Hi,
Just wondering if this ceramic tile is okay to use for a bathroom, specifically a shower floor? Or will it cause issues because it's too porous?
Thanks
Hi @darcyDIY,
For a shower, the ideal tile is a dense, low absorption option such as porcelain, which typically has a water absorption rate of less than 0.5 percent. These tiles are highly water resistant, durable and less likely to stain or harbour moisture. Combined with proper waterproofing and a suitable slip rating, low absorption tiles provide the best long-term performance in wet environments like shower floors and walls.
Tiles with a porosity of 3 to 6 percent, like the Omniform Beige Textured Tiles from our friends at Beaumont Tiles, can still be used in a shower as long as there is a sufficient waterproofing membrane, but they are more absorbent and therefore more prone to staining and becoming dirty over time. While suitable when installed correctly, they will not perform as well as lower absorption porcelain tiles in the long term.
Sealing highly porous tiles with a tile sealer can improve their resistance to moisture and staining by filling surface pores and reducing absorption. A good quality penetrating sealer applied after installation will help protect the tile and grout lines, though sealers need to be reapplied periodically as part of routine maintenance. However, sealing does not replace the need for a proper waterproof membrane beneath the tiles, which is essential for preventing water damage to the structure.
A ceramic tile with a porosity between 3-6% is generally considered suitable for bathroom use, including on a shower floor as long as there is sufficient waterproofing beneath those tiles.
Being slightly porous means water will seep through the tiles; however this is not a functional issue if there is a suitable waterproofing membrane beneath the tiles.
The main issue you might experience is dirt and particulate matter building up in the tiles, but this can be reduced considerably with the use of a
To summarise, they would be fine for use on a shower floor, as long as it is waterproofed to modern standards, but you should apply a sealer to help prevent them from getting dirty.
Let me know if you have any further questions.
Jacob
Hi Jacob,
Thank you so much, really appreciate the information you've provided
Do you have any recommendations on the sealer to use? And how periodically it should be applied?
Hello @darcyDIY
I propose looking at the CPC 220ml Shower Plug Sealant it is an invisible brush-on treatment to fix and prevent leaks in showers and balconies, without having to remove tiles. It generally provides a water seal on the surface of the tile and grout. The product is warranted to be effective for at least 10 years. Re-application may be necessary after that time.
If you need further assistance, please let us know.
Eric
Hi Eric
Thats excellent, thank you. Between waterproofing under the tiles and this sealant it'll give me good peace of mind with these tiles.
Hope yas both have a good rest of your day!
