When installing bathroom tiles, it’s essential to select tiles that are both durable and enhance the bathroom’s aesthetic appeal. The process of choosing bathroom tiles involves considering various aspects, which can sometimes be overwhelming due to the multitude of options available in the market.
If you require assistance with bathroom tile installation and are situated in the Dallas Fort Worth Metro area, you’ve come to the right place. At Solox Doors and Floors, we’ve prepared a blog post that delves into the considerations for choosing bathroom tiles. Keep reading below to discover more.
What factors should you consider when selecting bathroom tiles?
It’s important to conduct research before choosing tiles for your bathroom. You should familiarize yourself with the various types of tile materials available and determine which is best suited for your bathroom’s requirements.
Types of Bathroom Tiles:
Ceramic Tiles
Ceramic tiles are an excellent choice for bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and other areas prone to moisture. These tiles are crafted from brown, red, or white clay, which is fired in a kiln. They are finished with a durable glaze that imparts a unique pattern and color to the surface. The glaze renders the tile non-porous and dense, making it resistant to stains, fire, and slips.
Ceramic tiles are recommended for bathrooms with light to moderate traffic, as they are susceptible to wear and chipping. They have a high water absorption rate, which enhances their water resistance and stain resistance. Ceramic tiles are available in various finishes, such as gloss, matte, polish, and satin. They are easy to clean and maintain, and with proper care, they can offer durability over the long term.
Porcelain Tiles
Porcelain tiles are exceptionally durable and suitable for both interior and exterior areas of your home. These tiles are made from refined clay and are formed at higher temperatures, resulting in a harder and denser product compared to other tile types.
The color and pattern are consistent throughout the tile’s thickness. Porcelain tiles have an impressively low water absorption rate of 0.5%, making them well-suited for wall or floor applications, including high-traffic areas in your home.
Their durability makes porcelain tiles an excellent choice for bathrooms, as they can withstand wear and tear even in the busiest parts of your home. They offer a hard-wearing surface that is resistant to stains and scratches and is easy to clean and maintain.
Porcelain tiles often receive surface glazing treatment with a coating of liquefied glass material, enhancing their durability. They are available in a variety of designs and are adept at mimicking the look of other materials such as marble and hardwood. This makes them an excellent choice for achieving the aesthetics of hardwood without the susceptibility to water damage.
Porcelain tiles are also available in a wide range of colors, patterns, and surface finishes. They are heavier and denser compared to other tile types, making them resistant to water and well-suited for both bathroom and outdoor use, particularly in milder climates. Cleaning them is a simple task with a mild soap and water solution.
Stone Tiles
Stone tiles are an ideal choice for those who prefer the natural, rustic look of stone. They come in various colors and styles and are available in different stone varieties such as granite, limestone, marble, slate, and travertine.
However, it’s essential to note that natural stone tiles are porous and can absorb liquids and moisture. To maintain their appearance and prevent damage or staining, they require regular sealing. This sealing acts as a protective barrier between the tile and potential liquids and stains.
Consistent sealing can extend the lifespan of the tiles and shield them from moisture-related damage. Additionally, natural stone tiles boast unique patterns, ensuring that no two tile surfaces look the same.
When cleaning stone tiles, be cautious about using abrasive chemicals, as these can damage the tile’s surface.
Mosaic Tiles
Mosaic tiles are a fantastic choice for creating a focal point in your bathroom space. They come in various colors, styles, and sizes. However, they can become slippery when wet. Prior to purchase, it’s crucial to check their slip rating standards to ensure safety.
Glass mosaic tiles are easy to clean, but you should pay attention to grout lines. To simplify maintenance, you can request your tile contractor to reduce the number of grout lines, making cleaning more manageable.
Consider Tile Slip Wear Ratings
When selecting bathroom tiles, it’s crucial to consider their slip wear ratings. Safety should take precedence over color and design. Tiles undergo a slip rating test to determine their suitability for specific environmental conditions. This test evaluates long-term wear, taking into account the installation process, wear and tear, cleaning and maintenance, and foot traffic.
- PEI Class 1 Rating: Suitable for wall applications only, as it can withstand no foot traffic.
- PEI Class 2 Rating: Designed for light traffic, making it appropriate for both wall and bathroom floor applications.
- PEI Class 3 Rating: Ideal for areas with light to moderate traffic. Can be used for countertops, floors, and walls subject to light to moderate foot traffic.
- PEI Class 4 Rating: Suited for locations with moderate to heavy traffic. Appropriate for all residential, medium commercial, and light institutional applications.
- PEI Class 5 Rating: Tailored for areas with heavy to extra heavy traffic, making it suitable for all residential, heavy commercial, and institutional applications. Most porcelain tiles boast a PEI rating of 5, signifying their exceptional durability and making them one of the toughest tile options available.
Choose the Right Tile Size
When it comes to bathroom tiles, size matters. Consider the dimensions of your room to make the best choice. Large format tiles work wonderfully for both walls and floors, offering an impressive appearance. In a smaller bathroom, opt for smaller tiles such as mosaic tiles. Surprisingly, large tiles can also enhance a small bathroom by minimizing the number of grout lines, creating the illusion of a more spacious area.
Additionally, when selecting shower tiles, take into account the type of drain to be installed in the bathroom. Many homeowners prefer strip drains, as they involve fewer grout lines, simplifying the cleaning and maintenance process. Consulting with your tile contractor can help you choose the most suitable bathroom tiles.
If you’re in the Dallas Fort Worth Metro Area and require assistance with bathroom tile installation, consider Solox Doors and Floors. With over 25 years of experience, we offer top-notch flooring and tile services.
For questions or inquiries about our services, feel free to get in touch. You can reach us at 612-414-5550 or via email at soloxfloors@gmail.com. Solox Doors and Floors is your trusted partner for bathroom tile installation. Contact us today – we’re eager to hear from you!