Retiling a Bathroom
If you see cracked or missing tile in your bathroom, it’s likely that your old tile is nearing the end of its functional life. While it’s possible to repair individual tiles, a full retiling of the space is a better option for long-term durability and aesthetic appeal.
For example, try a new take on classic black-and-white checkerboard tile like the chevron pattern in this design by Tara Felice Interiors. Or, choose a colorful mosaic to add dimension to your walls.
Choose the Tiles
Whether you’re revamping an existing bathroom or embarking on a start-to-finish bathroom build, the tiles you choose set the tone for the entire space. The right tiles elevate the visual dynamics of a bathroom while catering to its high-moisture environment.
Tile size and shape also has a major impact on the look of your bathroom. Smaller tiles can make a room feel cramped while larger tiles allow for fewer grout lines and provide the illusion of a bigger space.
Color and texture are also important factors to consider when choosing the right tiles. Matte finishes are less slippery when wet and hide water spots and smudges better than glossy tiles, which show dirt more easily. Textured tiles like limestone, travertine, and wood-look tiles are often favored for their natural aesthetic but require more regular maintenance as they can trap moisture that leads to discoloration. It’s best to avoid these types of tiles if you’re not up for the extra maintenance.
Prepare the Surface
When you’re retiling a bathroom, it’s important to prepare the surface correctly. This will ensure that your new tiles stick and last, avoiding moisture damage to both the tiles and the subfloor. For floors, we recommend using a backer board to provide a sturdy base. This will also help keep your tile flat.
On walls, you’ll want to clean the existing tiles and remove any that are cracked or chipped. It’s also a good idea to sand the walls down, especially if they are smooth or shiny. This will make it easier for the adhesive to grip the surface of your retile project.
It’s also important to assess suite compatibility – you want your new tiles to match the style and colour of the existing ones, for a polished look. This attention to detail elevates your renovation project and maximises its value.
Layout the Tiles
During the dry-fitting process, lay out the tiles to ensure that they look right in the room and are the correct size for the space. Large tile can make a room feel big and provide a sleek appearance, while smaller tiles might better complement compact features such as sinks.
It’s important to have full tiles where possible to prevent falls and ensure that the seams don’t show up as bumps in the finished product. One good practice is to start at the most trafficked doorway and work out toward the rest of the room.
Use a chalk line to mark a grid of layout lines on the floor. Each block should consist of four tiles, with a gap left for grout between each row. Note that the center lines need to be balanced—for example, if a line has an 8-degree angle on one side, it should have a 5-degree angle on the other. Ensure that all edges are straight and perpendicular, too.
Install the Tiles
Choosing the right tile pattern and layout can make a big difference to your bathroom’s appearance. The 50/50 brickwork pattern is a popular choice as it’s simple to lay and provides a classic aesthetic, but you can also go for staggered brick with a 70/30 layout or a herringbone design that offers a unique twist on a traditional block layout.
Consider how the pattern will work with your bathroom’s layout, fixtures and decor and choose a material that is water-resistant and durable. You should also consider maintenance requirements, as some materials require more frequent cleaning than others.
Once you’ve chosen the tile, calculate how much you need by multiplying the length and width of the room. Remember to add a wastage allowance (commonly 10-15%) to allow for mistakes and spare tiles. Having extra tile on hand can save you money in the long run, as it’s often cheaper to buy and store than it is to replace cracked or broken tiles down the line.
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