Tile

Tiles are extremely durable, easy to care for, and very attractive, which is why many people choose to use tiles for flooring and other areas of the house. Tiles are made from hard substances like clay or stone They are either naturally resistant to moisture and damage or they have been treated with substances to make them more durable. Unlike carpeting, tiles can maintain their appearance for several years. The downside to buying and installing tiles in a home is that the initial investment can be pretty large depending on the size of the area to be tiled. Fortunately, buyers have several options available to them when it comes to finding affordable tiles. Before shopping for tiles, buyers should know what to look for. Once they know what type of tile will work for their space, they can begin looking for bargains. Shopping online at sites like Tileway is one way that buyers can find beautiful and high-quality tile at an affordable price.

How to Shop for Tile

Looking for tiles can be a difficult process, since there are so many different types to choose from and factors to consider. Tiling a floor is one of the most expensive home improvement projects, so knowing what to look for can help to keep the overall costs low. Buying the wrong tiles could result in a costly mistake. When shopping for tiles for a home, buyers should consider the size and shape of the tile, what the tile is made of, and the tile’s PEI rating.

Choosing a Tile Size and Shape

People should consider the room or area that they will be installing tile in when choosing a size and shape. Their level of skill may also play a factor in the type of tile that they choose, since larger tiles are easier to install. To determine the size and amount of tiles that is needed for a project, buyers will need to measure the room to determine how many square feet of tiles are needed to cover the surface area. The price of tile is often given per square foot with the square shape of tile being cheaper than other shapes.

Small Tiles

Small tiles often measure one inch on each side. People who want to make a mosaic pattern will need these smaller tiles. Additionally, the smaller tiles are needed for projects where detail is important. Buyers often buy small tiles for use in kitchens for backsplashes or to make decorative designs. They are commonly shaped like squares, but are also available in circles and other odd shapes.

Rectangular Tiles

Rectangular tiles are also known as subway tiles. These tiles are often used in interior design for bathrooms, kitchens, and around pools. Subway tiles usually come in rectangular shapes that measure three inches by six inches. When they are installed, they are usually laid in rows to make them look like bricks. When shopping for these rectangular tiles, people should look for tiles that are at least 8 mm thick. This ensures that they are strong and durable enough for just about any tiling project.

Flooring Tiles

While just about any tile can be used for flooring, typically larger tiles are used. The reason for this is that larger tiles are easier to install. Because floors are so large, it would take a long time to install small tiles over the entire area. Additionally, with large tiles there are fewer grout lines which makes the floor look less busy. Flooring tiles are available in smaller eight and six inch sizes, medium 12 inch sizes, and large 18 inch sizes.

Choosing a Tile Material

Once the square footage of the space has been determined, it is time for the person to start looking for the type of tile that will work best in the space. The appearance and durability of the tile is dependent on the materials used to make the tile. Most tiles are made from a natural clay substance, but some can be made from glass, stone, or even vinyl. The table below lists the main types of tile available and a description of their appearance and properties.
 

Type of Tile

Description

Ceramic Tile

Made from clay that has been fired in a kiln; glazed with color then fired again to produce bright colors; often has an abrasive added to keep the tile from being slippery when wet

Quarry Tile

Unglazed ceramic tile; resistant to scratching, chipping, and changes in temperature; prone to staining, so it must be sealed when used as a floor; only available in select clay colors

Porcelain Tile

Type of ceramic tile that was fired at an extremely high temperature to make a denser tile; moisture and stain resistant; harder to cut, so the price is often higher than other types of tile

Marble Tile

Made from natural stone; each tile is unique, so floors and other areas with marble tile have a one-of-a-kind design

Natural Stone Tile

Tiles made from other natural stones including granite, slate, onyx, and sandstone; colors and variation depend on the type of stone

Terrazzo

Tiles made from marble chips or other stone chips that are embedded in concrete; the surface is polished to be shiny

Terra Cotta

Made from clay that has been fired but not treated with color; only available in an orange color; the surface is porous and can absorb water; must be treated when used for flooring indoors

Vinyl

Made from the tough man-made substance; can mimic the appearance and properties of almost any other material; often cheaper than other materials used to make tiles


Ceramic tile is the most common type of tile used in home improvement projects. This type of tile is available in all sizes and in virtually any color. It can be used for floors, backsplashes, and even decorative pieces. There are many types of tiles available to suit anyone’s budget and taste.

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