6 Things you Should Know Before you Shop for your Bathroom Tiles

Tile shopping can be one of the most exciting parts of a bathroom renovation, but it can also feel overwhelming if you're unprepared. With so many options available—different materials, patterns, colours, and finishes—it’s easy to get lost and make decisions that might not align with your overall vision or budget. Here are a few essential things first-time renovators should have ready before heading out to shop for tiles, to help streamline the process and avoid decision fatigue.

Photo by The Tile Supply

1. Have a Clear Design Vision

Before you even step foot in a tile showroom, you should have a clear idea of your design goals. Ask yourself: What style are you trying to achieve? Do you want something modern and minimalist, or are you leaning towards a more traditional or vintage look? Having this vision in mind will help you quickly narrow down the vast array of choices and prevent you from getting sidetracked by tiles that don't fit your aesthetic.

If you're struggling with your design vision, consider taking our free Design Mini Course here. It's perfect for helping homeowners develop a clear design brief before making selections, making your tile shopping experience far less stressful.

2. Know the Approximate m² of Tile Required

One of the most crucial details you’ll need to know when shopping for tiles is the approximate square meters (m²) required. To avoid confusion at the store, measure the areas where you’ll be tiling beforehand. This could be your bathroom floors, walls, or both, depending on your design. If you’re unsure of how to calculate this, ask your contractor or use an online tile calculator.

Having a rough estimate of your tile needs ensures that you can easily get accurate quotes and avoid buying too little or too much. Keep in mind that most tile experts recommend ordering an extra 10-15% to account for breakage or future repairs. Plus, you’ll need these numbers to obtain quotes, so it’s best to be prepared from the start!

3. Think About Practicality—Not Just Looks

While it’s tempting to choose tiles purely based on their beauty, it's essential to think practically. High-traffic areas like bathroom floors need to be durable and slip-resistant. For example, porcelain tiles are a great option for bathroom floors because they are tough, water-resistant, and available in a wide range of styles.

For walls, particularly shower walls, consider avoiding tiles with excessive grout lines (such as intricate mosaics or herringbone patterns) since they can be more challenging to clean. Instead, reserve these intricate tiles for features like shower niches or half walls, where they’ll make a stylish impact without being exposed to constant water.

4. Query Delivery Fees

Tile shopping isn’t just about choosing the right tiles; it’s also about logistics. Tiles can be heavy and fragile, so delivery is a big consideration. When shopping, don’t forget to ask about the delivery fees and whether they deliver to your home address. Some stores may offer free or discounted delivery if you order a large amount, while others may charge additional fees depending on the location. Getting clarity on this will help you budget more accurately and avoid unexpected surprises.

5. Plan for Lead Times

Tiles are not always immediately available, and some specialty or imported tiles can have long lead times. Make sure to ask about stock availability and lead times if you're on a tight renovation schedule. Having this information early will allow you to plan accordingly and avoid any delays in your project.

6. Set a Budget and Stick to It

It's easy to get carried away with luxurious, eye-catching tiles, but it’s important to remember your budget. Tiles can range widely in price depending on the material, brand, and design. Be realistic about how much you're willing to spend, and factor in the cost of both the tiles and the labor to install them. Some tile patterns, like mosaics or herringbone, require more precision and time to install, which will increase labor costs.

To avoid sticker shock, ask for estimates and don’t forget to compare prices across different stores. Also, keep an eye out for sales or end-of-line products that can help you stay within budget.

Final Thoughts

By coming prepared with a clear design vision, an approximate m² calculation, and awareness of delivery fees and budget constraints, you’ll be much more confident and focused when tile shopping. Taking these steps can help you avoid overwhelm and ensure that you make informed choices that you won’t regret later.

And if you’re feeling unsure about your design goals or struggling to visualize your bathroom's final look, remember to take our free Design Mini Course here. It’s a great resource to help you refine your ideas and walk into your tile shopping experience with clarity and confidence.

Happy tile shopping, and may your bathroom renovation journey be a smooth one!