Choosing tiles for your home is an exciting undertaking. Whether you’re remodeling, building new, or revamping a room, tiles can elevate the style ante of your space several notches up. It comes in various designs to suit all tastes and budgets. From glass mosaics to wood-effect porcelain to ceramic subway tiles!
By exploring different materials and considering style, durability, and upkeep, you can pick the right tile for your household. Sounds daunting? Worry not, we’re on hand to help you out.
Below, we’ll lead you on how to select tiles that are a perfect fit for your home. Armed with these tips, you can embark on your new tiling journey with confidence.
Determine your style and functional needs
Before picking the first tiles you lay your eyes on, take a moment to consider your practical and aesthetic needs. What’s the function of the room you’re tiling? Will your floors endure high foot traffic? Are you a messy cook and need an easy-to-wipe kitchen backsplash tile? Do you prefer a modern, classic, or transitional interior?
When choosing tile, you need not compromise beauty for functionality. It is versatile and can shape itself to suit all sorts of interior design styles. You can bet there’s a wall or floor tile out there ready to adorn your home!
Know the different tile types and durability
You might be surprised to find the many different varieties of tiles available. Each with its unique qualities—and each making it possible to achieve your style and budget aspirations.
Ceramic and porcelain tiles are a popular choice, but other types include glass, metal, and natural stone. Ceramic is affordable, durable, easy to clean, and offers myriad style options.
Porcelain tiles, like ceramic, are made from clay. But porcelain is fired at higher temperatures, making it denser, robust, and resistant to water absorption, stains, and scratches. It’s the go-to flooring expected to sustain high footfall and withstand extreme temperature changes.
Glass tile is suitable for many applications. It is impervious to water and stains and maintaining its beauty shouldn’t be a hassle. Looking for a gorgeous backsplash, shower floor, or swimming pool tile, glass mosaics are ready to serve. But because it’s prone to chipping, glass is not the best pick for high-traffic areas.
Craving a touch of timeless elegance? Marble delivers allure, depth, and texture like no other material. The only setback is its porous nature. To look pristine, marble wall and floor tiles require periodic sealing. This adds a protective coat that guards against stains, etches, and scratches.
Assess tile resistance and maintenance
Tile resistance and care are crucial if you’re after a design that stands the test of time. Stresses are imposed on tiled surfaces, so material that’s resistant to moisture, stains, and scratches is an important consideration. Having hardwearing flooring, robust backsplash, and a water-resistant bathroom will take the strenuous work out of upkeep.
Choose colors to complement your aesthetic
Color can set the mood. It can also be the element that influences your aesthetic direction. With tile, you’re spoilt for choice! Neutral tones are timeless and a perfect canvas for just about any design style. Dark shades can be dramatic, regal, or enveloping.
Oceanic greens and blues are ideal for a soothing bathroom retreat. Bold hues can be the pop needed to wake up a subdued scheme. Explore different palettes and choose a tile color you’ll enjoy living with for years. Think about the room’s lighting and furnishings before making your pick.
Consider how size and shape will alter the room
Today, wall and floor tiles can be found in many small and large formats. Go for a format that harmonizes with the room’s size and style. Mosaics add a detailed pattern—allowing you to flex your creative muscles. Large-format tiles make a room feel spacious and effortless, thanks to minimal grout lines.
Speak with a professional tile expert
If you’re still uncertain, consult a tile pro. An interior designer or tile specialist can advise on the best floor, backsplash, and pool tiles based on your style goals, practical needs, and a set budget.