Choosing bathroom tiles might seem like a quick task—pick a design you like and move on. But when you’re after premium bathroom tiles for a renovation or new build, it’s not that simple. Not every tile that looks stunning in the store will hold up over time.

Low-quality tiles can lead to problems like cracks, peeling glazes, or colors that shift when wet. To ensure you’re getting genuine quality, here’s what to look for.

Don’t Be Swayed by Surface Appeal

A tile’s glossy finish or stylish pattern might catch your eye, but premium bathroom tiles are defined by their durability and craftsmanship.

Hold a tile. It should feel solid and weighty, not hollow or lightweight. Check the back—clay tiles should be dense, not crumbly, and porcelain should show consistent color throughout its body. The glaze, which protects against water and wear, should feel smooth but not slippery. Watch for small flaws like bubbles or uneven textures, which often indicate poor manufacturing.

Check for Uniformity

Line up a few tiles. Are they identical in size, color, and thickness? Even slight variations can cause issues during installation.

Premium bathroom tiles are crafted with precision, featuring clean edges and no warping. Inconsistent tiles lead to uneven grout lines or patterns that don’t align, ruining your bathroom’s aesthetic. A reliable tiles supplier will stock consistent tiles and can confirm their quality and sourcing.

Ratings Are a Guide, Not the Whole Story

Tile specs, like PEI ratings for durability or water absorption rates, are useful for bathrooms, where low absorption and slip resistance are essential. But numbers don’t tell the full story.

A trustworthy tiles supplier will provide practical insights, explaining how a tile performs in humid, high-traffic bathrooms. If they dodge your questions or push the priciest option without reason, that’s a red flag. Choose a supplier who knows their products and prioritizes your needs.

Verify Certifications

Certifications like ISO or “Made in Italy” can suggest quality, but they’re not always reliable. Some labels are used as marketing ploys without substance.

Ask your tiles supplier for specifics: Where was the tile made? Which factory? Can they provide proof of origin? Premium tiles typically come from reputable manufacturers with strict quality controls. A good supplier will share this information, ensuring your tiles can handle a bathroom’s tough conditions.

Inspect the Edges

A tile’s edges can reveal its quality. Cheap tiles often have rough or chipped edges, especially at the corners.

Feel the tile’s sides. They should be smooth, with sharp, even corners. Rectified tiles, machine-cut for uniformity, are common in premium lines and ensure tidy grout lines. Even non-rectified premium tiles should have consistent, well-finished edges.

Start with Quality Questions

It’s easy to fall for a tile’s style and overlook quality. Instead, begin with questions about performance: Where was it made? How does it handle moisture and heat? What’s the warranty?

A reputable ceramic tiles supplier expects these questions and answers them confidently, providing details about the tile’s origin and suitability. If they’re vague or focus only on a showroom sample, look for a supplier who values transparency.

Be Skeptical of Bargains

Premium bathroom tiles cost more due to superior materials and tighter production standards. If a tile looks high-end but is priced much lower than similar options, be cautious.

Sometimes, a low price comes from overstock or a discontinued line from a quality manufacturer. More often, it’s a sign of a knockoff that won’t last. Ask your supplier to explain the pricing. A trustworthy one will be upfront.

Choose for Longevity

Bathroom tiles face daily challenges—water, heat, cleaning chemicals, and foot traffic. Premium bathroom tiles are built to endure while staying beautiful.

Take your time to inspect tiles and choose a tiles supplier you can rely on. Handle the product, ask detailed questions, and prioritize performance over price. The right tiles, backed by a reliable supplier, will keep your bathroom stunning for years.