If you’re in the middle of remodeling your kitchen, you’re probably overwhelmed by the number of choices you have at your disposal. You have a lot of options when it comes to kitchen tile, especially if you’re planning to use them on the floor. The design and style of your kitchen is important, and most people only have one chance to get it right. That’s why it’s so easy to get lost in what may seem like an endless sea of color and texture choices.

Types of Kitchen Tile Flooring

There are many types of kitchen tiles, but they will be in any of the following categories:

• Ceramic — Regular ceramic tiles are sometimes referred to as “non-porcelain” to separate them from porcelain. They’re softer than porcelain, but they can be glazed to create a surface that’s more resistant to wear. The softer texture also makes them easier to cut and install.
• Porcelain — Porcelain is a type of ceramic where sand is added to the clay mixture. It’s also made with additional heat and pressure to produce a surface that’s harder, denser, and less porous than standard ceramic tile.
• Stone — These types of tile are made out of natural stone (such as slate, granite, limestone, travertine, and marble). Most stone tiles are porous, so they’ll need to be refinished with a good stone sealer every two or three years.

Be sure to speak to a professional for more information.

Tips for Choosing the Right Kitchen Tile

Here are some helpful tips on how to simplify the process of finding the right kitchen tile:

• Choose tile that’s easy to clean — A lot of people go with kitchen tile because it’s easy to clean, which is an important consideration. Because it’s where you prepare, cook, and enjoy your meals, the cleanliness of this space is important. You should choose something that’s more resistant to stains and cracks.
• Choose tile that matches your cabinetry — The cabinets are one of the main features of any kitchen. They will often determine the space’s look and feel, so they can often determine the type of tile you choose for your kitchen floors. Do you want to use the same color throughout the entire space, or do you want each part to be on opposite sides of the color spectrum?
• Think about durability — Because a kitchen renovation is such a big investment, durability is an important consideration when it comes to choosing kitchen tile. It’s the most widely-used space in many homes, so you need to pay close attention to how it’s structured and designed.

Be sure to speak to a professional for more information.

Other Considerations for Choosing Kitchen Tile

Here are some other things you should think about as you’re choosing kitchen tile:

• Water Resistance — Some types of tile will absorb water like a sponge, so they won’t make great choices for kitchen floors. It’s better to stick with unglazed tiles with a maximum absorption rate of 0.5% and glazed tiles with a 3% maximum rate.
• Texture — Textured floors aren’t as slippery and are better at hiding dirt, but they can be harder to clean. If you’re worried about people slipping and falling, think about adding mats in areas that are the most concerning (such as in front of the sink).
• Underlayment — Tile needs to be installed on a smooth subfloor that’s also flat, rigid, and clean. Depending on the existing subfloor, a cement tile backer may need to be installed underneath the tile.

Be sure to speak to a professional for additional advice.

Downsides to Kitchen Tile Flooring

Tile creates a hard surface that’s unforgiving in case you drop a glass or dish. If you spend a lot of hours in the kitchen preparing food, it can cause fatigue. It also reflects sound, so tile floors can make the space noisier. Area rugs and anti-fatigue mats are good solutions to these problems.

While it doesn’t require as much as other types of flooring, tile does have its maintenance requirements. Ceramic tile is durable, but the grout between them can get dingier over time. You should regularly apply grout sealer to keep your tile floors looking like new.

Slipperiness can also be an issue, especially if they get wet. If this is an area of concern, be sure to look for tiles that are certified to be slip-resistant by the American with Disabilities Act (ADA). You should be able to find it on the packing boxes and in the product’s literature.

If you’re looking for one of the best tile stores in Corpus Christi, be sure to get in touch with Tile Source of Texas.

Many people believe that the main difference between floor and wall tile is in their size. A lot of people also believe that porcelain tiles are meant for floors and that ceramic tiles are more suitable on walls. Neither of them are true, and the real answer isn’t as straightforward as you may think. The real difference between these two types of tile is about more than just their size and appearance. Innovation in design trends and advances in technology may have “blurred the lines” between these two types of tile (at least, to some extent), so it might be a little confusing if you’re new to decorating.

Here are some of the main differences between floor and wall tiles.

#1: Tile Appearance

Wall tiles will usually be available in more intricate designs and brighter colors, while floor tiles are typically larger and have a simpler design. Both tiles can come in a variety of designs, colors, shapes, and sizes. So, there’s no significant difference between the two except that wall tile is generally not as durable or strong because they are not made to walk on.

Floor tiles are made to be walked on, the emphasis for wall tile is for aesthetics. This design not only makes their installation easier but will also have an effect on your home’s aesthetics.

#2: Strength and Hardness

The Porcelain Enamel Institute (PEI) rating is an important difference between floor and wall tile because it’s a measure of their strength and rigidity. The Porcelain Enamel Institute places tiles into one of five categories — each one with its own measure of how much wear and tear they can endure without cracking or breaking.

The five PEI classes of tiles include the following:

• Class I: Suitable for walls areas with light traffic and walls, because they can get scratched or marked very easily.
• Class II: Can be installed in areas of the home that don’t get a lot of foot traffic.
• Class III: These tiles are ideal for any area of the home.
• Class IV: Suitable for both residential and light commercial settings because they can withstand a great deal of traffic.
• Class V: These types of tiles can be used in high-traffic areas. They are suitable for all residential and heavy commercial traffic such as airports and malls.

Floor tiles will have a higher PEI rating than wall tiles. Be sure to speak to a professional for more information.

#3: Durability and Maintenance

Wall tiles are stylistically thinner than floor tiles, so they’re more likely to crack under pressure. Floor tiles, on the other hand, will be thicker and stronger because they need to handle the stress of constant foot traffic. But even though wall tiles aren’t always as thick as their counterparts, they can last for decades if you take care of them properly. Both tiles can be used on a wall installation. But, if you’re looking for some new floors, you should go with a set of floor tiles.

#4: Heat and Moisture Resistance

The manufacturing process determines heat and moisture resistance. Porcelain tiles are created with higher heat, which gives them greater moisture resistance. Wall tiles will not be subject to as much heat and moisture as floor tiles, and therefore do not need to be as water resistant.

#5: Lifespan

Both wall and floor tiles have a similar lifespan and should last for many years if they’re properly maintained. Floor tiles, however, are stronger and more durable than wall tiles. So, they should last longer — at least, in theory. But, if they’re properly maintained, wall tiles can last just as long. They do, however, have a disadvantage because they’re often made of lighter and softer materials.

If you’re looking for one of the best tile stores in Corpus Christi to help you to find the perfect wall or floor tile, be sure to get in touch with Tile Source of Texas.

If you’re ready to redo the floor in your home but don’t know if you should go with carpet or tile, you should understand the advantages and disadvantages of both. Do you want something softer despite the extra maintenance, or do you want a hard tile floor that’s easier to take care of? A lot people assume that carpet is the better flooring option for some rooms in their home (such as their bedroom). But, if you have ever walked into a high-end luxury home, you may have noticed that there’s very little wall-to-wall carpet. Quality homes are usually built with better materials that are more durable, which is often tile instead of carpet. But, even though tile may be more durable, it may not be the perfered option for some areas of your home.

All About Carpet Flooring

If you want your home to have a relaxed and more comfortable vibe, you can’t go wrong with carpet. That’s why it’s one of the top sellers in the flooring market, even though other flooring options are starting to take away its market share. There are a couple of options when it comes to carpet flooring, which can include the following:

• Broadloom Carpet Rolls — Sometimes referred to as “wall-to-wall carpet,” this type of carpet is created in large portions that are usually cut to the size of the room once it’s installed.
• Carpet Tiles — You might have seen this type of carpet in offices or retail stores, but they’re starting to be used in homes. Carpet tiles have a lot of appeal, because they’re not only easy to install, but can also be done in a variety of ways.

Carpet can come with several advantages, which can include the following:

• Variety of Options — Carpet can come in a variety of pile types and patterns, so the options are practically limitless.
• Softer Feel — Carpet is plusher than other types of flooring. In fact, it’s the softest type of flooring on the market.

While carpet floors have their advantages, it does have a couple drawback. It’s no secret that carpet requires more maintenance than tile. You have to vacuum it frequently.  Unless it’s waterproof, the fibers can absorb moisture more easily.

All About Tile Flooring

A lot of people like the sleek, luxurious look of tile floors. Not only is it easier to clean, but it also doesn’t trap dust the way that carpet can. A good quality tile can last decades, up to 50 or 60 years. If one of them cracks, you only have to replace that one tile. There are two types of tiles, which include the following:

• Ceramic & Porcelain Tile — Tile is made from a clay, mineral, and water mixture that’s pressed into a tile shape and fired in a kiln at a high temperature. A lot of ceramic tiles are glazed, which makes them more resistant to moisture more durable. Porcelain tile is made by firing the kiln at at a higher degree. This draws more moisture out of the tile and makes them more water resistant.

Tile flooring has several different advantages, which include the following:

• Durability — Tile is one of the most durable flooring options on the market, because it’s fired and glazed in a way that makes them tough and waterproof.
• Stylish — Because they can be made in any color, shape or size, the options for tile flooring are practically limitless.
• Easy to Clean — Cleaning tile floors don’t require any special cleaning products. You just have to sweep and mop to keep them looking great.
• Low Maintenance — Tile floors will keep their beauty without the need for polishing or refinishing, so they don’t require a lot of hassle.
• Long Term Cost — Low maintenance and durability means tile can last for decades and cost less than other types of flooring.
• Replace Single Tiles — One or a few tiles can be removed and replaced while carpet must fully replaced.
• Ease Of Installation — Tile is installed fast and individuals can learn to install tile in most situations.

Despite all the advantages of tile floors, there are some downsides that you should take into consideration:

• Grout Joints— Some people don’t like that tile requires grout to be installed. Tiles can not simply be butted together.

If you’re looking for one of the best tile stores in Corpus Christi, be sure to get in touch with Tile Source of Texas.

Bathroom tile can add color, texture, and a bit of glamor to the room. That’s why it’s a popular choice for walls and floors. While their obvious benefit is in their aesthetic qualities, tile can also protect the walls inside baths, showers, and even the basin. A clean and more modern-looking appeal might be all you need to add an upscale feel to your bathroom. Whether you want to choose natural stone, ceramic, porcelain, or glass, you can be sure to find a style of bathroom tile that will fit your personal tastes.

Choosing the Material of Bathroom Tiles

The moisture and condensation inside bathrooms will disqualify some tile materials, but you still have a lot of choices. Real stone or man-made bathroom tiles are very popular. While natural stone has a lot of character, their maintenance requirements are much higher. The tiles will also need to be periodically resealed, especially if you want to keep them protected. Man-made tile are usually great choices for bathroom tile, especially if you’re on a budget. While they’re easier to maintain, they lack the uniqueness of natural stone.

Types of Natural Stone Bathroom Tile

Marble has an opulent look with veins of color running through it. Depending on what you prefer, you can choose from a variety of color tones that vary from dark to light. You can also choose between subtle or more striking vein patterns. You can find marble tiles that will work on both walls and floors, but you should avoid using polished marble on the floor. You also want to make sure it’s sealed correctly.

Travertine is a type of stone tile with warm undertones. While it has natural pits that give them a sense of individuality, you should go with filled travertine to prevent water penetration. Limestone is also a stylish choice. It has a pale finish, but you can find them in darker colors as well. Because limestone is softer than other types of natural stone, it can be easily scratched. So, it may be a better choice for your private en-suite than for the family bathroom.

Slate is a good choice for bathroom tile if you want your floor or walls to be darker, but using this option for both areas of your bathroom might be too much. It’s slip-resistant, so it might be a good choice in bathrooms that are used by people who aren’t steady on their feet. Like most other types of natural stone, it needs to be sealed.

Types of Man-Made Bathroom Tile

Ceramic tiles are affordable, and they’re easy to maintain. They are not, however, as resistant to wear as porcelain. But, because bathrooms aren’t necessarily high-traffic areas, they can be laid on both floors and walls. Just make sure that the ceramic tile you’re considering is suitable for floor installation.

Porcelain tiles have a higher density than ceramic. They’re also more resistant to wear and don’t require as much maintenance. So, it’s a good choice for both bathrooms and walls. Gloss tiles can reflect light. They’re also a good choice if you need a small bathroom to look bigger and brighter. Another advantage of gloss tiles is that they’re easy to wipe down, but smears are more likely to show up on the surface.

Choosing Tiles for Your Bathroom Walls and Floors

You can use the same kind of bathroom tile for your walls and your floors, with the most common choices being natural stone or porcelain. When lighter colors are used, you can give your bathroom a spa-like effect (which can enhance the space). If you want to gloss tile on your walls for a more continuous appearance, look for a matte tile finish in the same color range that you can use for the floor. This will prevent slip hazards without having to sacrifice the continuity you’re going for. You can also use the same tile in a different format, so you can have a subtle variation.

If you like more contrasting floors and walls, you can find a plethora of choices. You can try color on the walls while having a quieter finish on the floor. Cleaning may be easier if you go with dark floor tiles and lighter walls. You can even pick a pattern for one surface and go with a plainer finish on the other.

If you’re looking for one of the best tile stores in Corpus Christi for getting good bathroom tile ideas, be sure to get in touch with Tile Source of Texas.

A lot of people think that ceramic and porcelain are the same material, which is why the two words are often used interchangeably. But, there’s a difference between both materials, which are based on their properties and usages. Porcelain is a type of ceramic, but its manufacturing process includes heating it to a hot enough temperature that it would have certain material properties. That’s why porcelain products are more expensive.

Porcelain tile is heated to a temperature of 21,632 – 25,232 degrees Fahrenheit, which is what gives this material its vitreous and glassy look. This can include translucence, which will allow light to pass through it, but diffuses it so objects on the other side aren’t clearly visible. The composition of porcelain can also vary, depending on what it’s being used for. Kaolin is the main raw material used in manufacturing porcelain, but smaller quantities of clay materials are also present (which is there to improve its plasticity).

Some of the other raw materials that may be present in porcelain tile can include:

• Feldspar
• Ball clay
• Glass
• Bone ash
• Steatite
• Quartz
• Petuntse
• Alabaster

Ceramic can be either dense or lightweight, depending on how its produced. While it’s considered to be a hard material, it’s very brittle. But, it has become one of the most essential materials for manufacturing a variety of products.

Manufacturing Processes for Porcelain Tile

The manufacturing process for porcelain tile flooring consists of six main steps:

• Crushing and grinding of raw materials to the desired size.
• Removal of over-sized materials by screening or sieving.
• Adding water to get the desired consistency.
• Forming the body of the porcelain (which can vary depending on the material).
• Heating of the formed material at a very low temperature. This is done to vaporize volatile contaminants and to minimize shrinkage when it’s fired.

The last two processes are called “glazing” and “firing,” which is when the final product has been formed. The higher firing temperature will drive out more water. And when the feldspar is melted, it will form a low-order glass (which makes it much more impervious). According to the Tile Council of North America (TCNA), a porcelain product must have a water absorption rate that’s less than or equal to 0.5%.

Manufacturing Processes for Ceramic Tile

The raw materials used to make ceramic tile flooring are clay, powders, water, and a variety of other earthen elements. All of these ingredients are well mixed and shaped into whatever form is desired. These shaped materials are then fired at a high temperature inside a kiln. Usually, they’re covered with decorative, waterproof materials called “glazes.”

Ceramic tile is usually made by mixing a clay base with different types of minerals and water. This mixture will then be fired at a temperature of 1,800-2,000 degrees Fahrenheit and will have a water absorption rate of 0.5-3.0%. Some types of ceramic tile will be as high as 20%.

Properties of Ceramic and Porcelain Tile

Porcelain tile flooring is durable, resistant to dust, and practically impermeable. For ceramic tile, its properties are determined by the following:

• Its atomic scale structure
• The types of atoms that are present
• The types of bonding between the atoms
• How the atoms are packed together

The most common bonding type for ceramic materials are the ionic and covalent bonds. But, they can have a variety of properties, which can include the following:

• Hard
• Wear-resistant
• Brittle
• Refractory
• Thermal insulators
• Electrical insulators
• Nonmagnetic
• Oxidation resistant
• Prone to thermal shock

Be sure to speak to a professional for more information.

Applications for Ceramic and Porcelain

Porcelain materials are often used to make several different products, which can include the following:

• Insulating materials
• Building materials
• Bathroom fittings
• Loudspeaker casings

Ceramic products are often used to make a variety of structural materials (such as bricks and pipes), but they can also be used in floor and wall tiles. You can even find them being used in any of the following:

• Kiln linings
• Gas fire radiants
• Cookware
• Pottery
• Tableware
• Engineering materials

Ceramic can be found in a number of other products, which can include, but may not be limited to:

• Watches
• Snow skis
• Automobiles
• Phone lines
• Space shuttles
• Airplanes
• Appliances

It’s an inorganic material with many different types. It can conduct electricity, but it can also serve as an insulator (which can stop the flow of electricity). Some ceramics will even have superconductive and magnetic properties.

If you’re looking for one of the best tile stores in Corpus Christi, be sure to reach out to Tile Source of Texas.

Tile can be an attractive and versatile type of flooring for kitchens, bathrooms, and many areas of your home. But, if you want to keep them looking their best, you should keep them free of any dirt by giving them deep cleans on a regular basis. Tile floors can last a lifetime if you take care of them properly, and they don’t require as much maintenance as other types of flooring. Tile cleaning is not a difficult process, and it doesn’t take a great deal of time. You do, however, have to use the right method for the right type of tile. A tile floor should be “dry cleaned” (swept or vacuumed) at least twice a week to get rid of any gritty debris that can dull the finish. Wet clean (or mop) the tile floor in your kitchen every two weeks and in the bathroom at least once a week. You should also spot clean the grout once every two or three months.

Cleaning Ceramic or Porcelain Tile Floors

Porcelain and ceramic are the most common types of tile flooring, and they’re easy to maintain. To clean these types of tile, you can use almost any type of cleaner (whether it’s all-purpose, dish soap, or even white vinegar) because they don’t scratch or lose their shine very easily. Here are some tile cleaning steps you can take for this type of flooring:

• Sweep or vacuum the tile — Make sure you get into the corners, which is where dirt tends to pile up. A microfiber duster can pick up dust and hair pretty easily.
• Combine the cleaner with warm water — Dip a rag or chamois mop (not a sponge mop) into the solution, and squeeze out the excess water so it’s damp, but not soaking.
• Run the mop over the floor in even, gentle strokes — Follow a pattern as you move through the room, which will make sure you cover the entire floor.
• Change the water on a regular basis — As you rinse the mop or rag, the water will get cloudier over time. Dump the dirty water and refill it on a regular basis, so you don’t leave a hazy film of grime on the tile.

If you notice any film after you have finished, create a mixture of white vinegar and hot water and run a damp rag over the tile to get rid of it. Marble, slate and granite tile can be cleaned in a similar manner as porcelain and ceramic, but there are a couple of caveats. You want to use a soft-bristled broom when you’re sweeping tile floors made of natural stone, because they can scratch more easily. You also want to make sure you’re using the right type of cleaner for the floor. Slate and marble tiles can’t handle anything acidic (such as vinegar), while granite needs a mild detergent that’s pH-neutral so it doesn’t get discolored.

Steps for Proper Grout Cleaning

Grout can stain very easily, especially if it’s light in color. That’s why grout cleaning starts with good prevention. This can include resealing the grout whenever it’s needed, wiping up kitchen spills right away, and using a mild homemade or commercial grout cleaning solution. You want to start with the mildest approach, because you’re less likely to damage or discolor the grout while you’re cleaning it.

You can clean the grout on your tile floors by performing the following steps:

• Remove any surface dirt with hot water and a towel.
• Use grout clean solution with neutral PH
• Do not let water stand
• Mix 1/2 cup of baking soda, 1/4 cup of hydrogen peroxide, and 1 teaspoon of dish soap.
• Spoon the cleaning agent onto the grout and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
• Scrub the grout lines with a brush. Be sure to scrub hard to agitate the grout and cleaning solution, which will break up any dirt that’s really stuck.
• Wipe the surface clean.

You can also use a commercial grout stain remover, which will quickly remove any mold or mildew and will bring back those white grout lines. For the most stubborn grout stains, you can use a steam mop. There are several manufacturers that make steam cleaners built for residential use. You only want to use chlorine bleach in the most extreme cases of grout cleaning, so it shouldn’t be your go-to choice for this type of application. After you have finished cleaning your grout, spray it with household vinegar or a mild grout cleaner and wipe it down once a week so it stays free of stains. Wiping your grout with rubbing alcohol will also keep mold and mildew from forming.

If you’re looking for one of the best tile stores in Corpus Christi, be sure to get in touch with Tile Source of Texas.

Hardwood floors can make your home look sophisticated, but it does have its down sides. It’s expensive, difficult to maintain, and wears more easily. Wood look porcelain tile can give you the look of hardwood, but it also has a number of extra benefits. It’s more durable, easier to clean, and can come in a variety of styles. All of these things make wood look tile a popular choice, but having a full understanding of its benefits and drawbacks can help you determine if it’s a good choice for your home.

The Benefits of Wood Look Tile

Wood look tile has several benefits. Some of them include, but may not be limited to:

• Cost — Wood look-alike tile doesn’t cost as much per square foot than traditional hardwood flooring, which makes it a much more budget-friendly option. But, both hardwood floors and wood look porcelain tile will require a professional installation. While the tiles may be more affordable, you’ll also have to think about your budget for the labor involved in getting them installed.
• Many Available Styles — Wood look tile can come in several styles, which can be used in both residential and commercial applications. It’s made by using a professional-grade inkjet technology that can print the look of wood onto the surface, and it can do it with a surprising level of realism. The surfaces can even be textured to imitate the feel of wood grain.  Because it’s man-made, wood look tile flooring can come in a variety of colors, finishes, and textures.
• Easy to Maintain — Porcelain tiles are easy to maintain. All you need is a broom or hard-floor vacuum to remove any dirt and debris from the surface. If you want to do a deeper clean, a mop and bucket with some soapy water is all you need. And because it’s so easy to clean, wood look tile is both pet and allergy friendly.
• Extremely Durable — Traditional hardwood is extremely vulnerable to scratches and water damage, but wood look tile flooring is strong enough to be installed from the front door through the kitchen or even the bathroom. It won’t scratch or show signs of wear from foot traffic, and it’s incredibly resistant to water. So, it won’t swell or warp if it’s exposed to moisture.

All porcelain tiles are measured on a PEI scale in accordance with its level of durability. So, if you want to get the best results, look for a wood look-alike tile with a PEI rating of four or five. All types of porcelain tile can break or chip if heavy items are dropped on them.

The Drawbacks of Wood Look Tile

While wood look tile flooring has several benefits, it also has its drawbacks. Some of them include, but may not be limited to:

• Treating Scratches and Refinishing — Even the most durable type of flooring can be vulnerable to chips and scratches over time. That’s why you should store some extra tiles when you install them for the first time. Finding an exact match to wood look tiles can be almost impossible because the styles are always changing. With hardwood floors, scratches can be buffed out and refinished. But, this isn’t the case with porcelain tile.
• Grout — All types of porcelain tiles require grout to keep them in place. As the floors are used, it can start to look dirty or dingy. Occasionally, a thorough grout cleaning is needed to revitalize the look of your floors. If you want to reduce the chance of your grout looking dirty, choose a darker color.
• Comfort — Even printed porcelain tiles can be hard and cold beneath your feet, especially if you spend a great deal of time standing up. Adding area rugs with non-slip rug pads or ergonomic mats can reduce the hardness of the floors, and some types of wood look tile can be used with radiant flooring systems.
• Installation — If you want to get the most out of your wood look tile installation, you should hire a professional. There’s an art to cutting porcelain tile. It can be a time-consuming process, especially if you need to install it in many different rooms. If you need to change them out in the future, you should hire a professional to do that as well.

If you’re thinking about adding wood look tile to your home and are looking for one of the best tile stores in Corpus Christi, be sure to get in touch with Tile Source of Texas.

Deciding on the right color for your home’s floor tile can seem daunting. You have an endless number of hues, shades, and styles from which to choose. That’s why it’s important to know which colors go together in specific situations. Even architects and interior designers spend a lot of time studying in this area because it’s hard to master, so there’s no reason to feel bad about not being able to find the right color for your floor tile. While there are many factors to consider before you decide on the right color, it’s also important think about the finish. Do you want the tiles to reflect light, or do you prefer a softer look? You also need to think about where you plan to install them, because some colors and finishes are better suited for certain applications.

What to Consider When Choosing the Color of Floor Tile

The color and texture of your floor tile can set the room’s overall tone. Because there are so many color patters and a diverse set of shapes, it’s a popular way of adding color to kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways. You can use hand-painted tile if you want a more custom look, or you can take advantage of the natural variance found in multi-colored or patterned tile. Before you decide on the color of your floor tile, look at the ones that are already in the room. You also want to look the mood you want to create for the space and the amount of foot traffic it receives.

Here are some factors you should consider as you come up with floor tile ideas:

• The size of the room — Light colors (such as creams and pastels) can make a small room look larger, which is why they’re good choices for guest bathrooms or narrow hallways. Darker colors (such as rich chocolates, burnt siennas, and naval tones) work better in larger rooms with open floor plans and plenty of light.
• The type of tile — Stain-resistant and glazed ceramic tiles work well on countertops or on bathroom and kitchen walls that are exposed to a great deal of humidity. Denser porcelain tiles are more scratch-resistant, so they can work well on floors.
• How colors match — While a lot of people stick to a single color for all their floors, you can also use color matching. Choosing a slightly contrasting scheme can hide dirt, which can build up on your floors. For areas that get a great deal of foot traffic, think about mixing and matching grays, whites, and browns to create a more compelling look.

You’ll be able to find a variety of colors for floor tile, so you can be sure to find something that will meet your specific needs.

Types of Tile Finishes

Here are some of the common types of tile finishes:

• Matte Finish — This kind of floor tile will have a non-reflective surface that can come in a variety of colors. The subtle texture of matte finish has a softer effect and can add a special quality to any floor tile installation.
• Satin Finish — This kind of finish adds a light sheen to a matte surface, and it can work in any kind of tile installation.
• Gloss Finish — This kind of floor tile will have a shiny, semi-reflective sheen. It’s also used more frequently, because it can provide a more classic feel on floors and walls.
• Gloss with Engobe Finish — This kind of floor tile has a white primer on a recycled clay body and has a colored glaze at the top. This can not only accentuate the color but, also has an appearance that looks like watercolor.
• Patina Finish — This kind of antiquing process is applied to a gloss glaze, which is meant to emphasize its nature. It’s a good choice for flooring, backsplashes, showers, and fireplaces. It cannot, however, be used in pools or steam showers.

If you can’t decide on one type of finish for your floor tile, you can always use more than one. Mixing gloss and matte finishes can provide a more intriguing variation, even among similar colors. Plank tile that looks like wood is also very popular, because it can resemble the look of hardwood (which is typically a shade of brown with some black in it) but, without the need for extra maintenance.

If you’re looking for one of the best tile stores in Corpus Christi, be sure to reach out to the Tile Source of Texas. We would be happy to speak with you about your specific needs!

Our trip to Coverings in Orlando went well and we are back home.

We are excited to say we will be receiving new tiles in our show room soon!
There were lots of great new tiles to be seen this year and we’re bringing the best back with us.
More tile means better selection on the best values in town and a bigger reason to come in today and find your future floors.

Stick around and check in weekly to see our new releases as we bring them in!!