Tile of Spain director María D Arráez answers the most popular questions about kitchen tiles to help retailers solve customers’ queries

Q: What tiles are best for a kitchen floor?

A: The best tiles for a kitchen floor are those that combine quality, ease of maintenance and visual appeal.

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Ceramic tiles are the perfect choice, offering an ideal balance of affordability, durability and style.

With their stain-resistant glazed surfaces and vast array of designs, they effortlessly handle the demands of a busy kitchen whilst enhancing its aesthetic appeal.

They are also low-maintenance, resistant to scratches and moisture, and simple to clean.

We would recommend textured tiles as they offer excellent safety in high-traffic and spill-prone areas, making them particularly popular in homes with kids, pets and elderly relatives present.

If your kitchen is on a smaller scale, consider diagonal patterns or large format tiles, as these can help to create a more spacious appearance.

For a warmer and natural look, try wood-look ceramic tiles, which mimic the aesthetic of hardwood with the durability and water-resistance of ceramic.

Vives Ceramica offers large format porcelain tiles, including Paris as shown on the island

Q: Are all tiles waterproof?

A: Not all tiles are waterproof but many are highly water-resistant.

Both ceramic and porcelain tiles are water resistant, thanks to their low water absorption rate, however porcelain tiles do have a particularly low rate of absorption, where water will stay on the surface of the tile, and so are often the preferred choice, in particular for floors or high-splash areas on walls.

Other tiles such as terracotta tiles, for example, have a higher water absorption rate as they are more porous, but with the right sealing and maintenance they can also be used in wet areas if needed.

Arcana Ceramica Spuma tiles, shown in Sorbetto Frappe

Q: Are all tiles stain resistant?

A: Different types of tiles will have varying levels of durability and resistance, which is dependent on their material and finish.

Thanks to their high durability, porcelain tiles are the best stain-resistant option, as they have extremely low porosity and dense composition.

Gayafores porcelain tiles in Spider Gold

Q: Are all tiles heat resistant? 

A: The level of heat-resistance depends on the material, manufacturing process and type of tile.

 Porcelain tiles are the best overall choice, as they are highly-resistant to sharp temperature changes and can withstand temperatures of over 1,200 degrees.

They are fireproof and their low porosity helps to prevent expansion or cracking.

The Sticks collection from Ceramica Vilar Albaro is shown in Blue Mist on the Wall and Oil on the kitchen island

Q: What tiles are best for underfloor heating?

A: Porcelain tiles quickly conduct heat from an underfloor heating system, ensuring fast and even heat distribution.

This efficiency minimises energy consumption compared to less conductive materials, like carpet or wood.

Porcelain tiles are also durable enough to withstand the constant temperature changes without cracking or warping.

They are compatible with both electric and water-based systems and are available in a wide range of designs, sizes and finishes, offering style and functionality.

WOW Design tiles, showcasing the Drops Collection