Tile is a versatile and durable material that can be used to create various looks in any room of your home. From the kitchen and bathroom to the foyer and entryway, tile can add style, color, and texture to your space.
But with so many different types of tile available, it can be challenging to know where to start. This ultimate guide will walk you through every step of the tile selection process, so you can choose the perfect tile for your needs and budget.
Step 1: Consider the Function of the Space
The first step in choosing tile is to consider the function of the space where the tile will be installed. This will help you determine the type of tile you need, as well as the durability and slip resistance required.
For example, if you're choosing tile for a high-traffic area like the kitchen or bathroom, you'll need to select a durable tile that can withstand regular wear and tear. You may also want to consider a slip-resistant tile to ensure safety.
Here is a more detailed breakdown of the types of tile that are best suited for different areas of the home:
Kitchen: Ceramic and porcelain tile are both good choices for kitchen floors and backsplashes. Ceramic tile is more affordable, but porcelain tile is more durable. If you have a high-traffic kitchen, you may want to consider porcelain tile. You may also want to consider a slip-resistant tile for the kitchen floor.
Bathroom: Ceramic and porcelain tile are also good choices for bathroom floors and walls. For the shower or bathtub area, you may want to consider natural stone tile, such as marble or granite. Natural stone tile is more expensive than ceramic or porcelain tile, but it is also
more durable and luxurious.
Foyer and entryway: For the foyer and entryway, you'll want to choose a tile that is both stylish and durable. Natural stone tile is a good choice for foyer and entryway floors, as it is both beautiful and durable. You may also want to consider a patterned tile to create a unique and eye-catching look.
Step 2: Choose the Right Type of Tile
There are three main types of tile: ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone. Each type of tile has its own unique advantages and disadvantages.
Ceramic tile is the most affordable type of tile and is available in a wide variety of colors, patterns, and sizes. It's a good choice for a variety of areas, including the kitchen, bathroom, and foyer. However, ceramic tile is not as durable as porcelain tile and can be more susceptible to chipping and cracking.
Porcelain tile is more durable than ceramic tile and is also less likely to absorb water. It's a good choice for high-traffic areas and for outdoor use. However, porcelain tile is more expensive than ceramic tile.
Natural stone tile is the most luxurious type of tile and is available in a wide variety of materials, including marble, granite, and travertine. It's a good choice for low-traffic areas, such as the bathroom and foyer. However, natural stone tile is the most expensive type of tile and can be more difficult to maintain.
Step 3: Select the Right Color and Pattern
Once you've chosen the type of tile you need, it's time to select the right color and pattern. This is where you can have some fun and express your personal style.
If you're going for a classic look, you may want to choose a neutral tile color, such as white, beige, or gray. For a more modern look, you may want to choose a bold or patterned tile.
Here are a few tips for choosing the right tile color and pattern:
Consider the overall style of your home. Do you want the tile to blend in with the existing décor or make a statement?
Think about the mood you want to create in the space. Do you want a relaxing and calming space or a vibrant and energetic space?
Choose a tile color and pattern that you love. After all, you'll be looking at it for years to come!
Step 4: Consider the size and shape of the tile
The size and shape of the tile can have a big impact on the overall look and feel of your space. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing the right tile size and shape:
Consider the size of the room. Large tiles can make a small room feel even smaller, while small tiles can make a large room feel even larger. A good rule of thumb is to choose a tile size that is proportionate to the size of the room.
Think about the style of tile you've chosen. Some tile styles, such as subway tile, look best in smaller sizes, while other tile styles, such as marble tile, look best in larger sizes.
Experiment with different tile sizes and shapes to create the look you want. You can use tile layout software to help you visualize different designs.
Here are a few additional tips:
Large tiles can make a room feel larger and more open. This is because they create fewer grout lines, which gives the space a more seamless look.
Small tiles can create a more intimate and cozy space. They can also be used to create interesting patterns and designs.
Rectangular tiles can be used to make a room look longer or wider. If you have a narrow room, you can lay the tiles with the long side running perpendicular to the short wall to make the room look wider. If you have a wide room, you can lay the tiles with the long side running parallel to the short wall to make the room look longer.
Square tiles are a classic choice that works well in a variety of spaces. They can be used to create a clean and modern look, or they can be used to create a more traditional look.
Once you've considered all of these factors, you can start to narrow down your choices. It's a good idea to visit a tile showroom and see different tile sizes and shapes in person before you make a decision.
Step 5: Don't Forget the Grout
The grout between the tiles is just as important as the tile itself. Be sure to choose a grout color that complements the tile and the overall look of your space.
If you're choosing a light-colored tile, you may want to choose a light-colored grout to create a seamless look. If you're choosing a dark-colored tile, you may want to choose a contrast-colored grout to create a more dramatic look.
You can also choose a grout color that matches the tile color to create a monochromatic look. No matter what grout color you choose, be sure to seal it after installation to protect it from dirt and stains.
In the world of interior design, every tile carries the potential to tell a unique story. By considering where your tiles will shine, the color palette that resonates with your vision, the scale and size that create unity, and the material that embodies your desired atmosphere, you'll craft a space that is uniquely yours.
Remember, tile selection is an art, and like all art forms, it benefits from the wisdom of experts. If you find yourself seeking clarity amidst the tile world's vastness, reach out to Herringbone & Brass. We're not just interior designers; we're your partners in crafting spaces that tell stories, one tile at a time.
Ready to transform your space? Contact us today, and let's embark on a tile selection journey that brings your vision to life.