It can be overwhelming to choose from so many tile options that it can be difficult to narrow down your choices. There are some helpful tips that can help you choose the right tile for you home.

It is important to determine the space and the place where you want to install the tile (floor, wall or shower). Measure the space and then choose the tile type, color, pattern, and size. After you have determined these, you can then look at the ratings and grades of the tiles to ensure that you choose the right tile for you. After you have chosen the tile style that you like, it's time to get samples and decide how much to order.

This may seem like a lot to think about and to go through. But we are here to help you understand the process and make it enjoyable.

Where You Want To Install?

How to buy tile starts with your room. Tile is a strong and durable choice for flooring. However, depending on where you are located, there may be other types of tiles that work better. The room you are renovating with tiles should be your first consideration. A textured tile is better for a shower than a flat tile that can become slippery when wet. A textured tile is more difficult to clean than a smooth tile in an entryway. A durable porcelain tile that resists chipping and scratches is the best choice for high-traffic areas in your home. Ceramic tile should be kept indoors as they are porous and can deteriorate easily in the elements. Check out our blog to find out which tile is best for outdoor use.

Measure The Area

Next, measure the space. This will allow you to determine how many tiles to order. Measure the area you wish to tile in feet. Next, multiply these two numbers by 100 to calculate the square footage.

Color & Design

The overall mood of your space is affected by the color you choose. While dark tiles can add warmth, make sure there is enough light in your room to allow the tile color to not overwhelm the space. Use lighter colors to make a space seem bigger. Consider using different shades for areas that are frequented. A slight contrast in your floor can help to hide dirt. You don't need to use one color for your wall or floor tiles. You can choose a beautiful pattern for your bathroom, floor, backsplash, or wall.

Today, tiles come in many styles and colors to match your home's decor.

Tile Quality Ratings and Grade

The tile is graded using a grading system. It is solely based upon its durability and resistance against surface damage. A rating of a tile as grade 1 indicates that it is more susceptible to scratching and/or dents. Grade 5 is considered more durable and more resistant to damage from the surface.

Below is a list of the 5 rating levels as well as their appropriate applications.

Grade 1 - No foot traffic. These tiles should only be used on walls.

Grade 2 - Light traffic. These are ideal for commercial and residential interior walls. These are ideal for areas that require little to no abrasion, such as bathrooms.

Grade 3 - Moderate to light traffic. These can be used in residential areas with normal foot traffic. These are great for countertops or walls.

Grade 4 - Moderate to heavy foot traffic. These tiles can be used in all types of commercial and residential spaces.

Grade 5 - Heavy to extra heavy foot traffic. All residential and commercial applications approved for this tile

Water Absorption Rate

When shopping for tiles, another important factor to consider is the water absorption rate (W.A.). This rating will let you know if the tile is suitable for outdoor use or in wet areas. The W.A. rating has four categories. They are based on the percentage of water absorbed per tile and their names.

Slip Resistance

Another important rating is the tile's slip resistance. The coefficient of friction (or C.O.F) is what the rating actually stands for. This is the tile's natural resistance against slipping. It's determined by the force required for an object to slide across a surface. The object's weight is then divided by this rating. C.O.F. is a lower value. A lower C.O.F. indicates that there is less friction and therefore the floor will offer less traction. C.O.F. is higher. A higher C.O.F. number means that the floor will be more slippery.

Request For Samples

You should always have samples! Because of differences in lighting, the color of tiles we sell could look very different in your home. To get a better feel for how the tile will look in your home, it is advisable to request samples from your sales representative.

How Much Tile To Buy - and When to Order It

Once you have chosen the tile and determined the space's dimensions, you can calculate how many tiles you will need. You will find the square footage of each tile in different sizes. It is recommended that you add approximately 10-20% more tile to your order once you have determined this. It's not uncommon to find tiles that have been damaged or broken in boxes. You can also buy extra tiles to cover any errors or damage that may occur during installation.

After you have read and understood all the steps, it is time to start the fun of tile shopping.