3D bathroom tiles: how to choose and properly maintain?

Placing tiles in the bathroom that can recreate an interesting three-dimensional pattern is a favorite technique for those who love original details in the interior. Tile products made using 3D technology are presented in the modern market of finishing materials in large quantities. However, not everyone knows how to choose the right coating, what are its performance characteristics and care features.

3D bathroom tiles differ from conventional tiles in that is a multi-layer type product made using a special technique called microlenses. The desired volume of the pattern on such a finish is achieved due to one of the layers - polycarbonate. A special layer of a cushioned type is applied to it, and on it is a reflective foam with a pattern.

However, even though the aforementioned protective layer is present, models of tiles with a three-dimensional pattern are unstable to any kind of mechanical damage, especially impacts. On such details, the original volumetric effect disappears. With careful use, the service life of such a coating can reach as much as 25 years.

This finish is not slippery, allergenic or prone to mold or mildew.Its other feature is its ability to withstand rather heavy loads, reaching 200 kg. These products combine waterproofing qualities as well as fire resistance.

remember, that it is better not to expose such products to cutting, otherwise the original drawing may be distorted. From adhesive mixtures for 3D tiles, compositions made on the basis of cement, silicone or gypsum are suitable, and some models can also be attached using special double-sided tape.

Depending on the location of such a tile, it is divided into three varieties, each of which has special characteristics.

• Flooring usually looks like a monolithic volumetric composition, which usually imitates the beauty of the underwater depths. The floor options can also be illuminated to give the surface even more originality. A separate type of floor products are translucent models, the peculiarity of which is that the top layer, when pressed on the surface, is slightly compressed, due to which the pattern becomes dynamic.

• Wall tiles with a three-dimensional pattern can significantly affect the size of the room, visually increasing or decreasing it. This effect will depend on the size of the picture. On the wall, such tiles can be combined with conventional models, forming an accent composition in the interior of the bathroom.

• It is also worth highlighting a separate type of 3D bathroom cover made of glass. A unique feature of such products is that when changing the viewing angle, the pattern of the tile composition can also change. Made of tempered glass, this tile is not afraid of temperature extremes or moisture, so it is ideal for the bathroom. Usually, with the help of such tiled elements, they cover a separate wall in the bathroom, which performs an accent function.

In a variety of styles, 3D bathroom tile designs have unique features.

• Volumetric effect in the conceptual bathroom patchwork, is created by means of a panel, which is made of small tiles with abstract designs of several types.

• In style country a similar effect is obtained due to the larger pattern of warm colors, which is most often found on the floor.

• Ecostyle a separate wall is decorated with three-dimensional tiles. Moreover, its pattern can resemble forest or other plant landscapes and must include green.

• At the heart of the design of the volumetric bathroom tiles, which are framed according to minimalistic concept, geometric shapes lie. Their edges, arranged in a row or chaotically, seem to be convex, due to which the walls look truly unusual. Typically, this pattern is designed in neutral colors such as white, gray or black.

When choosing 3D products, it is worth remembering some nuances that will help you find the perfect model.

• The size of the bathroom affects the surface area where you can place the 3D patterned floor covering. In large rooms, tiles can occupy almost the entire wall, and in small rooms, they can be located on the floor or on a separate section of the wall. Therefore, the amount of required tile material will be controlled by this parameter.
• Also, the color of the volumetric coating will depend on the size of the room. For small rooms, light ceramics with a volumetric pattern are better suited.
• An important factor is the price factor, especially if you plan to cover a large area with tiles.Options with a protective layer or transparent models with an original pattern will cost more.
• To facilitate the selection of tiles, you can see how this or that product will look in your bathroom using special computer programs.
• If you are going to lay out a separate image on the walls of the room, think in advance about the optical effect that it can have. If the pattern is horizontal, it can visually enlarge the space of the bathroom. In the case of a vertical picture, the ceilings will look higher.
• In order not to confuse the purpose of the tiles, pay attention to the icon that is applied to the packaging of the products. The floor tiles show feet, and the wall tiles show palms.
• Be sure to plan the theme of the drawing in advance. In addition to underwater seascapes, products that imitate natural landscapes, flowers, or even abstract compositions are also suitable for the bathroom.

In order for a three-dimensional tile covering to last as long as possible and not lose its presentable appearance, you should properly care for such products. It is best to wash them with water and dry with a soft cloth. but do not clean such a surface with abrasive cleaning agents even with small fractions, since they can remove the top layer and deprive the product of its original optical effect.

It is best to give preference special products designed specifically for the care of just such a material. Acidic cleaners can also be used, but they must be rinsed off quickly after application.

If you are still finding it difficult to choose a 3D patterned tile for your bathroom, check out ready-made examples of finishes that are harmoniously and beautifully executed.

• The design imitating a sandy beach will create the necessary relaxation atmosphere in the washing room.

• If the shower cabin in a large bathroom is located on a platform, then the access to it can be decorated with tiles with flowers and river stones.

• Instead of chaotically located stones, you can choose a volumetric tile, the image on which is located symmetrically.

• Ceramic 3D flooring can be made so that you will walk, as if on a surface of water, and see sea fish under your feet.

• The volume of wall tiles is especially clearly visible if the bathroom is made in white and gray tones.

• Due to the volumetric effect and black color, the square-shaped tiles will not look too harsh in the bathroom interior.

• Even 3D tiles can be created on one of the walls of large bathtubs.

• The turquoise fish scale tile is very creative and subtle nodding to the nautical theme.

• The volumetric pattern of wall tiles can repeat the pattern that is on the surface of the bathroom. Also, a part of the wall can be filled with such tiles, while the other area is painted in a monochromatic neutral shade, for example, white.

• In interiors such as Art Deco, which are focused on ostentatious luxury, the actual volumetric tiles in the shape of a diamond, which look slightly convex.

• Pebble-style 3D tiles do not need to cover the entire bathroom floor. She can decorate only a separate part of it.

• To dilute the two-tone abstract composition of the volumetric type on the walls, a minimalistic pattern is applied to them.

Thus, 3D-coating for walls and floors looks very relevant in rooms for washing and water procedures. Choosing the right style, taking into account the characteristics of the room and carrying out competent care of the surface, you will achieve that such an original coating will delight you with its beauty for a long time.

For the nuances of creating a panel in the bathroom, see below.