We typically find 10% to be the sweet spot when buying tiles. This ensures you have enough extra even when using large format tiles.

Yes, but only in certain circumstances. Although you CAN’T tile directly to wood surfaces like chipboard, sticking our
backing boards down first gives a suitable surface to tile onto.

There are several ways to prevent grout from going mouldy. You can use our Grout Protector spray, which is a DIY friendly product we stock in both our Shaftesbury and Wincanton showrooms. We also stock epoxy grouts which have the additional effect of being totally water resistant.

We are proud to offer a vast range of over 60 different flexible grout colours and matching silicone sealants, so there’s no possibility of not finding a grout colour to match the tiles for your ongoing project.

Crack isolation matting is always a good preventative measure to take, even on a secure floor. However, best use cases will be if your floor has a substantial amount of expansive or contractive movement, typically found with underfloor heating in place.

Typical drying times for an anhydrite screed is 1mm per day for the first 40 days, and 0.5mm per day thereafter. Sand and cement screeds take roughly 1 inch per week, however screeds are normally a case-by-case scenario so feel free to come in and chat to one of our experts for the best advise on your own flooring.

A large majority of tiles today are made to handle intense heats. With increase in popularity for underfloor heating this has become the norm. It means that most tiles are also suitable for things like fireplaces and behind hearths, although it’s best to check with a professional first for the best advice.

Neither one could be said to beat the other overall, however both have their own unique properties and use-cases. Natural stone tiles are often thicker and offer different finishes like tumbled edges or etched surfaces, but do require sealing. However, porcelain tiles are less susceptible to staining, feature printed designs so finding the perfect tile is extremely easy.

Gloss tiles are typically best for splashbacks as the smooth surface allows for easy removal of dirt and food splatters.

There are a few possible reasons, your flooring could have a lot of movement, and if no crack isolation matting has been use then grout has a high chance of failing. There is also the possibility of grout being mixed with the improper quantity of water. Feel free to speak to us in store if you have further questions.

Tile boards are always a good option for insulating beneath underfloor heating, for waterproof rooms like bathrooms, showers and wet rooms. They are even useful for making up to certain heights wherever required. We have a number of generic thicknesses available for any occasion.

At A & R Tiles we strive for ultimate customer satisfaction. Therefore we open 6 days of the week to ensure everyone has a chance to pick their new tiles at a time convenient for them.
Mon - Fri: 08:00-17:00
Sat: 08:30-17:00