Choosing the right material for your floor

CERAMIC TILE

Choosing your ceramic tile might be the hardest part of a tile project. There are literally thousands of colors, sizes, styles, shapes and grades to choose from.

The trend in ceramic tile used to be to stay as neutral as possible. In fact, most of the tiles sold for home use were either white, almond or gray. Nowadays, white and almond, are still the most common, but people are experimenting more with colour. Colours are getting warmer and brighter, as well as clearer and cleaner.{{more}}

Tile Sizes and Shapes

As far as size goes, the most popular tile sold is still the 4-1/4” square wall tile. However, the current trend is towards larger tiles, like 12x12s and even 18 x18s. It’s tough, for a do-it-yourselfer, to install anything bigger than this, because the floor has to be absolutely even and level.

Small one inch tiles are also common. These are called mosaic tiles, because you can mix different colors to create borders, patterns, and even pictures. These are usually joined together in 12”x12” or 12”x24” sheets, to make them easier and quicker to set. You can even have custom patterns made.

VINYL

There are several pros and cons to using vinyl tiles on your floor.

Pros

Great Value: Vinyl tile is one of the best values in flooring.

Easy Installation: For DIYers, glueless and peel ‘n stick vinyl tile is the easiest floor to install.

Install Anywhere in the Home: Can be installed in any room, including bathrooms.

Can be installed on all levels including below grade.

Wide Variety of Designs, Sizes and Shapes: A wide variety of designs ranging from natural materials to original patterns in 12” x 12”, large formats and planks. Vinyl has the look of wood, stone or ceramic tile at a lower price point.

Low Maintenance: Just sweep and mop occasionally.

Cons

Lower Life Expectancy: Vinyl tile will not last as long as hardwood, ceramic tile or linoleum.

Seams Can Accumulate Dirt and Moisture: Water can seep into tile seams. This can create maintenance, adhesive bonding and subfloor issues.

Gouging and Tearing: Resilient, vinyl tile is easier to gouge and tear than ceramic tile. In higher traffic areas, be sure to install thicker vinyl tile for better performance.

Does Not Increase Home’s Value: Vinyl tile is less likely than natural flooring products to enhance the monetary value of your home.

Angelica and Rayan James
Exclusive Kitchens
494 2579 / 532 6756
www.exclusivekitchensvc.com