How to Choose
The Right Tiles for The Right Space
1
Selecting a Material for Your Tiles
Choose ceramic tiles for an inexpensive, classic option.
Ceramic tiles are popular options because they are inexpensive and fit with any decor. You can choose large tiles or small tiles, depending on your preference. They are easy to install on your own, but you’ll need to work harder at keeping them clean, as they are porous and absorb liquids.
Select porcelain tiles for a durable option that’s still budget friendly.
Porcelain tiles are one of the most durable on the market, and they’re also water resistant. Another perk is that they’re easy to clean. Porcelain tiles have a classic look that is easy to fit into any style.
Researching About The Options
The next step involved in choosing the best tiles is doing extensive research. Whether you choose tiles online or from local stores, make sure to research the materials used, resistance to water, stains, or slip resistance properties. Thus, conducting thorough research is essential.
Size / Color / Texture
Small-sized tiles are usually suited to small residential areas such as kitchens, bathrooms and toilets.
Large tiles make a room feel larger and airier. Using floor tiles on the walls will make the space seem more cohesive, but you can’t use wall tiles on the floor. A floor tile will have a harder glaze and will be made of harder materials to withstand traffic. In a small room, light-coloured tiles will make the space feel bigger. If you have a large room you have more options; you can chose from light to dark tiles.
Consider the general feel you want to achieve in the room you are tiling – serene and relaxing or moody and atmospheric? Unless you have a feature area such as a splashback, tiles aren’t normally the focus of a room, but they can complement other design features of a room. In a bathroom you might want a restful relaxing setting, so go for colours that blend well together. In a kitchen you might want a more vibrant option, so choose colours that contrast.
Whether you choose matt or a polished finished is a personal choice. A glazed tile is easy to clean, where as a natural terracotta tile has no glaze and would need a seal to stop staining occurring.
