Choosing the Right Tile Patterns

A tile project in your kitchen or bathroom can be something as simple as a backsplash update or as complicated as a complete floor replacement. Either way, it's a good investment in your house when you plan carefully and select the best material for your lifestyle.

Bearing the weight

Before choosing tile, you need to determine if your home can structurally support it. Consider the condition of your house's joists, subflooring, and underlayment. Strength, evenness, and resistance to moisture are crucial. Tile may eventually crack if installed on a surface that isn't level or moisture resistant. If you're unsure how to proceed, contact a professional flooring contractor like Superior Stone and Cabinet for guidance. They offer tile flooring as well as complete kitchen and bathroom remodels.

If your structure can't support hard tile like ceramic or stone, linoleum tile is a low-cost, environmentally friendly, easy-to-clean option. While it may remind some homeowners of dated mid-century kitchens, today's linoleum is readily available in stylish contemporary patterns and colors.

Form and function

Consider how your tiled surfaces will be used before you choose a material. For example, will you be tiling an area with high foot traffic? If so, consider how you'll keep your floors clean, especially the grout. If you don't want to compromise on appearance but don't have time to clean, you can always outsource care to professionals like those at Desert Tile and Grout Care, who have been keeping tile pristine in the Phoenix area for over 15 years.

The risk of slips and falls in the bathroom should be taken seriously. A tile that offers a bit of traction can reduce the chance of an accident. By contrast, highly glazed tile repels water and is a good candidate for shower walls or sink backsplashes.

Food prep areas have their own considerations. Heat resistance, porosity, and staining should be weighed when choosing tile for a kitchen surface. Marble is a timeless classic, but it's not ideal for tiling a working kitchen surface because it absorbs liquids, which can lead to staining, and it doesn't stand up well to heat. Grout in tile of any kind also runs the risk of stains.

If you're intent on using a certain material and are determined to make it work, a good tile sealer can reduce the chance of staining.

True to form

Your personal style matters, and the tile should reflect it. If you aren't planning to sell your house in the next few years, resale value is less important than your own comfort in your surroundings. Whether you want bold patterns, a traditional look, or uncompromising minimalism, your choice of tile is virtually limitless. A consultation with a flooring professional can guide you to create a look that you can love for years to come.

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