Discover the Perfect Tiles for Your Home in 12 Easy Steps!
Match the Style of Your Home
If you’ve spent hours scrolling through online tile catalogs, you’re not alone! While we’re obsessed with perusing different patterns and designs, making a decision is much more difficult. Consider the style of your home when selecting your tiles. If your space is modern, look for tile with sleek, simple lines. For a more eclectic look, go with a vibrant pattern!
Tile Size Vs. Room Size
Before you fall head over heels for a specific tile, it’s crucial to consider the size of your prospective room before making your final choice. Generally speaking, smaller tiles work better in compact areas and larger tiles are more suited to expansive spaces. Plus, matching the scale of your space will make installation much easier.
The Design Trinity: Color, Texture, and Pattern
Your chosen color will affect the ambience of the entire room. The tile’s hue will also have a major impact on your future furniture. A simple solution is to choose a shade that is versatile enough to work with a variety of décor. However, if a certain color is calling your name, go for it! After all, it’s easier to change furniture than tile.
The texture of your tile involves both visual and practical considerations. Avoid a tile that is too glossy in areas where slipping is a concern. On the topic of texture, consider a nonporous tile for damp conditions. Combine style and sensibility for ultimate success!
If you want your tiles to be the focus of the room, go with a vivid pattern! For something that doesn’t steal all the attention, a solid color or subtle pattern may be preferable.
Reflecting/Absorbing Light
If you want to make your room appear bigger, choose a brighter, glossier finish that will help reflect light. Darker colors tend to absorb light and heat, which makes them optimal for a larger, cooler environment.
Usage & Return on Investment
Water Absorption
As mentioned above, water absorption is a key consideration depending on where you install your tiles. For bathrooms and spas, we recommend selecting a material that is less porous for longevity. If your tiles won’t be exposed to recurring moisture, then you have much more freedom when it comes to their makeup.
Grout
Different types of tiles require different types of grout. The good news is, grout isn’t nearly as daunting as it seems! You can opt for tile that doesn’t require grout lines (like Moroccan zellige tile!) or you can choose grout in a similar color to your tile of choice. Contrasting grout is a stylish possibility, but make sure the tiles are installed by skilled professionals to prevent unwanted staining. When in doubt, go with a slightly wider grout line for a more even surface.
Resistance and Durability
Not all tiles are created equal. In fact, some are significantly stronger than others. If you’re planning on installing your tiles in a high-trafficked area, seek out an ultra-durable surface. However, if you’re simply using your tiles as a decorative backsplash, the resilience is a much smaller concern.
A Promising Future
Longevity should be at the top of your list when it comes to tile qualifications. If you’re planning on staying in your home for the foreseeable future, a high-end tile is the way to go. While mass-manufactured tiles are less costly, their permanence is questionable. Not to mention, you always want to increase your resale value!
Pro Tip: Handmade cement tile is unmatched when it comes to durability. You can literally observe its endurance over centuries of wear and tear!
Upkeep and Maintenance
We get it. The last thing you want is to add to your list of chores. Not to fear! There are plenty of tile options that are easy to keep clean. Even in areas where tiles are exposed to grease and grime, all you have to do is mop them with a pH neutral cleaner. For areas where deep cleaning may be required, consider larger tiles with smooth surfaces.
R&R (Refinish and Revitalize!)
It’s natural for your tile to lose vibrance over time. Organic fading and patina are expected. But don’t fret! Some tiles can be sanded down to reveal their original pigments. Handmade cement tiles can be refinished by removing a razor-thin surface layer. This will also remove any minor scratches or unwanted discoloration. If you want the ability to restore your tile to its original beauty, go with a material like handmade cement.
Go Green
Save the planet as you renovate your home. Some tiles are more environmentally friendly than others, and it all comes down to the process in which they’re made. While certain tiles are made using high-heat ovens that require massive amounts of energy, others are pressed by hand and dried in the sun. Handmade cement tile is an excellent earth-friendly option for eco-conscious homeowners looking to go green.
And Finally…the Price!
While the cost is an important consideration, quality should always come first. Lucky for you, there are several cost-effective options that perform beautifully. Zia Tile offers handmade tile options at accessible prices. With handmade cement tiles in over 200 patterns and shapes, you’re bound to find a suitable style for your project.
Handmade tile will also give your home a one-of-a-kind touch. As opposed to mass-produced tile, handmade tile has been carefully crafted by skilled artisans. While the cost may be slightly higher than commercial tile, there is no comparison when it comes to quality and visible dimension. The subtle variations between each handmade tile make them entirely unique and inimitable. Our handmade cement tile is a long-term investment in both aesthetics and durability.
Congratulations! You Know Your Tile
Now that you know how to choose your perfect tile, it’s time to make your final selection! Be sure to check out our entire lineup of tiles. From handmade cement tile, to standard field
tile, to Moroccan zellige tile, there is something for everyone. Transform your
home in the blink of an eye with an investment that is worth every penny.
