Tiles continue to be popular flooring materials in both homes and commercial spaces around the world. Two of the main reasons are their durability and ease of maintenance.
But there are many other qualities that make it one of the best flooring choices.
If you have decided to go with tile flooring, it’s essential to learn how to pick the right ones for your space, which in turn guarantees longevity.
Keep reading to discover tips to do just that.
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Use These Tips When Shopping For Tile Flooring
The right tile flooring can transform your home. Here is how to shop for it the right way.
First: What is tile flooring?
Tile flooring has become a staple in modern bathrooms and kitchens. But the truth is that it can be installed throughout your home, both inside and outside. In fact, tiles can be installed both on walls and floors. Of course, it’s important to understand the difference between wall and floor tiles.
There are two types of tile flooring on the market:
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Ceramic Tiles
The first evidence of ceramic tiles dates back roughly to the fourth century. Although less durable than porcelain tiles due to their manufacturing process, they are more affordable and frequently have more texture.
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Porcelain Tiles
Porcelain tile flooring is an increasingly popular choice for homes and businesses. Thanks to their manufacturing process, porcelain tiles are more durable and less porous than their ceramic counterparts.
It should be noted that both ceramic and porcelain tiles come in various sizes and can be installed both indoors and outdoors.
It is best to understand the product you are installing for its best application and usage. The next thing that one needs to know is the PEI rating of tile flooring.
Understanding PEI Rating
The PEI in the PEI rating stands for Porcelain Enamel Institute. This rating indicates five hardness classes, which determine the porcelain’s durability and where it should be installed. Knowing a certain file’s PEI rating will tell you where it can be installed and direct you toward the ideal product for your needs.
This is what the PEI rating entails.
- Class I: meant for wall application only
- Class II: ideal for light foot traffic, such as bathrooms
- Class III: ideal for light to moderate foot-traffic
- Class IV: meant for moderate to heavy foot traffic
- Class V: meant for heavy foot traffic, as in homes and heavy commercial use
Make sure to ask about PEI ratings at your nearby home improvement store.
Now let’s dive into the buying process. Here’s what you need to keep in mind.
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Know Your Budget
Always be realistic when setting your budget, and make sure you are aware of every aspect of your project. Many additional costs come with replacing your floors or purchasing new flooring, including labour, subfloor preparation, and transportation. All these factors affect your total budget.
Porcelain tiles are more expensive than ceramic ones but offer a variety of options in different price ranges. Remember to include installation costs, as this flooring needs to be installed by a professional.
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Understand the Area of Installation
Where you install your tiles matters greatly. And not all tiles are equally thick, which is why their PEI rating is so important.
If you install tiles meant for flooring on walls, they will eventually fall off and break. This is because the wall will not be able to bear their weight. Similarly, if wall tiles are installed as flooring, they will eventually break and crack. That’s why you need to determine the area of installation for the best results.
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Choose Quality Over Quantity
There is no denying that quality matters when it comes to the longevity of your flooring. When you choose high-quality flooring products from trusted tile manufacturers, they ensure a longer lifespan. Moreover, good-quality tile flooring offers warranties that are otherwise not available for poorer-quality products.
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Select A Finish
Tile flooring comes in various textures and finishes. There are mainly three types of flooring finishes: glazed, unglazed and polished.
Glazed tiles are protected from moisture and stains. They are one of the most attractive options to get that high-end look.
A polished finish is smooth and protects your floors from absorbing dirt, debris, and moisture. It is also easier to maintain.
However, polished tiles can be slippery, so do not install them in bathrooms or other areas that experience high moisture levels. Instead, choose a textured tile to ensure better traction.
Unglazed tiles have an earthy look, are vulnerable to liquid, and are harder to maintain. But they are also widely used in homes.
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Choose a Professional Installer
Watching do-it-yourself renovation videos on YouTube makes it seem like no project is too difficult. But the reality is much different. In fact, porcelain or ceramic tiles are not easy to install. They require proper tools and expertise, so should only be laid down by a professional. Subpar or improper installation will lead to expensive repairs. Hire a reputable installer in your area for your project.
Choosing an attractive design is part of the process of selecting a product. But don’t buy based on looks alone. Understanding how to buy the right product is very important for your project. We hope these tips will help. Visit your local home improvement store and start shopping for tile flooring today!
