Tiles for commercial wet areas
Commercial premises require robust, high-quality tiles made from hardwearing materials that can cope with considerable traffic. However, in areas on site exposed to
water and excess moisture, additional care is required during tile selection.
The properties of tiles chosen must effectively reduce risks presented by a wet environment. For instance, common wet areas in commercial locations like showers, toilets, kitchens, changing rooms, pool surrounds, washroom facilities and spas can present possible risks of trips and slips when floor surfaces experience water build-up.
In such settings, efficient water management, slip resistance, durability under heavy traffic, and health and safety compliance are vital factors to weigh up when ordering the right type of tile. Here, we explore tiles for use in commercial wet areas in detail, examining materials, specific application requirements and more.
What are the best tile materials for wet environments?
Porcelain tiles are kiln-fired at extremely high temperatures. This makes them dense, heavily resistant to traffic, staining and chemicals, and virtually waterproof. Fully vitrified porcelain tiles provide close to zero water absorption (around 0.5%). Tile experts agree that choosing “through-body” porcelain can be an asset. As the colour penetrates the entire tile, minor chips and wear remain unnoticeable, creating a lasting appearance in commercial areas where aesthetic appeal is always important.
Ceramic tiles are also heavily favoured for commercial projects as they too supply exceptional durability against heavy footfall, promote hygiene levels by being easy to clean and offer superior stain and moisture resistance compared to many other floor finishes. Recognised as a long-term and cost-effective product, ceramic tiles can stand up well in even the most rigorously used areas on site.
A type of unglazed ceramic tile, quarry tiles see widespread use in leisure centres and heavy-duty commercial kitchens as they supply outstanding slip resistance in greasy and wet working conditions. However, both porcelain and standard ceramic tiles can feature slip-resistance textures of different grades to meet requirements.
Important commercial requirements for tile installation in wet areas
Water absorption is a key consideration for tile selection in wet areas. Commercial wet rooms need fully vitrified or vitreous floor tiles that have a water absorption rate under three per cent. This ensures tiles don’t become cracked, inhibiting unwanted bacterial growth.
Hardness and durability are also key as tiles fitted in commercial settings experience substantial abrasion from footfall. To resist scratches caused by grit and general daily wear, tiles should have a Mohs (qualitative hardness) rating of seven or more out of 10.
Understandably, slip resistance is also critical. Choose tile with embossed surfaces and anti-slip textures that have been manufacturer-tested.
Key considerations regarding tile installation and sizing
When choosing flooring for wet areas, consider tile format. Larger-format tiles have fewer grout joints, decreasing potential trip hazards and supplying fewer places for mould and bacteria to build up.
Tile installations in high-moisture areas like wet rooms and toilets require professional fitters. To mitigate moisture ingress and prevent flooring failing prematurely, water-resistant grouts are advised along with cement-based adhesives.
It’s worth remembering that each wet area will have its own unique tile requirements. Always tailor the tiles you select to specific priorities. For example places where people are barefoot like poolside areas and showers require specialized anti-slip ratings, while places where durable footwear are worn like plant rooms and commercial kitchens sometimes need tiles with higher traction treads.
Do you need to source custom tiles for commercial wet area?
Working with architects and interior designers undertaking projects in the commercial and hospitality sectors, at Digital Ceramics we supply high-quality solutions. We design and supply cutting-edge digitally printed ceramic and porcelain tiles that are specifically engineered to meet the requirements of commercial installations.
Experienced in providing custom tiles for commercial use, we offer tailored products that perfectly match any project brief. Connect with us at Digital Ceramics now for durable, mould-, bacteria-, water- and slip-resistant tiles for use in wet areas. Tiles can be colour-matched to your chosen palette, and you’ll receive a free competitively priced no obligation quote.