Tiles have been a household feature since the 3rd century BC, and over 2000 years later, they are still a popular choice. But why have they really stood the test of time? For one, they are durable. They have also proven to be versatile on the one hand and harbingers of a perfect, classy look on the other.
If you go for a floor tile layout that fits your home, you can gain all the good things these features bring to your home. But how do you make the perfect decision? This guide will share a few steps that can help you get your choices right.
Table of Contents
Step 1: Define the Room’s Purpose
The roles rooms play determine the type of tile layout to go with. For the kitchen and bathroom, you should look at slip-resistant, water-resistant tiles. Porcelain and ceramics are great choices here.
When it comes to rooms and bedrooms, you need to focus on materials that are significantly softer and have a more decorative vibe about them. Natural stone or wood-look look pretty nice.
For entryways and hallways, scratch-resistant tiles are a great idea. These areas see high traffic, and they thus need something that can withstand the wear and tear.
Step 2: Measure the Space
Take a good look at the spaces you want tiles in. If your room’s quite tiny, smaller tiles or layouts may do it justice. They help create an illusion of space. If it’s long and narrow, you can do horizontal layers. Square rooms? Go for more creative patterns.
Step 3: Choose Your Tile Style
Before you finally settle on that layout you desire, you need to know exactly what types of tiles you’re putting to work. You have a lot of options to tap into. If you’re after something that’s durable and easy to clean, look no further than ceramic or porcelain.
If you’re after luxury, but one that requires sealing, natural stone. Wood-look brings that hardwood vibe and warmth, with durability to boot.
So, it all boils down to what exactly you’re looking for. To get further inspiration, consider looking into the different tile floor border ideas on offer or any other styles that you prefer and make an informed decision.
Step 4: Explore Layout Options
So, you’ve chosen tiles that fit the vibe you’re after. Now, you get to choose the layout. One of the options you can look into is straight lay, also known as the grid layout.
Here, your tiles end up in straight rows aligned with walls. It’s a perfect fit if your space is relatively small, or you’re on a budget. This grid layout is easy to cobble together and involves minimal cutting. However, you’ll have to make do with a boxy and basic look.
When it comes to bathrooms kitchens and hallways, the running bond, also known as the brick pattern, is a crowd favorite. This layout has tiles offset by half their length, like bricks.
The diagonal layout involves setting tiles at a 45-degree angle to the walls. These give the elegance and dynamic flow to dining rooms, living areas, and other larger spaces. However, you’ll have to watch out for wastage. It’s very likely. It’s also significantly harder to install, so, work only with experienced faces.
Step 5: Plan for Cuts and Obstacles
There are doorways, cabinets, fixtures like toilets and sinks, and the different angles and corners to think about. Say you’re working on a bathroom with an oddly placed toilet.
To approach this, you should first dry lay the tiles. Center the full tiles around the toilet, so cuts are hidden behind it. This way, you’ll likely end up with a symmetrical appearance with minimal visible cut tiles. Getting this right will involve a lot of planning, so be prepared.
Step 6: Consider Maintenance and Long-Term Value
Now that the hard part is over and done, your focus should shift to maintenance. But why exactly does this matter?
High-maintenance materials like natural stone require regular sealing to prevent staining and wear.
Grout lines, especially in lighter or porous tiles, can stain easily. They need cleaning or resealing every now and again.
Looks can win the day, but in high traffic areas, durability gets an edge. Scratch-resistant and fade-proof tiles will age better.
Buyers tend to appreciate neutral colors and classic layouts. So, if you’re planning to sell at some point, it may be wise of you to consider these attributes in your tiles.
Getting these right can guarantee that you don’t just get tiles for today, but rather those that will last for a while.
Closing Thoughts
Tiles can be the best fit for your home, but as this guide has laid it out, you need to make a conscious and well-informed choice. Follow the tips you’ve seen here to get a floor tile layout that works.
Once that is out of the way, involve installation experts, especially for the complicated tile patterns. This decision can guarantee that you end up with the look and feel that fits your home.