16 Things You Should Know About Tiles

When contemplating building a new home or remodeling your existing Connecticut home, combing through bathroom floor tile trends and kitchen tile design ideas to choose new tiles for a remodel or installation may not be the first item on your to-do list. 

But because there are so many different kinds of tiles—and applications—it’s a good idea to get a jump on collecting information to make the best decisions possible for your project when the time comes. 

That’s why our expert remodeling and building team at Sunwood has shared a few of the must-know things about tiles you should learn in this blog. Armed with this information, you’ll better understand tiles and which are the best suited to your project. 

Fun Facts About Tile

While tile may sometimes be overlooked in favor of items such as countertops, cabinets, appliances, and windows, its impact in an entryway, a kitchen, or a bathroom is significant. 

With that in mind, let’s look at some fun and fascinating facts (along with a few tips) that can help you make the most of these geometrically shaped pieces of pottery or porcelain.

• Tiles have been around for a long time. The earliest known tiles were found in an archaeological dig in Egypt, dating back to about 4,700 BC.
  
  
• Tiles are the number one choice of wall covering in bathrooms because they are easy to clean, non-porous when glazed, and mold-resistant. So, it shouldn’t be too difficult to find waterproof tiles for a bathroom if you plan on remodeling one. 
  
  
• Ceramic tiles are the most common type of tile and offer the widest variety. You should look at ceramic tile trends for this year if you’re leaning toward installing this type of tile. 
  
  
• Porcelain tiles cost more than ceramic tiles, but they are stronger, better for higher-traffic areas, and available in large formats up to two feet square!
  
  
• Real stone and marble tiles are much more expensive and challenging to work with. They can also be porous and may need to be sealed. However, some very realistic and smart-engineered faux alternatives are available.
  
  
• Bullnose refers to the rounded edge of a tile, which can be either a single bullnose (rounded on one edge) or a double bullnose (rounded on both sides).
  
  
• Subway tiles are typically 3 x 6 inches and, as the name suggests, were often used in subways in the US. They are traditionally white but come in various colors and can be laid in different patterns, including herringbone! If you’re considering installing subway tiles, they are perfect for kitchens and are often included in DIY tile backsplash ideas.
  
  
• Mosaic tiles are small tiles used to create decorative patterns for millennia. These days, mosaics are often supplied on a pre-made cloth backing, which makes applying them much easier than it used to be!
  
  
• Listellos are the Italian name for finger tiles. These small, narrow, short tiles (often in various shades or colors) create borders or decorative features in higher-end tiling installations.
  
  
• Wall tiles are usually thinner, smaller, and lighter. They are also generally weaker and not designed to withstand significant temperature changes. That’s why you never want to use wall tiles on the floor.
  
  
• Tile cement is a premixed mortar that only requires water to create a thick, glue-like paste for sticking tiles to walls and floors.
• Grout is very fine powdered cement in various colors used to fill the gaps between tiles.
  
  
• Tile must be installed on a flat surface, or it will crack or loosen over time. Self-leveling cement compounds can fix slightly uneven floors, and walls can be filled or plastered if there are small holes or imperfections. Re-hanging new drywall or replacing the subfloor may be necessary for significant issues.
  
  
• The way tiles are laid can dramatically affect how a space is perceived. For instance, laying tiles diagonally or using large-format tiles can make a small room appear larger, while herringbone or chevron patterns add an interesting visual interest.
  
  
• Once installed, tiles are relatively low maintenance compared to other flooring options. Regular sweeping and occasional mopping are usually enough to keep them looking new. Glazed tiles, in particular, resist stains and don’t require sealing, making them easy to care for over time.
  
  
• In colder climates, tiles can be installed with radiant heating systems underneath. Heated tiles are a luxury feature in bathrooms and other spaces, providing warmth underfoot and improving overall comfort.

How Much Do Tiles Cost In 2024 In Connecticut?

In 2024, the tile installation price per square foot in Connecticut varies widely based on the type of tile and the project's complexity. For budget-friendly tiles, such as basic ceramic options, the tile installation cost per square foot can range from $5 to $10, including materials and labor. In contrast, premium tiles like porcelain typically cost more, ranging from $10 to $15 per square foot, due to their durability and aesthetic appeal.

Additionally, when comparing porcelain vs ceramic tiles, porcelain tends to be more expensive but offers greater strength and is ideal for high-traffic areas. Moreover, tile flooring vs hardwood considerations often highlight that tiles are more budget-friendly and low-maintenance, whereas hardwood provides warmth and natural beauty at a higher cost. You must consider these elements when making your flooring decisions for your home. 

To ensure you make the best tile investment choice for your home, it's also important to explore various tile layout ideas. This is because different ideas can also impact the overall cost, with more modern tile patterns potentially increasing labor charges.

Tile Maintenance

Maintenance is vital to bathroom tiling or any other space in your home. Regardless of the types of tile you choose, be it ceramic, porcelain, or natural stone, proper care ensures longevity and keeps them looking pristine. Here are some essential knowledge points about tiles and their maintenance:

• Cleaning: Use a damp cloth or mop for simple tiles. Avoid abrasive cleaners, which can scratch or damage the tile surface.
• Sealing: Some tiles, especially natural stone, require sealing to prevent moisture absorption. As time goes on, you will need to re-seal as recommended.
• Drying: You must ensure tiles are dried properly after cleaning, especially in bathrooms. While the surface dries quickly, grout and adhesive might take longer.

Floor Tile Trends 2024: Our Favorite Timeless Tile Trends

Because installing tile is somewhat labor intensive, you don't want to replace it every few years. So, how do you choose a tile that won't look outdated immediately? Below, we have shared a quick look at some current bathroom tile trends you may want to consider. As you review these popular options, remember there is a big difference between a trend and a fad. 

Neutral Colors

Current contemporary designs tend to use neutral tile colors. These colors work well with contemporary designs' sleek and simple lines. Beige and grey are currently popular choices for complementary colors.

New-Look Subway Tiles

Not that long ago, some designers predicted the death of subway tiles. They were seen as too boring. Today, subway tiles are more attractive. The current crop of subway tiles offers more variety in size, color, and pattern. Plus, some designers and homeowners use contrasting grout colors to achieve a more striking effect.

Marvelous Matte Finishes

Often, people think of glossy finishes when considering tile. Matte-finished tiles, however, create a soft, striking beauty that never looks “over the top.” A nice feature of matte tiles is that they don’t smudge or show watermarks nearly as much as tiles with a glossy finish.

Graphic Patterns

We already mentioned that the sizes and shapes of subway tiles have changed. That's also happening with other kinds of tile. Depending on your situation (and your personal sense of style), you can get creative with using tile with new graphic patterns that can be subtle touches or look like a piece of art.

New Dimensions

Patterns and colors aren’t the only things changing in the tile world. We’re starting to see new shapes as well. If you browse design sites (such as houzz.com), you’ll see traditional shapes (such as rectangles) alongside hexagons, arabesque, fish scales,  and other geometric shapes.

Eco-Friendly Tiles

• With the increasing emphasis on sustainability, eco-friendly tiles are gaining popularity. These tiles reduce the carbon footprint and introduce unique aesthetics to spaces.

• Materials: Many eco-friendly tiles are made from recycled materials, like glass or sustainable clay sources.
• Energy Efficiency: The production process for these tiles for kitchen and bathroom spaces often uses less energy.
• Air Quality: Some tiles are designed to improve indoor air quality by reducing VOC emissions.
• Tile Innovation

The tiling process has seen significant advancements over the years. From the tile installation process to the designs, there's always something new in the world of tiles. Here's what's trending:

• 3D-Printed Tiles: Modern technology allows intricate designs and patterns to be 3D-printed onto tiles, offering a vast array of new tile design options.
• Anti-Slip Tiles: Innovations have led to slip-resistant tiles, making them safer for areas like bathrooms.
• Large Format Tiles: Bigger tiles mean fewer grout lines, providing a more seamless look. These are especially popular for contemporary spaces.
• Setting Time: While traditional adhesives might require 24 hours or longer, some new formulations allow quicker setting times, some as quickly as a few hours.

Sunwood Can Help You Choose Tiles For Your Home Remodel Or Build

Remember, whether you're prepping for a tile floor or simply exploring the different types of tiles available, it's essential to be informed. Tiles are a significant investment; the right choice can transform a space. If you’re ready to explore tile options for your project, Sunwood can help. Our expert team can't wait to meet you. We are excited to show you the magic we can create when our expertise with tile installation meets your style! Contact us here to learn more.