8 Tips for Selecting Tiles in 2023

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8 Tips for Selecting Tiles

With the plethora of options available in the market, it’s a challenge to choose the right tile for the right space. Popular tile brands in the market include Kajaria Tiles, Somany Ceramics, Nitco, Johnson Tiles, Bell Ceramics, Asian Granito etc. Each of these tile companies has hundreds of thousands of options in various categories to choose from both wall and floor tiles.

There are vitrified tiles, ceramic tiles, porcelain tiles, cement tiles, quartz, marble, granite stone and even glass tiles available. Thus making decision-making a huge challenge. To help you out we’ve outlined 8 tile selection tips to help you select the right tile for your space which also includes help on like best tiles for wall, best tiles for floor etc.:

1. Down to the basics – Selecting Tiles

The first step is deciding what kind of tile you need. For flooring, Vitrified tiles are the best for floor tiles application since they are durable and can withstand heavy traffic, and has less water absorption capacity, which makes them more durable and strong. For walls, you can choose either ceramic or porcelain tiles as they are non-porous or do not absorb stains. For outdoors it’s best to opt for either matt finish or anti-skid tiles to avoid slips.

2. Size-it-up

Tiles these days are available in a wide range of sizes. Some popular sizes for floors include 300×600 mm, 600×600 mm, 610×610 mm and 800×800 mm, while wall tiles generally come in sizes of 250x350mm, 300x450mm, and 300x600mm.

According to experts, large format tiles lend a more spacious look to space. However, it is advised to match tiles to room size. If the room is small, and you use large size tiles on the floor, then the room will look even smaller. For such a room, it is recommended to go for medium format size tiles like 250×350 mm.

Also, it’s a good idea to opt for a size that entails a minimal amount of cutting and wastage. Example: If you have a room that is 6×5 ft, then pick a tile that is a multiple of the size of the room. This will prove to be one of the best tile tips for you.

3. Choose the right finish

With digital printing, it is now possible to recreate any pattern on a tile. However, the pattern and design should not be the only deciding factor. It’s important to identify the right finish as well. Glossy tiles look great on walls, while stone finish tiles are ideal for exteriors.

For bedrooms, wood finishes are recommended since they lend a warm feel while for bathroom and kitchen walls one can experiment with metallics and mosaics in combination with plain tiles. For living rooms, natural finishes, and designs are recommended while for restaurants it’s advised to look for anti-skid, high-resistance vitrified tiles with a pattern or a design that suits the décor.

4. The right colour

For flooring, it is usually advisable to opt for light colours to create an intimate look indoors. For outdoors one can experiment with darker colours. Light colours make the room look more spacious and airy while dark colours are easier to maintain.

5. Plan ahead

Always purchase an additional 5-10% more tiles than you actually need. This takes care of cuts and breakages should you have any. Most companies will offer a refund on unused boxes of tiles.

6. Grout it right

While there was a trend to use contrast grouting at one point, its always advised using a grout that matches the color of your tile. The focus should be on having thin grout lines and make them as less visible as possible.

7. Mix and match

While a single tile laid over an entire surface lends a more consistent and spacious feel, it’s a good idea to experiment with 2-3 tiles to lend your space a personal touch. On floors, one can experiment with borders and a combination of two complementary tiles.

For walls, one can use up to three tiles to create a unique and interesting décor. One can mix and match mosaic tiles with medium format tiles, metallic tiles with plain ones, play with patterns on one wall and use plain tiles on the rest and even use contrasting colours for a statement pattern. Many tile manufacturers sell tile concepts which are pre-set tile combinations.

8. Ability to absorb water

This is one very important technical detail one needs to know to understand the tile strength. Tiles with less water absorption have a longer life since they are more durable.“Tiles are considered to be an investment for easy maintenance and hygienic living. Make your choice with care.”