FAQs

If you're about to start tiling, here's a list of products you will probably need to get the job done. Reptiles stocks a full range of adhesives and accessories. Our friendly staff can help in store:

• Primer
• Tiles
• Adhesive
• Grout
• Tile spacers
• Tile wedges
• Notch Trowel
• Grout float
• Silicone
• Trim
• Sponges
• Sealer
• Bucket
• Tile cutter
• Angle Grinder
• Spirit level

Clients often leave this to the tiler, but this may not give you the look you’re after. With most modern rectified, square-edged porcelain tiles, your grout lines may only be 1.5mm to 2mm wide. The usual approach to is go for a colour-matched or blended tone, so the grout line is relatively unobtrusive. As a general rule, the mid-toned grout colours are the most serviceable and colour fast. Over time, you are more likely to see discolouration and stains on the darkest and lightest grouts. If your tile has a strong mix of colours, the usual approach is to choose grout that is closer to the darker than the lighter tones of the tile.

While colour matching is a common strategy, there are situations where the grout can be used for impact and contrast. So, for instance, with a navy or charcoal tile, the best choice might be a light grey, which really makes the tile pop. Similarly, with white subway tiles, clients often opt for greys or charcoals, to maximise the impact of the tiles, or to relate to the benchtops or cabinetry. Where clients are looking for strong bursts of colour, Reptiles can also source some stronger primary coloured and jewel toned grouts. To check out Mapei’s full range of colours, follow this link. Mapei Coloured Grouts and Sealants | Mapei

If any further details or clarifications about grout colours or products are required, the knowledgeable and friendly Reptiles team are always happy to help.

There are different kinds of grouts, and it is worth considering your options. Grout manufacturing technology has improved considerably in recent times. Our standard Mapei UltraColor Plus range Mapei Coloured Grouts and Sealants | Mapei offers high performance, polymer modified anti-efflorescence grout, with water repellent and antimould technology. The BioBlock technology of this grout is intended help block various types of mould from forming and proliferating in humid conditions. UltraColor Plus also has hydrophobic additives which make it water-repellent and less prone to dirtiness.

The other option is to use epoxy based grout, such as Mapei Kerapoxy Easy Design KERAPOXY EASY DESIGN | Mapei which is particularly popular in wet areas, swimming pools and kitchens. This grout is acid resistant and particularly recommended where a high level of hygiene is required. Epoxy grouts are easy to clean, offer better stain resistance and are waterproof. Because epoxy grouts are more difficult to install, tilers typically charge extra for this, but usually it is money well spent.

If any further details or clarifications about grout colours or products are required, the knowledgeable and friendly Reptiles team are always happy to help.

Once upon a time, tile trim was only silver and the only options were matt, brushed, or polished. With the increasing variety of tapware colours, lots of great tile trim options have come to market. Reptiles stores now stock a variety of colours, including Champagne, Gunmetal, Brush Nickel, Matt Black, Gloss Black, Matt Silver, Brush Silver, Polish silver, White, Matt Gold, Brush Gold, and Copper. If any further details about tile trims are required, the knowledgeable and friendly Reptiles team are always happy to help.

We recommend regular cleaning to ensure there is no build up of dirt on your grout and tiles. It is a great idea to seal the grout; this makes cleaning easier.

The best approach for cleaning floor tiles is to vacuum first to remove dust and dirt, followed by regular mopping or, for smaller areas or problem areas, light scrubbing with a non-abrasive, white scouring pad and pH neutral cleaner. Don’t use acidic cleaners! Acidic cleaners can be harsh on your tiles making cleaning and maintaining your tiles more difficult in the long run. Lighter coloured tiles and grout may require more maintenance.

If a specialist cleaning product is required, we recommend the Aqua Mix Concentrated Stone & Tile Cleaner. Aqua Mix Concentrated Stone And Tile Cleaner | Tiler's Mate Tiles will occasionally require a heavy duty clean. For this, we recommend Aqua Mix Heavy-Duty Tile & Grout Cleaner. Aqua Mix Heavy Duty Tile And Grout Cleaner | Tiler's Mate

Text to go here for the Privacy Policy

RETURNS: Full box returns will be accepted within 60 days of the invoice date on stock items only, less 15% restocking fee, non stock items will incur a 20% plus freight fee.

TERMS: We endeavour to supply the correct quantity, shade, size & type of tile for every order. However we accept no claims after installation so to ensure you are completely happy with your tiles, please check the size, colour, & the quantity are as you ordered. Check the shade & calibration on the boxes, these should match for each product. Please check & re check your measurements, we can’t guarantee same batch supply if you need additional tiles.

We do no accept any claims for replacement, repair, or reimbursement of defects, shade variations, incorrect delivery or any other fault once the tiles have been laid – Global industry standards are NO CLAIMS AFTER INSTALLATION.

It is the responsibility of the tiler under the management of the builder or home owner to check tiles before laying. If there are any concerns on site the tiles MUST NOT be laid. If a defect is discovered while the tiles are being laid, WORK MUST STOP.

Yes, click & collect is available from our Christchurch showroom.
You’ll be able to select Click & Collect at checkout and we’ll notify you once your order is ready for pickup.

Pickup Location:
36 Nga Mahi Road, Sockburn, Christchurch

Pickup Hours:
Mon – Fri: 8am – 5pm
Sat: 9am – 4pm
Sun: 10am – 2pm

Yes, samples are available for selected tiles and can be ordered directly from the product page using the “Order a Sample” button on the product page.

Samples are a great way to see the colour, texture and finish in your space before placing a full order.

Sample orders are available for delivery nationwide, or can be collected from our Christchurch showroom.