When remodelling a kitchen or bathroom, one of the most popular options is to use tile.
It is available in almost every colour, finish, size, and style you can imagine, and it is commonly used on walls and floors.
Because there is so much to pick from, it might be difficult to choose something that is right for you. The tile picking procedure, on the other hand, does not have to be difficult.
When it comes to choosing tile, the most significant things to consider will be discussed in this piece, and our goal is to help you narrow down your options as a consequence.
Do you intend to go out and buy tiles for your floors?
Whether you are building a new home or replacing the flooring in an existing one, it is in your best interest to invest in high-quality tiles that will provide a durable and visually beautiful finish to your property.
Finding the best tiles for you and your home, on the other hand, may not be as simple as you'd want. This is because clients may choose from a wide range of titles from a variety of sellers.
If this is your first time purchasing tiles, keep reading and I'll show you the numerous factors you should consider while making your decision!
You do not have to spend many hours investigating the various tiles and styles available. The following are the most significant factors to consider when selecting tiles:
Before You Start
Consider the architectural style of your house. Explore the internet and print publications to find pictures of tiles that appeal to you. Instead of trying to fight it, you should try to work with the style that your home already has.
Choosing The Right Tile Size
You have a number of options available to you when it comes to the size of the tile. The size of the tile you select is a very crucial decision that may either make or break the design aspect of your bathroom or kitchen.
For instance, the use of large-scale tiles in a space such as a kitchen or bathroom that is on the smaller side may sound contradictory. However, when utilised as flooring, it has the potential to give the impression that the entire space is much larger.
They produce less grout lines, which is advantageous since it makes an area, such as the floor of a bathroom, appear more like a single surface as opposed to something that is separated by several tiles.
However, this does not exclude the usage of tiles with a reduced surface area. On the other hand, using smaller tiles might result in a more appealing appearance, particularly on the walls of the kitchen and bathroom.
In addition, mosaic tiles typically have a smaller format than other types of tiles, which helps them to stand out from the crowd. Consider the size of the tile in the context of the entire bathroom and choose one that complements the space.
Choosing A Colour Scheme
Choosing the appropriate colour scheme is critically crucial, as we have discussed in a number of blogs and articles.
Choosing the colour palette for your tiles is, of course, no exception. However, if you are still undecided after looking at a wide variety of tile possibilities, a colour scheme with neutral tones is an excellent choice.
A neutral colour palette may be considered "safe," but it is also timelessly beautiful, magnificent, and appropriate for bathrooms and kitchens of any size.
Find at least one tile that you absolutely adore, and then centre the colour scheme on that one piece. It could be a straightforward tile with a straightforward colour, or it could be something more daring that will function more as an accent tile.
The use of an accent tile is an excellent method for adding a splash of vibrant colour to your bathroom without overwhelming the space.
Stick to a single tile with a striking pattern; this will make it stand out, and it will also prevent it from competing with the other colours in your bathroom.
Your personal preferences will determine which colours are available to you.
Choosing The Tile Material
When you are selecting tile for your bathroom, one of the essential decisions you will need to make is the material from which the tile will be created.
There is a sizable number of alternatives available for selection. Stone, porcelain, glass, vinyl, and ceramic tiles are some of the best materials for tiling a bathroom floor.
The Style Of Your House And Your Style
The variety of tiles available these days is so extensive that we may find something to go with virtually any design scheme.
Some customers bring in samples of carpeting and paint, and the majority, unsurprisingly, take the samples home with them.
If you have a specific concept of the look that you want to achieve, we should be able to discover something that complements it.
But if you don't, you shouldn't worry about it because we have a lot of photographs both in-store and on our internet that may help you zero in on the style that you're going for.
The Light In The Room, Both Natural And Artificial
Because light colours and polished or glossy tiles reflect more light, the space will appear to be larger and brighter as a result of their use.
When used correctly, dark tiles have the ability to give a room a fantastic sense of gloominess and sophistication. This effect may be achieved by making the area feel cosier and more intimate.
The Size And Layout Of The Room
The use of large modular tiles tricks the eye and makes the room appear larger, and the use of fewer grout lines makes it appear as though there is less activity there.
Rectangular tiles give the illusion that the direction in which they are laid is longer than it actually is. For instance, if you have a low ceiling height, you might position the tiles vertically to make it look as though the ceiling is taller.
Lastly, if you have a tiny room or a lot going on in the area, having the same tile on the floor and wall will make the room look more coherent and expansive. This is especially helpful in smaller rooms.
Tiles with a bigger surface area give the impression that the room is more open and spacious. If you want to give the impression that the area is more unified, you can use tiles from the floor on the walls, but you can't use tiles from the walls on the floor.
In order to survive foot traffic, a floor tile will have a more durable glaze and will be constructed from more robust components. When laid in a small room, tiles of lighter colours will give the impression that the area is larger.
If you have a large room, you have more alternatives available to you; you can select tiles that range from light to dark.
Choosing Colour
Think about the ambience you want to create in the room you are tiling; do you want it to be calm and peaceful, or do you want it to be moody and atmospheric?
Tiles are not typically the focal point of a room unless there is a feature area in the room, such as a splashback, but they can compliment other design characteristics of a space when used appropriately.
If you want your bathroom to be a place where you can unwind and receive some peace and quiet, choose colours that are harmonious with one another. You might like something livelier in the kitchen, in which case you should pick colours that contrast with one another.
Choosing Your Grout
After you've decided which tiles to use, it's time to think about the grout. Grout is a material that may be distributed that is used to fill the spaces in between tiles to make them watertight and prevent water from getting through.
You will need to select a grout that can be maintained in order to get the most of your investment, as both tiles and grout require your attention.
Having joy with it, on the other hand, is not always preclude by this fact. Grout is available in a variety of colours, and using them has lately emerged as a means to add variety to the decor of bathrooms.
If you have decided on colourful tiles, a fantastic alternative for you to consider is coloured grout. On the other hand, if you have dark tiles, using white grout can be a little too jarring of a contrast. In the same vein, a grout that has a tone that is comparable to the tile would be preferable.
When working with darker tiles, white and other bright colours are always viable options for adding a striking splash of colour.
The use of neutral metro tiles mixed with brightly coloured grout is a trend that has recently caught our attention and become one that we adore. It results in a look that is both entertaining and intriguing.
It is imperative that you do not overlook the significance of selecting the appropriate grout colour.
A grout colour that is opposing to the tile will highlight the lines and pattern, while a grout colour that is complementary to the tile will produce a more subtle impression. Make sure that any portions of grout are sealed so that stains don't appear.
Texture And Pattern
It is entirely up to you whether you want a glossy or a matte finish on your item.
Glazed tiles are simple to wipe clean, in contrast to natural terracotta tiles, which do not have a glaze and so require a sealant to prevent stains from forming.
Natural Light
Because they reflect more light than tiles of a lighter colour, glossy tiles are a good choice for rooms that are quite dim.
Wear Rating
To begin, it is essential to investigate how long the tile will retain its appearance. Having said that, it ought to have a high wear rating so as to ensure that it will continue to look good and perform its functions appropriately.
The area in which you instal your floor, the amount of time you spend walking on it, and the floor's propensity for accumulating dirt are all factors that influence how much wear and tear it will experience over time.
- It's not recommended to use Class 0 on floors.
- Class 1 is optimal for individuals who are not subjected to any abrasion and who are either barefoot or wearing soft slippers.
- Class 2 refers to standard-issue living rooms.
- Class 3 refers to terrain that is routinely traversed by foot using everyday footwear.
- Class 4 is for establishments such as hotels and commercial kitchens, which are subject to greater amounts of wear and stress.
- Glazed floor coverings that are subjected to extremely intense foot activity fall under Class 5.
Stain And Slip Resistance
It goes without saying that you will want tiles that not only have a low water absorption rate but also have the appropriate stain resistance to guarantee that it continues to look fantastic even though it is resistant to moisture.
This way, you won't have to worry about the stains becoming permanent or having to clean it up after every little accident that happens.
The ability of your tiles to withstand stains will vary depending on how well they do their job of resisting moisture.
Those with a low water absorption but no sealers would be easier to clean, have a longer service life, and have improved resistance to stains.
Also, in order to avoid any accidents, it is recommended to seek for tiles that are slip-resistant. This is especially important if you want to use the tiles in high-traffic areas that include elderly people, disabled people, or children.
Supports Heavy Weight
If you plan to place tiles in a high-traffic area or for use in commercial areas, it is best to investigate the total support provided by the tiles as well as the amount of weight they are able to hold.
You would prefer that it not end up being harmed after being subjected to a significant amount of pressure, such as while lifting large things or when stepping on it frequently.
Consider using tiles that have a high point-load capacity as well as the bending strength necessary to readily support the weight that will be placed on them.
Choose tiles with a thicker thickness, since this will increase the amount of weight that they can support. This is true in particular for locations that contain weighty furniture or equipment.
Where Are The Tiles Placed And Layout
When selecting tiles, this is one of the most important considerations that should be made. Where will it end up being? Will you, for instance, put tiles in areas where there will be a lot of foot activity since a lot of people will be using the room?
Think about how you're going to put it to use as well. If you are considering tiling the flooring of either the kitchen or the bathroom, you should select a tile that is not only long-lasting but also resistant to water and simple to maintain. You wouldn't want your tiles to be dangerously slippery in the shower or on the wet floor of the kitchen when you're preparing food, would you?
Think about the arrangement as well as the spacing between the tiles that you want to use. For instance, do you want the tiles to be more noticeable, or do you want more space between your tiles (which would indicate that you want more grout)?
Colours, Patterns, And Size
Last but not least, give some thought to the designs and patterns that you would like to see on your tiles.
Do you prefer items that have vivid colours or patterns that stand out, or do you prefer items that have a neutral colour that complements the interior decor of your room?
Also, give some thought to the dimensions of your tiles. Tiles with a larger surface area create the illusion that the room is larger and more open, while tiles with a smaller surface area create the illusion that the room is cosier.
Small tiles, on the other hand, will have more grout lines, which will make the space appear more complicated.
Materials Explained
Stone:
A floor covering made of natural stone is one that is long-lasting and resistant to wear and tear.
It is initially more expensive than other options, but it has the potential to add value to your house. In the long run, it will also call for a greater amount of upkeep.
Porcelain:
Porcelain tile has a strong resistance to wear and tear, and it is also very easy to clean and maintain. They don't have the same requirement as other tiles, which is that they don't need any particular sealing.
One of the most significant advantages of porcelain tile is the way that the material appears. It has a sumptuous finish and is constructed out of components of the highest possible quality.
Ceramic:
There is a common misunderstanding that porcelain tiles are ceramic.
They are comparable, but ceramic tiles are less difficult to work with and are frequently the more cost-effective alternative. Ceramic tiles are not only cost-effective but also long-lasting and may be designed to look quite fashionable.
Glass:
It is not common practise to cover the entirety of a bathroom's floor or walls with glass tiles. Instead, they are employed in the role of "accents" (something we mentioned above). They typically have eye-catching designs that can help take your bathroom decor to the next level.
Vinyl:
Vinyl, which is not only comfortable to the touch but also warm, is an excellent material to use in wet environments like bathrooms and kitchens. They represent yet another reasonably priced alternative.
Purchase More Tile Than What You Need
To ensure that you have enough tiles to finish your bathroom, we suggest purchasing 10% extra than what is required.
You will not be required to spend more money in order to proceed. Imagine that you are in the process of placing your tiles and that everything is going according to plan when all of a sudden, one of your tiles falls to the ground.
If you were to lose this tile, it would imply that you would be short on the total number of tiles. To be on the safe side, you need to make sure that you account for potential damages, waste from cutting, and future repairs.
Choosing The Right Tile
Tiles come in a wide variety of styles and textures. Although they are identical, there are a number of subtle variations that must be taken into account when selecting the appropriate application.
After being moulded and sized, tiles are made by combining clay with minerals and solvents, and then heating the mixture to extremely high temperatures.
At this stage, the tile can be left in its current state as it would be regarded done. It does not have any ornamentation and is unglazed.
The tile is extremely porous since the glaze has not been applied to it. Despite the fact that it is rustically appealing, it is not a good idea to use it in areas where there is a high risk of liquid leakage, such as the kitchen.
Glazing contributes an element that is not porous and is typically impermeable. It is suitable for all places, including kitchens and bathrooms, foyers, and countertops, among others.
Taking this strategy one step further and sealing the grout around the tile to make it waterproof is a smart idea.
Ceramic tile, in addition to its aesthetic appeal, makes an attractive surface.
Permit me to enumerate the ways:
- It maintains its original colour and is resistant to flames.
- Neither heat nor electricity are conducted by it.
- It is clean and sanitary.
- It will not take on odours or release potentially harmful chemicals.
- It is not affected by changes in temperature, either expanding or contracting.
- It is not difficult to clean.
Where exactly did you get all of these tiles? everywhere on the face of the earth. Is it true that tile from Spain is of higher quality than tile from France? Not at all; the design, and possibly the shape, are the only true points of differentiation.
Before making a purchase, there are a few things that you need to think about. If the tile is going to be utilised outside, you should search for tiles that are weatherproof.
Considering that it will be used outside and that people will be walking on it, you should go one step further and get tiles that are slip-resistant.
If you locate the perfect tile but it does not have a non-slip surface, you do not need to be concerned since you can have it treated so that it does have a non-slip surface.
Did you know that slipping and falling accounts for 95 per cent of all accidents that take place in the house and that 45 per cent of all accidents take place in the home?
Keeping this in mind, it is possible that it would be prudent to treat all of your tile floors with this application that prevents slipping. Ask your tile merchant or installer.
If the tile is going to be used on the surface of a kitchen counter, you should look for one that has a glaze and is resistant to scratches.
Even though you won't want to use it as a chopping board, it should be sturdy enough that you can place pots, pans, and other cooking tools on it.
Will the tile be utilised on a wall in some capacity? It is likely that it will not be subjected to much abuse in this position, which will allow the hand-painted works of art to take centre stage here.
Even though you don't need to be a rocket scientist to choose the perfect tile for the right application, keeping these suggestions in mind could help you avoid making expensive mistakes.
Visit a trustworthy vendor and explain to him how you want to put the tile to use; the remainder of the design decision is up to your personal preference.
Conclusion
When remodelling a kitchen or bathroom, one of the most popular options is to use tile. Tile is available in almost every colour, finish, size, and style you can imagine. There is so much to choose from, it might be difficult to choose the right tiles for you. Mosaic tiles produce less grout lines, which makes an area appear more like a single surface. Smaller tiles might result in a more appealing appearance, particularly on the walls of the kitchen and bathroom.
Choosing the appropriate colour scheme is critically crucial for choosing tile for a bathroom. The use of large modular tiles tricks the eye and makes the room appear larger. Rectangular tiles give the illusion that the direction in which they are laid is longer than it actually is. When used correctly, dark tiles can give a room a fantastic sense of gloominess and sophistication. Tiles are not typically the focal point of a room unless there is a feature area in the room, such as a splashback.
Grout is a material that may be distributed that is used to fill the spaces in between tiles to make them watertight and prevent water from getting through. Glazed tiles are simple to wipe clean, in contrast to natural terracotta tiles, which do not have a glaze and so require a sealant to prevent stains from forming. Because they reflect more light, glossy tiles are a good choice for rooms that are quite dim. Choose tiles that have a high point-load capacity as well as the bending strength necessary to readily support the weight that will be placed on them. If you are considering tiling the flooring of either the kitchen or the bathroom, you should select a tile that is not only long-lasting but also resistant to water.
Small tiles will have more grout lines, which will make the space appear more complicated. Ceramic tiles are not only cost-effective but also long-lasting. To ensure that you have enough tiles to finish your bathroom, we suggest purchasing 10% extra than what is required. After being moulded and sized, tiles are made by combining clay with minerals and solvents. Ceramic tile maintains its original colour and is resistant to flames.
It is suitable for all places, including kitchens and bathrooms, foyers, and countertops, among others. If the tile is going to be used on the surface of a kitchen counter, you should look for one that has a glaze and is resistant to scratches. It is likely that it will not be subjected to much abuse in this position, which will allow the hand-painted works of art to take centre stage.
Content Summary
- When remodelling a kitchen or bathroom, one of the most popular options is to use tile.
- It is available in almost every colour, finish, size, and style you can imagine, and it is commonly used on walls and floors.
- When it comes to choosing tile, the most significant things to consider will be discussed in this piece, and our goal is to help you narrow down your options as a consequence.
- Do you intend to go out and buy tiles for your floors?Whether you are building a new home or replacing the flooring in an existing one, it is in your best interest to invest in high-quality tiles that will provide a durable and visually beautiful finish to your property.
- Finding the best tiles for you and your home, on the other hand, may not be as simple as you'd want.
- The following are the most significant factors to consider when selecting tiles:Before You StartConsider the architectural style of your house.
- Choosing The Right Tile SizeYou have a number of options available to you when it comes to the size of the tile.
- The size of the tile you select is a very crucial decision that may either make or break the design aspect of your bathroom or kitchen.
- However, this does not exclude the usage of tiles with a reduced surface area.
- Consider the size of the tile in the context of the entire bathroom and choose one that complements the space.
- Choosing A Colour SchemeChoosing the appropriate colour scheme is critically crucial, as we have discussed in a number of blogs and articles.
- Choosing the colour palette for your tiles is, of course, no exception.
- However, if you are still undecided after looking at a wide variety of tile possibilities, a colour scheme with neutral tones is an excellent choice.
- Find at least one tile that you absolutely adore, and then centre the colour scheme on that one piece.
- The use of an accent tile is an excellent method for adding a splash of vibrant colour to your bathroom without overwhelming the space.
- Choosing The Tile MaterialWhen you are selecting tile for your bathroom, one of the essential decisions you will need to make is the material from which the tile will be created.
- If you have a specific concept of the look that you want to achieve, we should be able to discover something that complements it.
- When used correctly, dark tiles have the ability to give a room a fantastic sense of gloominess and sophistication.
- The Size And Layout Of The RoomThe use of large modular tiles tricks the eye and makes the room appear larger, and the use of fewer grout lines makes it appear as though there is less activity there.
- Lastly, if you have a tiny room or a lot going on in the area, having the same tile on the floor and wall will make the room look more coherent and expansive.
- Tiles with a bigger surface area give the impression that the room is more open and spacious.
- If you want to give the impression that the area is more unified, you can use tiles from the floor on the walls, but you can't use tiles from the walls on the floor.
- When laid in a small room, tiles of lighter colours will give the impression that the area is larger.
- If you have a large room, you have more alternatives available to you; you can select tiles that range from light to dark.
- Choosing Colour
- Think about the ambience you want to create in the room you are tiling; do you want it to be calm and peaceful, or do you want it to be moody and atmospheric?Tiles are not typically the focal point of a room unless there is a feature area in the room, such as a splashback, but they can compliment other design characteristics of a space when used appropriately.
- Choosing Your GroutAfter you've decided which tiles to use, it's time to think about the grout.
- You will need to select a grout that can be maintained in order to get the most of your investment, as both tiles and grout require your attention.
- If you have decided on colourful tiles, a fantastic alternative for you to consider is coloured grout.
- It is imperative that you do not overlook the significance of selecting the appropriate grout colour.
- A grout colour that is opposing to the tile will highlight the lines and pattern, while a grout colour that is complementary to the tile will produce a more subtle impression.
- It is entirely up to you whether you want a glossy or a matte finish on your item.
- Wear RatingTo begin, it is essential to investigate how long the tile will retain its appearance.
- It's not recommended to use Class 0 on floors.
- Stain And Slip ResistanceIt goes without saying that you will want tiles that not only have a low water absorption rate but also have the appropriate stain resistance to guarantee that it continues to look fantastic even though it is resistant to moisture.
- Also, in order to avoid any accidents, it is recommended to seek for tiles that are slip-resistant.
- This is especially important if you want to use the tiles in high-traffic areas that include elderly people, disabled people, or children.
- If you plan to place tiles in a high-traffic area or for use in commercial areas, it is best to investigate the total support provided by the tiles as well as the amount of weight they are able to hold.
- Consider using tiles that have a high point-load capacity as well as the bending strength necessary to readily support the weight that will be placed on them.
- Choose tiles with a thicker thickness, since this will increase the amount of weight that they can support.
- You wouldn't want your tiles to be dangerously slippery in the shower or on the wet floor of the kitchen when you're preparing food, would you?Think about the arrangement as well as the spacing between the tiles that you want to use.
- Materials Explained Stone:A floor covering made of natural stone is one that is long-lasting and resistant to wear and tear.
- Porcelain:Porcelain tile has a strong resistance to wear and tear, and it is also very easy to clean and maintain.
- One of the most significant advantages of porcelain tile is the way that the material appears.
- Ceramic:There is a common misunderstanding that porcelain tiles are ceramic.
- Glass:It is not common practise to cover the entirety of a bathroom's floor or walls with glass tiles.
- They typically have eye-catching designs that can help take your bathroom decor to the next level.
- Purchase More Tile Than What You NeedTo ensure that you have enough tiles to finish your bathroom, we suggest purchasing 10% extra than what is required.
- Imagine that you are in the process of placing your tiles and that everything is going according to plan when all of a sudden, one of your tiles falls to the ground.
- If you were to lose this tile, it would imply that you would be short on the total number of tiles.
- Tiles come in a wide variety of styles and textures.
- Taking this strategy one step further and sealing the grout around the tile to make it waterproof is a smart idea.
- Ceramic tile, in addition to its aesthetic appeal, makes an attractive surface.
- It is not difficult to clean.
- Where exactly did you get all of these tiles?
- everywhere on the face of the earth.
- Is it true that tile from Spain is of higher quality than tile from France?
- Before making a purchase, there are a few things that you need to think about.
- If the tile is going to be utilised outside, you should search for tiles that are weatherproof.
- Did you know that slipping and falling accounts for 95 per cent of all accidents that take place in the house and that 45 per cent of all accidents take place in the home?Keeping this in mind, it is possible that it would be prudent to treat all of your tile floors with this application that prevents slipping.
- Ask your tile merchant or installer.
- If the tile is going to be used on the surface of a kitchen counter, you should look for one that has a glaze and is resistant to scratches.
- Will the tile be utilised on a wall in some capacity?
- Even though you don't need to be a rocket scientist to choose the perfect tile for the right application, keeping these suggestions in mind could help you avoid making expensive mistakes.
- Visit a trustworthy vendor and explain to him how you want to put the tile to use; the remainder of the design decision is up to your personal preference.
Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing Tiles
Important things you should consider when you're choosing tiles
- Before you start. Think about the style of your home.
- Tile size. Small-sized tiles are usually suited to small residential areas such as kitchens, bathrooms and toilets.
- Room size.
- Colour.
- Grout.
- Texture and pattern.
- Natural light.
Down to the basics
For flooring, Vitrified tiles are the best bet since they are durable and can withstand heavy traffic. For walls, you can choose ceramic or porcelain tiles as they are non-porous or do not absorb stains.
Tiles should have the following properties of good tiles : (i) It should be of a regular shape and size. (ii) It should be free from twists, cracks or flaws. (iii) It should be well burnt and have a uniform colour.
The thickness of a tile is dependent on the material it is made of and the manufacturing process. Although any floor tile can be used on the wall, too, a good floor tile is at least 10mm thick. This will mean it is durable and suitable for heavy traffic areas.
Ceramic Tile
Affordability and durability make ceramic the ideal choice for any room in your home, including the bathroom, kitchen, and front entrance. Glazed ceramic tile offers more protection against stains or damage than wood, carpet, or even vinyl plank flooring.