Bathroom Tile Concepts
Bathroom tile is one of the most important materials used in bathroom construction and remodeling. Not only is it important for waterproofing, but it also covers key areas of the bathroom, including counters, showers and sometimes even walls. What the tile is made of and how it looks are decisions that will affect the appearance of the entire bathroom. Several different design concepts can be used to give bathrooms a unique tile design. Does this Spark an idea?
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Types of Tile
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Homeowners can choose from a wide variety of tiles to use in the bathroom. Granite and marble tiles are the most expensive but often the most impressive, as long as they are properly sealed to avoid water damage. Ceramic tile is less expensive but very durable and flexible in terms of color and size. Synthetic stone options are also available. Vinyl and linoleum tiles are the least expensive options.
Polished Tile Surfaces
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Tile does not need to be segmented out into different squares throughout the bathroom. Homeowners can choose tiles that are identical in color and position them close together with very small grout lines to give the idea of a continuous surface. The tiles should then be polished to build a sheen that adds to the effect. Stone tiles are especially useful for this purpose.
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Different Tile Sizes
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Tiles come in many shapes and sizes, and bathrooms do not need to be designed with only one type of tile, which can be annoying if used on the floor, walls and counters. If there are multiple tile surfaces, then different sizes and shapes of tile can be used to highlight the difference. Walls can be tiled with rectangular pieces, for instance, while floors can be installed with large, square tiles.
Mosaics
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If the bathroom has extra space or a wall that needs a decoration, mosaics and murals are an easy way to incorporate a tile-based art piece. Ceramic tiles are usually used for these mosaics, which are planned out with a variety of different colored tiles and then installed in the proper pattern. Some mosaic tiles are even hand painted. Mirror tiles or tiles of slightly different substances can also be used in mosaics.
Decorative Edging
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Decorative edging with more elaborate tile is a method often used to highlight the edge of bathtubs or rim the back splash around sinks. This is especially useful if the tile ends at plaster or drywall and needs a border to make the transition. Sometimes stone tile can be used as a border while cheaper ceramic tile can be used in the center of the bathroom to save money.
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References
- Photo Credit sink in the bathroom with pink tiles image by Elnur from Fotolia.com