Your 5 step guide to choosing the right floor tile

Your floor is the first surface that needs to be solid and yet breathtaking. And we are all well aware about the importance of good flooring- so it is very essential to infuse your home with a material that adds value to your house and will endure the long wear and tear. But with the market now being overwhelmed with options, how do you choose the right type of tile. We bring you a guide to choosing the most sustainable floor tiles.

Colors

Although dark shades seem to be ‘in’ now, it’s best to go ahead with light floor tiles. If you are confined with a small house, this is the best choice as they make the room feel bigger. Light shades also make your rooms look bright and fresh. If you do not have many windows, worry not, light coloured floor tiles help bring in a lot of light. If you are really keen on placing dark coloured tiles, ensure you room is well lit. You could use shades of greys, blacks or browns.

Location

It’s important to first decide where the tiles will be placed- is it for the living room floor, kitchen or the bathroom. While glass tiles and ceramic tiles make perfect bathroom choices due to their low maintenance and their ability to dry up fast, natural stone tiles are ideal for the living room. Remember to choose a flooring material that withstands long term wear and tear.

Budget

Because tiles are a long terms investment, do not compromise on the quality. It might be a bit expensive, but you would not want to spend another chunk of your investment in fixing the worn out tiles again, so pick the ones that promise longevity. Also buy 5 to 10% more than what is required. Every package you order could have breakages, so to compensate for all the defective pieces, purchase a few extras. Most companies do offer refund for all the unused boxes.

User friendly

Everyone wants to keep their floors spick and span so it’s important to maintain it well. And if you are one of those who do not have enough time in hand, the choose tiles that do not require a lot of care. Most of the laminated tiles are easy to maintain and can be cleaned using a mop. If you have chosen to go ahead with wooden tiles, ensure they do not require sealing and sanding often.

Grouting

After your tiles have been installed, ensure they are grouted. The grouting process is extremely important as it protects from penetration. It’s also important to seal grout otherwise it will start collecting dust and will eventually begin chip. If you do not perform this task you will see the beauty and the elegance of your tiles fade away over time.

Nidhi C Thacker for IndiaProperty.com

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By: indiaproperty.com