Choose the Perfect Tile Flooring Without the Overwhelm
Have you ever thought about making a change to your space but the idea of walking into a tile flooring store gives you instant anxiety? You aren’t alone! I’ve been a designer long enough to know that choosing the perfect tile flooring can seem super overwhelming--but it doesn’t have to be! With so many options and various types of floor tiles it’s easy to feel lost in a sea of possibilities. But don’t worry--I’m here to offer some practical tips and tricks that will make your tile shopping experience fun and stress-free!
Start with Your Vision
The best thing you can have when it comes to tile shopping? A plan! Before you even think about stepping into a flooring showroom, take some time to imagine your dream space. What style are you going for? Is it modern and sleek, cozy and rustic, or something in between? Gathering flooring ideas is a great starting point. Consider your personal design style and how the tile flooring will complement the existing elements in your space! Browse through home design magazines, Pinterest, and Instagram to gather your tile flooring ideas. Save the images that catch your eye and take note of what you love about them.
Create a Mood Board
If you want to take it a step further, another thing that can be incredibly helpful is a mood board (I just LOVE a mood board)! It’s a visual representation of your vision and can include colors, textures, and styles you’re drawn to. This is also a great way to incorporate paint swatches and other elements that are already in your room. Having this with you when you shop for floor tiles will help keep you focused and make it easier to communicate your ideas to the showroom staff.
Understand the Different Types of Floor Tiles
Tile flooring comes in so many different materials, each with its unique characteristics! Let’s take a look at some of the different types of floor tiles to help you make an informed decision.
Ceramic Tiles - Ceramic tiles are a popular choice! They’re durable, versatile, and come in a wide range of colors and patterns. They’re perfect for areas with light to moderate traffic, like bedrooms and living rooms. Plus, they’re relatively easy to install and maintain.
Porcelain Tiles - If you need something more robust, consider porcelain tiles! They’re denser and more water-resistant than ceramic tiles, making them ideal for high-traffic areas and wet spaces like bathrooms and kitchens. Porcelain tiles also come in a variety of styles, including options that mimic natural stone and wood.
Natural Stone Tiles – We always need a fancy option! So, for a touch of luxury, natural stone tiles are unbeatable. Marble, granite, travertine, and slate each offer unique beauty and character. Something to keep in mind though--they do require more maintenance to keep them looking their best. Regular sealing and proper cleaning are essential to prevent staining and damage.
Glass Tiles – Who says tile has to be boring? Glass tiles are perfect for adding a bit of sparkle to your space! Often used as accents or in smaller areas, they reflect light beautifully and can create stunning visual effects. They’re typically used in backsplashes, shower walls, or as decorative borders.
Cement Tiles – Where are my fearless decorators at? If you’re looking to make a bold statement, cement tiles might be for you! Known for their vibrant colors and intricate patterns, they can add a unique touch to any room. However, they do require sealing and careful maintenance to keep their look intact.
Consider Practical Factors
When you shop floor tiles, aesthetics are essential, but practical considerations are equally important. It’s important to think about the following factors.
Durability - How tough do you need your tile to be? Think about how much foot traffic there will be in the space you’re looking to tile. For high-traffic areas like hallways and kitchens, you’ll definitely want a more robust tile like porcelain or natural stone.
Maintenance – The reality is that some tiles require more TLC than others. So, you’ll need to consider your willingness to keep up with the necessary care. Higher-maintenance tiles like natural stone need regular sealing, while ceramic and porcelain tiles are relatively low-maintenance.
Budget – Ah yes, the price tag! Be sure to set a realistic budget before you start shopping (I know, bummer)! Tile prices vary widely, and it's far too easy to fall in love with a tile that's out of your price range if you don’t go in with a firm budget. But it’s worth mentioning that while some tiles are more expensive upfront, their durability and low maintenance can save you money in the long run.
Play with Patterns and Colors
Once you’ve established what kind of tile flooring you want, you can let the creative juices flow! Don’t be afraid to mix and match different types of floor tiles! Combining sizes, colors, and textures creates such a unique and personalized look. For example, you can use large porcelain tiles for the main floor area and accent them with smaller, decorative ceramic tiles. Or even use bold, patterned tiles as accent walls or borders to add visual interest! This fun, interesting approach allows you to incorporate striking designs without overwhelming the entire space.
Visit a Flooring Showroom
Okay, so you’ve completed the homework, you’ve done the research, your vision is clear—it’s the big day. It’s time to go to the flooring showroom! Seeing and touching tiles in person is so important. We all know that photos can be deceiving, and nothing beats the tactile experience of feeling the tile’s texture and weight.
Don’t forget to bring your mood board or any other inspiration you’ve collected! Show them to the showroom staff and ask for their recommendations. They’re there to help and can provide insight and suggest tiles that match your vision and the specific needs of your space.
Lastly, and I can’t stress this enough--don’t be shy about asking questions! Ask about all those things we talked about above--durability, maintenance, and installation process for the tiles you’re considering. The more information you have, the better equipped you are to make the right choice!
Trust Your Instincts
At the end of the day, the perfect tile flooring is the one that feels right to you. While it’s great to gather advice and ideas, trust your instincts. You know your space and style better than anyone else, so let your personal taste guide you.
You’ve Got This!
I promise--choosing the perfect tile flooring doesn’t have to be overwhelming! Start with a clear vision and research the different types of floor tiles and what you need. Mix and match creatively and trust your instincts—then take all that confidence to the flooring showroom! The perfect tile is out there waiting for you, and with a little bit of planning and creativity, you’ll find it in no time!
If you’re still feeling unsure and you need more personalized advice or have questions, let’s connect! Spaces In Bloom would love to help you transform your space into a beautiful, functional reflection of your style. And in the meantime, happy shopping!
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