Everything to Know About Tiles for Walls & Floors

Homeowners often seek to personalize their homes to suit their style, personality, taste, and so on. They perform various home improvements to achieve their goals. Part of the home modifications includes tiling the floors and walls. As Innovative Property Solutions explains, property owners shop for tiles and discover several types available. It sometimes becomes confusing.

If you are considering having wall tiles in your home, this article will explain everything you should know about tiles for floors and walls.

Different shapes and sizes of tiles

Floor and wall tiles come in various shapes and sizes. Sometimes, these may also vary depending on the manufacturer. As a result, some tiles may be difficult to get elsewhere.

Before you settle on tile size, it would be best to determine what you intend to achieve. Below are some guidelines to help you choose the suitable tile size for your floors and walls.

· Use rectangular or plank-style tiles on the floor to make long rectangular rooms appear more spacious than they are.

· Use smaller tiles to create an edge or border with large tiles in the middle to make a large room feel cozier.

· Large floor and wall tiles will make a small room appear larger. That is because there will be fewer grout lines to break up the pattern. However, avoid using tiles larger than 18" in tiny rooms.

· You can add texture to floors and walls by using small mosaic tiles in areas like toilets, bathrooms, backsplashes, sinks, etc.

· Use similar color and tile finish with different shapes and sizes set in a random pattern to obtain added texture without impairing the sense of space.

· Rectangular-shaped tile sizes

Rectangular tiles come in different sizes. Standard sizes of rectangular tiles are:

· 6" x 8", 5" x 2", 3", 4", 6" and 8"

· 4" x 4.5", 5", 6", and 8".

· 3" x 4", 5", 6", and 8".

· 2" x 3", 4", 5", 6" and 8".

· 1" x 2", 3" and 4".

· Larger ones such as 24" x 48", and 12" x 24".

Subway tiles sizes

These are a subset of rectangular tiles. There were first used to decorate subway stations like the New York City Hall subway. The sizes include:

· 4" x 8", 12" and 16"

· 3" x 6", 8", and 12"

· 2" x 4", 6", 8" and 12"

· 1" x 3", 4", and 6".

Subway tiles are popularly used on bathroom walls and kitchen backsplashes. However, some creative interior designers can use them on floors too. Subway and rectangular tiles of smaller sizes will make larger rooms feel cozy, whereas larger versions will make smaller chambers appear bigger.

· Square-shaped tile sizes

These are the commonest shape of tiles. They come in different sizes. Standard square tiles come in the following sizes 2", 3", 4", 6", 8", 12", 16", 18", and 24". However, some manufacturers have bigger sizes like 36" x 36" and 48" x 48". Suitable ones for floors are from size 6" upwards. Those below 6" are more suitable for walls.

It is easier to work with square tiles because it is easy to calculate the surface area. However, square tiles can be boring. You need to be creative with the installation pattern.

Types of tiles based on materials

· Vinyl tiles

Vinyl tile is available in many formats and designs. Use it only in locations approved for that product, with the specified substrate preparation, adhesive or locking system, and moisture controls.

· Cement tiles

Cement tile can require sealing before installation and after grouting. Factory treatment and product instructions determine the sequence. Confirm the exact tile and compatible sealer before starting; do not assume cement tile arrives sealed.

· Ceramic tiles

Ceramic tiles are made from natural materials like clay and others. Part of the manufacturing process involves glazing and treatment with stunning glazed color to give it a glossier and brighter finish. You can use this tile on floors and walls.

· Natural stone

Natural stone varies in absorption, finish and care requirements. A suitable impregnator can improve stain resistance where recommended, but it does not make stone waterproof or stain-proof. Confirm the particular stone and intended application.

· Porcelain tile material

Porcelain is a type of ceramic tile with low water absorption. Check the individual tile’s floor or wall approval, abrasion performance and slip information instead of assuming every porcelain product suits every surface.

Tile installation

When you think of installing tiles, there are two options; you can do it yourself or hire professionals for the job. Although there are several tutorial videos on the internet showing how to install tile by yourself, we recommend that you hire experts for professional finishing and better aesthetics.

Floor and wall tiles come in various shapes, sizes, materials, patterns, and colors. The options are endless when it comes to selecting tiles for your property. Always seek professional advice if you desire outstanding outcomes.