Tiles go down once and stay for fifteen years or more, so where you buy them matters as much as what you buy. Most UK homeowners choose between a big box DIY chain and a specialist tile retailer. Here's how to find the best place to buy tiles for your project.
What Is the Best Place to Buy Tiles?
For a small, quick job, like plain white tiles for a utility room, a DIY superstore is convenient. For a kitchen, bathroom, hallway or living space you want to last, a specialist tile shop is usually the better choice.
Range. DIY chains sell tiles alongside paint, timber and garden furniture, so shelf space goes to fast-selling basics. A specialist tile retailer sells only tiles, so you get far more choice in porcelain tiles, natural stone looks, marble effect, wood effect and decorative designs.
Quality. Specialist shops pick ranges for density, slip resistance and durability, not just price.
Advice. Showroom staff deal with tiles every day and can tell you if a tile suits underfloor heating, a shower floor or an outdoor step.
Seeing tiles properly. A showroom lets you see wall and floor tiles laid out at scale, in natural light, rather than one tile on a shelf.
A Better Alternative to Big Box Stores for Designer Tiles
Big box stores rarely carry statement tiles. Designer boutiques do, but at a premium. Specialist tiles retailers sit in between, offering curated, on-trend ranges at competitive prices because tiles are their whole business.
At Axar Tiles, you can compare marble, wood effect, stone and deco collections side by side, backed by our Price Match Promise.
Which Tile Retailer Is Better for Bathroom and Kitchen Tiles?
Bathrooms and kitchens deal with water, steam, grease and daily cleaning, so the tile has to suit the job. A good tile retailer will help you check whether a tile works on walls, floors or both, its slip rating for wet areas, and how much extra to order for cuts.
The best place to buy bathroom tiles
Choose a shop that stocks tiles made for wet areas and can explain the differences. For help choosing, read our UK guide to choosing bathroom tiles and our guide to bathroom floor tiles.
The best place to buy floor tiles
Floors take the most wear, so buying from a specialist pays off here. Porcelain tiles are a strong choice for busy areas because they are dense and hard-wearing. Browse our floor tiles online or see them in person.
Looking for a Tile Warehouse or Independent Tile Shop Near You?
Searching for a tiles warehouse near me or a tile superstore near me usually brings up big sheds with little help, or independent tile shops near you with smaller ranges. The best place for tiles combines both: a wide range of wall and floor tiles with a showroom where you can get real advice.
Our showroom is at Devonshire House, 582 Honeypot Lane, Stanmore, HA7 1JS, where you can see indoor, outdoor and natural stone effect tiles in person. Not local? Shop online at axartiles.com with free UK delivery on orders over £500.
The Verdict
A DIY superstore is fine for small, low-stakes jobs. For anything you want to look good and last, a specialist tile shop gives you more choice, better quality and useful advice.
Visit our Stanmore showroom or call 0203 355 1197 to talk through your project.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it cheaper to buy tiles from a DIY superstore or a specialist tile shop?
On basic tiles, a DIY superstore can sometimes be cheaper per box. On mid-range and designer tiles, specialist shops are often similar or better on price, because tiles are their core business. A price match promise also helps close any gap.
Why should I visit a tile showroom instead of buying online?
A showroom lets you see tiles laid out at scale, in natural light, next to other materials. Colour, texture and pattern repeat are much easier to judge in person than on a screen, which reduces the risk of costly mistakes.
What should I look for in a good tile retailer?
Look for a wide range across materials and styles, staff who can explain where each tile can be used, clear information on sizes and finishes, and a fair returns policy. The ability to view tiles in person is a big plus.
Are specialist tile shops only for designers and trade customers?
No. Specialist tile shops serve homeowners as well as trade customers. Many people visit with just a photo of their room and a rough idea, and the team helps them narrow the choice.
Where can I see tiles in person in North West London?
You can visit the Axar Tiles showroom at Devonshire House, 582 Honeypot Lane, Stanmore, HA7 1JS, to see indoor and outdoor tiles in person and get advice on your project.
