Tile is a versatile choice for bathroom design and is available in a variety of colors, textures, and styles. It’s also easy to clean, durable, and able to withstand moisture.
White tiles, for example, are on-trend and offer a wide range of design options, including basket weave patterns that can visually enlarge the room. Marble is another on-trend option that can add rich color and unique patterns to any bathroom. Click here at https://www.milwaukeebathroomremodelingpros.com/ before choosing your bathroom tiles.
Porcelain Tiles
Porcelain tiles are crafted from fine clay and baked at high temperatures, which makes them denser and harder than ceramic tiles. This hardness and durability make porcelain tiles resistant to scratching, chipping, fading, or discoloration. They are available in a wide variety of colors and structures, with the option to mimic other materials such as concrete, wood, and stone, perfect for creating an interesting accent wall or bathroom floor.
Because of their density and reliance on high temperatures to manufacture, porcelain tiles are generally more expensive than standard ceramic tiles. However, their longevity and resistance to damage make them a worthy investment. Porcelain tiles are incredibly versatile and can enhance floors, walls, and indoor and outdoor spaces. They are also available in a range of sizes, from tiny mosaics to massive slabs, giving you the option to create a custom pattern or layout. You can even opt for rectified edges, which means each tile is machine cut so the edge of each piece is straight and precise – minimizing grout lines and resulting in a sleek minimalist design.
Like other smooth and shiny surfaces, polished porcelain tiles can be slippery, especially when wet. This is why it is important to choose textured or matte finish tiles for your bathroom.
Similarly to polished marble, porcelain tiles require regular sealing to prevent staining and mold growth. It is also recommended that you hire a professional to install your porcelain, as the dense material can be difficult to cut and may need special tools to avoid cracking during installation. This can lead to higher labor charges, so be sure to factor this into your budget. Porcelain tiles have inherent antibacterial/antimicrobial properties, making them an excellent choice for a bathroom with an active family.
Cement Tiles
Cement tiles are a one-of-a-kind alternative for tiling that can bring vibrant color and classic patterns to any room in your home. They can be used in the bathroom as a floor or on the walls, adding a sense of character and personality to the space. They are durable and slip-proof, making them a good choice for high-traffic areas. However, they are a bit heavier and thicker than porcelain or ceramic tile, so they should be carefully considered before installing them to ensure that the structure of the building can support their weight.
These handmade, decorative concrete tiles are made without firing, which makes them more environmentally friendly than other types of tile. The decorative layer is applied to a mold and then pressed with a hydraulic press. The process allows the cement to absorb and bond with the pigments, which are then embedded into the body layer of the tile. The hydraulic press also applies pressure that helps to seal and waterproof the tile, making it a suitable option for wet environments.
The artisanal nature of these tiles means that there can be slight color variations between individual pieces, which can add to the character of your space. They are also porous, so they need to be periodically sealed with a penetrating sealer to protect them from moisture and staining.
Moroccan tiles are particularly well known for their bold, patterned designs. Patterns can be incorporated throughout the bathroom or, for more subtle impact, you can use them as an accent on the shower floor to contrast with a white or neutral tub and surround. Moroccan motifs, such as arabesques and ogees (a curved onion-like shape), can be beautifully interpreted in a tile design, or you can try more simple geometric patterns to create a contemporary feel.
Natural Stone Tiles
Natural stone tiles are a popular choice for floors, walls, and countertops. They offer a wide range of colors, textures, and patterns to complement any design style. They are durable and long-lasting, making them a great investment for your home. Natural stone can also add a boost to your property value. However, it is important to consider the maintenance and cleaning needs of this type of tile before installing it in your home.
The most common types of natural stone tile are marble, limestone, travertine, and granite. Each has a unique look and feel that adds a luxurious touch to any space. They are available in a variety of finishes including honed, polished, and tumbled. These tiles can be used as a backsplash in kitchens, flooring in living spaces, or paving in outdoor areas.
Like all natural materials, they are not immune to damage or wear. They require regular sealing to ensure that moisture and bacteria don’t penetrate the surface. Sealing also helps to make your tile less prone to staining. It is a good idea to perform an absorption test to determine how porous each type of natural stone is before selecting it for your flooring.
The disadvantages of natural stone tile are that it can be expensive and requires professional installation. It is also a porous material and can be susceptible to etching from everyday acidic products such as lemon juice, vinegar, or cleaning chemicals. It can also be slippery when wet, posing a risk of slip-and-fall accidents in the bathroom. These issues can be mitigated by using a nonslip finish or applying a protective sealer. It is also recommended to use a nonslip mat or rugs in bathrooms with stone tile floors.
Granite Tiles
Granite tiles are a luxurious addition to any bathroom. They are available in a variety of colors and styles, making them ideal for many different home decor themes. These tiles are durable, attractive, and resistant to moisture and stains. They can be used in a variety of rooms, including foyers, kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways.
The most popular type of granite is black granite, which is a classic color that looks great in any bathroom. However, it is also possible to find gray granite tile and other natural stone bathroom tile colors. Many of these granite tiles have unique patterns and hues that give them a look of their own. These include iridescent flecks, mottling, and veining. Granite tiles are also available in a wide range of shapes and sizes, making them easy to match with any bathroom design.
Because granite is a naturally occurring mineral, it is extremely durable and resists damage from scratching, chipping, heat, and other common wear and tear. This makes it a perfect choice for bathroom walls, showers, and backsplashes. It is also water-resistant and can help retain heat if your bathroom is equipped with underfloor heating.
Unlike slab granite, which is sourced as one seamless piece of material, granite tiles are sourced as individual pieces that are then assembled. These individual squares can be highlighted with grouting, which creates a cool textured effect, or can be made invisible for a smooth surface. Granite tiles are also more affordable than slab granite, making them an excellent option if you want the benefits of granite without breaking your budget.
Mosaic Tiles
Mosaic tiles are an incredible way to add a splash of color and personality to your bathroom. Mosaic tiles can also help define spaces, such as creating a mosaic “rug” beside tubs or showers or adding a decorative border to separate areas. Mosaics are available in a wide range of colors and styles, including both modern and traditional options. The most popular types of mosaic tiles are glass and ceramic. Glass mosaic tiles have a beautiful shimmer to them that can catch the eye. They are non-porous and naturally resistant to mold, mildew, stains, and chemicals.
Glass mosaics are also available in a variety of finishes that can create a distinct look and feel to your bathroom. Some finishes reflect light and others are opaque, which helps make the room feel brighter and more open. Ceramic is another popular type of mosaic tile because it’s a very durable tile that stands up well to heavy foot traffic and daily wear and tear. It’s also non-porous and naturally resistant to moisture and stains.
Mosaic tile is an excellent choice for bathrooms because it can add a pop of color to a space that might otherwise be bland. You can use it on the floor to create a gorgeous pattern that’s both stylish and practical, or you can use it on walls to accent the sink, shower, bathtub, or fireplace.
Mosaic tile is typically made from a combination of different materials and is set on a mesh or contact paper sheet for easier installation. It comes in a large number of patterns and shapes, from basketweave and chevron to mini brick and arabesque. Shell mosaics are a luxurious option for any bathroom and can be used on backsplashes, shower and bath surrounds, and fireplaces.
