Upgrade Your Bathroom: How to Choose the Right Tiles

Posted on July 9th, 2024. 

 

Are you planning to upgrade your bathroom? One of the most fundamental decisions you'll have to make is choosing the right tiles. 

With a variety of materials available, from ceramic to porcelain, or natural stone, each comes with its own set of benefits and drawbacks that can greatly impact the aesthetics and functionality of your space. In this blog post, we'll explore the different types of tiles and their unique features to help you make an informed decision. 

 

 

Tile Materials 

 

 

When considering how to choose bathroom tiles, it’s important to understand the different materials available, including ceramic, porcelain, natural stone, and glass. Each material comes with its own set of pros and cons, helping you find the perfect fit for your bathroom. 

Ceramic tiles are among the most popular choices due to their affordability and versatility. They are made from a mixture of clay and other natural materials, then fired at high temperatures. One advantage is their ease of cutting and installation, making them a do-it-yourself friendly option. 

On the downside, they may not be as durable as other materials and can chip or crack under heavy impact. However, they are available in an extensive range of styles, colors, and patterns, allowing homeowners to achieve almost any look they desire. 

If you’re looking for moisture resistance, ceramic tiles perform exceptionally well but may require periodic sealing of the grout lines to maintain their appearance and durability. 

Porcelain tiles are another excellent option and are often confused with ceramic because they are also made from clay. However, porcelain is denser and fired at higher temperatures, making it more durable and water-resistant. 

This makes porcelain particularly suitable for bathroom settings, where moisture is a constant concern. They can withstand heavy foot traffic and are less likely to chip or crack compared to ceramic tiles. One challenge with porcelain is that they can be harder to cut and therefore might require professional installation for the best results. 

Natural stone tiles, such as marble, travertine, or slate, offer a luxurious, timeless aesthetic. The unique veining and natural variations make each tile one-of-a-kind, adding a sophisticated touch to your bathroom. 

However, natural stone requires more maintenance, as it’s prone to staining and needs sealing to prevent moisture absorption. It can also be more expensive, both in material cost and installation. 

 

 

Tile Sizes and Shapes 

 

 

Understanding tile size and shape can majorly influence the design and functionality of your bathroom. When you walk into a bathroom, the first thing that catches your eye is often the tile, and its size and shape can set the tone for the entire room. 

Larger tiles, such as 12x24 inches, can make a small bathroom appear more spacious. These tiles reduce the number of grout lines, creating a seamless, expansive look. 

On the other hand, smaller tiles, like 4x4 or 2x2 inches, can add texture and detail to areas such as shower floors, where the additional grout lines offer better slip resistance. For accent pieces, mosaic tiles in unique shapes such as hexagons or penny rounds can provide an impressive focal point, whether it's a backsplash or a feature wall. 

Keep in mind that smaller tiles often require more grout, which means more maintenance to keep those lines clean and sealed over time. When deciding on tile size for checkerboard design, the size should be proportional to your bathroom floor space. 

If you're eyeing the classic 12x12 inch checkerboard tiles, but you have a modest-sized bathroom, you might want to choose a smaller tile size to avoid overwhelming the space. 

Checkerboard designs bring a timeless and elegant flair to any bathroom. To choose correct size of checkerboard tile, first measure your floor area. If the area is expansive, larger tiles like 12x12 inches can make a bold statement without crowding the space. For smaller floor areas, opt for 8x8 or even 6x6 inch tiles to keep the pattern balanced and visually appealing. 

Balancing the size of your tiles with the size of your bathroom ensures a harmonious layout. Also, consider the ease of installation. Larger tiles can be more challenging to lay perfectly flat, especially on uneven floors. Smaller tiles can better adapt to minor dips and rises in the subfloor. 

Tile size for checkerboard design plays a crucial role, as the visual impact of the pattern will differ based on the tile dimensions. Another consideration is the grout line width. Thinner grout lines (1/8 inch or less) give a sleek, modern look, while wider grout lines (1/4 inch or more) offer a more traditional appearance. 

Following these easy steps to choose bathroom tile can guide you to a choice that balances both aesthetics and practicality. Don't be afraid to take samples and lay them out in your space to get a feel for how they'll look before making your final decision. 

 

 

Color and Finish 

 

 

Choosing the right tile color and finish for your bathroom is a nuanced process that significantly affects the room's ambiance and functionality. 

When it comes to choosing bathroom tile combinations, consider how light interacts with different finishes:  

• Glossy tiles reflect light efficiently and can make a small or dimly-lit bathroom look brighter and more expansive. However, they can also show water spots and fingerprints more readily, which might mean more frequent cleaning. 
• Matte tiles absorb light and offer a subtler, more understated look. They are generally better at hiding dirt and smudges, making them a practical option for high-traffic areas. 
• If you desire something in between, satin-finish tiles provide a balanced look with moderate light reflection and easier maintenance. The color selection is just as crucial when you're looking at tips for choosing bathroom tile. 

Light colors, such as whites, creams, and pastels, tend to make a space feel larger and more open. They are ideal for small bathrooms or those lacking natural light. Contrastingly, darker hues like navy, charcoal, or deep green can create a cozy, intimate atmosphere and add drama to your design. 

A combination of light and dark can help in zoning different areas of your bathroom; for instance, using light tiles for the main floor and darker tiles in the shower zone can visually separate these spaces while maintaining a cohesive look throughout. Using earthy tones like beige, taupe, and soft gray can lend a spa-like, serene feel to your bathroom, promoting relaxation. 

When determining choosing bathroom tile combinations, don't shy away from mixing and matching different tile types to introduce texture and visual interest. Combining glossy subway tiles with matte hexagonal tiles can provide a contemporary look that breaks the monotony. 

Similarly, incorporating natural stone accents can add depth and richness to an otherwise simple design, making your bathroom feel luxe and personalized.  

 

 

Practical Aspects 

 

 

When considering how to choose bathroom tiles, it's important to focus on practical aspects that will directly impact the day-to-day usability and long-term satisfaction with your bathroom upgrade. 

Slip resistance is a key factor—bathrooms are frequently wet, and selecting tiles with good traction can prevent accidents. Glossy tiles, while beautiful, can be slippery when wet. For high-traffic areas or showers, opt for tiles with a matte or textured finish, which offer better grip. 

Consider the ease of cleaning as well. Tiles with intricate designs or textured surfaces might look stunning, but they can be more challenging to clean. Simple, smooth surfaces are easier to wipe down, making maintenance a breeze. 

Matte tiles typically showcase less residue, while glossy tiles might display water spots and fingerprints more prominently. So, if you're aiming for a balance of elegance and low upkeep, satin-finish tiles can be a thoughtful choice. 

Another significant aspect to ponder is durability. Higher traffic areas like bathroom floors will benefit from resilient materials such as porcelain or natural stone. Porcelain tiles are incredibly robust and less likely to chip or crack compared to ceramic, making them ideal for such environments. 

Natural stone, though luxurious, requires regular sealing and is prone to staining, making it a higher-maintenance option. Maintenance considerations extend beyond just cleaning; factors like periodic resealing, especially for natural stone and grout lines, can affect your long-term satisfaction. 

Light-colored grout can easily get stained, demanding more frequent cleaning or resealing, while darker grout lines offer the advantage of reduced visibility of dirt and stains. It’s important to weigh how much time you’re willing to invest in upkeep. 

Furthermore, make sure that your grout, adhesives, and sealants are suitable for a wet environment to guarantee longevity. 

Related: https://tilewithstyleinstallation.com/resources/how-to-maintain-and-clean-different-types-of-tiles 

 

 

Final Words 

 

 

Once you've carefully considered tile material, size, color, and finish, you are well on your way to creating a stunning and functional bathroom. Whether you're looking for the sleek, modern look of large-format porcelain or the charming, timeless feel of classic ceramic tiles, the right choices can make all the difference. 

But selecting the perfect tile is just the beginning. The quality of installation plays a crucial role in bringing your vision to life and ensuring lasting beauty and durability. 

That's where our dedicated team steps in. At Tile With Style, we specialize in bathroom tile installation, offering impeccable craftsmanship and attention to detail. 

Our experts work closely with you to understand your preferences and needs, delivering results that exceed expectations. From precise cutting to seamless grout lines, we handle every aspect of the installation process with skill and care. 

Transform your bathroom with our expert bathroom tile installation, creating a sleek and stylish look that adds value to your home. Whether you prefer classic subway tiles or modern mosaics, our team ensures flawless results. Schedule your consultation today to give your bathroom the upgrade it deserves. 

Contact Us Now! 

Reach us at +1 (816) 929 9913, and let's make your bathroom dreams a reality.