Do you need help choosing the right tile for your home improvement project? Are you asking these questions? Which pattern is perfect with my décor? What color will make my space appear bigger than it actually is? Do I go for porcelain tile or non-porcelain? And what is the PEI rating? If you’re seeking answers to these questions, consider exploring the wide range of wood tiles at Hyperion Tiles to find the perfect tile for your project.
Things to Consider When Choosing Tiles
Durability
The best tile should be durable. It should withstand wear and tear and serve you for many years. You don’t want a material that will break after a few years.
That said, look at the PEI rating when buying tiles. Go for tiles with a high PEI rating. A higher PEI rating means they can withstand more weight thanks to their higher resistance.
Most experts prefer porcelain tiles to ceramics. Porcelain tiles are more refined and long-lasting than ceramics. Moreover, porcelain has a lower permeability and therefore is more resilient to water infiltration.
Porcelain and ceramics are ideal for the floor and bathroom, thanks to their slip resistance. Compared with porcelain, ceramic tiles are cheaper and may require extensive care. Consider a good balance of form and function while choosing between the two.
Location
Another important consideration when choosing the right tile is the space you want to install the tile. Floors, for instance, require materials that can withstand a lot of pressure and weight. So, porcelain or ceramic tiles are ideal.
Kitchen and bathroom areas, on the other hand, need waterproof materials. Go for ceramic for the walls.
Always check the appropriateness of tile properties when buying them for a specific installation area. Where do you intend to use them? Is it in a particular part/room of the house?
Ensure that you choose slip-resistant alternatives in case of areas with children for the prevention of accidents.
The Size
Tiles come in a wide range of sizes and shapes. Measure the installation area carefully before picking a certain tile size.
Note that large tiles may make your space appear bigger than it really is. Smaller tiles may give a room a crowded look.
Color
Tiles come in a wide range of colors and shade varieties. If you are picky, choosing the perfect tile color can be overwhelming.
Here are a few considerations to help you make a choice:
Go for playful and vibrant colors to make your space look warm and festive. Opt for neutral colors to easily match your décor. Try dark colors if you’re looking to make your space appear smaller. Go for light hues to brighten up your space.
Still unable to decide what colors to go for? Mix and match two different various shades of the same color. It will give your space that vibrant look that’s pleasant to the eye.
Tile Texture and Style
Tiles come in various textures and styles, such as matte, textured, smooth, and shiny. The texture and style of the tile are crucial, especially when installed in spaces with moisture such as bathrooms and kitchens. Remember to match your choice of tile texture and style with your décor.
Tips
- Stone tiles are durable and give your room that rough stone look.
- Marbleized tiles will add some exquisiteness to your space
- Wood-like tiles give your space that nature/natural look. They are also very durable.
You will find natural stone tiles very attractive because of their natural look and elegance. Their ease of maintenance also makes them a great choice.
Maintenance
Maintenance plays a huge role when choosing tiles. Natural stone tiles are very prone to moisture and dirt, making them harder to maintain. Porcelain and ceramic tiles, on the other hand, are very easy to clean. Glass tiles are also susceptible to water spots meaning you may need to spend more time polishing them.
Mosaic tiles give an elevated touch to countertops and walls. They resist stains and also are easy to care for.
Nonetheless, mosaic tiles are costlier and more challenging to set up than other tiles. Secondly, mosaic tiles are fragile and can quickly break if heavy objects fall on them.
Long-term Investment
Choosing expensive tiles may reduce replacement costs in the long run. However, it might mean paying more upfront.
Spending on high-quality yet expensive tiles ensures they serve you for many years. This will lead to an overall savings over the years.
Know Your Budget
When planning, make a budget that covers the total expenses for the entire project. Though durable and quality tiles are attractive, it is just part of the total cost. Note too, that the cost of installation on certain tiles makes them more expensive.
When comparing, ensure you do not overspend on installation and maintenance costs. Take into account your tiles of choice in relation to your budget.
Final Words
Don’t choose your tiles solely based on their aesthetics. Durability, location, size, color, and maintenance also play a significant role. A tile-like natural stone may look super-stylish but may be problematic when it comes to maintenance, especially when installed in areas that collect dirt and moisture easily.
It all comes down to ‘where’ and ‘what for’ when choosing the right tile for home improvement. Is it the bathroom, kitchen, or living room? Figure out the logistics first, and then the rest of the criteria, such as color, size, and texture will fall into place.
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