A Practical Guide to Tile Installation and Maintenance for UK Homes
At DB Tiles & Bathrooms, we know that selecting beautiful tiles. Be it porcelain, ceramic or natural stone, is just the start. A stunning bathroom or kitchen begins with proper installation and continues with consistent maintenance. Whether you’re a professional fitter or a DIY enthusiast, following the right steps during installation and care will ensure your tiled surfaces look their best for years to come.
Every successful tiling project begins with meticulous surface preparation. In the UK, surfaces like plasterboard, cement board or concrete must be clean, dry and level before tiling. It’s essential to remove all dust, grease and loose material. If your substrate isn’t flat, especially when using large-format tiles, a self-levelling compound is recommended. For wet areas like bathrooms and wet rooms, applying a tanking or waterproof membrane helps prevent moisture issues and mould growth. Learn more about protecting against damp in bathrooms via our post on Preventing Mould on Bathroom Tiles dbtiles.com+8dbtiles.com+8dbtiles.com+8.
Next, plan your tile layout with a dry lay, position tiles without adhesive to visualise edges and avoid narrow cuts at room boundaries. Symmetry around key features, like baths or vanity units, lends a professional finish. Using spacers ensures even grout lines. Dry laying also allows pattern tiles or feature pieces to be aligned perfectly.
Selecting the correct adhesive is vital. We recommend a flexible cement-based adhesive rated to BS EN 12004 as C2TE S1, ideal for porcelain, large-format tiles or areas with underfloor heating. These adhesives accommodate slight movement and temperature variation, reducing risk of cracking or hollow spots. Large-format tiles also benefit from thicker-bed adhesive application. Using matching adhesive and grout systems from the same manufacturer promotes better compatibility and performance.
When it comes to sealing, glazed or vitrified porcelain and ceramic tiles typically don’t require sealer. However, natural stone tiles, like marble or limestone must be sealed before grouting to prevent staining, and again once grouting has cured. A penetrating impregnating sealer is the best choice for this. Even textured porcelain can benefit from a grout-release treatment to ease cleaning after installation.
Grout is more than just filler it acts as a waterproof seal, protects tile edges and impacts the overall aesthetic. For bathroom and kitchen environments, choose water-resistant, mould-inhibiting grout, preferably with polymer-enhanced flexibility. Apply grout in small sections, wiping off excess with a damp sponge immediately to avoid haze formation. Avoid walking on newly laid floors for at least 24 hours to allow full curing.
Ongoing maintenance keeps your tiles looking fresh. Clean floors and walls by sweeping or vacuuming before mopping to avoid scratching. Always use a pH-neutral tile cleaner—avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or acidic solutions, which can degrade grout and stone. Improve airflow in bathrooms to prevent condensation and reduce the likelihood of mould. Visit our “Preventing Mould on Bathroom Tiles” article for daily maintenance advice dbtiles.com.
Grout requires attention too. It can become discoloured over time especially lighter shades. Routine cleaning using a soft brush and warm soapy water helps. For more stubborn stains, specialist grout cleaners or a baking soda paste work well. In high‑moisture areas, resealing grout every 12–18 months keeps it effective. If cracking or crumbling appears, regrouting promptly prevents moisture damage beneath the tiles. Our article on Common Tile Issues in Old Homes also highlights how damaged or loose grout contributes to lasting deterioration dbtiles.com.
At DB Tiles, we supply not only an extensive selection of high-quality tiles. Including porcelain, ceramic and natural stone dbtiles.com+8dbtiles.com+8dbtiles.com+8 but also matching adhesives, grouts, sealers and aftercare products. Our family-run team offers expert guidance, from product recommendations to practical installation and maintenance support. Visit our Bathrooms collection page to browse our range or get inspired by recent installs dbtiles.com. If you’d like help visualising your project, our 3D design service helps bring your dream space to life dbtiles.com.
📍 To explore our full offering or arrange a consultation, visit our contact page or Call into our Moira showroom just outside Craigavon dbtiles.com.
