Choosing the perfect tile for floors and walls
There are many things to consider before installing the appropriate tiles in your home interior. When planned poorly, this may result to a negative outcome and may cost you more. That we do not want to happen. We would like to help you in choosing the right tiles by providing you with some guidelines and tips.
Things to consider in choosing the right tile for your interior
There are so many tiles to choose from. The style, design and material of tiles have a wide range of options. Since you have no idea where to start, you visit a showroom so that it may give you idea on how to have the right tile in your homes. As you survey the showroom, you get attracted to the different tiles. Their size, color design and texture seems to be the right thing for your home. Just a little reminder, do not choose the tile based on your first impression in the showroom. Remember that showrooms displays the tiles that are in current trend. However, they may not be appropriate for your home or lifestyle. To narrow down your choices, make your own checklist and consider also your budget. After which, decide for the right tile for your wall and floor.
Here are some of the things that you should consider before purchasing tiles:
1. Area to be tiled – consider the area in terms of wall or floor; foot traffic; indoor or outdoor; and presence of moisture. By principle, you can also use floor tiles on walls. Foot traffic is important as it will determine the right type of tile to be used. For instance, the hallway may be considered as a high foot traffic area, therefore it requires a durable, and with high abrasion resistance.
2. The type of tile needed – as mentioned above, there are various tiles made up of different materials. Ceramic, for instance is one most common tiles used in flooring, especially those with a layer of glaze on the top surface. Most rooms can use this kind of tile flooring. Bathroom requires the porcelain tiles since this type of tile is the strongest and hardest tile available. It is also known for its stain resistance and durability. Stone tiles may come in granite and marble and they are perfect for the outdoors.
3. Know the amount of tiles needed – once you have decided which tile you need for your wall and floor, determine the amount of tiles you will need to purchase so that it will be able to fit into your budget. Do not forget to have an excess amount of tile so that you will something to replace with in case something happens to the tiles during installation.
4. Tools and supplies – make a list of the materials you will be needing in installing the tiles, which also include the adhesive and grout.
5. Choosing the tiler – if you are not experienced in installing tiles, better consult family and friends and ask them if they know tilers who are well experienced. Consider also the budget, so it is better to have options
Wall vs Floor Tiles: which tile is perfect
There is no specific definition of a floor and wall tile. Tile companies do not designate their tiles where they should be used. To make things easier, the rule of thumb is, floor tiles can be used as wall tiles, but never the other way around. This simply means that any type of tile recommended for tile flooring can likewise be used on the walls. However, tiles specific for walls should never be used on floor as the durability may differ. Wall tiles are often softer and less durable as compared to floor tiles. Wall tiles should likewise be smaller compared to the ones used on floors. The ideal size should be 4”x4” or smaller. Imagine and 18”x18” tile installed on the wall. This would look overpowering and inappropriate. Glass tile should likewise be installed on the wall and not on the floor.
Happy tiling!