The punch in of tile you choose can make or break your remodel.
“Additionally, ensure you understand the difference between glazed and unglazed.
“You get the same elegant finish without any of the upkeep or weathering.
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Porcelain can even be used outdoors, as it will not freeze, fade, or crack.”
Other applications for porcelain tile include bath or kitchen tile, high-traffic areas, andkitchen backsplashes.
The biggest drawback with porcelain tile is that installation can be tricky.
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For that reason, she recommends not using glass tile in high-traffic areas like kitchen and bathroom floors.
“Cement tiles are extremely versatile and can provide you with amazing patterns and colors,” Boylen says.
“Since the tiles are extremely porous, a patina can develop over time to enhance the pattern.
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They can also be sanded and resealed, like wood floors, if they get discolored over time.”
The biggest drawback to cement tiles is that they’re a beast to lay.
Additionally, cement tile must be resealed once a month to maintain its beauty.
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Cement is best used in low-traffic areas and in small quantities.
“It also delivers texture and depth, as it’s either patterned or veined.
You’ll never have the same piece.”
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Marble requires a lot of upkeepto keep it looking pristine.
By using it in smaller applications, you’ll also give your budget a breather.
“Mosaic tiles work best on wall applications when an accent is needed.
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I recommend using them sparingly,” Morgan says.
“Granite has been overused and tends to look like a cheaper alternative,” Morgan says.
“It delivers a natural appearance that’s almost reminiscent of ancient architecture and design.
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Durable but soft, limestone is also easy to shape and cut for specific patterns and placements.”
One thing to keep in mind about limestone tile is that it’s a porous rock.
Also, cleaning limestone can be a pain.
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I recommend using limestone outdoors in a patio space to give the perfect final look."
“Its soft, subdued palette provides beautiful neutral tones,” Castellano says.
“From gray to tan and beige, the swirling surface produces an elegant and unique statement.”
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Just like other natural stone tile types, it’s easily impacted by water, stains, and traction.
For that reason, travertine tile requires extra maintenance and occasional resealing.
“It’s best to use travertine tiles in low-traffic areas of the home.
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“They get their name from where the ground minerals come from: a quarry,” Boylen says.
They can be glazed or left in the natural finish.
Another benefit is that they do not have to be sealed.”
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Though durable, quarry tiles are susceptible to staining, so they shouldn’t be usedin the kitchen.
Boylen recommends them for other high-traffic areas since they offer a sense of purposeful design and are naturally slip-resistant.
A primary consideration with metal tile is that it tends to scratch almost as soon as it’s installed.
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Some people prefer this naturally occurring patina, which can soften the overall effect.
“I would not recommend it for baths or, depending on the climate, outdoor use.”
“These tiles look great and are water-resistant.
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Plus, they are perfect for the DIYer since you’re able to make your own tile patterns.
The 3D patterns are also popular with resin and it can imitate the look of water and stones."
“I recommend resin flooring for water areas, like the bathroom and mudrooms.
Garden State Tile
They also make great backsplashes and accent pieces,” Boylen says.
“The patterns are sometimes outlined with metallic or black.”
These tiles are a great way to add a unique design element into a space.
Zia Tile
“They remind you of wallpaper, but with the texture of natural stone,” says Hemzacek.
While beautiful, these tiles are more suitable to certain climates than others.
That said, proper utility and maintenance is important when choosing terracotta tiles.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Two crucial numbers are associated with picking tile: rating and grading.
Grading assesses a tile’s quality.
Tiles also come in a variety of thicknesses.
Floor tiles are the thickest, measuring 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick.
The color of your tile can set the mood for the entire area or room.
Looking to lighten up?
Lighter tiles are the way to go.
Need to warm everything up?
Darker tiles can help with that.
Bold patterns or bright tiles can add interest to a boring bathroom or brighten up a kitchen.
You don’t want to get sick of the pattern and have to redo the tiling again!
