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

1. What tiles are best for a kitchen floor?

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

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

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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.

Spider Gold porcelain tiles from Gayafores

2. Are all tiles waterproof?

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

Ceramic tiles are a great choice for kitchen tiling as they are moderately water-resistant, and have a high water absorption rate.

The grout lines between are also typically porous and will absorb most spillages.

Low water absorption is better, as water stays on the surface of the tile and can be dried easily.

In this sense, porcelain tiles are the better choice as they have a very low water absorption rate.

The worst choice would be terracotta, which is very porous, has a higher water absorption rate and therefore stains easily and is difficult to clean.

You can seal them though, but it needs to be done properly and maintained regularly.

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3. Are all tiles stain resistant?

Whether a tile is stain-resistant or not will depend on the tile, the surface finish and if it’s been treated or sealed properly.

We would recommend ceramic tiles or porcelain tiles, but you should ensure they are glazed with a protective coating, as this will decrease the likelihood of stains.

With that in mind, be weary of glossy finishes as these can show smudges and marks more easily.

Vives Ceramica Gres Porcelain in large formats

4. Are all tiles heat resistant?

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

Ceramic tiles are an excellent choice as they offer a good level of heat-resistance, and can effortlessly withstand hot pans and daily wear, whilst maintaining their beauty and functionality.

They are also fireproof and resistant to sharp temperature changes.

Sticks by Ceramicas Vilar Albaro

5. What tiles are best for underfloor heating

Ceramic 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.

Ceramic 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.

Arcana Ceramica Spuma concrete-effect tiles