7 Interesting Facts about Subway Tiles in the UK
Subway tiles: like it or hate it, it looks like there is no escaping these beautiful and historic tiles. You probably have heard of subway tiles before and even noticed it at the underground tube stations in London. But, do you really know why they are called subway tiles? What makes them so popular?
Decorcera is here to help! As the leading supplier of subway tiles in the UK, we’ve compiled a list of the top interesting facts about subway tiles. We’ve also shared some design tips to include these popular tiles in your home.
5 Frequently Asked Questions about Subway Tiles
1. What are subway tiles?
Technically, subway tiles refer to rectangular ceramic tiles that are 6” in length and 3” in breadth. These tiles are laid horizontally with a 50% offset. Traditionally, made with white ceramic, these tiles are renowned for durability and timelessness.
2. Why is it called subway tile?
Subway tiles were first introduced in the subway stations in New York in the early 1900s. When subway designers and engineers were on the lookout for bright and low-maintenance tiles, they settled on white ceramic subway tiles. This was when subway tiles were born.
Like we know, the Victorians of that era prioritised hygiene and subway tiles perfectly fit the bill. Easy-to-clean, bacteria-resistant and subway-resistant subway tiles were the perfect choice. The white glossy design of these tiles made the underground train stations appear bright, thereby relieving the safety worries of passengers.
3. What is the subway tile pattern?
Subway tiles are generally laid in a 50% offset pattern, meaning the middle of the tile aligns with the edges of the two tiles beneath and above it. However, modern designers often take liberties with this layout and use one-third offset, one-fourth offset or just abandon it altogether.
4. What are the dimensions of subway tiles?
The traditional size of subway tiles is 3 x 6 inches. However, today you can find subway tiles in other dimensions like 2 x 4, 6 x 12 or 4 x 8.
5. What is the material of subway tiles?
Subway tiles are traditionally made from ceramic. However, today you can find subway tiles in several materials like porcelain and glass.
Interesting Facts about Subway Tiles
1. The first subway tile installed in New York is still there
If you are a die-hard tile obsessed fan, then you can check out the first laid subway tiles on your next visit to New York. The abandoned City Hall stop has the original subway tiles even today. The New York Transit Museum offers tours for tourists to visit this abandoned subway station.
2. Subway Tiles are available in other materials too
If you thought subway tiles are just white and porcelain, then think again. Today, subway tiles are available in a variety of colours, materials and even patterns. Rather than referring to a specific tile, the term subway tiles today encompass a wide range of tile patterns.
3. It’s a budget-friendly choice
Subway tiles are available in a variety of budgets and one of the most pocket-friendly tile options out there.
4. The grout matters as much as the tile
When we think of subway tiles, we tend to focus only on the actual tile. But the grout colour you choose plays a crucial role as much as the tile. When it comes to subway tiles, you can choose grout in a variety of styles ranging from dark to light.
5. Subway tiles can be laid in a variety of ways
The classic tile laying pattern is to lay tiles with a 50% offset. However, architects and home designers are using these tiles in a variety of other ways like laying them vertically, in a herringbone pattern and more. The design possibilities are just endless with subway tiles.
6. Floors and subway tiles not a good mix
Subway tiles are thin and do not withstand wear and tear, making them a poor choice for floors. They are primarily used as wall tiles in kitchens, bathrooms, shower, and on accent walls.
7. It’s timeless and a true classic
Subway tiles are timeless and classic. They go with all interior styles; you can dress it up or down depending on your design preferences.
If you are looking for the best subway tiles in the UK, look no further. Decorcera, the no.1 ceramic and porcelain tiles supplier in India offers a huge collection of vintage and modern subway tiles for homes and commercial projects.
