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- Embracing Bold and Beautiful Tiles
Unleashing the Potential of Patterned Tiles Patterned tiles, once confined to old world aesthetics and vintage-inspired interiors, are enjoying a renaissance in contemporary design. These intricate designs can imbue any space with a distinctive personality, adding depth, intrigue, and a dash of audacious charm. In this article, we'll explore how to effectively embrace the bold and beautiful world of patterned tiles and unleash their potential in your home. What Are Patterned Tiles? Patterned tiles are pieces of ceramic, porcelain, or natural stone that are adorned with designs. These designs can range from geometric shapes to floral motifs, abstract illustrations, and traditional tessellations. The rich diversity of patterns available today means there's something for every taste, from the subtle and sophisticated to the vibrant and vivacious. Why Choose Patterned Tiles? Patterned tiles offer an extraordinary way to incorporate character and charm into your interiors. Here's why they are a worthy consideration: Distinctive Style Patterned tiles can create a unique aesthetic that sets your space apart. They offer a visual feast for the eyes, adding a layer of interest to your floors, walls, or backsplashes. Versatility From kitchens and bathrooms to living rooms and hallways, patterned tiles can enrich any space. With a wide array of designs and color schemes available, you can find tiles that complement your existing decor or serve as the starting point for a fresh design. Durability Beyond their aesthetic appeal, patterned tiles are also practical. Like other tiles, they offer a robust and easy-to-clean surface that can stand up to daily wear and tear. How to Use Patterned Tiles Effectively Using patterned tiles effectively requires some thought and creativity. Here are some tips to guide your decisions: Balance Patterned tiles are inherently eye-catching. To prevent them from overwhelming your space, balance their boldness with solid colors on walls, furnishings, or other elements in the room. Focal Point Consider using patterned tiles to create a focal point, such as an accent wall, a kitchen backsplash, or a bathroom shower wall. Scale and Proportion The size and scale of the patterns should align with the size of your room. Small, intricate patterns can work well in large spaces or over large expanses, while larger, bolder patterns can help a small room come alive. Colours Pay attention to the color scheme. The colors in your patterned tiles should work harmoniously with the rest of your decor. Unleashing the Potential with Navarro Tiles At Navarro Tiles, we offer an extensive selection of high-quality patterned tiles. Our expert staff is always on hand to guide you, offering personalized advice based on your space, style, and vision. Contact us today to discover how patterned tiles can transform your interiors into unique, captivating spaces.
- Essential Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Tiling
Safety is paramount in every profession, and tiling is no exception. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is a crucial element in ensuring safety and preventing potential workplace injuries. In this comprehensive guide, we will highlight the importance and usage of different PPE pieces when tiling. The Importance of PPE in Tiling Despite seeming innocuous, tiling carries with it an array of potential hazards. These include cuts from sharp tile edges, respiratory issues from dust inhalation, knee problems from constant kneeling, and foot injuries from dropped objects. Each piece of PPE is specifically designed to protect a particular part of your body from these risks, serving as a barrier between you and potential injuries. A Detailed Overview of PPE for Tiling Tasks 1. Safety Gloves Safety Gloves play a critical role in protecting your hands from various hazards during tiling work. They shield against cuts and abrasions that can be caused by sharp tile edges or tools. Moreover, tiling often involves handling various adhesive materials and grouts that can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. Safety Gloves provide an excellent barrier against these substances, reducing skin exposure and offering an excellent grip for securely handling tiles. 2. Safety Goggles Eye safety is paramount when performing tasks like tile cutting or grouting, as these can generate dust, fragments, or splashes. Safety Goggles fully enclose the area around your eyes, providing effective protection against such hazards. They guard against dust particles and tile fragments that might be propelled during tile cutting, as well as any splashes that may occur when using adhesive materials and grout. 3. Knee Pads Tiling often requires long periods of kneeling, especially when installing floor tiles. This constant pressure on your knees can lead to knee joint issues over time. Knee Pads provide an effective solution to this problem. They are designed to evenly distribute your weight, reducing the pressure on your knees and providing comfort during prolonged periods of kneeling. 4. Dust Masks The process of cutting tiles generates a significant amount of dust. Inhaling this dust can lead to respiratory problems. Dust Masks provide a first line of defence against this issue by filtering out these potentially harmful particles before they enter your respiratory system. This makes them an essential piece of PPE during tile cutting or any other tasks that produce dust. 5. Protective Footwear Foot safety is an essential yet often overlooked aspect of tiling safety. Tiles and tools can be heavy, and dropping them can result in serious foot injuries. Protective Footwear, often in the form of safety boots, offers excellent protection against such impacts. These boots feature reinforced toe caps to shield against impacts and have soles designed for superior grip, reducing the risk of slips on wet or dusty surfaces. Each and every piece of PPE plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and health of those involved in tiling work. By understanding the importance of each type of equipment, we can better protect ourselves from the inherent risks of the job. If you need any assistance in choosing the right PPE, do not hesitate to reach out to us. Your safety is our priority.
- A Comprehensive Guide to Non-Slip Floor Tiles
In the world of tiling, functionality and style often go hand in hand. One excellent example of this is the non-slip floor tile. Highly practical and aesthetically versatile, non-slip floor tiles are a fantastic solution for areas that see frequent moisture or heavy foot traffic. Brought to you by the experts at Navarro Tiles, this blog will delve into the unique characteristics of non-slip floor tiles and how to select the best tiles for your project. What Makes Non-Slip Floor Tiles Different? Non-slip floor tiles are a product of innovative tiling technology. Their distinctive characteristic is the anti-slip surface which provides increased grip underfoot, reducing the risk of accidents in potentially slippery areas such as bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor spaces. These tiles are crafted with a specialised textured surface that increases traction even when wet. Despite this, they don't compromise on aesthetic appeal. Non-slip floor tiles come in a myriad of designs, colours, and finishes, allowing them to fit seamlessly into any decor. Where to Use Non-Slip Floor Tiles? Due to their anti-slip properties, non-slip floor tiles are ideal for both residential and commercial spaces that are prone to spills or moisture. They are particularly suitable for: Bathrooms and Kitchens: These areas are often wet due to splashes from the sink, bath or shower. Outdoor Areas: Whether it's a patio, pool area, or a walkway, outdoor tiles must contend with the elements, making the non-slip variety a wise choice. Commercial Spaces: In spaces like restaurants or cafes, where spills are frequent, non-slip tiles can enhance safety. Choosing the Right Non-Slip Tiles When selecting non-slip floor tiles, consider the following factors: Slip Rating: Tiles are tested for their slip resistance, with results classified under R ratings (R9 to R13), with R13 providing the highest level of slip resistance. Aesthetics: While safety is paramount, the look and feel of the tile is also important. Navarro Tiles offer a vast selection of non-slip tiles in various designs and finishes to complement any style. Durability: The tile should be robust and able to withstand the demands of the area in which it will be placed. Choosing the right non-slip tile can be a challenge, but Navarro Tiles are here to help. With a vast range of non-slip floor tiles and a team of experts ready to guide you, we'll ensure you find the perfect solution to match your requirements. Whether you're undertaking a large commercial project or helping a homeowner create a safe and stylish bathroom, we're here to assist. Browse our selection online or reach out to our knowledgeable team for guidance. We're dedicated to helping you achieve superior tiling results with safety, style, and functionality at their heart.
- Bring the Beauty of Nature Indoors: Discover Wood Effect Tiles
When it comes to replicating the warm, timeless appeal of natural wood in a highly durable format, few products can compete with wood effect tiles. Today, we're showcasing three distinctive collections from our range: Old Manor, Chateau, and Ulverstone. These tiles each offer unique aesthetics and tactile experiences, expertly capturing the charm of natural wood while providing the practical benefits of ceramic tiles. Old Manor - Small Format, Grand Impact Old Manor tiles are proof that 'good things come in small packages'. Expertly designed to emulate vintage timber flooring, these tiles blend seamlessly into a variety of interiors, from the most traditional to the modern industrial. The aged wood effect, with its subtlety of grain and warm tones, introduces a cosy, rustic atmosphere into the room, making these compact tiles perfect for intimate or uniquely shaped spaces. Despite their small size, Old Manor tiles create a grand impact that’s sure to impress. Measurements: 600 x 150 mm / 24 x 6” Quantity per square metre: 11.11 Ulverstone - Luxurious Gloss for Modern Spaces For a touch of modern glamour, consider the Ulverstone series. With their glossy finish, these tiles reflect light to brighten spaces and create an illusion of expanded dimensions. They’re an excellent choice for smaller or darker rooms. Despite their shiny appearance, Ulverstone tiles offer the resilience and longevity that clients have come to expect from Navarro Tiles, making them a wonderful blend of luxury and practicality. Measurements: 1200 x 200 mm / 48 x 8” Quantity per square metre: 4.16 Chateau - The Art of Authenticity Offering an extraordinary level of authenticity, the Chateau series boasts a matt finish and ultra-realistic wood effect that’s as close to true timber as you can get. Every knot, grain, and unique imperfection of natural wood is faithfully reproduced in these tiles, offering a beautiful, practical alternative to natural wood flooring. Chateau tiles, with their non-slip matte surface, are an excellent choice for busy areas where safety is crucial, like restaurants or high-traffic retail outlets. Despite the wear and tear, they’ll maintain their beauty over time. Measurements: 1200 x 200 mm / 48 x 8” Quantity per square metre: 4.16 The Enduring Appeal of Wood Effect Tiles Wood effect tiles are a beloved choice among our business customers because they beautifully combine the charm of natural wood with the practical advantages of ceramic tiles. Each with its unique style and texture, the Old Manor, Chateau, and Ulverstone collections are captivating examples of this blend. By choosing Navarro Tiles, you’re choosing quality, durability, and style. Our range of wood effect tiles is a testament to these values. Explore the Old Manor, Chateau, and Ulverstone collections on our website today, and see how they can elevate your design projects to new heights. As always, our team at Navarro Tiles is ready to assist you in making the best tile selections for your business needs. Don’t hesitate to reach out for expert advice and recommendations.
- Bathroom Aesthetics Elevated: Exploring Iceland, Nilos, and Moonstone
The bathroom is a private oasis, a place to unwind and refresh. At Navarro Tiles, we are dedicated to creating spaces that inspire serenity and comfort, and our bathroom tiles reflect this ethos perfectly. This spotlight will focus on three unique bathroom tile ranges: Iceland, Nilos, and Moonstone. We'll explore their distinctive aesthetics and provide practical styling, care, and installation tips. Iceland: A Subtle Frosty Elegance Our Iceland range, characterised by cool, light tones and a faintly marbled effect creates a serene and refreshing ambiance reminiscent of a tranquil, frost-kissed landscape. Styling Tip: Pair Iceland tiles with glossy white fixtures for a crisp, clean look. To add warmth, consider incorporating wooden accents and soft, plush textiles. Care and Installation: Iceland tiles are robust and easy to maintain. To clean, use a mild, non-acidic cleaner, and your tiles will continue to sparkle like a snowy landscape for years to come. Use a white adhesive during installation to maintain their delicate colouring. Moonstone: Mystical Charm The Moonstone range is all about adding a mystical charm. With their smooth surface and subtle sheen, these tiles are reminiscent of moonstones, adding a unique, ethereal quality to your space. Styling Tip: Moonstone tiles work well with chrome or stainless steel fittings for a modern, sleek look. To add a touch of warmth, consider wooden accents or soft, plush textiles. Care and Installation: Moonstone tiles are not only beautiful but also durable. A gentle, non-acidic cleaner will keep them gleaming when it comes to cleaning. For installation, use a white adhesive to maintain their unique shimmer. Nilos: Echo of the Sea Our Nilos range captures the mesmerising allure of the sea. With their wave-like pattern and cool blue tones, these tiles create a sense of tranquillity, as if bringing a piece of the ocean into your bathroom. Styling Tip: Nilos tiles pair beautifully with white or light wood fixtures for a fresh, coastal look. To enhance the seaside ambience, consider adding natural elements, such as plants or a pebble bath mat. Care and Installation: Nilos tiles are easy to maintain. Regular cleaning with a neutral cleaner will keep them looking vibrant. For installation, we recommend a high-quality adhesive suitable for porcelain tiles. The Navarro Tiles Experience At Navarro Tiles, we're passionate about helping you create spaces that reflect your style and meet your specific needs. Whether you're remodelling a small bathroom or designing a luxurious master suite, our knowledgeable staff are ready to guide you through our extensive range of bathroom tiles. Visit us in-store or online to discover the perfect tiles for your sanctuary.
- Versatile and Vibrant Floor Tiles: An Homage to Durable Design
When it comes to designing your home or commercial space, the right flooring makes a profound impact. More than just a practical solution for high-traffic areas; floor tiles are a canvas for creativity, a statement of style, and a testament to durability. At Navarro Tiles, we hold a deep appreciation for the transformative potential of floor tiles; and pride ourselves on our extensive collection- suitable for every style, project, and budget. Here are a few of our favourite floor tile ranges with top tips for their styling, installation and care. Labradorite: A Glimpse of Ethereal Beauty The Labradorite range captures the iridescent allure of its namesake mineral. Each tile shimmers with a subtle play of colours, bringing a unique, ethereal beauty to your spaces. These tiles are particularly well-suited to modern, minimalist interiors, where their luminescent quality can truly shine. Styling Tip: Labradorite tiles pair wonderfully with metallic accents and sleek, modern fixtures. Consider pairing them with stainless steel or chrome fittings for a truly contemporary look. Care and Installation: For installation, we recommend using a white adhesive to preserve the tiles' unique colour variations. When it comes to cleaning, a gentle, non-acidic cleaner is your best bet. Avoid abrasive materials to keep your Labradorite tiles shimmering for years to come. Reno Matt Carrara: Embodying Timeless Elegance The Reno Matt Carrara range offers the timeless elegance of Carrara marble in a durable porcelain tile. These tiles effortlessly elevate any space, from the kitchen to the bathroom, with their refined aesthetic and neutral tones. Styling Tip: Reno Matt Carrara tiles offer a versatile backdrop for various décor styles. For a classic look, pair them with white fixtures and touches of gold or brass. For a more contemporary approach, consider pairing these tiles with bold, black accents. Care and Installation: Installation should be done with a high-quality adhesive suitable for porcelain tiles. As with all porcelain tiles, the Reno Matt Carrara range is low-maintenance and easy to clean. Regular sweeping and mopping with a mild detergent will keep these tiles looking their best. Storm: Unleashing Dramatic Flair The Storm range captures the beauty of a tempestuous sky, bringing a dramatic flair to any room. With their bold patterns and deep hues, these tiles are ideal for creating a strong style statement. Styling Tip: Storm tiles, with their dynamic design, work exceptionally well in large, open spaces where their pattern can fully unfold. Complement them with minimalist, modern furniture and accents to prevent the décor from becoming overwhelming. Care and Installation: During installation, ensure to shuffle tiles from different boxes to achieve a beautiful, random pattern effect. Despite their dramatic appearance, Storm tiles are surprisingly low-maintenance. Regular cleaning with a non-abrasive, neutral cleaner will keep them looking striking. Sustainability Matters At Navarro Tiles, we're committed to sourcing and selling products that are kind to our planet. Many of our floor tile ranges are made from natural, recyclable materials and are manufactured using sustainable practices. When you choose Navarro Tiles, you're not just choosing a beautiful floor; you're choosing a more sustainable future. Remember, choosing the right floor tile is not just about finding a design that catches your eye; it's about finding a tile that fits your lifestyle and stands up to the demands of your space. Whether you're renovating a cosy cottage, sprucing up a bustling restaurant, or building your dream home, Navarro Tiles has the perfect floor tile for you. The Navarro Tiles Experience With our curated selection of high-quality floor tiles, friendly and knowledgeable staff, and commitment to customer satisfaction, we strive to make your tile buying experience as enjoyable as possible. Visit us in-store or online to explore our full range of floor tiles and find the perfect fit for your space.
- Introducing Three Exquisite New Tile Ranges
We are thrilled to announce the arrival of three fantastic new tile ranges to our extensive collection at Navarro Tiles. We've always been committed to providing high-quality, stylish, and durable tiles that add a unique touch to your spaces. Joining the Navarro family are new ranges 'Old Manor', 'Iceland', and 'Labradorite', each offering an aesthetic capable of transforming any room into a work of art. Old Manor: Elegance Personified The first of our new additions, the 'Old Manor' tile range, is perfect for those looking to capture a timeless, rustic aesthetic. As the name suggests, these tiles hark back to an era of stately elegance and sophistication. The Old Manor range is characterised by a rich, earthy palette, with subtle variations in colour and texture that emulate the charm of an old country manor. These tiles are the perfect choice for adding a touch of vintage charm to any space, be it a kitchen, bathroom, or hallway. Iceland: The Beauty of Minimalism Our second new range, 'Iceland', brings the serene beauty of the Nordic landscapes into your home. These tiles feature cool, understated hues reminiscent of the Icelandic tundra. Soft, muted tones provide a sense of calm and tranquillity. The Iceland range is perfect for those who embrace minimalistic, contemporary design. Its clean lines and simple elegance seamlessly integrate into any modern décor style. Labradorite: The Allure of the Exotic Finally, the 'Labradorite' range offers a unique and exotic touch with stunning iridescent properties. Named after the intriguing semi-precious gemstone, these tiles reflect a beautiful array of colours, much like the northern lights, adding a sense of magic and wonder to your home. The Labradorite range is versatile, working equally well as a statement piece or an accent to enhance other elements in a room. Please visit our website for more information on these exciting new tile ranges. You'll find detailed descriptions, along with stunning high-definition images that let you see the beauty and quality of these tiles up close. As always, at Navarro Tiles, we go beyond simply selling tiles and believe every space deserves to look its best. We are passionate about helping you create the perfect ambience in your home or project. Our team of experts is always on hand to provide advice, from choosing the perfect style and colour to tips on installation and maintenance. Here's to beautiful spaces!
- How to calculate how many tiles are needed for a project
One of the most important steps in any tiling project is calculating how many tiles are needed, and in our latest blog we take you through the key steps to follow to ensure you have the exact number of tiles needed. Step 1: Measure wall or floor areas The first step is to measure your wall or floor areas, so you will need to have a tape measure, pencil, paper, and calculator to hand. You will need to measure both the length and width of each wall or floor that needs to be tiled, but remember to take into account obstructions such as windows and doors. Square and rectangular areas are naturally easier to measure, but if you need to measure a more complicated space, simply divide the area into smaller rectangles and measure the width and length of each. Step 2: Multiply the measurements to find the total area Once you have made a note of the length and width of each area, multiply them together to get the total area to be tiled. For example, if the floor measures 200cm wide and 300cm long, the total floor area would be 200cm x 300cm = 60,000cm² / 6m². If you are calculating the total area of a more complicated shape, you will need to complete this calculation for each square or rectangular box and then add the two together to find the total. Step 3: Calculate the overage required The calculations above will determine the exact area size for tiling, but the measurements will not allow for potential breakages and offcuts. In most situations, an overage of 10% is usually enough to cover potential accidents, and it will also mean there are a few tiles spare to cover possible future breakages. To find the overage, multiply the total area calculated in Step 2 by 10%. For example, in this situation the calculation would be 6m² x 1.1 = 6.6m². Step 4: Calculate how many tiles are needed Firstly, you will need to check the measurements of your chosen tiles and how many come in a box. The number of tiles in a box can vary dramatically, with smaller subway style tiles having far more tiles per box than large format designs. Next, calculate the area covered per tile, so using the same calculation as above, if a tile measures 10cm x 20cm, the total tile area will be 200cm² / 0.02m². Then, divide the total area of the room including overage by the total area covered by tile. In this example, the calculation would be 6.6m²/0.02m² = 330 tiles. Now, check how many tiles are included in a box and divide the total number of tiles required by the amount in each box. For example, if there are 20 tiles in a box, the calculation would be 330/20 = 16.5 boxes, which would need to be rounded up to 17 boxes. In practice, many of the tile boxes will include details such as the area covered by each box or how many tiles will be needed to cover 1m². Navarro Tiles - Wholesale suppliers of high-quality tiles throughout the UK & Ireland It is always worth remembering that walls are rarely perfectly straight and wastage can vary depending on patterns, tile size and layout. If in any doubt, always round your calculations up, as it can be difficult to find matching tiles from the same batch at a later date. We hope the above steps prove to be useful when you calculate how many tiles are needed for your project. If you would like to find out more about our wide range of high-quality tiles, contact our team today.
- A stunning range of wood-effect tiles
Wood-effect tiles are an excellent alternative to natural wooden floors, and with a variety of sizes and timber styles available they are a very popular choice. Unlike natural timber floors, our wood-effect tiles are very durable and require very little maintenance to maintain their showroom finish. In addition, thanks to the porcelain design, the tiles can be used with underfloor heating without having to worry about warping and drying out, which is often associated with wooden floors. Whether you are searching for a honey oak finish, a dark wood, or a light Scandinavian tone, there are many realistic wood-effect tiles in our extensive collection. Chateau Measurements: 200 x 1200mm/ 7.87 x 47.24" / Quantity per Square Metre: 4.16 Our Chateau range of wood effect porcelain tiles are perfect for recreating the look of a natural wood floor. The tiles have a matt finish with varied designed to ensure the tiles subtly mimic grains of wood, with a variety of natural wood tones available. Oldmanor MEASUREMENTS: 80 X 442MM / 3.14 X 17.4” QUANTITY PER SQUARE METRE: 29 These wood effect tiles are ideal for those who are looking to add warmth and character to a tiled wall or floor area, with the added benefits of being durable and practical. The realistic wood grain effect is available in a range of finishes, and thanks to their size, there are a multitude of potential layout options. A popular choice is the chevron style pattern, which can be used to create a bold statement within hallways, bathrooms and kitchens. Navarro Tiles - Wholesale suppliers of wood-effect tiles Our customers are important to us – we strive to offer the best products available combined with expert advice and we are extremely proud of the range we offer. Our range of tiles is available on a trade only basis throughout the UK and Ireland. If you are interested in stocking our tiles or would like to find your nearest supplier, please contact our team.
- A stylish range of feature tiles
If you are looking to add a stylish touch to a wall or floor, our feature tiles offer a range of unique designs. Whether you are searching for wall or floor tiles, decorative feature tiles will add instant character to the space and with our range of patterns, there are colours and styles to suit every décor style. Our hand-picked selection of patterned tiles is proving to be very popular, especially with those who are looking to add an interesting focal point. From living rooms and hallways to kitchens and bathrooms, feature tiles continue to be a popular trend within many residential and commercial spaces. The following are some great examples of popular patterned tiles within our ever-evolving range: Imagine: Measurements: 223 x 223mm / 8.6 x 8.6” Quantity per Square Metre: 20 The Imagine range of porcelain tiles can be used on both walls and floors to create a unique finish. These stylish decorative tiles are available in a selection of monochrome matt finishes and can be combined to create a stunning pattern. The combination of chalky white and muted black tones will add character to kitchens, bathrooms, backsplashes and other focal areas. Sonnet: Measurements: 450x450mm/ 18x18" Quantity per square metre: 4.93 A range of patterned porcelain floor tiles, available in two neutral options, Marfil and Perla. The matt finish combined with the decorative design creates a versatile range of tiles which can be used on their own or coordinated with plain styles for use as a focal point. Navarro Tiles - Wholesale suppliers of feature tiles Our customers are important to us – we strive to offer the best products available combined with expert advice and we are extremely proud of the range we offer. Our range of tiles is available on a trade only basis throughout the UK and Ireland. If you are interested in stocking our tiles or would like to find your nearest supplier, please contact our team.
- A guide to the types of tile levelling systems
Tile levelling systems are designed to help tilers achieve a perfectly level and evenly spaced tiled surface. There are many types of tile levelling systems available which all aim to eliminate lippage, but it can be hard to know which system is the best option. In our latest blog post, we will take you through some of the most popular systems, so that you can achieve professional results every time. 1. Clip and wedge systems Clip and wedge systems are designed to be quick and easy to use, with the LevTec range being a great example. The range includes clips, wedges and pliers which lock tiles in place to prevent slumping during drying, while also removing substrate imperfections. The clips are simple and quick to use thanks to the bevelled clip edges, with a strong and flexible design that does not suffer from accidental breakages. Unlike many other clip and wedge-based levelling systems, the breakpoint is below the base plate, allowing total expansion once removed. In addition, the reinforced reusable wedges are designed to provide complete accuracy, so every tiling project benefits from a faultless surface. Simply follow these steps to achieve a perfect finish: Step 1: Spread the tile adhesive and lay the tile, then position the LevTec clips beneath the edge of the tile. The clip will act as 1.5mm spacer when pressed firmly against the tile. Step 2: Set the adjacent tile firmly into the adhesive, butted against the LevTec clip. Then slide the LevTec wedge through the clip until both tiles are firmly levelled. Step 3: Once the tiles are locked in place, the clips and wedges need to stay in position until the adhesive sets. The joint width can be adjusted slightly during setting, without disrupting the height of the tiles. Step 4: Once the adhesive is set, the wedges can be removed using a rubber mallet. The clips should be hit in the direction of the tile joint, where they will dislodge from the breakpoint below the tile ready for grouting. Another example of a popular clip and wedge system is the Forte system, which is available with plastic or wooden wedges. 2. Spin systems These systems are designed to level a tiled surface using a screw and cylinder, with the screw acting as a tile spacer. The cylinder is then turned along the threaded screw until it reaches the surface of the surrounding tiles, where it adds an even pressure to the tiles to create a level surface. This Quick Level Spin System is a great example, and there are a variety of screw widths available to suit all grout line thicknesses. The cylinders themselves include a scratch proof disc, so there is no need to worry about damaging the surface of the tiles during tightening. 3. Tile spacers Standard tile spacers are also a great way to create neat and even patterns, whilst also helping to prevent lateral movement. The most popular styles are the traditional cross-shaped spacers, which are used by tilers around the world on a daily basis. These are commonly used within the intersection of four tiles, where the corners meet and the spacer is able to slide neatly into the gap below the tile surface. This results in evenly spaced gaps, with the spacer easy to remove once adhesive is dry. The cross shaped spacers can also be used in a matchstick style, which is common if the corners of tiles do not meet at an intersection. There are also t-shaped spacers which are perfect for using at the intersection of three tiles, so they are often used when a tile meets a trim or when laying tiles in a subway/metro style brick pattern. In recent years, hexagonal and octagonal shaped tiles have risen in popularity, and there are also spacers designed for these specific shapes, including ‘Y’ spacers and the useful Hexagonal Spacers. Navarro Tiles - Wholesale suppliers of high-quality tiles Essentially, all tile levelling systems are designed to help lock the tiles in place, so that the tiles are level whilst the adhesive sets. We hope that the overview of potential systems above will help you to achieve a smooth, flat and even surface, and you are sure to find a great range of tile levelling systems available. As a wholesale supplier of tiles our experienced tiling team are always on hand to offer their expert advice, and if you would like to find out more about stocking our products, or to find your nearest supplier, please contact us today.
- How to drill through tiles sucessfully
If you are looking at a perfectly tiled wall and wondering how to hang shelves, curtain poles, towel rails, toothbrush holders and other accessories, our tiling experts are here to help. With the following tips you will be able to drill holes in tiles successfully, without having to worry about cracking the tiles. 1. Consider the tile material Before you dive straight into drilling through tiles, it is important to consider the tile material, as porcelain tiles will be much stronger than ceramic tiles. If you are drilling through natural stone or porcelain, you will need a specialist tile drill bit which is capable of drilling through the tough tile material. 2. Gather the best tools for the job The first thing you will need is a drill, which should be used with a new drill bit to ensure you are able to drill neatly and efficiently without cracking the tile. Next, you should gather safety gloves, safety goggles and a dust mask, as there will be debris and dust thrown up into the air as you drill. If you are drilling ceramic tiles, a carbide tipped drill bit will be sufficient, but for porcelain or stone tiles you will need a diamond-tipped drill. This will help to break through the surface glaze, whilst keeping a steady pressure on the drill. The diamond-tipped drill bits are more expensive, but they are capable of drilling through very hard surfaces. Another great tip is to use a layer of masking tape over the area, as it will help to create extra tension when drilling. 3. Double check your measurements Always measure and then re-measure, as you need to be sure that the hole you are making is 100% accurate. If there are multiple holes to drill, consider making a template on a piece of wood with holes drilled that are the same size as the holes needed in the tiles. Not only will this give you a chance to double check your measurements, but the wood will act as an accurate guide when drilling through the tiles. There are drill guides available which will help to improve accuracy, these allow a plastic casing to be attached to the tile before it is then drilled into. If you are a professional tiler, it may be worth investing in a steel guide plate which can be attached to the tile surface using a suction cup. It is important to remember that even a few millimetres difference between holes will leave you with a noticeable slant, especially if you are fitting a shelf or towel rail. 4. Drill through the tiles Tiles are designed to be tough, so they will be able to stand up to careful drilling. However, you will need to apply a steady and even pressure at the slowest speed possible, which will help to reduce crack causing vibrations. Start slowly and you will gradually drill through the glaze layer, at this point speed and pressure can be gradually increased. 5. Do not let your drill bits overheat Keep a wet sponge to hand as you are drilling, so that you can take regular breaks to cool the drill bit down with the sponge. You may prefer to hold the damp sponge against the drill bit whilst drilling, which is also a great way to catch any debris, however take care not to allow any water into the drill motor. 6. Change your drill bit Once you hit the surface below the tile keep drilling at a slow speed, so that you don’t damage and crack the surface below. If you are drilling into stone or concrete, you will need to change the drill bit to a masonry drill bit. Alternatively, if you are drilling into a fibre or timber board, a wood drill bit will be suitable. This will ensure that the fixings needed to support the accessory you are installing will be properly supported. Once the hole is drilled, insert the fixing plugs, clean the area with a wet cloth and you will be ready to insert the screws. Navarro Tiles – Suppliers of high-quality tiles We hope that our tips will help you to drill holes in tiles successfully, and if you are looking for the high-quality tiles for your next project, we have an excellent range available. Our product range is available on a wholesale basis, so if you are interested in stocking our range or would like to find your nearest stockist, please contact our team today.












