Tiles on Top! Building Code Changes Make Tiles the Logical Solution

Tiles on Top! Building Code Changes Make Tiles the Logical Solution
Published: 24 February 2022

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If you needed a good excuse to replace other decorative surfaces with the attractive, hardwearing versatility of tiles, recent changes have made them ‘essential’.  Here are five hot reasons to bank on tiles for your next new build or renovation.

Code Change

With recent changes to the building code all but ruling out timber flooring in wet areas, tiles are set to become the most important component for kitchen, bathroom, laundry and toilet flooring, or any other wet area that includes a basin, tap, toilet or sink.
As of the 5th of November 2021, the acceptable solution E3/AS1 for internal moisture no longer allows for timber-based or overlay flooring in areas that contain sanitary fixtures or sanitary appliances. That rules out Solid Timber Flooring, Laminate Flooring, Engineered Wood, or Hybrid flooring that has wood or cellulose, unless there is an independently appraised and/or approved alternative solution by the Council. Acceptable flooring options are tiles and full sheet vinyls.

Tiles have long been the logical option for bathrooms, because they are prone to flooding far more regularly than other rooms, but now, the recent changes throw the spotlight onto the kitchen. Modern kitchens often extend into the dining area, and quite often cross over into the lounge space. That makes tiles one of the only products allowable in those areas.

Also, because other products will most likely require Council dispensation – and the delays that can cause – tiles are the option that provides the fastest and most attractive solution for any project.

Tiles on Top! Building Code Changes Make Tiles the Logical Solution

Thermal Mass

For those applying for a new-build consent, Council takes into account any thermal mass areas, which can be used to offset the requirement for heating within a home. Tiles provide thermal mass, which no other product does, providing a huge bonus for architects and home builders.

Tiles on Top! Building Code Changes Make Tiles the Logical Solution

Plus Size

Tiles are growing larger. Where 600mmx600mm was the standard size once most popular, now large format 450mmx900mm, 1000x1000mm and up to 600mmx2400mm for living rooms, kitchens and dining are coveted sizes. These large formats provide clean surfaces with fewer grout-lines.

Tiles on Top! Building Code Changes Make Tiles the Logical Solution

Terazzo Trend

A hot interior trend is the massive growth in Terrazzo-inspired tiling. The coloured aggregate of Terazzo is like a colourful emulation of concrete, that rugged, rough, rustic look that Kiwis love. So definitely terrazzo styled tyles in all shapes and colours are becoming very strong in New Zealand living spaces, foyers and hallways.

Tiles on Top! Building Code Changes Make Tiles the Logical Solution

Timber Effect

With timber no longer allowed in wet areas, timber effect porcelain tiles are becoming incredibly popular – bringing the texture, colour and warm appearance of wood into these areas, but with the durability and water resistance of tiles.

Inspiration Online

The Tile Warehouse has just released a 76 page 2022 Design Collection catalogue filled with options, effects and inspiration for Specifiers and customers.

Visit the website to view ranges from Europe and around the world that will assist you in designing with tiles. See: https://www.tilewarehouse.co.nz/tiles-flooring/.