6 Reasons You Need to Choose Granite Tiles For Your Countertop Instead of a Slab!

Nothing can add beauty to your kitchen quite like natural stone. Of all the natural stones the #1 choice for kitchens worldwide is the granite slab.  However, granite slabs can be extremely expensive, making them out of reach for many people.  Yet there is an alternative which is just as good or better and for much less.  That alternative is granite tiles and that’s because:   

Granite tiles are extremely strong.  Unlike other some of the other types of stone tiles, granite tiles are extremely strong and durable.  They are so tough that they are often used as patio tiles. This makes them great for counter top use where not only must they carry the weight of appliances, but also stand up to daily use, and the occasional dropped dish or plate.  Don’t be fooled by the fact that they are thinner than a slab, granite tiles are easily strong enough to be used on a countertop.          

Granite tiles are non-porous.  Unlike virtually all other types of stone granite is naturally non-porous.  Being impervious to water not only means you don’t have to seal them but they won’t absorb stains like other stone tiles.  And this is extremely important for an area like the countertop which is guaranteed to get wet and is dealing with foods and oils.

Granite tiles are much cheaper than solid granite slabs.  Solid granite slabs can be extremely expensive.  And while you do get what you pay for, a beautiful slab of natural stone, why pay more than you have to for the same material. A granite slab is thicker and is one solid piece of stone, yet when you can get the same look, strength, and beauty for usually a fraction of the price, granite tiles are the way to go.,    

They fit together better than ceramic tiles.  Unlike other types of tiles, granite tiles actually fit together more snugly and closer than other tiles do. And this is great because this leads to the next reason granite tiles are a great choice.

With the right grout seams become almost invisible.  Because granite tiles fit together so well, if you carefully choose a grout that’s the same color as the tiles, it’s almost impossible to see the seam. This means not only are you paying less for the same material, but no one will ever have to know!   

No installation cost. Unlike a granite slab which you should not  and could not install by yourself, granite tiles are installed just like ceramic and other types of tiles.  You can easily install them yourself.   This means not only can you enjoy the pride of a DIY job well done but also the pride of knowing you didn’t pay an arm and a leg to install it.

As you can see when it comes to adding the beauty of natural stone to your kitchen, granite tiles are a much better option.  Cheaper to buy, possibly free to install, great fitting, tough, non-porous, and nobody will know the difference.  Save your money and double your pleasure by getting the countertop you’ve always wanted but without the hassle and price tag of a slab. 

For another way to save money and still have the beautiful look of stone click here: http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/04/garden/ceramic-tile-with-the-look-of-marble.html?_r=0&gwh=9FAA50AFDBA55014AD3DC317F978FD2E

Tile Patterns: 3 Essential Questions You Need To Ask Yourself To Find The Perfect One

Different tile patterns have been around since there have been tiles.  And since that time the inevitable question has always come up: “Which tile pattern should I choose?”  However today that question is even harder to answer because of the many advances in tiling which provide with more materials and options than any other time in history. However there are 3 questions to help you narrow down your choices and get you on the fast track to choosing the right one.

What do I want to ultimately accomplish in this space?

Not answering this question correctly or honestly is the number one cause of dissatisfaction when installing tiles.  You have to really ask yourself what is the purpose of the pattern.  Take your time and really think about this.  Maybe you just want something that looks nice.  Or maybe you want to create a beautiful focal point for your kitchen or bathroom.  Maybe you just want a pattern that goes with the one on the wall but doesn’t make the room look to busy.  Whatever your motive is you should take your time and truthfully answer this question.  While the herringbone pattern may have looked great in the tile brochure you looked at it, it might not seem so great when you realize it’s just too much for your room and probably your wallet as well because your tile guy had to make ten times the amount of cuts when installing it.  There’s nothing worse than having reality set in after paying for tile to be put down and realizing you just paid a lot of money for something that doesn’t work in the space, and you’re going to have to look at it for the next ten years every time you walk in the room. Each tile pattern has its own unique niche that it really works for and but also those it doesn’t.  Take your time ask yourself what you really want to accomplish and then look at all your options.

How does the pattern affect the space as a whole?

This is a question that is often never asked.  Most people tend to just look at the floor or the wall where they are installing their pattern but not the space as a whole.  Sure, you asked yourself what you wanted to accomplish and decided on the black and white checkerboard pattern installed diagonally to create the look a wider, yet classic room.  And it worked.  However it clashes with your new couch or the wallpaper.  Don’t just look at the exact place where you are going to install the pattern but look at the room as a whole cohesive unit and think about how the pattern will affect this unit.

What material does this pattern look the best in and does that material work in my space?

Just like each tile pattern has its own places where it works and it doesn’t, they also have certain materials that really make them look great.   Certain patterns like the Versailles are typically only suited for stone tiles, or the straight lay with ceramic tiles.  You need to identify which materials the pattern you like works the best with and if those materials work with you and your room. 

Ask yourself these 3 questions and they will save you thousands of lost dollars and years of being disappointed.   Ask yourself what you need to accomplish, and look at your options.  Then ask yourself if these options work in the room or space as a whole.  If they do, find out the material that works the best for that pattern and if works as well.   Using this method you can easily eliminate the tile patterns that are not right and find the one that really is.

For more info.on tile patterns check out this article: http://www.tilehomeguide.com/tile-patterns-the-ultimate-quick-read-beginners-guide-including-secrets-of-tile-professionals-revealed/

Floor Tile VS. Wall Tile: What’s The Difference???

This is a question many homeowners ask themselves.    And the correct answer is that there a few distinctions, yet these few are extremely important. Here they are:

Floor Tile

While the floor tile functions to decorate a room with its color, pattern, material, or all three, they must first serve another purpose.  And that purpose is to provide a strong and durable surface that can stand up to the daily stresses of life, literally.  Floor tiles are engineered to withstand heavy foot traffic, resist scratches, and bear the weight of furniture and appliances, and even sudden impacts from homeowners dropping things accidentally.  This means that floor tiles are usually heavier and thicker than wall tiles. This can sometimes add to their price.  However, floor tiles can be used on walls and work extremely well on countertops because of their strength and durability, which countertop tiles need to be.

Floor Tile Ratings

All floor tiles should have a rating by the American National Standards Institute or the Porcelain Enamel Institute, however some imported, and handmade tiles do not.  These ratings tell range from grades 1 to 4.  Grade 1 being the weakest and grade 4 being the most durable.  Floor tiles must have a rating of 3 or 4.  If they do not, they should not be used on the floor; tiles with ratings of 1 or 2 will not be able to handle the stress and will easily be damaged.

Wall Tile

While floor tile must be tough, wall tiles don’t have to be. Typically they are used to create a focal point, patterns, or to add color or a particular feel to a space or room. They don’t have to support heavy weight stand up to foot traffic, or worry about being scratched.  This makes them available in: smaller sizes, thinner, more delicate and decorative materials, and with finer finishes which could not otherwise be used on the floor.  This means that while some floor tiles can be used as wall tiles, wall tiles should not be used as floor or counter top tiles.  It’s just not strong enough. 

Wall Tile Ratings

Wall tiles are rated by the same system as floor tiles to give the consumer an accurate assessment of how durable it is.  However, unlike floor tiles which should only be grade 3 or 4, tiles from grades 1 through 4 are all suitable to be used on walls.  Grade 1 tiles would be fragile but that’s fine for decorative use.

Floor and wall tiles can transform our homes and living spaces into places of beauty.  However it’s important to know the difference between them so we can use them correctly and to our advantage.   Make sure you choose a tile with the correct rating for your project at hand and you will save the headache of broken tiles and an empty wallet.

For a good article on how to lay tile click here:http://www.nytimes.com/1989/03/05/nyregion/home-clinic-laying-floor-tiles.html

Everything You Need To Know About Ceramic Tiles In 5 Minutes!

Ceramic tiles are the most commonly used tiles around the world.  They can be used in almost every room, on the wall, floor, and even counter or table tops.  However, there are few things every homeowner should know about ceramic tiles before installing them in their home.   Having a basic knowledge of ceramic tiles will help you save time and money by allowing you to choose the correct tiles for your project.  So here are the basics:

While most people assume that all ceramic tiles are made up of 100% clay and some are, most are actually made from a combination of materials.   Most ceramic tiles on the market today are actually a combination of clay, talc, sand, shale, and vermiculite.  These materials are first mixed together and then water is added.  This mixture is then shaped into what is called a biscuit; this is the body of the tile. This biscuit is dried and typically fired only one time in a kiln at around 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit.  Tiles that are fired at lower temperatures or for shorter periods of time are usually more porous(less water-resistant).  Tiles which are fired for longer and at higher temperatures are usually denser and therefore less porous (more water-resistant).  This process can last anywhere from a few minutes or hours, up to a week.

The next step in making ceramic tiles is the glaze.  This is where the tile receives its color.   If a tile is left unglazed, like quarry tiles, the tiles will be the natural color of the clay from which they were produced.  The glazing process actually adds more than just color, it is a protective layer for the body of the tile, and can be used to add texture as well.  Typically the glaze is made up of silica and pigment and can be added in the initial firing of biscuit or after, and then the tile and glaze are fired again.  Just like the biscuit, the temperature and time that a glaze is fired will affect its strength.  Stronger and more durable glazes are fired for longer and at higher temperatures than weaker ones.

Ceramic tile is classed into 3 different types, which to the consumer is very important because it is these classifications which tell them what conditions the tile can and can’t be used for.  The first type is called nonvitreous tile.  These tiles have many air pockets which means they will easily absorb water.  These air pockets are a result of being fired at low temperatures and for short periods of time.  This makes them cheaper to manufacture and therefore are the least expensive type of ceramic tiles to buy.  Nonvitreous ceramic tiles should not be used in wet areas inside or outside the home.  They can easily be damaged by wet conditions, bacteria, and freezing conditions as the water they absorb can freeze inside them causing them to crack.  Because these tiles are soft-bodied they also should not be used as floor tiles.

Semivitreous tile is less water absorbent than vitreous tile but not totally water resistant.  It is usually fired at around the same temperatures as vitreous tiles but for a longer time.  With less air pockets these tiles can be used in wet conditions if they are properly water-proofed.  However, they should not be used outdoors as they are still very susceptible to cracking if they were to become wet and then freeze.  

Vitreous tiles are much denser tiles than the first two types and are therefore much stronger and much less porous.  This comes from the long hours and high temperatures at which it is fired. These tiles can be used in wet areas inside and out, and because they are strong they make excellent floor tiles.  These are the best all around ceramic tiles for the average homeowner. However, it is very important to check the manufacturer’s specifications because while these are hard-bodied and durable tiles, not all vitreous tiles have a durable glaze and because of this cannot be used as floor tile.

The most durable and dense of all ceramic tiles are what are called impervious tile.  As the name implies they are almost impervious to water which makes them great for use in wet conditions like showers. This also makes them impenetrable by bacteria as well and typically won’t freeze and crack when used outdoors.  While these tiles can be more expensive than the less durable types they make up for it with their toughness and durability.  Impervious tile is most commonly used in hospitals, restaurants, and commercial settings where sanitation and cleanliness is extremely important.

With the background information you now have on ceramic tiles you can easily make an accurate decision on which type of ceramic tile is the best for your project. 

4 Ways To Use Outdoor Tiles To Improve The Value Of Your Home

Outdoor tiles are a perfect way to increase your home’s worth and provide you with a great looking place to live.  While tiles are mainly used indoors they are often overlooked when it comes to outdoor projects.  Here are 4 projects using outdoor tiles which if done correctly can immediately boost the looks, character, and feel of your house as well as its value.   

Tiled Stair Risers

This is one of the cheapest ways to increase the value of your home.  Not only does this not require many tiles but it’s also a job you could do yourself to save even more money. Cheap to purchase, no professional installation cost, and you get a high return on this investment.  It’s small space that is often forgotten but makes a big impression, especially because usually from the sidewalk the stair riser of most home are directly in line with our eyes.  It’s just a great way to add curb appeal to your home.  It’s never a bad thing when the first view of your home is a beautiful one.     

Tiled Stairs

Another option is tiling the stairs themselves.  The stairway helps to form the entryway to your home and having a tiled entryway can make quite a first impression.  However it’s very important to make sure you use an outdoor tile that is rated as such and is also non-slip. Stairs are one place it pays to have a strong tile with tons of grip.      

Tiled Patio

While more expensive, installing an outdoor tile patio will also add the most value to your house.  This is because you will have a functional space to relax and enjoy your yard or have a gathering with friends and family.  And with such a wide range of materials in which outdoor tiles for patios are available to choose from, that patio could range from slate to travertine or even granite.           

Tiled Walkway

Connecting the front of your home to the back with a tile pathway is another easy way to improve the value of your home.  Not only will this add to the beauty of your home, especially if you are using outdoor tiles which complement your house, but to its functionality as well.  Just make sure you use a tile which can stand up to the right amount of foot traffic.  While slate is a great looking choice its better suited for a decorative path with only light traffic, where as granite or quarry tiles can take much heavier foot traffic.  

All of these projects not only have the potential to make your home better looking and your space more useful but in doing so make it much more valuable as well.  While outdoor tiles are all made for outdoor use, they are not all created equal and it’s important to know the strengths and weaknesses of each so you can get the most out of your project and thus the most for your home.

                

For more info. on outdoor tiles click here: http://www.tilehomeguide.com/outdoor-tiles-explained-a-quick-and-easy-beginners-guide/