Wall & Floor Tiles – Guide To Buying Tiles

When it comes to home improvement, few elements have as much impact as tile. It’s durable, versatile, and can transform any space into a stylish masterpiece. Wall and floor tiles in porcelain or ceramic offer a vast selection that caters to a wide range of tastes, budgets, and functional needs. In this article, we’ll explore the types of tiles available to purchase, provide tips on selecting the best tile for your home, and offer expert advice on installation and maintenance. Let’s dive into the world of tile and discover how it can elevate your living spaces.

Why Choose Wave Crest Tile?

Wave Crest Tile is known for its extensive inventory, competitive prices, and an impressive range of styles. Whether you’re looking for something classic like marble or trendy like patterned cement, we have options for every room, style, and budget. Our tiles come in various materials, shapes, sizes, and finishes, making it easy to customize your home. Here’s why our selection is a preferred choice for homeowners and contractors alike:

• Wide Variety: We offer tiles in nearly every material, including ceramic, porcelain, stone, and luxury vinyl. You’ll find finishes ranging from matte to polished.
• Competitive Pricing: We offer affordable options without compromising on quality, making high-end tile accessible.
• Expert Advice and Resources: We offer design assistance, installation guides, and samples, ensuring you make informed choices.

By purchasing from Wave Crest Tiles you’re investing in quality, design, and value—elements that make a lasting difference in home improvement projects.

Types of Floor and Decor Tile

Understanding the different types of tile available can help you select the right option for each room in your home. Here’s a breakdown of popular tile types you’ll find for walls, floors, and other decors.

1. Ceramic Tile

Ceramic tile is one of the most popular choices for residential spaces due to its durability, ease of maintenance, and affordability. Made from clay and fired at high temperatures, ceramic tiles are water-resistant, making them ideal for kitchens and bathrooms. They come in various designs, colors, and sizes, from classic subway tiles to decorative mosaics.

• Best For: Kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and entryways.
• Pros: Affordable, water-resistant, easy to clean.
• Cons: Not as durable as porcelain; not ideal for high-traffic areas.

2. Porcelain Tile

Porcelain tile is a step up from ceramic, offering a more dense and durable material that’s also water-resistant. This tile is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, as it can withstand weather and high foot traffic. Floor and Decor offers porcelain tiles in wood-look and stone-look finishes, giving homeowners stylish and practical options.

• Best For: High-traffic areas, patios, bathrooms, kitchens, and living spaces.
• Pros: Durable, water-resistant, suitable for outdoor use.
• Cons: Higher price point than ceramic, can be harder to install.

3. Natural Stone Tile

Natural stone tiles, including marble, granite, slate, and travertine, add a luxurious, timeless aesthetic to any room. Each stone is unique, offering one-of-a-kind patterns and textures. However, they do require regular sealing and maintenance to retain their appearance.

• Best For: Bathrooms, entryways, and feature walls.
• Pros: Elegant, unique patterns, long-lasting.
• Cons: Prone to stains and scratches, requires sealing and maintenance.

4. Glass Tile

Glass tile is often used for backsplashes, accent walls, and other decorative elements due to its reflective qualities and vibrant colors. Glass is water-resistant and easy to clean, making it perfect for bathrooms and kitchens.

• Best For: Backsplashes, bathrooms, and accent walls.
• Pros: Visually appealing, water-resistant, easy to clean.
• Cons: Prone to scratches, not suitable for high-traffic areas.

5. Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT)

Luxury vinyl tile (LVT) has gained popularity for its affordability, durability, and versatility. It’s designed to mimic the look of natural materials like wood or stone but with added benefits like water resistance and easier installation.

• Best For: Basements, bathrooms, kitchens, and living rooms.
• Pros: Affordable, easy to install, water-resistant, available in various designs.
• Cons: Can fade over time, may not have the same longevity as ceramic or stone.

How to Choose the Right Wall & Floor Tiles for Your Space

Choosing the right tile goes beyond aesthetics; you should consider factors such as durability, water resistance, and ease of maintenance. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

1. Assess Your Needs: Determine where you’ll install the tile and the level of foot traffic. High-traffic areas like hallways or kitchens require durable options like porcelain or luxury vinyl tile.
2. Consider Your Style: Do you prefer a modern, rustic, or classic look? Floor and Decor offers tiles in various styles, from wood-look porcelain for rustic charm to sleek glass for a modern touch.
3. Set a Budget: Knowing your budget will help narrow down your options. Ceramic and LVT tiles tend to be more budget-friendly, while natural stone tiles are pricier.
4. Maintenance Requirements: If you prefer low-maintenance options, opt for ceramic or porcelain. Natural stone tiles may require sealing and extra care.

Installation Tips and Tricks

Installing tile is an art that requires careful planning and execution. Here are some essential tips for a successful tile installation:

• Prepare the Surface: Ensure the surface is clean, dry, and level. Uneven surfaces can lead to cracks and tiles that don’t stick.
• Use the Right Adhesive: The type of adhesive depends on the tile material and location. Consult with Floor and Decor’s experts to select the best adhesive.
• Measure Twice, Cut Once: Measure the area carefully, and always cut tiles with precision. Invest in a good-quality tile cutter to achieve clean, even cuts.
• Follow a Pattern: Lay the tiles in the desired pattern before applying adhesive to avoid mistakes.
• Allow Proper Curing Time: Follow the recommended curing time before grouting, especially if you’re working with moisture-prone areas.

Maintaining and Caring for Wall & Floor Tile

Proper maintenance can extend the life and beauty of your tile. Here are some general tips to keep your tiles looking their best:

1. Regular Cleaning: Sweep and mop tiles regularly to prevent dirt buildup. For natural stone, use pH-neutral cleaners to avoid damaging the surface.
2. Seal Porous Tiles: Natural stone tiles and grout should be sealed to prevent stains and water damage.
3. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Harsh chemicals can damage some types of tile, especially stone and glass. Use gentle, non-abrasive cleaners instead.
4. Replace Damaged Tiles: If a tile cracks, replace it promptly to prevent further damage.

Top Trends in Wall & Floor Tiles

Stay on trend with these popular tile styles at Floor and Decor:

• Wood-Look Tile: Mimicking the appearance of wood with the durability of tile, wood-look options are perfect for achieving a warm, rustic aesthetic.
• Patterned Cement Tile: This tile adds a bold statement to floors and walls, making it ideal for bohemian or eclectic designs.
• Large-Format Tiles: Oversized tiles are popular for creating seamless, modern looks in open-concept spaces.
• Matte Finishes: Matte tiles are making a comeback, offering a more understated look compared to high-gloss options.

Final thoughts about choosing tiles at Wave Crest

Whether you’re renovating a single room or planning a complete home makeover, we have a vast selection of tile options to suit any style and budget. By understanding the types of tiles, choosing the right option for your space, and following installation and maintenance tips, you can create a stunning, durable finish that adds value and beauty to your home. Explore our range, seek expert advice, and get inspired to craft your dream space with high-quality tile that suits your taste and needs.