Ceramic Wall Tiles

Start by viewing the wider tiles category if you are still comparing materials, shapes or finishes across a full project. Ceramic is usually chosen for walls rather than heavy-traffic floors, although some ranges include matching floor products. Always check the supplier's product sheet for intended use, water absorption, slip rating where relevant, and installation instructions.

Glazed ceramic wall tiles are common in bathrooms, ensuites, kitchens, laundries and powder rooms. Their surface resists everyday splashes and is simple to wipe down. In showers, ceramic tile can be used on walls when installed over a compliant waterproofing system. The tile itself is only one part of the wall build-up, so use a qualified tiler for wet areas.

• Bathrooms and showers: Choose glazed ceramic wall tiles with grout joints and trims suited to wet conditions.
• Kitchens: Smooth glazed finishes are easy to clean behind cooktops and sinks.
• Feature walls: Patterned, handmade-look or decorative ceramic wall tile ranges can add detail without needing a large tiled area.
• Fireplaces: Use fireplace ceramic wall tiles only where the product is suitable for heat exposure and the fireplace manufacturer allows tiled surrounds.

Both ceramic and porcelain can be suitable for shower walls. Ceramic is often lighter, easier to cut and cost-effective for vertical surfaces. Porcelain is denser and has lower water absorption, which can make it a stronger choice for floors, exterior use and some high-use wet zones. The best tile for shower walls, ceramic or porcelain, depends on the product rating, the waterproofing system, grout selection and the skill of the installer.

If you are using the same finish across floors and walls, compare dedicated floor tiles as well. Floor tiles need slip resistance and wear ratings that wall-only ceramic tiles may not have.

Ceramic wall tile thickness in mm varies by product, but many wall tiles sit around 6-10 mm. Thicker does not automatically mean better. What matters is the tile's flatness, edge quality, substrate preparation and suitability for the wall. Large-format tiles create fewer grout lines, while smaller formats can handle curves, niches and uneven walls more easily.

Plan ceramic wall tile layout patterns before ordering. Check where cut tiles will land, how corners will be treated, and whether a ceramic trim wall tile or metal trim gives the cleaner edge. For detailed panels, mosaic tiles can work well in niches, splashbacks and decorative borders. If the wall is meant to be a design feature, compare decorative tiles for patterned, textured and artisan-style options.

Ceramic wall tile installation depends on a flat, clean and stable substrate. Wet areas need the correct waterproofing before tiles are fixed. The adhesive, grout and movement joints should match the tile, wall type and room conditions. For showers and bathrooms, professional installation is strongly recommended.

If you are replacing old tiles, removing ceramic tile from a wall can damage plasterboard or waterproofing behind it. Budget for substrate repair rather than assuming new tiles can be fixed straight away. To drill a hole in a ceramic wall tile, use the correct tile bit, start slowly and avoid hammer mode until the tile face has been pierced. Check for pipes or cables before drilling.

Ceramic exterior wall tiles need careful checking. Many ceramic wall tiles are made for interior use only. Exterior walls may require frost resistance, lower water absorption, mechanical fixing details or a tile system designed for movement and weather exposure. In many New Zealand projects, porcelain or stone-look exterior-rated products are specified instead.

For commercial projects, wet public areas or access routes, review related safety products such as tactile indicators. If you are designing beyond walls, ceiling tiles may also be relevant for acoustic or suspended ceiling systems in the same space.

• Intended use - wall-only, wet wall, splashback, fireplace or exterior-rated.
• Finish - gloss, satin, matt, textured, handmade-look or patterned.
• Size and thickness - including how the tile works with trims, niches and corners.
• Maintenance - glazed ceramic is generally easy to clean, but grout colour and sealants affect upkeep.
• Availability - allow for wastage, future repairs and batch variation.

ArchiPro makes it easier to compare ceramic wall tiles from New Zealand suppliers, review product details and enquire directly with brands that understand local project needs.