Few tools can do the job better than tile when adding color, pattern, and texture to a room. There is a world of options, from floor tiles to splashbacks.
However, picking suitable tiles can be a tricky task. Here are some top tips from experts to help you choose the perfect ones for your home:
1. Think About Your Style
Whether doing a minor design refresh for a single room or a complete renovation for the entire home in Ottawa, picking the right tile is critical. It not only helps to ensure a beautiful result, but it also can make a significant difference in the return on investment you get when it comes time to sell.
It’s essential to have a clear idea of the overall style you are trying to achieve before you start shopping for tiles. This can help narrow down your options and avoid costly mistakes.
Think about how much use the space will receive and your lifestyle. For example, frosted green glass tiles might look stunning but must be more suitable for high-traffic areas where they could easily be scratched.
2. Consider Your Space
Whether you’re looking to add floor or wall tiles, knowing where to start with all the options on the market can be challenging. From stone look to marble look, hexagon to amaretto mosaic – it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the vast choice!
When choosing tiles, it’s essential to consider the size of your space and how you want it to look. Larger tiles can make a small room feel larger, while smaller tiles create a more compact, contemporary look.
Tiles come in various colors and patterns, so you can choose one that suits your style or mix and match different types to create a unique look. However, it’s essential to remember that darker colors can absorb light and make a room feel smaller.
3. Get Samples
Choosing tile for your home in Ottawa is one of the most significant decisions you’ll make during your remodel. It’s a process that requires careful research and consideration, especially when selecting specialty tiles. The vast number of options available can be overwhelming initially, but knowing what to look for can help you find the perfect tiles for your space.
It’s always a good idea to get samples before you start ordering. This can give you an idea of how the color will look in person, especially if it’s something natural like stone or ceramic. It’s also helpful to see how the color changes throughout the day and under different lighting conditions. Samples will also help you determine whether you want a sheen or matte finish.
4. Check the Material
Whether you’re redoing your shower floors or your entire bathroom, choosing suitable tiles for your home is essential. The options are endless, from ceramic to porcelain, stone, marble to glass!
Despite their many beautiful styles and designs, different tile materials can vary in price and durability. Choosing the suitable material for your space can make all the difference in how easy your tiles are to clean and maintain.
It’s also worth knowing that certain tiles are more difficult to clean than others. For example, textured tiles with crevices may require more frequent scrubbing than smooth ones.
Always check the maintenance requirements for your chosen tile before you order! The last thing you want is a costly mistake! Our top tips for choosing the perfect tiles will help you avoid expensive errors.
5. Check the Hardness
The variety of tiles available in size, color, and rating can be overwhelming. However, understanding what each tile type is best for can help you narrow your choices.
For example, a rough texture with notches may need to be scuffed and scrubbed more often than a smooth tile. This could be a problem if you have young kids or pets.
Checking the hardness is an easy way to determine how a tile will perform for your space. The streak test is performed by rubbing the tile’s surface against a mineral with a known hardness rating.
A mineral with a lower hardness rating will leave a white streak, while a harder one will not. This helps determine the PEI Class ratings and whether a tile suits walls or floors.