Once you begin to lay the flooring in your home, you know that you are reaching the home stretch. But just because you’re nearing the end doesn’t mean that it will be easier. Ensuring that you pick the right type of flooring that not only looks good, but you like as well will be a challenge in itself. It’s ok though. That’s why we are here. We will help find the perfect flooring that will check both of these needs off.
So where do we start? With as many types of flooring that are out in the world, you’ll want to first determine what type of flooring you want. Several common options are laminate, tile, carpet and hardwood. The type of flooring we are going to go into more depth about is tile and its varieties. And when we say varieties, we mean varieties. There are endless types and stylings that can be used to achieve your dream flooring. Not only do you get whatever style of tile you want, but tile flooring is also known for its durability. Know that they aren’t indestructible though. Chipping and cracking is common if heavy objects drop, but with care, this flooring will last.
Ceramic Tile
One of the most popular tiles used in homes is ceramic tiles, and for good reason. The process in which ceramic tiles are made allow for endless color combinations. Clay materials are either pressed, molded, or hardened using high temperatures. These high temperatures allow this tile to have a glossy finish which looks great, but the chances of slipping becomes greater.
To keep the slip and falls down, the tile can be treated with an abrasive to add that much needed traction. Ceramic tiles can be divided into two types: non-porcelain and porcelain. Non-porcelain is considered a traditional ceramic as it comes in more natural colored tones.
The major downside to this type is that any chips will be noticeable as the color on the inside will differ from the outside. Porcelain has added materials that make this tile stronger, so this is a great type of flooring in high traffic areas. Also, you wouldn’t have to worry so much about any chips because the tile is the same color throughout. Like ceramic tiles, brick, cement, and glass are manufactured in similar ways.
Stone Tile
Just as there are endless color combinations for ceramic tiles, there are thousands of variations of natural stone tiles with different characteristics that depend on where and when the stone was obtained. Common types of stone tiles include granite, marble, limestone, and slate. We are constantly hearing about granite and marble making memorizing countertops. Well they can also be used to make spectacular flooring too.
Granite is an excellent choice in the kitchen because of its density. If polished and sealed correctly, it is scratch resistant and durable. Marble creates stunning floors with its veining designs, but you must be careful as this flooring is more porous and requires more maintenance. Limestone is great for low traffic areas where the homeowner wants to have an earthy appearance with both light and dark shades. Once properly sealed, this stone looks great in bathrooms and kitchens. Slate is extremely dense which makes it very durable and its dark earthy tones are great for the eye. But the tiles are cut directly from the stone, so unless you smooth the surface it will be textured.
With the amount of tile flooring available, it may be overwhelming. But rest assured that we will help you pick flooring that will look great, be functional, and be something you will fall in love with every time you see it.