Angie's LIST Guide to
Tile

Waterproof

Tile choices such as glazed ceramic or porcelain tiles are waterproof, which makes them excellent choices for areas of the home that are regularly exposed to water, such as the kitchen or bathroom. Using tile for a backsplash, a shower surround, wall covering or flooring in these areas can help prevent water damage to underlying structural elements.

Hypoallergenic

Since many tile materials come from natural sources such as stone or ceramic materials, they don't emit volatile organic compounds, which may trigger allergies in some people, like many synthetic material choices may. Tile surfaces that are nonporous and easily wiped down, such as glazed ceramic tiles or glass tiles, are also less likely to attract and maintain dust, pollen, dander and other allergens. This feature of tile also makes it more resistant to bacteria, mold and mildew.

Durable

Floors and walls that are covered by synthetic materials are very easy to damage. A dragging chair or overzealous child with some crayons can create an indelible mark on the surface that will never go away. It takes much more work to create permanent damage in tile. Although tiles can be chipped or cracked if a heavy object is dropped upon them, damaged tiles can be easily removed and replaced without affecting the remaining undamaged tiles.

Easy to Clean

One of the biggest problems with synthetic materials is that you have to be careful of what chemicals you use to clean them. Tile is much easier to clean since you can scrub more vigorously using any chemical you want. It is also very difficult for dirt to gain any real purchase on the surface of tile.

Easily Customizable Pricing Options

There is a wide variety of options to choose from when you are dealing with tile. You can get everything from the classic tile you see in many bathrooms and kitchens to high-end luxury tiles, which makes tile an affordable option for nearly every type of budget.

Highly Flexible Design Options

Since tile comes in almost every pattern, shape, size, color, pattern and style possible, tile can attractively fit into nearly any shape or room design imaginable.

Think about the space: Consider the amount of wear and tear the tile will endure. Is it in a major traffic flow area? Are people going to be wearing shoes or socks? Will the tiles get wet? Also, what surfaces are going to be covered – floors, countertops, and/or walls?

Different tiles are made to withstand varying levels of impact. Although tiles for the wall may look similar to floor tiles, they are not as thick or durable.

Estimate how much you need: To determine the amount of tile you will need, multiply the width times the length and add about 5 percent. You may also want to buy a few extra tiles to keep on hand incase some are damaged in installation or down the road.

Do some window shopping: Tiles are available in many shapes, sizes, colors, and textures. Visit a few tile stores as the same tile from different batches can look very different.

When you settle on a tile, make sure the lot number and shade number are the same to ensure all the tiles are from the same batch. Remember that tile prices vary and are not always representative of the tile’s durability.

Select the material: There are many different materials that tiles are made of. Material affects the appearance, durability, and maintenance requirements of the tiles. Finish and texture are important, as well. Your tile should be comfortable to walk on for years to come.

Don’t forget grout: Select a grout color and width that will blend in your tile. Stay away from stark white as it will be noticeable and show dirt more easily – unless that is the effect you’re going for.

Maintenance: Consider the amount of maintenance that will be required when purchasing the tile. Keep in mind that some porous tiles will need annual sealing. Also, textured tiles and light colored grout will require more scrubbing to clean.