Should You Choose Tiles or Paint for Your Bathroom Walls?
When it comes to bathroom walls, deciding whether to opt for tiles or paint can feel overwhelming. While most bathrooms feature tiles on the floor, the choice between painting or tiling bathroom walls often depends on practicality, aesthetics, and budget. You may also consider a middle ground, such as tiling half or three-quarters of the walls or adding a tiled baseboard. Each approach has its own advantages and challenges, and what works in one space may not suit another, particularly in smaller bathrooms or wet rooms. Below, we explore the pros and cons of both options, helping you decide whether to choose paint or tiles in your bathroom.
Reducing Mould & Maintenance
One of the most important considerations when choosing between bathroom tiles or paint is how each material fares against moisture and mould. Bathrooms, particularly wet rooms or small bathrooms with limited ventilation, are highly susceptible to dampness. Both tiles and paint can resist mould effectively if you take the right precautions.
- Paint: Opt for a high-quality, mould-resistant bathroom paint. These paints are specifically designed to withstand the humid conditions of bathrooms. Pair this with a powerful extractor fan and good ventilation, such as keeping windows open whenever possible, to maintain a mould-free space.
- Tiles: Tiles are naturally more resistant to water and easier to clean, making them a popular choice in areas prone to splashes. However, the grout between tiles is vulnerable to mould. To prevent this, use a waterproof tile backer board (such as HardieBacker from Topps Tiles) and seal grout lines with a high-quality sealant. Regular cleaning and resealing are essential for long-term maintenance.
Décor
Both painting and tiling bathroom walls can enhance the room’s overall look, but they offer different design opportunities:
- Paint: Painting offers versatility and ease of change. You can refresh the look of your bathroom every few years with a new colour, allowing you to follow current trends or update the space without major renovation work. However, paint may lack the luxurious and textured appeal of tiles.
- Tiles: Tiles offer a timeless and elegant finish, with a vast array of materials, colours, and patterns to choose from. A high-quality neutral tile is a safe bet for adding value to your home, especially if you plan to sell in the future. Neutral tones can act as a backdrop, allowing you to update accessories or soft furnishings to refresh your bathroom décor without the need to re-tile.
Tile Certain Areas
If you’re torn between the two, consider using tiles in certain areas—such as splash zones around the bath, shower, or sink—while painting the rest of the walls. This hybrid approach balances practicality with cost-effectiveness and allows for greater design flexibility.
Cost
Cost is often a deciding factor when choosing between tiles or paint in the bathroom:
- Paint: Painting is generally the more affordable option in terms of both materials and labour. It’s also quicker to apply, making it ideal for tight budgets or when you want to update the bathroom without extensive renovation.
- Tiles: Tiling is more expensive upfront due to higher material and labour costs. However, tiles are a long-term investment. A well-tiled bathroom can last for decades, especially if you choose durable and timeless materials. If budget is a concern, look for sales or affordable options that still deliver a premium look.
Conclusion
When deciding between bathroom tiles or paint, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The choice depends on your bathroom’s layout, your budget, and your desired aesthetic. Tiles are an excellent choice for long-term durability and moisture resistance, especially in wet rooms or splash-prone areas. Paint, on the other hand, offers versatility and affordability, allowing you to refresh your space more easily.
If you’re still unsure whether to paint or tile your bathroom walls, or if a combination of both would work best, consult with our design experts for tailored advice. With careful planning, you can create a bathroom that is both functional and stylish, no matter its size or purpose.
