Introduction
Wall tiles are a versatile and long lasting solution applicable in the transformation of any room. They offer a stylish and easy to clean protective layer of any type, starting with the kitchen to the bathrooms. There are myriad colors, patterns and materials that can be used on the wall tiles and selecting the right wall tiles may seem daunting. This instructional manual will take you through all the things you have to know so that you can choose the right tiles to bring your home design to the next level and mirror your style. We will go through materials, trends in design and installation tips to make your project successful.
Awareness of the Wall Tile Materials
The content of your wall tiles influences the appearance, strength, and care of the tiles. All types have their own advantages and will be applicable in various regions of your house. These differences are the first step to a successful design.
Ceramic and Porcelain Tiles
Ceramic tiles are the most popular and cost effective product, which is crafted out of clay and subjected to high temperatures. They are ideal in the majority of walls such as the kitchen back tile and the bathroom surround. Porcelain is a non porous, but more dense form of ceramic and this makes it very resistant to water and very tough. This makes porcelain best suited to areas of high moisture.
Natural Stone Tiles
To be a little luxurious style, natural stone wall tiles such as marble, slate and travertine are a good choice. All the stone tiles are inimitable that provides a distinctive appearance. Although breathtaking, they tend to need more care like routine sealing, to keep them free of any stain and moisture damage.
Glass and Metal Tiles
Glass tiles have the capacity to reflect light thus making a room feel brighter and bigger. They exist in endless colors and do not stains and mildew. Metal tiles can be made of stainless steel or copper, and they are smooth and modern, ideal to use in the contemporary kitchen and wall accents.
Selecting Wall Tiles to use in the kitchen
Kitchen is the home centre and walls are to be given special attention. Tiles used on the walls of the kitchen should not be prone to getting splashed by cooking, and should be convenient to wipe. The time-honored flooring materials include porcelain and ceramic tiles due to their functionality and design versatility.
Take a backsplash behind your sink and stove. This is a functional element that is also one of the biggest design elements. Subway tiles are an endlessly classic appearance, whereas mosaic patterns may add a spurt of color and character. The appropriate wall tiles in the kitchen will secure your walls and beautify your entire decor.
Choosing Perfect Wall Tiles to use in Bathrooms
Bathrooms are the places where moisture resistance is the most important consideration when choosing wall tiles. The most competitive materials would be porcelain and glass since they do not absorb a lot of water. This will assist in keeping the mold and mildew behind the tiles at bay thus creating a healthier environment.
In the case of shower walls, bigger format tiles can reduce grout lines and thus clearing is easier. Another feature wall can be made using decorative accent tiles to make it stunning. Add depth and interest to a wall with a textured tile that would not overwhelm the space.
Popular Wall Tile Paternal Patterns and Layouts
How you arrange your wall tiles can do wonders to the appearance of a room. Even a plain tile can make a design statement as long as it has the right pattern.
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Grid (Stacked): It is a basic, contemporary design, tiles being arranged in straight lines.
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Brick (Running Bond): The standard pattern of subway tile, the rows offset by a half a tile.
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Herringbone: A V-shaped design which is dynamic and offers a touch of elegance and movement.
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Vertical Stack: When rectangular tiles are laid vertically, it is possible to make ceilings look taller.
Playing around with designs is a wonderful method to make your space your own. A typical tile can be utilized in an unorthodox style and give a unique and high-end appearance.
Recent Wall Tile Design
Keeping up with the trends in design can be a source of inspiration to your project. Large-format tiles have become popular now due to their clean seamless look with minimal and reduced grout lines. This brings out a spacious and minimal atmosphere of any room.
Another significant trend is textured and 3D tiles of walls which contribute depth and sensation in walls. These tiles make light and shadow games, gentle ones and striking at the same time with their geometric figures. Nature-inspired colors and earthly sounds, such as greens and blues are also very wanted.
How to Find Out the Tiles you require
It is important to have the number of wall tiles calculated properly so as not run short of them in the middle of the project or spend too much. You want to measure the height and width of the area you are going to tile, first multiply them and then have the total square footage.
When buying additional tiles, it is necessary to take into consideration cuts, errors, and repair in the future. Add 10 percent to your total square footage is a rule of thumb. With such complicated patterns as herringbone, it can be prudent to add 15 percent so that you do not run out of material.
Important Installation guidelines on Wall tiles
Although it is advisable to hire a professional to install the system, it can also be fulfilling when one does it on his/her own. Use a clean, dry and perfectly flat surface. Placing a line of chalk and a level will give you a guide where your first row of tiles should be placed because it will be used to set the wall in line.
Use a thin-set adhesive evenly with a notched trowel. You need to press the tiles into place with a little twist to make sure that they are bonded well. Apply tile spacers to have straight grout lines. Once the adhesive is dry then you can commence with the grouting process.
Grout and Maintenance: Maintaining the Tiles to look new
Grout does not only fill the spaces between your wall tiles but offers you stability and protection. Selecting the grout dependability is a design choice. A tile pattern will be emphasized by a contrast colour whereas a similar colour will be used to give a less prominent, cohesive appearance.
To be maintained, it is typically enough to wash it with a PH-neutral detergent regularly. Coating your grout lines, particularly in damp spots such as bathrooms will ensure they are not stained as well as soaked, thus ensuring the tiled walls never get wet or damp over years to come.
Conclusion
Wall tiles are a splendid means of integrating usability and aesthetic in your house. The possibilities are quite endless between the practicality of the porcelain shower cabin to the exquisite nature of the natural stone backsplash in the kitchen. Having knowledge on the various materials, experimenting with patterns and using effective installation strategies, you will be sure that you have chosen and installed the right tiles in your space. Not only will it secure your walls but it will also greatly enhance the interior design of your home and introduce a lot of value and personal style to it.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have the option of tiling over the existing wall tiles?
Yes, one can place tiles on the top of the existing tiles with a sound, clean and a level surface. Nevertheless, sometimes it is preferable to take away the old tiles to achieve the best durable and professional appearance.
Which wall tile is the easiest to install as a beginner?
The easiest ceramic or porcelain tiles are usually larger. They are more extensive and use fewer placements per individual and thus, the process is simplified.
How do I choose a grout color?
To have a traditional appearance and accentuate on the tile shape, use a contrasting color. To have a more smooth and contemporary look, choose a grout color which is as close to your wall tiles color as possible.
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