How to Choose Ceramic Floor Tile

Border tile

Tile is easy to care for, and styles and colors can match almost any décor. Ceramic tiles can also create patterns if you use different sizes or shades or colors in border designs. Tiles can also be placed in diagonal lines to make them more interesting. Homeowners who are detailed and willing to put in the time can lay their own ceramic tile, but having a professional install the tile should also be a consideration.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape

Instructions

1. 

   Choose the size of tile that will best suit your room. Tiles come in different sizes, starting as small as 1-inch squares that come attached to a sheet. Other popular sizes are 12-inch squares and 18-inch squares. Tiles as large as 24-inch squares are also available. All the tiles should be consistent in size with only a marginal variation.

2. Determine the price range that will fit your budget. Tile prices will range from less than $1 to several dollars per tile or per square foot, depending on tile size and type.

3. Select the ceramic tile according to characteristics of the tile. Porcelain tile is strong and durable because it is fired at extreme temperatures. Mosaic tile is made from clay; it resists moisture and does not chip easily. Quarry tile is made from a mixture of clay and comes in gray, red and brown tiles. Quarry tile is porous and may stain if it is not sealed.

4. Determine the amount of traffic for the area. High gloss tiles can be slippery when they are wet and should not be used in entranceways. Hand-painted glazed tiles are beautiful, but the glaze does not continue through the tile; if it is chipped, the color inside will show. Porcelain tile is hard and durable, which makes it a good choice for high-traffic areas.

5. Variation in shades is listed on the back label of every sample tile. Tile that is listed as "low" will have a consistent shade and texture. "Moderate" indicates there will be a slight variation in shade and texture among tiles. "High" means a greater chance of inconsistencies. "Random" is the greatest risk of shade and texture variety.

6. Tiles can be found to fit any décor. Classic and refined tiles will suit a formal room. There are tiles to complement rustic styles. Tiles can have a flat or shiny finish or a textured surface accompanied by a wide color selection.

Tips & Warnings

• Purchase extra tiles in case pieces become broken during installation or become damaged.

References

• Ceramic tile