, but porcelain is more refined. Porcelain has a higher density and is fired at a higher temperature, so it is harder, denser, and more resistant to water than ceramic. Porcelain tiles are often the same color throughout, so cracks and chips are less noticeable compared to ceramic tiles with glazed surfaces.
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Ceramic for shower applications
Both shower walls and floors can benefit from porcelain’s low absorption rate and resistance to wear. Since showers are constantly moist and humid, it is essential to select a material that will not deteriorate over time despite these conditions. Because porcelain is nonporous, it prevents mold growth or water damage from occurring.
Pros of Using Porcelain Tiles for Shower Walls
The low porosity of porcelain floor tiles makes them highly water resistant, with just 0.5% absorption rate, making them a great choice for shower walls or shower floors. Consequently, they are ideal for wet environments since they can withstand constant water exposure without damage.
The durability of porcelain tiles ensures your shower walls remain pristine for many years, reducing the need for costly repair or replacement.
Keeping porcelain tiles clean is easy. Their non-porous surface makes clean up simple, so regular wipings are usually sufficient. You can even extend their use from the shower to surrounding areas, creating a cohesive look throughout your bathroom. Porcelain floor tiles and porcelain mosaic tiles are ideal for shower walls because they are moisture resistant, durable, and easy to maintain.
Cons of Using Porcelain Tiles for Shower Walls
For shower walls, porcelain floor tiles can be used, but they have some drawbacks. If your walls are older, the weight of floor tiles may place extra stress on their structure. Your walls should be able to support the additional load with additional support or high-quality adhesive for a secure installation.
Porcelain floor tiles require precise alignment and proper mortar coverage to maintain their integrity. Improper installation may result in misaligned grout joints, cracked tiles, or even loose tiles. It is often necessary to hire a qualified tile installer because of this complexity, which can result in a higher project cost.
Porcelain tiles suitable for showers
Each porcelain tile type has a different finish and style. In shower walls, glazed tiles provide a sleeker, easier-to-clean surface. In shower floors, you might prefer unglazed or textured tiles to prevent slips. Glazed tiles offer a shiny finish, while unglazed tiles have a matte finish.
Design Options for Shower Walls with Porcelain Tiles
A porcelain tile’s versatility lies in its ability to mimic virtually any material, from wood to marble to stone to concrete.
- Porcelain that looks like marble:
- Create a luxurious, spa-like environment without the high maintenance of natural stone.
- Porcelain with a wood-look:
- Adding porcelain tiles that replicate wood grains to your bathroom will give it a warm and rustic appeal.
- Patterns with bold colors:
- Porcelain tiles come in a variety of styles, from classic subway tiles to intricate geometric patterns.
Tips for Installing Porcelain Tiles on Shower Walls
- Preparation of the surface:
- Before installing porcelain tiles, make sure your wall is smooth, clean, and waterproof.
- Glues and adhesives:
- For a secure installation, use high-quality, waterproof thin-set mortar.
- Selection of grout:
- Maintaining the tile’s beauty over time requires stain-resistant grout. Sealing the grout is crucial in moist areas.
How to maintain porcelain tiles in showers
For routine cleaning, a mild cleaner or vinegar and water solution works well. Porcelain tiles are low maintenance, but regular cleaning will help preserve their appearance. If you see mold or discoloration in your grout lines, reseal them annually to keep moisture out.
Shower floors with porcelain tiles
You should choose smaller tiles or mosaics for shower floors, since they provide extra grout lines to prevent slipping. Textured finishes also offer better grip underfoot, ensuring your safety.
Porcelain floor tiles for shower walls: alternatives
Ceramic tiles, a classic choice, offer durability and ease of maintenance. They are an ideal choice for areas with light to moderate wear and come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. Although porcelain floor tiles are popular for shower walls, there are other options to consider. A luxurious shower is enhanced by natural stone walls, such as marble or granite, which are energy-efficient and add value to your home. Regular sealing and specific cleaning products are required, however.
If you are choosing a tile, make sure you consider your style preferences, budget, and maintenance requirements. Glass tiles provide a modern, sleek appearance and are impervious to water. They reflect light, making your shower appear larger.
Conclusion
The durability, water resistance, and design versatility of porcelain tiles make them an excellent choice for shower floors and walls. With proper installation and care, your porcelain-tiled shower will last for years, keeping its beauty and function intact. No matter what you’re looking for, porcelain has something to offer.
FAQs
- In a shower, can porcelain tile crack?
- Despite porcelain’s high durability, it is susceptible to cracking if improperly installed or if structural movement occurs.
- What is the recommended frequency of cleaning porcelain tile in a shower?
- You should wipe down porcelain tiles after each shower to prevent soap scum buildup. Deep cleaning should be done once a week.
- How big should porcelain tiles be for shower walls?
- The size of the tiles (e.g., 12×24 inches) determines how much grout line will be visible on the wall and how clean the look will be.
- Can porcelain tiles be used in showers that are slip-resistant?
- It is true that porcelain tiles with a textured or matte finish are slip-resistant and ideal for shower floors.
- Can porcelain tile be used in a shower for a long time?
- It is possible to maintain porcelain tiles for 50 years or more with proper care.
