Creating a healthy home environment is more important than ever, and choosing the right flooring and wall materials plays a massive role in your overall well-being. When it comes to creating a space that’s both beautiful and beneficial to your health, tiles are a standout choice. Let’s dive into the health benefits of using tiles, from your kitchen to your bathroom, and even outdoors.
If you suffer from allergies, you’ll love the hypoallergenic nature of tiles. Unlike carpets that can trap dust, pollen, pet hair, and other allergens, tile flooring is much easier to clean. With a simple sweep or mop, you can keep your tiled floor free from irritants, making it ideal for people with allergies or asthma.
Best areas to use: Everywhere! But especially in high-traffic areas like the living room and bedroom for a fresher, cleaner atmosphere.
Image Credit: Adobe Stock
#2: Easy to Keep Clean and Sanitized
Tiles, whether porcelain or ceramic, have non-porous surfaces, which means they don’t absorb dirt, bacteria, or mould. This makes them a healthier option compared to materials that can trap bacteria, especially in moist environments like kitchens and bathrooms. Plus, with advances in large format tiles, cleaning is even easier with fewer grout lines to maintain.
Did you know that tiles don’t release volatile organic compounds (VOCs)? Many other types of flooring materials, like certain woods or synthetic options, emit these chemicals, which can negatively impact indoor air quality and your overall health. Tiles help maintain a healthier air environment, which is especially beneficial for households with young children, pets, or anyone with respiratory conditions.
Best areas to use: Bedrooms, living spaces, and any area where you spend a lot of time.
Image Credit: Adobe Stock
#4: Tiles Help Regulate Temperature
Tiles are known for their thermal stability, which means they don’t trap heat the way other flooring materials do. In the summer, tile flooring can help cool down your home. During winter, they work well with underfloor heating systems to keep your home warm and cosy. This helps regulate your body’s temperature and creates a more comfortable living environment.
One major health benefit that often gets overlooked is the reduced stress from worrying about constant replacements. Porcelain and ceramic tiles are extremely durable and can last for decades, reducing the environmental impact of frequent replacements. In the long run, this creates a more sustainable and stress-free home environment.
Best areas to use: High-traffic areas like hallways, kitchens, and outdoor patios.
Image Credit: iStock
#6: Tiles Are Great for Wet Areas
Tiles are water-resistant, making them perfect for moisture-prone areas. In bathrooms, for instance, using bathroom tiles, bathroom floor tiles, and bathroom wall tiles helps prevent water damage and the buildup of mould and mildew, which can be harmful to your health. This is a significant advantage over materials that are less resistant to water.
Porcelain tiles and ceramic tiles are made from natural materials, like clay, and do not contain toxic chemicals. This makes them a safer choice for homes, especially those with children who spend a lot of time on the floor.
Best areas to use: Children’s play areas, nurseries, and living rooms.
Image Credit: iStock
#8: Versatile Design Options for Every Room
Tiles are available in a wide range of designs and sizes. You can opt for large format tiles to create an elegant look with minimal grout lines or mix and match different patterns for a unique space. Choosing the right floor tile or wall tile can also brighten up your home, making it feel more inviting and relaxing—both great for mental health.
Best areas to use:Kitchen tiles, living rooms, and bathrooms for a personalised touch.
Choosing tiles for your home is an investment in your family’s health and well-being. Whether you’re renovating your kitchen, remodeling your bathroom, or enhancing your outdoor area, tiles offer a clean, hypoallergenic, and durable solution. Remember, a healthier home is a happier home, and with tiles, you’re on the right path.
Image Credit: iStock
Ready to create a healthy living space? Start planning your next tile project today!
When it comes to interior design, tiles do more than just serve a functional purpose. The style of tiles you choose can have a powerful psychological effect, shaping how a space feels and how it’s perceived. In this post, we’re diving into how different tile styles impact our mood and emotions, and how you can use this knowledge to create the perfect atmosphere in your home.
Bold, colourful tiles can inject a space with energy and life. These tiles make rooms feel dynamic, vibrant, and full of personality. If you’re looking to create a space that feels lively, such as a kitchen or a playful bathroom, bold tiles are a fantastic choice. Whether it’s a vibrant backsplash or a patterned floor, these tiles act as a focal point that grabs attention and brings a burst of energy to any room.
Natural stone tiles like marble and granite are synonymous with elegance. They give off a feeling of calm and serenity, making them ideal for areas where relaxation is key, like bathrooms or meditation spaces. There’s something inherently luxurious about stone tiles, as they connect us to nature and evoke a peaceful, grounded feeling. If you’re after a sense of tranquillity and sophistication, natural stone tiles are the way to go.
There’s nothing quite like the warmth of wood to make a space feel inviting. Wood-look tiles mimic the appearance of real wood but come with the durability of tile. These are perfect for bedrooms or living rooms where comfort is key. They bring a touch of nature indoors and create a cozy, organic atmosphere that makes any space feel homey and relaxing.
If you’re aiming for a sleek, modern vibe, geometric tiles might be just what you need. With their clean lines and precise shapes, these tiles add a touch of sophistication to any space. Geometric patterns are bold and eye-catching, making them great for kitchens and bathrooms where you want a contemporary, statement look. They evoke a sense of order and structure, adding a modern twist to any room.
Subway Tiles: Timeless and Elegant
Subway tiles are a classic choice that never goes out of style. Their simple, clean lines bring an air of sophistication to kitchens and bathrooms alike. With their neutral tones and timeless appeal, subway tiles can create a calm and soothing environment, making them perfect for spaces where you want to keep things light and neutral. They also have a nostalgic charm, giving off a warm, comforting feel that never fails to invite.
When it comes to interior design, your choice of tile style can truly transform a space. Whether you’re looking to create a bold, energetic room or a calm, serene retreat, there’s a tile style that can help you achieve the perfect atmosphere. Next time you’re picking out tiles, think about the emotions and feelings you want your space to evoke, and let that guide your decision.
Prefer to watch?
Ryan and Deon discuss The Psychological Impact of Various Tile Styles in the video below:
Ready to explore more? Visit your nearest Tiletoria showroom to discover how the right tiles can bring your interior design vision to life!
Mixing and matching tiles can add a unique flair to your home, but there are a few guidelines to keep in mind to avoid a visual disconnect. Let’s dive into the general rules for successfully combining different tiles in one space.
Mixing and matching tiles means combining various tile colours and styles within the same space. It’s about creating a cohesive yet dynamic look by using different designs in harmony.
Rule 1: Balance Busy Patterns
Small statement tiles, like mosaic tiles, can create stunning focal points. However, to avoid overwhelming the space, balance these intricate designs with plain tiles. For example, if you have a vibrant mosaic, surround it with single-colour tiles that pick up one of the colours from the mosaic. This allows your statement tiles to shine without competing for attention.
Rule 2: Combine Different Tile Sizes with a Colour Palette
Mixing different tile sizes can create a dynamic and visually appealing pattern. The key is to stick to a similar colour palette. For instance, you can pair large-format tiles with smaller tiles, even hexagonal tiles, as long as they share the same colour family. For example, use white hexagonal tiles on the wall paired with light grey large-format tiles on the floor. This creates a cohesive look with a touch of contrast.
Take this space as an example: large format tiles in a beige hue are paired with terracotta hexagonal tiles. These two differently sized tiles in varying shades of brown complement each other beautifully. You can then add splashes of colour through your features and accessories. Feeling bold? Why not emulate this look with a vibrant blue bath!
Rule 3: Mix Matte and Glossy Tiles
Combining matte and glossy tiles can add depth and dimension to your room. Consider using glossy subway tiles on the walls and matte hexagon tiles on the floor. The contrast in finishes not only adds texture but also a playful touch to the space. Feeling adventurous? For a bold look, you could create a chessboard effect by alternating matte and glossy floor tiles.
Rule 4: Combine Different Tile Styles
If you’re torn between different tile styles, try using two or three styles to create a balanced design. Think about the overall look you want to achieve and choose styles that complement each other. For example, balance busy patterned tiles with plain ones and avoid using patterned tiles throughout the entire room. This ensures the design is visually appealing without being overwhelming.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different materials like wood, glass, concrete, or marble. Mixing these materials can add texture, depth, and character to your space. The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity run wild!
Need Inspiration?
Have a look at some of our top tile combinations:
Contrasting Colours (Black and White)
In this space, two tile styles—subway tiles and small hexagonal tiles—are used to create a striking black-and-white contrast. This colour scheme results in a minimalist, balanced room. The bathroom fixtures and accessories also follow the same colour palette, tying the room together seamlessly.
Same Shape, Same Colour Family
This bathroom showcases subway tiles laid out vertically, adding depth and dimension. The tiles are all within the same colour family, creating a cohesive look. Neutral beige stone tiles are used to bind the space, ensuring a connected and harmonious design.
Same Shape, Different Colours
Using the Douglas Jones Punkah collection in Norwegian Red and Green Jade, this design features tiles of the same shape but in different colours to create a playful and vibrant space. Grey marble tiles on the floor break up the colours, allowing the wall tiles to stand out as the focal point.
In this bathroom, a variety of decorative tiles are used on the floor, making it the focal point while simple white tiles are used on the walls. This combination creates a contemporary, clean look despite the intricate floor tile designs.
Prefer to watch?
Ryan and Deon discuss mixing and matching tiles in the video below:
Mixing and matching tiles can seem daunting, but with these guidelines, you’ll be able to create a stunning and unique look in any room.
Feeling inspired but unsure where to start? We can help point you in the right direction! Visit your nearest Tiletoria showroom and let us help you choose the best combinations for your space.
One of the most exciting things about tiles is the many different ways that they can be installed. The same tile can create a very different result by simply changing the layout pattern. But with all the options, where do you start? Here are some of the most popular tile layout patterns to inspire your next project.
The running bond, or brick pattern, is a classic. Rectangular tiles are laid at a 50% offset horizontally, giving you a clean, timeless look. This pattern is great for hiding imperfections, making it a go-to choice for many.
Image Credit:
2. Vertical Running Bond
The vertical running bond is similar to the running bond but with a twist. Tiles are offset vertically by 50% instead of horizontally. This pattern draws the eye upward, making your small spaces feel taller and more open.
Image Credit: Topps Tiles UK
3. Vertical Offset
In the vertical offset pattern, each tile is shifted by a third from the one above it. This creates a dynamic look and also helps make your walls appear taller, perfect for compact areas.
Image Credit: Ceramic Connection
4. Stacked Layout
The stacked layout is simple and modern. Tiles are laid directly on top of each other in a basic grid pattern. This straightforward design gives a clean, contemporary look and is easy to install.
The herringbone pattern uses rectangular tiles set at 45 degrees. This classic design looks amazing on both walls and floors. You can use contrasting grout to create a unique look. Herringbone adds a touch of elegance and movement to your space.
Chevron is like herringbone but with tiles meeting at a 45-degree miter joint. It can be tricky and time consuming to install, but the end result is so worth it. If your tiles aren’t pre-cut for a chevron layout, you’ll need to cut the ends at a 45 degree angle to fit.
Image Credit: Shutterstock
7. Basket Weave
The basket weave pattern alternates horizontal and vertical tiles to create a woven look. Tiles are laid horizontally to form a square and then laid vertically to form another square. The horizontal and vertical tiles then alternate of the following rows. It’s a great way to add texture and visual interest to any space.
A diagonal layout is similar to a running bond, except tiles are turned 45 degrees for a diagonal layout. This pattern is perfect for hiding imperfections and adding a creative touch to your floors or walls.
Image Credit: Equipe Cerámicas
9. Modular Patterns
Modular patterns are formed by mixing square and rectangular tiles for a modular pattern. The possibilities are endless, and you can create a custom look based on the tile sizes and shapes you choose.
Image Credit: Tile Mountain
10. Diamond Pattern
Lay square tiles in a diamond pattern for a touch of timeless elegance. This layout is widely used and works well on both walls and floors. A diamond pattern can help disguise uneven surfaces and will hide imperfections if your wall or floor isn’t perfectly square.
Image Credit: The Makerista
Prefer to watch?
Ryan and Deon discuss tile layout patterns
For more inspiration, visit a Tiletoria showroom. Explore these patterns and find the perfect layout for your next project!
So, you’ve decided that tiling is the perfect option for your latest project, but how do you decide which tiles are best suited for each room of your home? We’re here to simplify the tiling selection process by sharing some tips and considerations for choosing the right tiles for each room.
Table of Content:
Smaller Rooms: Bathroom and Laundry Room
The Kitchen: The Heart of the Home
Hallways: Making a Great First Impression
Bedroom: A Growing Trend
Living Room: High Traffic and High Style
Outdoor: Extend Your Living Space
Smaller Rooms: Bathroom and Laundry Room
For smaller spaces like bathrooms and laundry rooms, smaller tiles are generally recommended. They can be fitted around fixtures and appliances more easily, reducing the need for extensive tile cutting. Popular options include marble or marble-inspired tiles, mosaic tiles, monochromatic tiles, and subway tiles.
Credits: @in.house.design
However, larger tiles like large format tiles can also work well in smaller rooms because they have fewer grout lines, creating the illusion of a larger space.
When choosing bathroom tiles, prioritize slip-resistant options that are easy to clean.
Browse some of our most popular bathroom and laundry room tiles to get started:
The Kitchen: The Heart of the Home
In larger rooms and open spaces, large format tiles can be the perfect choice. They create a uniform flooring and are becoming increasingly popular in open plan kitchens and living rooms. Large tiles offer a contemporary, hard-wearing feel, and slip-resistant tiles are recommended for the kitchen since it is a wet area.
Browse some of our most popular kitchen tiles to find the perfect match for your home:
Hallways: Making a Great First Impression
Hallways are often the first area guests see, so it’s important to make a lasting impression. Hallways need to be welcoming and attractive but also hard-wearing, as they endure a lot of foot traffic.
Ceramic tiles are a great choice because they are easy to clean and come in various bright colors and patterns.
Alternatively, large format tiles in neutral colors can create a simple, easy-to-clean look.
Decorative tiles are another popular option, adding a trendy touch to your hallway.
The choice depends on your style and whether you want a cohesive look throughout your home or different styles in each room.
Browse some of our most popular hallway tiles for inspiration:
Bedroom: A Growing Trend
Tiles in the bedroom are growing in popularity. Wood-look tiles add rustic, traditional charm to your cozy bedroom while offering ease of installation, cleaning, and maintenance.
Alternatively, large format glossy or matte tiles in neutral colors can provide the finishing touch to a minimalistic, contemporary-styled bedroom.
Credits: Emilgroup
Browse some of our most popular bedroom tiles to create your dream space:
Living Room: High Traffic and High Style
The living room is another high-traffic area. It’s important to choose tiles that are durable, hard-wearing, and easy to clean. For a unified look, consider using the same tiles throughout your home, from the kitchen to the bedroom to the living room. Wood-look tiles are a great option for creating a warm, homely feel in the living room.
Browse some of our most popular living room tiles to find your perfect fit:
Outdoor: Extend Your Living Space
Let’s take this conversation outside. Slip-resistantporcelain and ceramic tiles are ideal for outdoor areas because they are moisture and water-resistant. Porcelain tiles are particularly suitable for outdoor use due to their higher water resistance. A matte glazed finish can offer even more slip resistance.
Wood-look tiles are another excellent option for the outdoors if you prefer the look of a wooden deck but without the maintenance required with real wood decking.
Credits: Archi Expo
Browse some of our most popular outdoor tiles to enhance your outdoor living space:
Prefer to Watch?
Check out our two-part episode where Ryan and Deon walk you through everything you need to know and share some inspiration for tiles for each room of your home.
Tiletoria Trends – How to Choose Tiles By Room (Part 1)
Tiletoria Trends – How to Choose Tiles By Room (Part 2)
For more expert advice on which tiles are best suited for each room of your home, visit your nearest Tiletoria showroom or check out our website for more information.
Laminate flooring is a popular choice for homeowners seeking a stylish, durable, and affordable flooring option. Whether you’re considering a new installation or already have laminate floors, you probably have a few questions. In this blog, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about laminate flooring. Let’s get started!
Laminate flooring is a multi-layer synthetic product designed to mimic the look of wood and textured flooring. It typically consists of the following layers:
A protective top layer – Wear layers are often waterproof and safeguard the floor against scratches and stains, offering a realistic texture. They can feature rough, natural-looking scrapes and knots.
An image/photographic layer – This layer is the pattern or print, simulating real wood or textures.
A core layer – Typically constructed from compressed high-density fiberboard, which enhances the floor’s durability and stability. It is water-resistant, though not entirely waterproof. The core layer also contains the locking system.
Backing: The backing prevents water from seeping into the sub floor. High-quality backing can safeguard your floor against peaking and moisture damage.
Laminate flooring offers numerous advantages, making it a popular choice for homeowners.
One of its primary benefits is affordability; laminate flooring prices are generally lower than those of traditional wood flooring, allowing you to achieve a real wood look and feel, without breaking the bank.
Additionally, laminate flooring is incredibly durable, resistant to scratches, dents, and stains, making it ideal for high-traffic areas and households with pets or children.
Its maintenance is straightforward and minimal, requiring only regular sweeping and occasional damp mopping.
The variety of styles available also means you can find laminate wood flooring that perfectly matches your decor, whether you prefer the look of oak, maple, or even exotic hardwoods.
Lastly, the installation process is user-friendly, often featuring a click-and-lock system without the need for adhesives or nails, making it an easy DIY project.
3. What is the difference between Laminate and Vinyl Flooring?
Laminate and vinyl flooring are both popular alternatives to traditional wood flooring, but they have distinct differences.
Laminate flooring is made of a high-density fiberboard core topped with a photographic layer that mimics the appearance of wood, stone, or other materials, and a protective wear layer. It is known for its realistic look and durability against scratches and dents. However, laminate is only water-resistant, not waterproof, which limits its use in high-moisture areas like bathrooms.
On the other hand, vinyl flooring is made of synthetic materials, typically featuring multiple layers of PVC vinyl. It is entirely waterproof, making it an excellent choice for moisture-prone areas.
While laminate offers a more authentic wood look and feel, vinyl provides superior water resistance.
For a more in depth comparison between Laminate and Vinyl Flooring, check out our blog.
To find out more about Vinyl Flooring in particular, read out blog here or check out the video below.
4. How Does Laminate Flooring Compare to Wood Flooring?
While both laminate and wood flooring offer aesthetic appeal, they differ in several ways:
Cost: Laminate flooring prices are generally lower than those of wood flooring, making it a budget-friendly option.
Durability: Laminate is highly resistant to scratches, dents, and stains, whereas wood can be more susceptible to damage.
Maintenance: Laminate is easier to clean and maintain compared to wood flooring, which may require periodic refinishing.
Installing laminate flooring can be a rewarding DIY project. Here’s a quick guide:
Prepare the Subfloor: Make sure the subfloor is clean, dry, and level.
Lay Underlayment: Install an underlayment to act as a moisture barrier and noise reducer.
Click and Lock: Laminate flooring often uses a click-and-lock system, making it straightforward to install. Start in one corner and work your way across the room.
Image Credit: LUBO IVANKO/GETTY IMAGES
8. How Do I Install Wood Flooring?
Installing wood flooring can be more complex but still achievable:
Acclimate the Wood: Allow the wood to acclimate to the room’s conditions for a few days.
Prepare the Subfloor: Ensure the subfloor is clean, dry, and level.
Nail or Glue Down: Depending on the type of wood flooring, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for nailing or gluing the planks down.
Image Credit: Leo Malsam/Getty Images
9. Can Laminate Flooring Be Used in Any Room?
Laminate flooring is versatile and can be used in most rooms, including living rooms, bedrooms, and kitchens. However, it’s best to avoid using it in areas with high moisture levels, such as bathrooms, to prevent damage.
Yes, laminate flooring is easy to maintain. Regular sweeping or vacuuming and occasional damp mopping will keep your floors looking great for years.
Image Credit: Gettyimages/mariakraynova
11. Are Laminate Flooring Prices Affordable?
Laminate flooring prices are generally more affordable than wood flooring, making it a cost-effective choice for many homeowners. The exact cost will depend on the quality and style of the laminate you choose.
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