Wall tiles and floor tiles are two very different things. Though they may look similar, they serve different purposes and have different properties.
It’s better to avoid using wall tiles as an alternative to floor tiles because they cannot withstand the same amount of wear and tear caused by foot traffic. Using wall tiles on your floor will only lead to frustration and wasted money.
Differences Between Wall Tiles and Floor Tiles
When it comes to home improvement, there are a lot of choices to make. Among these choices is what type of tile to use for your flooring or walls.
There are many similarities between wall tiles and floor tiles, but there are also some crucial differences we will discuss.
Durability
One of the most important differences between wall tiles and floor tiles is durability. Floor tiles are designed to be more durable than wall tiles because they need to withstand constant foot traffic.
This means that floor tiles are usually made from tougher materials like ceramic or porcelain. They also have a glaze on them that makes them more resistant to scratches, chipping, and other wear and tear.
On the other hand, wall tiles are not meant to be walked on. They are made from materials like glass or metal that are more fragile than those used for floor tiles. They also usually don’t have a glaze, which means they are more prone to chipping and scratching.
Size
Another difference between wall tiles and floor tiles is size. Floor tiles are usually much larger than wall tiles. The standard size for floor tiles is 12″ x 12″, while the standard size for wall tiles is 4″ x 4″.
The larger size of floor tiles makes them easier to walk on and less likely to crack underfoot. Wall tiles can be as small as 2″ x 2″, making them more delicate and more likely to break if they are stepped on.
Surface Texture
The surface texture of wall tiles and floor tiles is also different. Floor tiles are usually textured to provide traction, while wall tiles are smooth. The textured surface of floor tiles helps prevent slips and falls, while the smooth surface of wall tiles is more aesthetically pleasing.
Cost
Finally, the cost of wall tiles and floor tiles is different. Floor tiles are usually more expensive than wall tiles because they are more durable and larger. However, the cost of both types of tiles will vary depending on the materials used and the design.
Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Use Wall Tiles for Your Floors
Now that we’ve looked at some of the key differences between wall tiles and floor tiles let’s discuss why you shouldn’t use wall tiles on your floors.
Using wall tiles on your floors will decrease the durability of your tile installation. It can lead to some problems, including:
Tiles Cracking Underfoot
One of the most common problems with using wall tiles on floors is that they will crack underfoot. The constant weight of foot traffic will cause the smaller, more delicate wall tiles to break and crack.
Tiles Slipping And Sliding
Another problem with using wall tiles on your floors is that they will be more slippery than floor tiles. The smooth surface of wall tiles can cause you to slip and slide, leading to injury.
To avoid this, you would need to add a textured surface to the wall tiles, which would defeat the purpose of using them in the first place.
More Expensive In The Long Run
Using wall tiles on your floors will also be more expensive in the long run. Because they are not as durable as floor tiles, you will have to replace them more often. This will add up over time and cost you more than if you had just used floor tiles, to begin with.
How To Make Wall Tiles More Durable
If you must use wall tiles on your floor, there are a few things you can do to make them more durable:
Use A Thicker Grout
Applying a thicker grout will add more durability to your wall tiles. Aptly named, thinset is a cementitious powder that, when mixed with water, forms a paste used to adhere tile to surfaces. Adding a small amount of sand to the mix will make the thinset body less likely to shrink as it dries and cracks behind the tile.
Use A Thicker Tile
The thickness of the tile will also dictate how durable the finished product will be. Thicker tiles are less likely to chip and crack than thin ones and can better withstand being stepped on or banged into.
They’re also less likely to come loose over time. While thick tiles may cost more upfront, they’re often worth the investment in the long run.
Use A Tiles Sealer
There are many different types of sealants available on the market, and it can be tricky to know which one is right for your tiles. If you are unsure, it is always best to consult with a professional. However, there are two main types of sealants: impregnating and topical.
Impregnating sealants are designed to penetrate into the pores of the tile, providing long-lasting protection. On the other hand, topical sealants form a barrier on the surface of the tile.
Both types of sealants have their advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to choose the right one for your needs.
Use A Textured Surface
If you’re using wall tiles in an area where there is a risk of slips and falls, consider using a textured surface. This will help to prevent people from slipping on the tile.
There are many different types of textured surfaces available, so you should be able to find one that suits your needs.
Final Thoughts
Overall, it is best to avoid using wall tiles on your floors. They are less durable than floor tiles and can lead to a number of problems, including cracking and slipping.
If you must use them, there are a few things you can do to make them more durable, such as using a thicker grout or tile thickness. You can also seal the tile or use a textured surface to prevent slipping.
