Be sure that the tile you are looking at is suitable for your application. Some rugged tiles can be installed outdoors in almost any climate, while some can stand up to wear and tear on indoor floors only, and still others are strong enough only for walls and countertops. Ask at the store if in doubt.
Bear in mind that the tile is rated for slip-resistance, and generally the heavily glazed, high-sheen tile won’t work in wet areas such as bathrooms, entryways and kitchens. If slip-resistance is important in your application, ask for this information at the store.
Note that large tiles usually will install more quickly. Mosaic-tile sheets glued to a backing will also install relatively quickly.
Ask whether trim pieces such as bull-nose tiles (tiles with one or two rounded edges rather than four 90-degree corners) and cove (curved) tiles are available in a tile you are considering. For installing tile on steps and in bathrooms and kitchens, these pieces can be critical to aesthetic success.
Choose a patter with care; tiles will last many years – possibly a lifetime – and trendy patterns quickly look dated. Solid or lightly patterned tiles in neutral colors, as well as stone-look tiles, are classics that are easy to decorate around.
Solid colors, especially very light (almond and white) and very dark tiles (navy, and chocolate brown) will show more soil.
High-sheen tiles will quickly show dull footprints from people and pets.
Choose a large, light-colored tile if you want a room to seem larger. Choose smaller, darker tiles to make a space seem smaller and more intimate.
Take sample tiles home and try them out. Dry-lay (set on the surface without grout) each tile sample at a time to see whether the color an design work under the room’s lighting.
White and light-colored grouts, especially on floors and countertops, can be difficult to maintain. Save yourself some aggravation by choosing a slightly darker grout.
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