Choosing the right tiles

There are several factors that need to be considered when choosing the right tiles for your bathroom, kitchen or any other room in your house. Aside from having to choose among different colors and prints, you’ll also have to consider the different types of tiles. Choosing the wrong type may not only spoil the entire look of your bathroom or kitchen. The wrong tile type may also result in an easily-damaged counter top or bathroom floor, and could cost you a lot more in the long run.

The first thing that you should do when hunting for the right tiles is to figure out your kitchen or bathroom design. Different tile sizes, colors and types go well with certain designs but do not go quite well with other designs. When you have a look or design in mind, you can consult a Portland tile contractor as to the types and sizes of tiles that are recommended for such designs. To give you some idea on the types of tiles that you may have to choose from, here are three of the basic tile types and their key features.

Slate Tiles

Slate tiles are known for their rough texture and natural earthy colors. They are typically cut from a shale-type rock and can be quite heavy when piled together. Although they are predominantly available in dark colors, there are also reddish and yellowish varieties that are also available but more difficult to find. These tiles are generally not recommended for floor areas and work best for accent walls.


Ceramic Tiles

Ceramic tiles boast of having the widest variety of colors, textures, sizes and designs among all other tile types. They are produced by baking clay in a kiln and their quality depends largely on the quality of the clay that was used. are basically made of clay that are shaped and “baked” using a special oven referred to as a “kiln”. Ceramic tiles are probably the most popular and most common tiles found in kitchens and bathrooms, largely because of their low-maintenance and high resistance to water and heat.

Marble Tiles

Marble tiles are also as resistant and easy to maintain as ceramic tiles but are many times heavier. Due to their weight, marble tiles require additional support and are typically used for rooms on the ground floor, although a marble staircase has always been a coveted feature of any mansion or building. In the past decades, marble tiles have become more popular for kitchens and bathrooms. They work well with many designs including minimalist, modern and classic or roman-inspired designs.

These are but three of the different tile types out there. To get a more comprehensive summary of all the different tile types and how they can work for your remodeling project, its best to contact a Portland tile contractor near you.



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