Ceramic tile flooring is durable, easy to maintain, and available in an almost infinite number of styles and designs. Selecting the right tile for your project is as important as proper installation and working with a professional is just as beneficial. Ceramic tile flooring options, while varied, all share the following parameters.
Size and Shape
Ceramic tile is available in numerous sizes, shapes, and styles. Large squares, medium squares, planks, mosaics, and custom cut shapes each lend themselves to different project types. Large squares work well outside, emulating the flagstone look with a durable, easy to clean material. Medium squares and planks are great indoors in high traffic areas. Planks capture the feel of hardwood with increased durability and longevity, while squares offer the classic ceramic tile look. Small mosaic and custom cut tiles offer the most customization while requiring the most installation expertise. A professional can help navigate the options and quickly narrow in on a handful of choices, saving time and headache.
Color and Pattern
The expansive variety of colors and patterns available with ceramic floor tile means there is a ceramic tile to fit any design. Solid colors accent rooms with busier wall and décor designs, while complex patterns liven up otherwise bare areas. Bright colors draw the eye to the floor, while dull, mottled colors mask dirt and debris. Complex patterned tile requires extra care during installation to create lasting beauty, while monochrome options offer flexibility with later redesigns.
Material
Ceramic comes in a variety of materials and finishes, each of which feature different properties for different applications. Exposure to light, water, and debris is an important factor to consider when selecting the material for your ceramic tile floor. Over time, natural light will dull the color in any flooring. Some ceramic tiles are designed with high density pigmentation to reduce the impact of natural light exposure, while others are designed to age and fade, creating a lived-in look. Regular water exposure can be problematic with some of the softer ceramic materials on the market. Porcelain, an extra hard ceramic, is the ideal ceramic option for any area with regular water exposure. Rough mosaic porcelain tiles are perfect in professional kitchens, showers, and work rooms that require drainage and a non-slip surface. Properly installed mid-sized square tiles are extremely durable and capable of withstanding both extended high weight exposure and sudden impacts. Their size and installation practices make medium squares the easiest to replace should cracks occur.
Visit Fred Callaghan’s Designer Show Room today for a professional consultation and in-house pricing and free in-home measurements.