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Everything You Need to Know About Decorative Tiles
With intricate patterns, rich colours and vibrant textures, decorative tiles serve as both a functional and aesthetic element in interior design. Whether adorning kitchen backsplashes, bathrooms walls or statement floors, decorative tiles add a touch of elegance and personality to any environment. Beyond their aesthetic, decorative tiles can be highly durable, resistant to moisture and easy to maintain, making them ideal for both residential and commercial applications. At Teamwork Global, our main focus is production of bespoke tiles. We can produce bespoke decorative tiles that can fit into any type of project whether you are looking for a different shape, finish, RAL colour or effect.
Types of Decorative Tiles
Ceramic decorative tiles have long been admired for their ability to elevate any space with style, texture, and colour. Known for their versatility and practicality, these tiles come in a variety of forms that cater to every aesthetic, from rustic charm to modern elegance.
Glossy Ceramic Tiles - Glossy ceramic tiles are among the most popular choices for interior design and architecture projects. These tiles are coated with a glass-like layer that enhances their colour, gloss and durability. The glaze not only adds an appealing finish but also provides resistance to stains, moisture and wear, making them ideal for wet areas like superloos and tea points.
Matte Ceramic Tiles - For a more earthy aesthetic matte ceramic tiles are an excellent option. These tiles are often used in rustic or natural spaces and are prized for their natural finish and texture. They are ideal for flooring and bar fronts.
Mosaic Ceramic Tiles - Mosaic ceramic tiles are small tiles that are arranged to create a larger, cohesive design or pattern. Mosaics allow for intricate designs that can be used to create artistic points in both traditional and contemporary settings. They can be made 3D or with a chamfer effect to add depth to their pattern. They are great for accent walls in retail and hospitality settings.
Textured Ceramic Tiles -Textured tiles are designed to add depth and dimension to a space. With surfaces that can range from subtle relief patterns to bold 3D shapes, these tiles are perfect for creating feature walls and accent pieces. Textured tiles can simulate the look of stone, wood or fabric, offering endless possibilities for creative expression. Their tactile surfaces also enhance the sensory experience in a room, inviting interaction and adding to the overall aesthetic. They can be a great alternative for designers who want to add a warmer touch to a space, compared to traditional glossy ceramic tiles.
Advantages of Using Decorative Tiles
Decorative ceramic tiles offer a wide range of benefits that make them a top choice for commercial and residential projects. Ceramic tiles are incredibly hard-wearing and resistant to wear, making them perfect for high-traffic areas such as lobbies, superloos and kitchens. They are also highly water-resistant, which is particularly beneficial in areas prone to moisture, such as showers or backsplashes. Another key benefit is their versatility in design. Whether you are aiming for a bold statement or a more subtle, refined look decorative ceramic tiles come in an almost endless variety of colours, patterns and finishes.
Moreover, ceramic tiles are a sustainable option as they are very long-lasting and don't need frequent replacement. At Teamwork Global, we use 50% pre-consumer recycled waste content in our ceramic tiles and certain cold glazing methods that don't need additional firing. We also produce on demand, cutting down excess production and waste.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Installing decorative ceramic tiles requires careful planning to ensure a long-lasting and visually appealing result. These tiles can be installed using tile adhesive (glue) or mechanical fixing, but the best method depends on the specific project, including the surface type, location and tile size. For walls and floors, a high-quality adhesive is typically used to secure the tiles, ensuring a strong bond and smooth finish. Mechanical fixing is often required for larger or heavier tiles, especially in commercial applications or exterior facades, where additional support is needed. To ensure a successful installation, proper surface preparation is essential. Surfaces should be clean, level and dry before applying adhesive.
Maintenance is relatively simple, as ceramic tiles are known for their low upkeep and durability. Regular cleaning with a mild detergent and warm water help keep tiles looking fresh, while abrasive cleaners should be avoided to prevent surface damage. For grout lines, periodic sealing can help prevent discolouration and moisture absorption, especially in wet areas like bathroom and kitchens.
Why Decorative Ceramic Tiles Are the Perfect Choice
Decorative ceramic tiles are the perfect blend of beauty, durability, and practicality, making them an excellent choice for any space. Their versatility allows for endless design possibilities, from bold statements to elegant, timeless flooring. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, they offer numerous functional benefits, including water resistance, easy maintenance and long-lasting durability. Whether used in kitchens, bathrooms, living areas, or even outdoor spaces, ceramic tiles provide a stylish and reliable solution for both residential and commercial settings. Additionally, with sustainable production methods and eco-friendly materials becoming more prevalent, ceramic tiles are an increasingly responsible choice for modern interiors.
