How to Select the Best Tile for Your Project

When you’re redoing a room or other part of your home, selecting tile is one element you can really have fun with. But, while shopping around and seeing all the different types and styles of tile that are available are exciting, the amount of choices you have can also make it an overwhelming endeavor.

Here are some basic guidelines that will help you narrow down your choices and ultimately select the best tile for your home remodeling project.

Durability

If tile will be placed in a high-traffic area, such as a kitchen floor or entryway, you’ll want to be sure to get a kitchen floor tile that is highly durable and can withstand the wear and tear of everyday use. Many natural stones and types of ceramic and porcelain are especially suitable for these areas.

Texture

The texture of tile is an important consideration, particularly when you’ll be using tile for flooring in areas prone to moisture, such as kitchens, bathrooms, entryways, and pool areas. For example, kitchen tile flooring with a textured or matte finish will be less slippery than tile with a smooth or shiny one.

However, if you’re heart is set on a certain tile, don’t let this one factor deter you from choosing it. Many homeowners love the look of polished marble or porcelain tile and feel the beauty outweighs the lack of slip resistance.

Color

While color is a very personal choice, there are a few general rules to keep in mind:

• Lighter colors make a space appear larger and are a great choice for small rooms.
• Darker tones can add warmth and make a space more inviting.
• Neutral colors give you more freedom in choosing (and changing) accessories and other decor.
• Bright colors can add character and create a cheerful atmosphere.

One Final Note

While tiles can appear identical, each piece will have color and shade variations that come together to create a distinct look once completely installed. This is true for both manufactured tile and natural stone slabs.

If you’re able to, get a few sample pieces of the tile you’re considering and lay them out in order to get a better idea of how it will actually look in your home.

To find out more about selecting the best tile for your project, stop by any of our Arizona Tile locations to speak with one of our professionally trained consultants.

Use our Just Imagine Visualizer to see what the tile you’re interested in would look like installed.