Choosing the Right Tile for the Various Rooms of Your Home

Spread the love

If you’re thinking of updating the floors in your home, you may be considering tile.  There are many types of tile, including ceramic, porcelain, slate, travertine and marble.  Some work well in certain rooms, but aren’t recommended for others.  This article offers tips so that you can choose the right tile for your home and your budget.

Consider location

Some types of tile are more slippery than others; if you are looking to tile your foyer or any area that gets a good amount of traffic, you may want to avoid marble or other types of tile that are highly polished.  In these areas, consider ceramic or stone tiles that tend to be less slippery.

Check the rating of the type of tile you are considering

Many homeowners are not aware that ceramic and porcelain tiles come with a PEI, or Porcelain Enamel Institute, rating.  These ratings vary from 1 to 5 and help determine how much traffic the surface can handle.  The higher the number, the more durable the surface and the more traffic it can handle without becoming dull or scuffed.

Consider both cost and your budget

Some types of tile are extremely costly, while others are affordable for most budgets.  Ceramic and porcelain tiles are the least expensive.  Natural stone tiles are usually the most expensive, so you may want to consider using them only in smaller areas if your budget is tight.

Ceramic tile comes in many different sizes and shapes, as well as a multitude of colors.  This style is the biggest seller when it comes to tile.  Keep in mind that grout can be tinted nearly any color you like, which adds to the unique look.

What you need to know about stone tiles

While natural stone tiles are exquisite in their beauty, granite, slate and marble must be sealed by a professional every 4 or 5 years to prevent staining.  Additionally, a professional should do the installation, as the varying shapes and sizes of natural stone make it a project that generally too difficult to be accomplished by the average homeowner.

Porcelain – the perfect surface for moist or humid areas

Porcelain tiles are more durable than many other types of tile, making them the perfect choice for kitchens and bathrooms.  They are also the most water-resistant, making them an ideal choice for these rooms.

Saltillo and terra cotta tiles are two of the worst choices for tiling in a bathroom or kitchen, as they absorb more water than other options such as ceramic.  These are not recommended for areas where excess moisture or humidity is a factor.

When deciding to tile the floors in your home, just remember that cost is key.  The prices you find on different brands of tile can vary tremendously; even among ceramic and porcelain, which are usually the least costly.  This can bring their cost up to a point where they are comparable to marble or travertine – so check prices and shop around before you buy.

Hopefully, these tips will help you choose tile that adds greatly to the beauty of your home, and will last for years to come.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *