Choosing the right tiles is crucial for achieving the desired aesthetic and functionality in your space. From selecting the perfect kitchen tiles to finding stylish yet durable options for your bathroom, there are several factors to consider to ensure you make the best choice.
In this guide, we’ll provide expert guidance on navigating the world of tile, answering your most pressing questions, and helping you make informed decisions, whether you’re exploring the latest trends in wall tiles or seeking advice on selecting them.
Factors to consider when choosing types of tiles :
- Location and Use
- Durability and Maintenance
- Style and Design
- Size and Grout Lines
- Budget
1. Location and use:
Choosing tiles for a particular location and use requires consideration of several factors like durability, aesthetics, and functionality. Here’s a guide on selecting tile based on different factors:
Bathroom:
Choose water-resistant porcelain or ceramic tiles, with a textured finish for the floors to prevent slipping and mould-resistant properties for walls.
Kitchen:
Opt for durable, glazed porcelain or ceramic tile for the floors, and easy-to-clean glass mosaic tiles for backsplashes.
Outdoor Patio:
Select weather-resistant porcelain tiles with textured or anti-slip finishes like slate or travertine for durability.
Living Room :
Use porcelain tiles with wood-look or marble-look options for aesthetics, with large-format tiles to reduce grout lines.
Commercial Space:
Install high PEI-rated porcelain tiles in neutral colors for durability and easy maintenance.
Pool Area:
Choose non-slip porcelain or ceramic tiles designed for pool areas, or glass mosaic tiles for borders, ensuring resistance to water, chemicals, and fading.
2. Durability and Maintenance of tiles:
Choose porcelain or natural stone tile like granite or slate for durability. Opt for smooth, non-porous surfaces to ease maintenance, such as glazed ceramic tile or porcelain with minimal grout lines. Consider high PEI-rated porcelain for durability and a glazed finish for easier cleaning. Ensure proper sealing for natural stone. Balance texture for visual appeal with ease of cleaning.
3. Style & Design:
When choosing tile based on the factors of style and design, it’s essential to consider the aesthetic you want to achieve and where the tiles will be used. Here are some common types of tiles categorized by style and design, along with their typical usage:
Ceramic tiles
offer versatility and various styles, suitable for most areas.
Porcelain tiles
porcelain tiles are durable and low-maintenance, ideal for high-traffic spaces.
Glass tiles
provide a modern and sleek look, perfect for accenting kitchens and bathrooms.
Stone tiles
offer a natural and rustic aesthetic, suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
Mosaic tiles
feature intricate patterns, ideal for artistic installations.
Subway tiles
Subway tiles are classic and timeless, suitable for kitchens and bathrooms.
Patterned tiles
are bold and eye-catching, adding personality to any space.
Hexagonal tiles
Hexagonal tiles offer modern geometric shapes, great for floors and walls.
Wood-look tiles
mimic the warmth of wood with the durability of tile.
Concrete tiles
provide an industrial and minimalist aesthetic, suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
Marble
give an elegant and luxurious look, marble tile is best for accent walls, bathroom floors, and countertops
Travertine Tiles
give a natural, rustic appearance, and are commonly used for flooring and outdoor patios.
Granite Tiles
Durable and polished, granite tile work well for kitchen countertops and bathroom vanities.
Natural Stone Tile
Unique in texture and color, natural stone tile (like slate or limestone) are ideal for outdoor spaces and feature walls.
4. Size and Grout lines:
1. Size:
When selecting tile, start with measuring space. Keep the proportion in your mind. Large tile size gives a spacious look while the smaller tile size can give a crowded look. Measure the space carefully and maintain the balance between aesthetics and functionality while choosing the right size.
Remember that tile thickness matters too. Most floor tiles have a standard thickness of 10 millimeters (0.39 inches), which is versatile and suitable for both floors and walls. Thicker tile (up to 20 millimeters or 0.79 inches) is sturdy and often used for outdoor pavers.
2. Grout lines:
Grout lines refer to the width of the space between tile, filled with either cement-based or epoxy material. It impacts the appearance and maintenance of the tiled surface, with larger lines creating a pronounced grid pattern and smaller lines offering a seamless look.
The size of these lines varies depending on tile type and desired appearance. For example, natural stone tile typically have narrower joints, around 1/16 inch wide, while large-format tile may require wider joints, up to 3/16 inch, to accommodate warping and patterns.
Choosing the right grout size enhances durability and visual appeal.
5. Budget:
Choosing tile based on budget and quality can be a critical decision when it comes to home renovations or construction. Here’s a guide to selecting tile considering budget constraints and highlighting some reputable brands, including House of Tyles, in India and specifically in Pune:
Budget-friendly Options:
- Ceramic Tile: Generally the most affordable option with decent durability and a wide range of designs. Look for budget-friendly options from reputable brands.
- Vinyl Tile: Affordable and available in various designs, including those that mimic natural materials like wood or stone. Easy to install and maintain.
Moderate Budget:
- Porcelain Tile: Offer superior durability and versatility compared to ceramic tile. Suitable for high-traffic areas and available in various styles.
- Vitrified Tile: Vitrified tile is a type of ceramic tile with low porosity, making them highly durable and highly resistant to moisture.
Higher Budget:
- Natural Stone Tile: Premium quality and luxurious aesthetic. Options like marble, granite, or slate can significantly enhance the value of your property.
- Glass Tile: Modern and sleek aesthetic, suitable for backsplashes and accent walls. Consider them for areas where you want to add a touch of luxury.
Best Brands for Tile in India and Pune:
House of Tyles:
Quality, personalized service, Offers a range of options catering to different budgets and design preferences. House of tyles has an office situated in Pune.
Kajaria:
Diverse range, residential, commercial.
Somany Ceramics:
Innovative designs, high-quality.
Nitco :
Durability, comprehensive selection.
Orientbell:
Budget-friendly, durable, and innovative.
When it comes to selecting the perfect tile for your space, we understand that there’s more to consider than just aesthetics. At House of Tyles, we pride ourselves on offering a diverse range of tile to suit every need, budget, and preference. Whether you’re renovating your kitchen, bathroom, or any other area, we’ve got you covered. Visit our website or reach out to us today to explore our extensive selection and discover how to choose the right tile for your project. With factors like budget, size, and usage in mind, along with explanations of various tile types, making the perfect choice has never been easier.
Let us help you by bringing your vision to life with the ideal tile solution.