Refresh Your Living Space with
New Tile Flooring

Pros

• Durability. This type of flooring can handle high amounts of foot traffic. As a result, it does not need frequent maintenance and lasts longer.
• Variety. Tile is available in a large variety of sizes, textures, styles, colors, and designs, so you can easily find the one that will match your home décor.
• Affordability. It is more affordable than many other flooring options in the long run. It does not mean that all tiles are cheap, but certain costs, including installation and maintenance, are reasonably low.
• Versatility. Even though tile is usually associated with a kitchen and bathroom, it is suitable for any room in the house. It works well in the living spaces and bedrooms because it is flexible and has the perfect neutral appearance for any room.
  

Cons

• Adaptability to weather. Based on the weather outside, tiles warm-up and cool down. Therefore, tiles may feel too cold during the winter months. The best solution would be to install a heated floor system for a more pleasant temperature in colder months.
• Hardness. Since tile is a very hard material, mutual destruction can occur when you drop objects on it. Moreover, falling objects can cause tiles to crack or chip.
  

There are four different types of tiles to choose from:

• Natural Stone: This type of tile is made from stone and available in a range of natural shades. They are durable, easy to maintain, and add timeless, rustic appeal to your space.
• Ceramic Tile: This tile type is usually made from white or red clay. It is fired at lower temperatures that do not exceed 1,650 degrees Fahrenheit. If you are looking for a stylish and durable option, ceramic tile floors are exactly what you need.
• Porcelain Tile: This type is made from more refined clay and is usually fired at higher temperatures than ceramic tile (between 2,300 and 2,400 Fahrenheit). It is also harder than ceramic tile, offering more design and application flexibility.
• Glass Tile: Glass tiles are recommended for limited flooring applications because they can become very slippery when wet, and are more prone to cracking.
  

The average lifespan of tile flooring is between 30 and 50 years, depending on tile quality. There are some things you can do to extend the lifetime of your tile floors and make sure they serve you for decades:

• Do deep cleaning regularly. It is essential to clean your tile flooring thoroughly every few months. Pay more attention to cleaning the grout using a soft brush and non-abrasive cleaner. Do not use harsh chemicals that can damage your tile.
• Seal the grout. Sealing the grout is a good idea because it prevents it from deteriorating. However, it would help if you kept in mind that a tile sealant is not permanent, and it needs to be reapplied every few months.
• Repair and replace immediately. If any of your tiles are cracked or damaged, replace them immediately to avoid further damage. You can do it yourself or hire a professional and experienced tile floor contractor.
• Lay mats and area rugs for additional protection. If your tile floor is located in a high traffic area (such as the kitchen, back door, living room, or hallway), it is better to lay a rug or mat to protect your floor. Moreover, it will also add softness to your feet.
• Add pads under your furniture. Sliding furniture can damage tile and grout. Therefore, it is better to add cushy pads under your furniture. You can purchase them at any local hardware store.
  

Want to Learn More About Choosing Natural Stone and Tile?