We have all come across tiled and one thing we must admit is that a tiled surface is elegant and eye-catching. The use of tiles to cover walls, floors, and kitchen tops is becoming common by the day and especially in the modern day. In as much as it was there in the ancient days, the artwork was not as decorative as it is today; thanks to the use of design tiles.
Tiles are beautiful especially when they are used to accentuate a room or as a focal point in a room. However, the beauty comes out with ease where there are patterns with a different spectrum of colors and styles. A majority of people tend to think that tiles are particularly for the kitchen or bathroom walls. However, they also bring out an aesthetic appeal to other unexpected areas, for example, the bathroom floors.
What must you consider before buying tiles?
Tile designs carry an enormous amount of history. They come in different forms, sizes, and shapes given that they are for different uses. However, there is need to exercise some caution, especially when buying design tiles. Remember they are very delicate and besides you want to tap into their maximum beauty. Here are some factors you can consider as you chose your tiles:
- Tear and wear
The area of application and frequency of use determines what kind of tile is suitable. Understanding the type of dirt and degree the surface will be handling is equally a good guidance into buying the correct tile. It is worth noting that different resistance groups of tiles are appropriate for different types of surfaces.
- Stain resistance and water absorption rate
Bathrooms are always wet because they are in constant use. That said the tiles should be an excellent choice to stand the wet area. A glazed ceramic tile though nonporous is a good choice because it is able to absorb water through its body.
On the other hand, low water absorption tiles are exceptional in stain resistance. They are easy to clean and have a longer service life.
- Slip resistance
Normally floor tiles have the exposure to spills or wetness. Thus the more you shall require a slip-resistant floor tile.
- Cost
The market boasts of a wide range of tiles. However, they all have different prices depending on their texture and the truth is that design tiles are not cheap. Nonetheless, it is always advisable to involve a tile expert before making any financial commitment on your choice of tiles.
Best practices in maintaining design tiles
Tile care and cleaning are of great importance. Maintaining your tile on a regular basis not only keeps dirt away but it also helps in building a habit of keeping them clean. Proper maintenance gives them long life and prolongs their durability. However, the truth is that cleaning of tiles is not anyone’s piece of cake but with the following tips it stops being a daunting task: –
- Sweeping your tile floors every day will keep away the accumulation of dust and dirt in the corners.
- Unlike what many tend to think the use of expensive commercial cleaner is not necessary because the use of a homemade solution makes your tiles sparkle just as well.
- More often tiles will break off or crack. Proper maintenance practice demands immediate
- Clean spills and stains as quickly as possible even when they look like they are not a bother.
The durability and the lasting of the beauty of your tiles is all dependent on your maintenance expertise. You can often try out natural products. Some of them include baking soda, vinegar, which is the one of the most versatile and effective product, lemon juice, and salt. The likes of hydrogen peroxide are best for stubborn stains.