Tiles are one of the most popular choices for any construction project because they ooze aesthetic appeal and offer excellent durability. However, there are so many types to choose between that it’s near impossible to narrow it down to one style.
Have no fear because we’re here to help you decide on the right tiles for your needs. Whether you’re redecorating your home or want to help a client with their tiling project, we have everything you need to know.
Let’s dive straight in.
Select Your Interior Style
The interior design you’re going for is the most crucial element in choosing tiles because it defines the mood and atmosphere of the room. If you’re unsure what style you want, look at some interior design magazines or websites for inspiration.
Some popular styles include:
- Contemporary: Modern in nature and often featuring whatever’s trending.
- Traditional: Often more classical in design, but can still be stylish.
- Rustic: Rustic is similar to traditional, but it usually has a more country vibe.
- Minimalist: A favourite among contemporary design enthusiasts, minimalism is all about neutral tones.
- Art Deco: Renowned for its geometric designs, art deco is an all-time classic style – but it can be intense.
Your tiles should fit with the rest of your decor, so it’s essential to consider what look you’re going for. For example, if you have a home that incorporates a rustic interior, using art deco tiles will make the overall aesthetic look crowded.
However, if your home is more minimalistic, art deco tiles can add visual interest and make the room stand out more.
Colours Matter
The next thing to think about is the colours you want to use in your space because it’s the colour that brings the style to life.
For example, a contemporary space often looks best with white or black tiles because it creates a more modern look. On the other hand, traditional rooms come to life with earthy tones like browns or reds.
You should also take some time to consider the colour palette of your entire space before making a decision – not just the tiles. After all, you want everything to flow together nicely and create a cohesive design.
Think About Tile Size & Shape
The next thing to think about is tile size and shape, as there are many options available. Thinking about how the tiles will contribute to the room is best because small tiles can be a pain in high-traffic areas, as they’ll show dirt easier.
While larger tiles are best for contemporary aesthetics, smaller tiles, on the other hand, are perfect for creating patterns and designs.
Knowing the size you need will ensure you can find suitable tiles for the job and make it much easier on yourself.
Man Made Or Natural?
Now for the big question: will you work with manufactured or natural tiles? Man-made tiles are usually cheaper and easier to find, but natural tiles have unique patterns and designs that give your home a more luxurious feel.
The most popular type of manufactured tile is ceramic, while the most popular type of natural tile is marble.
Thinking about what you want from your tiles before deciding what to buy is essential. If you’re looking for something cheap and cheerful, man-made tiles are the way to go.
But if you want something with more character, natural tiles are definitely the better choice because they create a lavish finish.
However, it’s challenging to work with natural stone, and novice tilers use artificial versions because they’re easier to use. If you want to learn about natural tiles, plenty of tile training courses are available that can teach you advanced techniques.
Never Forget About The Grouting
Once you’ve decided on the perfect tile, it’s essential to think about what grout you want to use. The most popular colours for grout are white and black because they create a clean look.
But if you want something that stands out more, plenty of other colours are available, like blue or green.
You should also consider the finish of your grout, as different types are available. For example, smooth grout is best for small tiles because it creates a seamless look.
Or rough grout is better for larger tiles because it gives more grip.
Once you’ve decided on the perfect tile and grout combination, the final step is to install them.
Top Tips
Hopefully, you find this post helpful, and you can choose suitable tiles for your needs, but there are other things to consider. Here are some top tips from our team of specialists.
Ask for samples: Before you commit to any tiles, it’s vital that you request samples from the retailer. This way, you can see how the tile looks in person and get a feel for the quality.
Consider maintenance: Some tiles are easier to maintain than others, so consider this before making your purchase. For example, natural stone tiles require regular sealing, whereas ceramic tiles are practically maintenance-free.
Do your research: There are so many different types of tiles on the market, but researching before you make your purchase ensures you make the right decision.
Get some practice before tackling a big project: If you’ve never installed tiles before, it’s a good idea to get some training before tackling a big project. You can do this by taking a course that will give you the necessary skills.
Have realistic expectations: With tile installation setting realistic expectations is key. Some tiles are easier to work with than others, but they might not achieve the finish you desire, so it’s best to prioritise whether you want the ease of use or aesthetic appeal.
Final Thoughts
Tiles will last for a long time and always add elegance to an interior. Choosing the right ones will enhance your rooms without spending a fortune on maintenance.
If you’re unsure of how to use tiles properly, please feel free to join one of our courses, and we’ll give you the skills you need to complete any tiling job.