Choosing the right floor tile is vital in any home renovation project. The look, feel, functionality, and its value can all be determined by the tiles you decide to install. But with so many options on the market how would you know which one’s right? In this post we will give you four tips to help you choose the best tile for your home. It’ll take into account your specific needs, preferences, and budget.
Types of Floor Tiles
Before you start browsing for floor tiles, you need to know the different types of tiles that are available and their pros and cons. Some of the most common types of floor tiles in Sydney are:
- Mosaic tiles: These are small pieces of ceramic, glass, stone, or metal that are arranged in a pattern or design. Focal points and color can easily be added to your space with mosaic tiles Sydney and don’t worry about fitting them into a tight spot as they’re easy to cut. Regular cleaning is required for these tiles due to the high amount of grout lines it requires.
- Terracotta tiles: These are made from natural clay that’s baked at high temperatures. Rustic vibes will be felt throughout the house with terracotta tiles Sydney and can create an inviting atmosphere for guests. If you’re eco friendly, this might be your go-to tile as it’s made from natural resources. However, sealing them is a MUST or they’ll crack over time. These tiles also tend to fade after a while.
- Marble tiles: These are made from natural stone that’s been cut and polished to reveal its unique patterns. A touch of elegance and luxury will be added to your home with marble tiles making it perfect for impressing guests. The only thing you’ll have a problem with is the price tag and regular maintenance. It’s prone to scratches if not sealed properly and might even become slippery when wet.
- Porcelain tiles: These are made from fine clay that is fired at very high temperatures. Porcelain tiles Sydney are so versatile you won’t know if you’re stepping on concrete or wood. But don’t get too excited yet because they’re expensive and very difficult to install so only call professional help for installation.. The worst part about porcelain is how cold and hard it feels against your bare feet.
4 Tips to Choosing the Right Floor Tile
Now that you know the different types of floor tiles, here are four tips to help you choose the right one for your home:
- Consider the function of the room: Every room has different demands for their floor tiles. A bathroom, for example, needs tiles that are waterproof, slip-resistant, and easy to clean. A kitchen needs tiles that are sturdy, stain-resistant, and heat-resistant. And a living room needs tiles that are comfortable, stylish, and match the decor. So before committing to a floor tile sydney you need to think about the function of the room.
- Choose the right color: The color of your floor tile can set the mood and ambiance of your space. Light-colored tiles make small rooms appear larger and brighter. Dark-colored tiles make large rooms look cozier and more intimate. You also have to look at the color scheme of your walls, furniture, and accessories when choosing a color.
- Pick the right size: The size of your Stone flooring tile can impact how a room looks. Big ones can make small rooms seem more spacious while little ones can add texture to a large space. Don’t forget about grout lines either as they affect appearance too.
- Select the right finish: The finish of your tile can dictate style and maintenance. Glossy ones reflect light making it shiny and glamorous while matte ones absorb light creating a cozy look. But glossy ones do show smudges easily while matte has no problem hiding dirt or dust. Plus you need to think of slip-resistance too, especially in places where it’s wet like bathrooms or kitchens.
How to Choose the Right Size and Finish for Floor Tiles
Choosing the right size and finish for floor tiles can be tricky, as there are many factors to consider. Here are some tips to help you make the best decision:
- Measure your space: Measure your space accurately. Get the dimensions of your space by using a tape measure, ruler, or laser measure. After that, calculate the area you need tiles for. This will help you get an idea of how much you need to buy and its cost. You can find an online tile calculator to help you estimate the number.
- Choose a tile layout: Straight, diagonal, herringbone, brick, or basket weave – there are so many different layouts to choose from! Depending on the size and shape of your space and tiles, each has their own pros and cons. Straight layouts are simple and classic in style, though they do emphasize uneven walls or floors. Diagonal layouts give off a modern and dynamic vibe but require more cutting which leads to wasting more tiles.
- Compare different tile sizes: Try sample tiles with different sizes in your space to see what looks best to you. You’ll be surprised how much it can affect the appearance. Another option is creating cardboard cutouts that mimic tile sizes.
- Select a tile finish: The final step is selecting a finish that goes well with your preference and purpose. By comparing sample tiles or photos you can see how different finishes reflect light and color in your space. It’s also possible to find an online tile selector if that’s easier for you
Conclusion
Floor tiles are an extremely important part of any home renovation project. They can make your space look better, and even raise its value. There’s many different options available to choose from, making it hard to know which one is the right fit.
FAQs
What size and shape of tiles should you choose?
The size and shape of tiles relies heavily on the style you’re going for. Bigger ones can make a room seem larger while being easier to install due to less grout lines. Smaller ones are used for more intricate design. In terms of shape, whether it be square, rectangular, or hexagonal, choose one that compliments the rest of the room.
How to choose the color of your tiles?
Think about the overall color scheme of your room when choosing tile colors. Lighter colors create an open and airy feeling while darker ones add warmth and coziness. It’s also important to think about how much dirt and foot traffic that area will get; lighter colored tiles show dirt more easily than dark ones.
How to calculate the number of tiles you need for the total surface?
Measure the length and width of the surface area to find out the total amount of square footage or meters it is. Then divide this number by the area a single tile takes up. It’s suggested to buy an additional 10% worth in case something goes wrong like cutting them or needing repairs in the future.
How to lay floor tiles?
Start by cleaning and leveling out where you want them placed. After doing so mark out where their center will be and start spreading adhesive without sticking them down yet. This will help plan everything out beforehand.Once satisfied spread adhesive on each one using a notched trowel then stick ‘em on firmly making sure they’re all evenly spaced apart. Use grout between each one to fill in spaces then wipe away any excess that might’ve gotten on top.
Should floor tiles be darker than walls?
Floor tiles being darker than wall tiles can create a grounding effect, making spaces feel more anchored. This contrast can also help in hiding dirt and wear on the floor. However, the choice is ultimately a matter of personal preference and the desired aesthetic for the room.
