Matt Morgan

Choosing the Correct Kind Of Tile for Your Tiling Project

This article offers advice on the different types of materials that tiles are available in and the suitability of each of these materials

Copyright (c) 2008 Able Skills

Your decision on which tile to use mostly comes to purpose for which the tile is to be used and your personal preference. It's important to remember that not all types of tile are suitable for every application.

Exploring Different Tile Uses

The tile you need for your tiling job will largely depend on the purpose of the tile. Tiles for a floor, for example, will differ from tiles you use for a bathroom wall. Floor tiles will need to be rugged and hardwearing and, if they are intended for commercial use, they will need to be even more durable than your standard tiles.

Tiles for a bathroom wall, on the other hand, tend to be decorative and light in order to make the interior of the room look bright and inviting. In addition, many people choose colorful or decorative tiles for a kitchen wall because it is usually a small space that needs to be covered and, in many cases, they double as decoration or are complementary to the décor of the room.

Any tiles used for kitchen worktops need to be easy to clean and non porous. Otherwise, it is possible that the tiles will absorb odours from foods such as onions and garlic and could become a breeding ground for bacteria and other germs.

Using Ceramic Tiles

Tiles can be made from ceramic, which is a popular choice for all kinds of tiling. They come in different colors, glazes, patterns and different hardnesses, depending on the use for which they are intended.

Using Stone Tiles

Stone is a popular alternative for floor tiles, particularly if you are going for a country appearance. Some stone, however, is soft and cannot be used where it might come into contact with certain household chemicals, as they can cause erosion or damage the appearance. Anywhere stone is used, it is best to use some kind of sealant to protect the integrity of the surface.

Marble is one of the most common types of stone tile and is suitable for both floors and fireplaces. Another type is granite, which is often used for countertops and fireplaces. Limestone is a good option for flooring, travertine is used for fireplaces and vanities, and quartz-based stone is popular for floors, fireplaces and bar tops. Another option is slate, which is suitable for most uses, except some flaking may be encountered.

If you do not feel confident undertaking the job of tiling your area, a tiling course will get you on the right path and teach you all you need to know, including some advanced techniques to make your house look great.

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