Everyone knows that tiles are available in many shapes, sizes and textures, but it's not until you actually get down to buying tiles that you realize there a number of generic tile types.

Each tile type has its' own intrinsic benefits and characteristics. There is even a table detailing Tile Abrasion & Wear Test Methods of various tiles that can help you work out the places where certain tiles are best used. This system of grading tiles is commonly called the PEI table and is used to help consumers and architects who specify tiles, to select the right floor tile for the job. Most good tile shops will know the PEI rating of a tile they have for sale and should be fully conversant with the system and its function.

If not, then consider changing the source from which you are buying. If they don't know this basic fundamental, one can only wonder what else they don't know. Poor advice can be costly when it comes to buying tiles.

If you have already chosen your tile you're probably ready to rush out and purchase your tiles. But before you do, consider carefully if you are going to fix the tiles yourself or employ a professional. It might be an idea to read more artiles from our Tile and Tiling Tips section so that you can access the skills and equipment required to do the job properly.

If you still have not made your buying decision or know what you want but have not made the purchase yet, then make sure you read on to consider these 10 Tips on Choosing and Buying Tiles. When you arrive at the retailers, these Tile Buying Tips are guaranteed to give you a clear idea of the area you wish to tile, the amount of foot traffic it will be exposed to and, if relevant, the amount of water the combination of the tile, tile adhesive, tile grout, etc., will have to withstand.

Remember you may need accessories like soap dishes, brass strips to finish off your tiling in doorways. Here's a list of things to do:

1. Measure the floor and wall areas to be tiled. If the tiles are regular in size (15x15cm or 20x20cm) then you should add no more than 10% for wasteage. Some tiles will have to be cut and the offcut may not be useful anywhere else, others may be damaged in transit or blemished.
2. Always order an extra 10%, even if you don't use them, they often come in handy at a later date. Most retailers will allow you to return First Grade tiles, not Second Grade.
3. If you are using a floor or wall border, measure the linear distance to be tiled and divide it by the length of each border to arrive at the net number of tiles required. Again add a few extra pieces for waste.
4. If you are tiling the bathroom walls, why not tile the whole room. There's only one thing more tiresome than painting a 900mm strip of wall between tiles and ceiling, and that's having to repaint it every few years.
5. Don't forget to check carefully if the floor tile selected will withstand the foot traffic it will be subjected to.
6. Consider slip resistance and its relevance to your household or environment.
7. What about ease of maintenance? Ceramic tiles are easy to clean, but what about terracotta, marble or porcelain. Make sure you understand what's required to keep your floor looking good.
8. Everyone wants a bargain but if you discover an attractive but average tile in terms of appearance and durability that only costs R50 a meter, compared to excellent product available at R60m2, don't sign on the dotted line without considering: * if you need 10m2 at an extra cost of R10 per m2, what's R100 compared to living with your second choice for 10, 20 even 30 years. Remember many grade 2, 4 and 5 floor tiles are guaranteed for 30 years plus.
9. Make sure you buy the right adhesive for the tile in question.
10. If employing a tiler, check out his reputation and don't be afraid to ask questions.
11. Don't be too staid in your choice of colour, use a complementary grout and be inventive. Tiles are fun, they are an ancient and durable product that will reward the inventive user.