How to Choose the Right Tile for Your Home Remodelling Project
When you're remodelling your home, you may want to install some new floor or wall tiles, as tiles are very durable and easy to clean but will also improve the look of any space. New tiles can better protect a bathroom or kitchen from potential water damage, and also help to block out heat and cold, making the room more comfortable. When you're ready to choose the tiles you want for your project, note a few tips to keep in mind, so you know you get the right type of tile and are happy with the finished look for years to come:
Absorption rate
When choosing tile for a room that's often damp, such as a kitchen, bathroom or laundry room, you may be thinking that one tile material is better than another. However, rather than worrying about a particular material, first ensure that you don't choose a floor tile with a very smooth surface that could be slick when wet. Then, consider the absorption rate of a tile. This refers to how much water it will absorb when wet; the lower the absorption rate, the less water it will collect and the less likely it is that the tiles will get damaged from excess humidity.
Glazed tiles
Glazed tiles have a coloured coating added to their surface, and the tile is then baked so the coating becomes solid. While this is very attractive, this glaze will eventually wear away and the tile would then need to be replaced, so consider using glazed tile only for walls and floors that get very little foot traffic. If you want the look of glazing for a floor, consider glass tiles; these are also available in a wide range of colours and tones, but the glass surface won't wear away under heavy traffic.
Wall versus floor tiles
When choosing tiles for your remodelling, be sure you choose between wall or floor tiles, depending on their application. Wall tiles may be very smooth, which can make them too slick for walking on, especially in any area that may hold humidity, as mentioned above. Floor tiles, however, may be too heavy to hang on the wall, and they may slide out of position and cause damage. Some tiles are usable for both floors and walls, so if you want to decorate a room by having the floor tile run up a wall, be sure you choose a tile that is applicable for both surfaces.
