If you want to transform a drab and outdated bathroom into one of style and class, you should consider bathroom tile. Not only does new tile change the room’s appearance, but it also adds value to the home. The bathroom tile was limited in material, color, texture, and style for many years, but today, you have hundreds of incredible options. In addition, what was once considered a high-end flooring solution is now very affordable. In fact, by checking regularly with local home improvement stores, you would probably find that bathroom tile often goes on sale.
However, before you do anything, it would be advantageous to learn some of the basics of bathroom tile to have the best option for the look and functionality you want. For starters, tile is broken down into two primary categories: rectified and chamfered. The cut is done with rectified tiles at sharp, right angles, whereas the edges are slightly rounded for chamfered tiles. Although both options are excellent, if you plan to install your bathroom tile, we suggest you go with options in the rectified category since installation is easier to set but also to keep the tiles perfectly spaced.
Materials
The next step would be to understand the different types of bathroom tiles regarding the material. Even if you plan to use throw rugs, with water and moisture in this room, you want something that offers a non-slip surface. Choosing a tile that is easy to clean and maintain would also be helpful. From there, you would choose the type of bathroom tile that offers the look wanted for material, texture, and pattern.
Ceramic Tile
Regarding bathroom tiles, ceramic tiles are a popular and versatile option. They are easy to find, affordable, and come in various colors, patterns, and sizes. Depending on your preference, you can choose from a glossy or matte finish with ceramic tiles.
In addition to the more traditional ceramic tile options, newer options on the market feature embossing, creating even more texture and design possibilities. These embossed ceramic tiles can add depth and interest to your bathroom, giving it a more customized look.
Ceramic tiles suit bathroom floors and work well for bathtub, shower, and sink areas. Coordinating your ceramic tile choices can create a cohesive and polished look in your bathroom.
When selecting ceramic tiles for your bathroom, it’s essential to consider their durability and water resistance. Ceramic tiles are generally durable and water-resistant, but choosing a type specifically designed for bathroom use is important. You may also opt for textured ceramic tiles that provide slip resistance, especially for bathroom floors.
Regarding design, ceramic tiles can fit any bathroom style, from modern to traditional. You can use plain white tiles to create a classic and timeless look or choose patterned tiles to add interest and personality. The versatility of ceramic tiles makes them an excellent choice for any bathroom renovation project.
Enameled Porcelain
Enameled porcelain is a relatively new but impressive material for bathroom tiles. This type of tile has a metallic sheen that resembles steel plates once installed, resulting in a sleek and modern look. Due to its contemporary appearance, enameled porcelain tiles are popular for ultra-modern or industrial-style bathrooms.
One of the benefits of using enameled porcelain tiles is that they offer a steel-like appearance without the worry of rusting or oxidization. This type of tile is durable, long-lasting, and easy to maintain. You can find enameled porcelain tiles in various colors and finishes, from glossy to matte, making it easy to achieve your desired look.
However, it’s important to consider the slip resistance of enameled porcelain tiles when used for bathroom flooring. The metallic finish can be slippery when wet, making using throw rugs or bath mats essential for safety.
If you’re considering enameled porcelain tiles for your bathroom, it’s important to understand their durability and water resistance. This material is generally strong and can withstand daily use and moisture, but choosing a type specifically designed for bathroom use is crucial. You may want to consult a professional installer to ensure your enameled porcelain tiles are installed correctly and safely.
Overall, enameled porcelain tiles offer your bathroom a unique and sophisticated look. Proper care and maintenance can last for years and enhance the overall aesthetic of your bathroom.
Stone Tile
Granite is a popular choice for bathroom tiles and is suitable for bathroom floors, tubs, showers, and backsplashes. It’s known for its durability, scratch resistance, and wide range of color and pattern options, making it a versatile and attractive choice for bathrooms.
In addition to granite, natural stone tiles like sandstone and limestone are excellent bathroom tiles options. These stones are known for their unique and beautiful appearance that can add a touch of elegance and luxury to any bathroom. Sandstone is popular for those who prefer a warmer and earthier look, while limestone is more versatile and can range from light and subtle to bold and dramatic.
However, it’s important to note that sandstone and limestone are porous, requiring proper sealing to prevent staining and water damage. Water and other liquids can penetrate the tiles without proper sealing, causing them to stain and deteriorate over time.
When choosing natural stone tiles for your bathroom, it’s crucial to consider their maintenance needs. Natural stone tiles require regular cleaning and sealing to maintain their appearance and durability. It’s also important to avoid using acidic or abrasive cleaning agents that can damage the tiles.
Glass Tile
Glass tiles are an increasingly popular option for bathroom tile due to their modern and sophisticated look. Their reflective surfaces can help to brighten up your bathroom and make it feel more spacious. Available in a wide variety of colors and textures, glass tiles offer a range of design options that can be used to create anything from subtle accents to bold statement pieces.
One of the most significant advantages of glass tiles is their ability to reflect light, making even small bathrooms feel brighter and more open. The translucence of glass tiles also adds depth to the room, making them ideal for creating visually interesting designs.
Glass tiles come in various shapes and sizes, including small squares, large rectangles, and irregular shapes. These can be used alone or combined with other materials to create unique designs, such as a border or accent tile within a larger ceramic or porcelain installation.
Regarding color and texture, the options for glass tiles are endless. They can be found in various hues, from subtle pastels to bright and bold shades. Textures can also vary, with some glass tiles having a smooth, polished finish, while others have a more textured or frosted appearance.
While glass tiles are generally easy to clean and maintain, it’s worth noting that they may be more prone to cracking or chipping than other materials. It’s important to choose high-quality glass tiles and have them installed by a professional to ensure they’re durable and long-lasting.
Add Personal Touch
Ceramic mosaics can be a great option if you want to add a personalized touch to your bathroom. These small, intricately designed tiles come in various colors, patterns, and textures, making them perfect for adding borders, medallions, or accents to other tile materials.
For those on a budget, using ceramic tiles and incorporating mosaics into the design can be an affordable way to create a unique look in your bathroom. By selecting a few beautiful mosaic tiles, you can create a stunning medallion in the center of the floor or add a border to the bathtub or shower area. Mosaics can also create a decorative backsplash behind the sink or vanity.
In addition to ceramic, many other materials can be used for mosaics, including glass, stone, and metal. Each material has its unique look and can be used to create various designs. For example, glass mosaics can create a modern, sleek look, while stone mosaics can add a natural, earthy feel to your bathroom.
When designing with mosaics, the possibilities are endless. You can choose from various patterns, shapes, and colors to create a customized look that suits your personal style. Whether you opt for a bold and colorful design or a more subtle and understated pattern, adding mosaics to your bathroom tile can create a stunning and unique space you’ll love spending time in.
Guide to DIY Bathroom Tile Installation
Are you looking to renovate your bathroom but don’t want to spend a fortune? Installing new tiles is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to upgrade your bathroom. With some planning and basic tools, you can easily install bathroom tiles on your own.
Choosing the Right Tile
The first step to a successful DIY bathroom tile installation is choosing the right type. Consider the style of your bathroom and the overall look you want to achieve. Ceramic tiles are a popular choice for their affordability and versatility, while porcelain tiles are more durable and moisture-resistant.
Planning Your Layout
Before you start installing tiles, it’s important to plan out the layout of your bathroom. Measure the dimensions of your bathroom and draw a rough sketch of the floor and walls. This will help you determine the number of tiles you need and how they should be arranged.
Preparing the Surface
Proper surface preparation is crucial for a successful tile installation. Ensure your bathroom surface is clean, dry, and free of debris or old adhesive. If you’re installing tiles on a wall, use a level and chalk line to ensure the tiles are installed evenly.
Installing the Tiles
Now it’s time to start installing your tiles. Mix the tile adhesive according to the manufacturer’s instructions and apply it to the surface using a trowel. Start from the center of the room and work outwards, leaving a small gap between each tile for grout.
Grouting and Finishing
Once the tiles are in place, adding the grout is time. Mix the grout according to the manufacturer’s instructions and use a rubber float to apply it to the gaps between the tiles. Wipe away any excess grout with a damp sponge and let it dry for at least 24 hours. Finally, apply a sealer to protect the tiles from moisture and stains.