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Love it or hate it, floor tiles are a must-have in any home remodel. They can transform the look and feel of not only a room but also bring plenty of practical perks. The floor should be easy to clean, be able to withstand daily wear and tear, and offer enough styles to make sure there is something for everyone.
This guide is for anyone wanting to open themselves up to floor tiles, discerning choices of colour that help make the right mood, right sizes for all rooms; from the comfortable and welcoming living room to your modern and chic kitchen, and that perfect mini-spa for a bathroom. There will be measurements included, coupled with layout tips, and how to maintain that beautiful sparkle of your tiles over the years.
So if you're ready to see how floor tiles can transform your home into a stylish sanctuary, let's plunge ahead! With this guide, you'll have everything needed to make choices to love forever.
Why Should You Have Floor Tiles in Your Home?
Floor Tiles Look Great in Every Room
Think of tiles as the ultimate blank canvas. Any style that you prefer-whether it be a sleek modern look or rustic feel or maybe even a dash of pure luxury-is possible. Floor tiles can adapt themselves with vibrant colours and intricate patterns like never before and add to the character without making a loud statement or that ambiance of quiet elegance due to the neutral tones. In a way, they are the chameleons of flooring-they can blend in practically with any design scheme and can inhabit a certain room tailored to its use. The kitchen needs to stand up to the constant foot traffic, while the bathroom has its own set of challenges, like needing something that's slip-resistant, and tiles manage to cater to both situations with ease.
Moreover, floor tiles aren't just for a couple of rooms. Those days, when the tiles were needed just for bathrooms or kitchens, are gone. They can be seen in the living room, the hallway, and even the bedroom. With good reason, there are floor tiles. Modern sophistication to withstand traffic, spills, and wear and tear is effortlessly added with these stylish, incredibly versatile tiles. The adaptability of tiles has created their indispensability in modern home design by offering a wide frame of looks and functions for the homeowner to choose from for every unique space.
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Floor Tiles are A Long-Term Investment That’s Worth It
The reputation of floor tiles is that they are tough—and that's no exaggeration. Unlike most flooring options, tiles are incredibly durable, lasting decades if taken care of. This long life span makes them well worth the investment for homeowners who want to enjoy a lovely floor and not constantly worry about replacing or maintaining it. Tiles are suitable for families with children, pets, or even just the usual hubbub of daily life and stand up to heavy use without complaint.
Tiles won't mind water, making them an ideal choice in the light of spills or wet environments, say, in the bathroom, kitchen, or mudroom. Year after year, tiles maintain their "just-out-of-the-package" appearance with only a small cleaning routine. Also, tiles stand up exceptionally well to heavy sun exposure without fading, cracking, or warping. In short, floor tiles can handle just about anything life throws at them, making them one of the most durable choices for modern homes.
Floor Tiles Are Stylish & Easy To Maintain
With their attractive appearance and straightforward maintenance, floor tiles are a great option for contemporary homes. They come in different colors, styles, sizes, and materials including ceramic, porcelain, marble, and glass. Choosing tiles from various looks can help homeowners find the one that matches their favorite style, either it is traditional and contemporary. One of the biggest advantages of floor tiles is their low-maintenance.
Cleaning is usually easy, with just water and a mop needed for routine maintenance. Tiles are especially good for high-traffic areas and spill-prone rooms, since spills and stains can be wiped up quickly with no trace left behind. Durability and longevity are also prominent features of floor tiles. They also repel stains, moisture, and wear-and-tear, making them perfect for heavy traffic areas.
How to Choose the Right Tile Size for Each Room
Understand That Tile Size Affects How You Perceive Your Room
Tile size has a surprising impact on the perception of space in a room. The right choice can make a room feel more open, cosy, or even more organised. Here’s a simple rule of thumb: larger tiles tend to make a room feel more spacious, while smaller tiles create a more intricate, textured look. But there's more to it than that.
In compact spaces, like small bathrooms, large tiles can actually make the room feel bigger by reducing the number of grout lines. Fewer grout lines mean a more seamless look, creating the illusion of a larger, uninterrupted surface. On the other hand, small tiles can add charm and depth to smaller rooms, especially if you’re looking for a cozy or detailed aesthetic. For example, mosaic tiles can be perfect for adding character in a compact shower area or as a backsplash, giving it a stylish edge.
In large rooms, bigger tiles can enhance that sense of openness, while smaller tiles might make a large space feel more visually busy than intended. Imagine a spacious living room: larger tiles can give it a clean, sophisticated look, while smaller ones might break up the space too much. Think of it as creating a balance that complements the room’s dimensions and layout. It’s about making the tiles work with the room, not against it.
The Best Tile Sizes for Kitchens, Bathrooms, Living Rooms, and Bedrooms
When it comes to different rooms, tile size isn’t a one-size-fits-all situation. Each space in your home has its own requirements, and picking the right tile size is key to achieving the look and feel you want.
- Kitchens: For kitchens, medium to large tiles (like 12x12 inches or 18x18 inches) are often ideal. These sizes provide a clean, spacious look while still handling the wear and tear a kitchen floor sees. Kitchens benefit from tiles that are large enough to avoid excessive grout lines, but not so large that they overpower the room.
- Bathrooms: Bathrooms generally do well with medium to small-sized tiles. Large tiles, like 12x24 inches, are popular because they create a seamless look and make the bathroom feel bigger, even if it’s a small space. For shower floors or wall accents, smaller tiles (think mosaics or 4x4 inches) can add texture and grip, which is also great for safety.
- Living Rooms and Entryways: Large spaces like living rooms and entryways look fantastic with larger tiles, such as 18x18 inches or even 24x24 inches. These bigger tiles lend a sophisticated, open feel to the room, ideal for creating a spacious, welcoming vibe right when you walk in. They also hold up well underfoot in high-traffic areas.
- Bedrooms: Bedrooms are flexible, but larger tiles (like 12x24 inches) can be an excellent choice if you’re aiming for a calm, expansive feel. Smaller tiles could work if you’re creating a cosy, cottage-like atmosphere, but generally, larger tiles keep things simple and elegant.
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Avoid Waste and Find the Right Fit
Getting the right tile size is only part of the equation—you also want to make sure you’re buying the correct amount and planning for a smooth installation. Here are a few practical tips:
- Measure the Floor Area Accurately: Before you start shopping, measure the length and width of the floor in each room where you’ll be laying tiles. Multiply these dimensions to find the area. Don’t forget to account for any odd angles or alcoves—accurate measurements mean less waste and better coverage.
- Add Extra for Cuts and Breakage: When ordering tiles, always add an extra 10-15% to your total to allow for cutting, trimming, and possible breakage. This helps ensure that even if you make a mistake or a few tiles crack during installation, you’ll have enough on hand without needing to make a return trip to the store.
- Consider Tile Layout and Pattern: Decide how you want to arrange the tiles before you start the installation. Some patterns, like herringbone or diagonal layouts, may require extra tiles and slightly more planning to avoid cuts in awkward places. Laying tiles out in the desired pattern first helps you visualize the end result and avoid surprises.
- Get Samples: Finally, don’t skip the sample stage. Getting a sample or two lets you see how the tile size will actually look in your room’s lighting and layout. Sometimes, a tile that looks perfect in the store might feel too large or small once it’s home, so samples can save you from costly mistakes.
Exploring Tile Styles: What’s Right for Your Home?
Choosing the perfect tile style for each room is more than a matter of taste; it’s about balancing aesthetics with the practical needs of the space. From timeless marble to versatile ceramic, each style brings unique qualities that can transform a room. Here’s an exploration of popular styles, how they fit into different room functions, and tips on blending tiles with your home’s décor.
Popular Styles and Where They Shine
Tiles come in various styles, each with its own distinct look and practical benefits, so it’s essential to understand where they work best. Marble, for instance, brings a sense of luxury that’s ideal for creating elegant bathrooms or impressive entryways. Known for its natural veining and soft, neutral colours, marble adds a sophisticated touch, but because it’s porous, it’s best suited for lower-traffic areas or where it won’t be exposed to excessive moisture.
If you’re drawn to the warmth and character of wood but need something more resilient, wood-look tiles are a fantastic choice. These tiles are crafted to mimic wood grain, with options ranging from light oak to deep walnut. Ideal for open-plan spaces or rooms that blend into one another, wood-look tiles are perfect for living rooms, kitchens, and even bathrooms, providing the charm of wood with the durability of tile.
Ceramic and Porcelain tiles are incredibly versatile and widely used in high-traffic areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways. Ceramic offers an affordable range of styles, while porcelain is denser and more durable, making it suitable for areas exposed to moisture. Both materials come in various patterns, colours, and textures, letting you experiment with different looks while ensuring durability and easy maintenance.
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Blending Style with Functionality
Choosing a tile style is about more than looks; it also needs to work with the room’s functionality. High-moisture areas, for example, need tiles that can handle constant exposure to water. Porcelain is a top choice here because it’s non-porous, making it an excellent fit for bathrooms, kitchens, and utility rooms. Marble may be beautiful, but without regular sealing, it can absorb moisture over time, making it a more high-maintenance choice.
High-traffic areas, such as hallways or family rooms, benefit from durable, scratch-resistant tiles. Porcelain shines here again due to its toughness, but ceramic can also work well for moderate traffic. If you’re considering natural stone for a high-traffic space, be prepared for more upkeep, as softer stones might wear more quickly. For outdoor areas, tiles need to be exterior-rated. Exterior-grade porcelain tiles are a solid option, handling the elements without cracking or fading and offering slip resistance for patios or pathways.
Finding a Style That Matches Your Décor
Matching tile styles with your home’s existing décor is essential for creating a cohesive, harmonious look. Start with your room’s colour palette. If your walls and furniture lean toward neutral tones, a bold tile choice can make a fantastic focal point. However, if the room already has vibrant colours, a neutral tile can balance things out. Shades like grey and beige are ideal for a minimalist or modern look, while patterned tiles add charm to eclectic or vintage-inspired spaces.
Furniture style plays a role too. Wood-look tiles fit beautifully with rustic or farmhouse furniture, while polished tiles enhance modern or minimalist rooms. If your home’s style leans toward classic or traditional, textured or patterned tiles can add an elegant touch that ties everything together. For a seamless effect, match tile colours or textures to the finishes in your furniture or fixtures—this helps each element flow naturally into the next.
Finally, consider any architectural features in the room. Exposed beams, a grand fireplace, or even a large picture window can guide your tile choice. Natural stone tiles compliment exposed brick or wood, grounding the space in a timeless aesthetic. In contrast, contemporary spaces benefit from large-format, polished tiles that enhance clean lines and open spaces.
Choosing the right tile style involves more than aesthetics; it’s about understanding how each style fits into the room’s functionality, your home’s overall décor, and even architectural features. With the right approach, tiles can be more than just flooring—they can become a defining feature that brings each room to life, seamlessly blending beauty and practicality.
Choosing Tile Colours: Setting the Mood in Every Room
Tile colours play a powerful role in setting the mood and character of each room in your home. Whether you prefer calming neutrals, vibrant shades, or a blend of both, the right colour can make your spaces feel inviting, energetic, or serene. Here’s a guide to understanding how colour influences ambiance, picking the best shades for different rooms, and mixing colours to create a balanced look.
Colour Psychology in Interior Design
In interior design, colours do much more than look good—they can also shape the way a room feels. Soft, neutral tones like creams, beiges, and light greys are known for their calming effect, making them a popular choice for creating restful spaces. Neutrals are particularly versatile; they create a soothing backdrop and blend seamlessly with almost any décor. Lighter shades tend to open up a room, making it feel larger and airier, which is ideal for smaller spaces or rooms with minimal natural light.
On the other end of the spectrum, bold colours bring energy and personality to a space. Deep blues, vibrant greens, or rich terracotta can add warmth and make a statement, ideal for areas where you want to spark conversation or creativity. For instance, a splash of colour in a kitchen or dining area can add a lively, welcoming touch, creating a more engaging atmosphere.
Warm tones like yellows and oranges give off a cosy, inviting feel and work well in spaces where you want to encourage warmth and connection, like living rooms or social areas. Cooler tones, like blues and greens, bring a sense of calm and relaxation, ideal for spaces where you want to unwind, such as bedrooms or bathrooms. Understanding the psychology behind colour can help you choose shades that complement the purpose of each room and enhance the experience of being in the space.
Best Colours for Specific Rooms
Different rooms call for different moods, and tile colours can help you set the right tone. Bedrooms, for instance, are spaces for relaxation, so softer, muted tones work well here. Light blues, gentle greys, and pastel shades can create a serene, tranquil atmosphere that’s perfect for unwinding after a long day. If you prefer a more sophisticated look, darker shades like deep greys or even slate can bring a cosy, intimate feel without overwhelming the space.
In kitchens, brighter tones are often a favourite as they add energy and vibrancy. Light or pastel tiles are great for a clean, fresh look, especially in smaller kitchens where you want to create an airy feel. White, off-white, and soft green tiles are popular in traditional kitchens, while modern spaces might favour more daring colours like deep green or navy to make a bold statement.
Bathrooms are often where you can get a little more adventurous with colour. Cool blues, greens, and soft greys are popular as they evoke a spa-like calm. For a more luxurious feel, rich colours like emerald or dark teal can add depth and elegance, especially when combined with metallic accents. Bathrooms with smaller spaces benefit from lighter hues that open up the area, while larger bathrooms can handle deeper tones without feeling cramped.
Living rooms and hallways are generally more versatile, with options ranging from neutrals to warm tones. If you want a classic, timeless look, neutrals like beige, taupe, or grey are ideal. However, for a cosier feel, try incorporating warm hues like terracotta, rust, or soft brown. These colours create a welcoming environment, especially in family rooms or entryways where you want to feel instantly at home.
Mixing and Matching Colours
Experimenting with tile colours can add personality to your spaces, but it’s essential to balance it carefully to avoid overwhelming the room. If you want to introduce multiple colours, consider using one as the main hue and the others as accents. For example, in a bathroom, you might choose a calming blue as the primary colour and add small tiles in white or grey to create subtle contrast.
Patterns can be a fantastic way to introduce colour without taking over the room. Herringbone or checkerboard patterns work well in kitchens or bathrooms and allow you to play with two or three colours that complement each other. Mixing tiles in a neutral shade with a few bold accents can bring energy to the space without feeling too intense.
If you’re keen on a bolder look, try creating a feature wall or floor with vibrant tiles while keeping the rest of the room in a more subdued shade. This approach works well in open-plan spaces, where you can use colour to define different areas without needing physical dividers. Another option is to use colour to highlight architectural features, like a fireplace, kitchen island, or shower niche, creating a focal point that enhances the room’s character.
Choosing the right tile colours is about understanding both the effect of each hue and the unique mood you want to create in each room. Whether you lean towards soft neutrals or are drawn to bold colours, tiles offer endless possibilities to express your style and make every space feel intentional. By thoughtfully selecting shades and experimenting with combinations, you can achieve a home that feels cohesive, inviting, and uniquely yours.
How to Measure and Prepare for Your Tile Installation
Installing new tiles isn’t just about picking the perfect style—it also involves precise measurements and careful preparation to ensure the finished job looks polished and lasts well. Whether you're planning a DIY installation or considering hiring a professional, this guide will walk you through measuring your space accurately, prepping your room, and weighing up whether to tackle the job yourself or call in an expert. For further detail, check out The Online Tile Shop’s Ultimate Kitchen Tile Guide, which offers additional insights into tile selection and preparation.
How To Measure Your Space
Accurate measurements are essential to avoid wasted materials and ensure you order the right quantity of tiles. Here’s a straightforward way to measure up:
- Measure the Length and Width: Start by measuring the length and width of your floor area using a tape measure, ideally in metres, as tiles are usually sold per square metre. Write down these dimensions to avoid confusion.
- Calculate the Area: Multiply the length by the width to get the total area in square metres. For rooms with unusual shapes, split the space into smaller sections, calculate each one separately, then add them up for an accurate total.
- Allow for Extra Tiles: To account for cutting and potential breakages, add an extra 10-15% to your total. This buffer ensures you won’t run out mid-project, and any leftover tiles are handy for future repairs. For patterned layouts like herringbone, increase this extra to 20%, as patterns often require additional tiles.
With these steps, you’ll have a clear estimate of the number of tiles needed, saving both time and money in the long run.
Make Sure To Prepare the Room
Proper room preparation is crucial to achieving a smooth, professional finish that lasts. Here’s how to ready your space:
- Clear the Area: Start by moving furniture, appliances, or other items out of the way to give yourself full access to the floor. Remove any existing flooring if necessary, and clean the surface to get rid of dust or debris.
- Level the Floor: Uneven surfaces can lead to a poor finish, so check that the floor is level. Use a leveling compound if there are any dips or high spots. A smooth, level surface is essential for the tiles to adhere correctly and prevents them from cracking over time.
- Waterproofing (for Wet Areas): If you’re tiling a bathroom, kitchen, or any area exposed to moisture, waterproofing is essential. Apply a waterproof membrane to protect against moisture penetration and help prevent water damage. This layer ensures that the tiles last longer and keeps the underlying structure safe.
- Priming the Floor: Priming the surface can also help the adhesive bond better, especially on smoother surfaces like concrete or wood. This extra step can prevent issues with tiles lifting later on.
Taking the time to prepare your room carefully will make installation smoother and help achieve a polished, professional look.
Should You DIY or Hire a Professional?
Now comes the big question: should you install the tiles yourself, or call in an expert? Here’s what to consider:
- Skill Level and Tools: DIY tile installation can be rewarding, but it requires a steady hand, patience, and the right tools. If you’re comfortable with basic DIY tasks and have the equipment—such as tile cutters, spacers, and levels—DIY might be an option. However, tiling is detail-oriented work, so if you’re unsure, it’s often best to leave it to a professional.
- Complexity of the Job: Straightforward layouts on a level floor can be manageable for a DIYer. However, if you’re dealing with intricate patterns, uneven floors, or large spaces, a professional can ensure that everything aligns perfectly. Skilled tilers also bring experience in handling issues that can arise during the process.
- Budget Considerations: DIY is cost-effective if you’re comfortable with the work, but hiring a professional is an investment in quality and longevity. While hiring a tiler adds to the budget, a well-installed tile floor can save you from future repairs, giving you peace of mind and a polished finish that lasts.
Choosing between DIY and a professional depends on your confidence level and the scope of your project. Whichever you decide, take the time to plan and prepare for the best results.
For a deeper dive into installation tips, visit The Online Tile Shop’s Ultimate Kitchen Tile Guide. It offers additional guidance to help you make the most informed choice for your home.
Maintenance Tips for Keeping Your Floor Tiles Looking Fresh
Once your beautiful floor tiles are installed, keeping them looking fresh and vibrant is key to maintaining that new-tile charm for years to come. The good news? With the right approach, tile floors are easy to care for, even in high-traffic areas. Here’s how to establish an everyday cleaning routine, handle spills and stains, and give your tiles the long-term care they deserve.
Remember To Clean Daily
A consistent cleaning routine goes a long way in keeping tiles looking their best. One of the main benefits of tile is its resistance to dirt and grime, so daily upkeep is straightforward.
To keep tiles free from dust and debris, a quick sweep or vacuum every day or two is a great place to start. This prevents particles from settling into the grout or scratching the tile surface, especially in high-traffic areas. For a more thorough clean, a damp mop with warm water and a gentle, pH-neutral cleaner once a week will lift any surface dirt and leave tiles looking polished. Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia, as they can dull the tiles over time and damage grout.
For added shine, a quick wipe with a microfibre cloth after mopping helps to dry the tiles and gives them a fresh finish. This is particularly useful for glossy tiles or tiles in areas like the kitchen, where water spots might be more visible.
Handle Spills and Stains
Spills are bound to happen, especially in busy areas like kitchens and dining rooms. The key to preventing stains is to act quickly. With most tiles, a simple wipe with a damp cloth will do the trick if you catch the spill straight away.
For tougher stains, like coffee or red wine, use a mixture of warm water and a mild detergent. Apply the solution with a soft cloth or sponge and gently scrub the stain until it lifts. Be careful with abrasive scrubbers, as these can scratch or dull the tile surface, particularly on glossy or polished tiles.
Grout is more susceptible to staining than the tiles themselves, so for stubborn grout stains, try using a paste made from baking soda and water. Apply it to the grout line, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub gently with a soft brush. Regular grout sealing can help prevent stains from setting in, especially in areas like bathrooms or kitchens where moisture and spills are frequent.
Our Long-Term Care Tips
While daily and weekly cleaning keep tiles looking fresh, a few occasional maintenance steps help preserve their longevity and keep them in top condition.
One long-term care tip is to schedule deep cleaning sessions every few months. During these, consider using a specialised tile cleaner to remove any build-up that regular mopping might miss. Deep cleaning also allows you to target grout lines, where dirt can accumulate over time. Sealing grout every six months to a year adds an extra layer of protection, preventing moisture, stains, and dirt from penetrating the surface. Some tile types, like natural stone, may also benefit from sealing to keep them protected from stains and general wear.
Finally, if your tiles are in outdoor spaces or areas exposed to direct sunlight, consider using blinds or rugs to prevent colour fading. UV rays can gradually cause discolouration, so protecting your tiles in sunny spots will help them retain their colour for years to come.
By following these simple cleaning routines, handling spills promptly, and taking steps to protect tiles in the long run, your floor tiles will maintain their good looks and durability. With a little attention to upkeep, your tile floors will continue to bring style and function to your home, looking fresh and polished season after season.
Transform Your Home with the Right Floor Tiles
Choosing the right floor tile can make an incredible difference in how each room in your home feels and functions. From adding warmth and texture to creating a sleek, modern look, floor tiles are a powerful design tool that goes beyond just aesthetics. The right tiles not only elevate your space visually but also offer durability and ease of maintenance, ensuring your floors stay beautiful and practical for years to come.
Exploring different tile options allows you to match your personal style with the specific needs of each room. Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of marble, the resilience of porcelain, or the charm of wood-look tiles, there’s an ideal choice out there that can transform your home into a space that feels cohesive, inviting, and uniquely yours. Don’t be afraid to consider various sizes, colours, and finishes that align with your lifestyle and design goals.
For a wide selection of high-quality tiles that can bring your vision to life, visit The Online Tile Shop. With expert guidance and a variety of options to suit every room and budget, it’s the perfect place to find floor tiles that will truly enhance your home. Make a choice you’ll love and step into a home that feels tailored to you.
