Why Luxury Vinyl Flooring?

Luxury vinyl flooring is a compelling option for both homes and businesses for many reasons. Our newly expanded assortment of vinyl tiles and planks feature reinforced wear layers that provide the ultimate protection against splashes, scratches, messes and more. With incredible durability, luxury vinyl is ideal for high-traffic areas in commercial buildings, as well as residential spaces such as laundry rooms, home gyms, mudrooms and more.

Features and Benefits

So, what exactly are the features of luxury vinyl flooring that make it a top choice by homeowners and trade professionals alike? With wear layers ranging from 12 – 20 mil., all of our LVT planks are 100% waterproof and scratch-, stain- and dent-resistant, providing maximum durability and longevity. Beyond that, our vinyl planks and tiles offer DIY-friendly installation with a simple click-lock system, sound absorption, added underfoot comfort, and compatibility with radiant heated flooring systems for year-round warmth.

Authentic Appearance

Durability doesn’t mean compromising on good design. With a variety of wood- and stone-look planks, our selection of luxury vinyl flooring has beautiful options for every style and taste.

Love the appearance of classic hardwood? Find shades ranging from soft blonde to rich brown with realistic graining and knotting. Looking for something a little more luxurious? Vivid veining and smooth finishes bring marble- and stone-looks alive with opulence.

Once you’ve chosen your style, be sure to explore our extensive selection of coordinating luxury vinyl trim to give your floors a seamless, finished look.

How to Install Luxury Vinyl Flooring

Installation of luxury vinyl tile and luxury vinyl planks is straightforward for both DIYers and industry professionals. Cutting and fitting each piece is a relatively easy process as they simply snap, click, or lock together. For further assistance with installation, we recommend referencing the manufacturer’s product information for detailed installation instructions. With the right tools and materials, even first-time DIYers should be able to achieve a professional-looking finish.

Where to Install Luxury Vinyl Flooring

Luxury vinyl flooring is a highly versatile option that can be installed in virtually any space within residential and commercial buildings. Each waterproof plank is designed for maximum comfort and durability, featuring a thicker construction and reinforced wear layers that resist scratches, dents and stains. This makes luxury vinyl floors perfect for high-traffic areas that are prone to increased wear and tear, from kitchens, mudrooms and laundry rooms to gyms, office spaces and lobbies.

Materials to Use Underneath Luxury Vinyl Flooring

Most luxury vinyl flooring does not require underlayment. However, moisture barriers and foam padding are commonly used to offer added protection and comfort. We recommend consulting an installation expert at one of our showrooms and the manufacturer’s product information.

How to Clean Luxury Vinyl Flooring

Sweep or vacuum luxury vinyl floors to quickly remove dirt and prevent scratches from larger particles. Wipe down your vinyl planks or tiles with a damp cloth or mop and a gentle cleaning solution (E.G. A mild detergent mixed with hot water and white vinegar). Do not use harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia or cleansers containing these ingredients.

Luxury Vinyl Flooring vs. Traditional Tile

Similar to apples and oranges, luxury vinyl flooring and traditional tile floors both come with their advantages. Both are comprised of long-lasting materials that offer timeless visual appeals. We recommend speaking with a tile expert at your local Tile Shop to determine which option is right for you.

Ready to start shopping for your new go-to flooring product? Explore our entire assortment of luxury vinyl tiles and planks today!

The post Your Guide to Luxury Vinyl Flooring appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

Handmade & Handmade-Look

All Handmade-Look Tile

The Zellige Collection

Look

Look Avio Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 2 x 10 in.

Look Bianco Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 2 x 10 in.

Look Blu Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 2 x 10 in.

Look Oliva Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 2 x 10 in.

Tribeca

Tribeca Basalt Porcelain Wall Tile – 2 x 10 in.

Tribeca Grey Whisper Porcelain Wall Tile – 2 x 10 in.

Tribeca Gypsum White Porcelain Wall Tile – 2 x 10 in.

Tribeca Basalt Porcelain Trim Tile

Tribeca Grey Whisper Porcelain Trim Tile

Tribeca Gypsum White Porcelain Trim Tile

Jerica

Jerica Bianco Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 3 x 12 in.

Jerica Ceniza Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 3 x 12 in.

Jerica Marron Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 3 x 12 in.

Jerica Mix Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 3 x 12 in.

Pattern

Morris & Co.

Morris & Co. Pure Net Cloud Grey Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 13 x 13 in.

Morris & Co. Pure Net Linen Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 13 x 13 in.

Morris & Co. Pure Net Black Ink Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 13 x 13 in.

Laura Ashley

Laura Ashley Sunflower

Laura Ashley Leaf

Laura Ashley Wicker

Laura Ashley Mr. Jones

Laura Ashley Star Louise

Annie Selke Flora

Annie Selke Flora Barely Blue Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 18 x 18 in.

Annie Selke Flora Coconut Milk Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 18 x 18 in.

Annie Selke Flora Vapor Blue Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 18 x 18 in.

Mosaics

Collodi

Hex Matte Collodi Porcelain Mosaic Wall and Floor Tile – 1 in.

Miscellaneous Mosaics

Legno Athens Stone and Glass Mosaic Wall and Floor Tile

Livingston Arabescato Basketweave Porcelain Mosaic Wall and Floor Tile – 12 x 12 in.

Energy Hex White Porcelain Mosaic Wall Tile – 1.5 in.

Blue Twilight Brick Glass Mosaic Tile – 1 x 2 in.

Penny Round Cloudy Porcelain Mosaic Wall and Floor Tile

Mozart Crackle Porcelain Mosaic Wall Tile

Palermo Bianco Stone Hex Mosaic Wall and Floor Tile – 3 in.

Zellige Light Grey Gloss Ceramic Mosaic Floor and Wall Tile

Sampson Mosaic Marble Wall and Floor Tile

Wood & Stone-Look

All Wood-Look Tile

Assorted Stone-Look Tile

Crossline White Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 6 x 23 in.

Sandstone Dark Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 6 x 23 in.

Sandstone Grey Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 6 x 23 in.

Everest Stone-Look

Marble-Look Hexes

Marble

All Marble Tile

The Calacata Evora Collection

Find even more inspiration in our Customer Room Gallery or on our Instagram! If you’re ready for your next project, check out our free design services to welcome these stunning tile designs into your home. Shop the featured products online or in-store today.

The post 2022 Virtual Product Presentation appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

Love what you’re seeing? See all featured tiles below to get a closer look online, or visit a store near you!

Featured Products

Zellige

Coming online soon

Riad

Riad White Ceramic Wall Tile – 4 x 4 in.

Riad Sand Ceramic Wall Tile – 4 x 4 in.

Riad Grey Ceramic Wall Tile – 4 x 4 in.

Morris & Co.

Morris & Co. Pure Net Linen Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 13 x 13 in.

Morris & Co. Pure Net Cloud Grey Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 13 x 13 in.

Morris & Co. Pure Net Black Ink Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 13 x 13 in.

Laura Ashley

Laura Ashley Wicker Pale Slate Matte Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 13 x 13 in.

Laura Ashley Wicker Sea Spray Matte Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 13 x 13 in.

Laura Ashley Wicker Dove Grey Matte Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 13 x 13 in.

Laura Ashley Wicker Charcoal Matte Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 13 x 13 in.

Laura Ashley Mr Jones Charcoal Matte Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 13 x 13 in.

Laura Ashley Mr Jones Dove Grey Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 13 x 13 in.

Laura Ashley Mr Jones Midnight Matte Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 13 x 13 in.

Laval

Laval Noir Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 13 x 13 in.

Laval Gris Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 13 x 13 in.

Patterned Squares

Calabasis Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 8 x 8 in.

Trois Bandes Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 8 x 8 in.

Marble Star Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 8 x 8 in.

Artisan Conte Gris Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 8 x 8 in.

Asteri Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 8 x 8 in.

Ragno

Ragno Blanco Matte Porcelain Hex Wall and Floor Tile – 10 in.

Ragno Taupe Matte Porcelain Hex Wall and Floor Tile – 10 in.

Chambery

Chambery Matte Porcelain Hex Wall and Floor Tile -10 in.

Pickets

Picket Florencia Super Bianco Ceramic Wall Tile – 3 x 12 in.

Picket Florencia Smoke Ceramic Wall Tile – 3 x 12 in.

Picket Florencia Grigio Chiaro Ceramic Wall Tile – 3 x 12 in.

Naime White Alhambra Picket Wall Tile – 2.5 x 13 in.

Picket Mosaics

Picket Gloss Moss Porcelain Mosaic Wall and Floor Tile

Picket Gloss White Porcelain Mosaic Wall and Floor Tile

Picket Gloss Denim Porcelain Mosaic Wall and Floor Tile

Picket Gloss Black Porcelain Mosaic Wall and Floor Tile

Picket Classic Mix Porcelain Mosaic Wall and Floor Tile

Picket Belmont Mix Porcelain Mosaic Wall and Floor Tile

Terrazzo-Look

Terrazo Bianco Macro Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 8 x 8 in.

Terrazo Bianco Micro Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 8 x 8 in.

Terrazo Nero Macro Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 8 x 8 in.

Terrazo Nero Micro Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 8 x 8 in.

Track Stack

Track Stack White Two Tone Porcelain Mosaic Wall and Floor Tile – 5/8 x 6 in.

Track Stack Navy Blue Porcelain Mosaic Wall and Floor Tile – 5/8 x 6 in.

Luxury Vinyl Tile

Ciottolo Avorio Luxury Vinyl SPC Floor Tile – 7 x 48 in.

Ciottolo Greige Luxury Vinyl SPC Floor Tile – 7 x 48 in.

Ciottolo Grigio Luxury Vinyl SPC Floor Tile – 7 x 48 in.

Madera Gris Luxury Vinyl SPC Floor Tile – 7 x 48 in.

Madera Miel Luxury Vinyl SPC Floor Tile – 7 x 48 in.

Madera Marron Luxury Vinyl SPC Floor Tile – 7 x 48 in.

Calacatta Sky Marble-Look

Calacatta Sky Matte Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 12 x 24 in.

Calacatta Sky Polished Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 12 x 24 in.

Marble-Look Hexes

Calacatta Gold Hex Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 10 in.

Swan White Hex Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 10 in.

Calacatta Majestic Hex Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 10 in.

Pulpis Grey Hex Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 10 in.

Pulpis Taupe Hex Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 10 in.

Pulpis Dark Grey Hex Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 10 in.

Stream Black Hex Porcelain Wall and Floor Tile – 10 in.

Marble

Volakas Marble Collection

You can find even more design inspiration on our Customer Room Gallery or Instagram! If you’re ready to get started on your next project, check out our free design services to start making your dream space a reality.

The post 2021 New Products & Trends: A Virtual Product Presentation appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

In-floor radiant heat is the perfect way to create a luxurious, spa-like feel in your home that will provide years of comfort in all climates. Our premium selection of SunTouch products offers everything you need to warm up your space without significantly increasing your monthly bill. You can effortlessly run the system through a programmable thermostat ensuring you get the benefit of in-floor heat when you’re home while being able to save money when you’re not. Learn the basics about in-floor heat and what installation method might be right for you!

Why Heated Floors?

• Tile holds ambient temperatures; it is a great conductor for heat, giving the area a warmer feel
• It eliminates the need for rugs or slippers
• It increases the investment value of a home as a premium add-on that provides years of luxury
• It creates a cozier home environment that “softens” tile as a flooring surface

What To Consider

What do you want your in-floor heat to do for you?

The spacing of the heat cable determines the way your in-heat works and feels. Tighter spacing of the heat cable warms the floor up quickly and creates more radiant heat, while wider spacing offers a gentle warmth that can be enjoyed even with the air conditioner running at the height of summer.

What will it be installed over?

Before installing in-floor heat, it is important to understand what type of surface you will be installing it over. This can tell you how much of an affect the temperature will have on the floor and also how long it will take to warm up. In general, more insulated floors allow for a greater increase in floor temperature than floors that are less insulated.

The base can also help you decide the best wire spacing. For example, a concrete slab will hold the cold temperature and because it is so dense, will take a much longer time to heat up. In this case, you might want to lay the wires closer to help shorten the time it takes to heat up.

In above-ground applications, where there is insulated air space on wood floor sheeting, the heat will easily radiate upward. On concrete or steel, it takes a lot of energy just to warm the substrate, so installing special insulating paneling underneath the wire will prevent wasted energy heating the substrate. Thinking about the efficiency of your in-floor heat during the install dramatically increases the enjoyment—and value—of the final result.

Requirements of Installation

Know how much space you want to heat. To figure out the amount of heat wire needed, follow these simple steps:

1. Start by figuring out the square footage of the entire room.
(ie.: 8′ x 12′ = 96 sq. ft.)

2. Subtract unheated areas from the total square footage. Any areas where there is furniture (ie.: vanity) or that are unoccupied should not be heated. (ie.: If the total square footage that will be occupied by furniture is 22 sq. ft, then 96 sq. ft. – 22 sq. ft. = 74 sq. ft.)

3. Multiply the total square footage by 90%.
(ie.: 74 sq. ft. x 0.9 = 66.6 sq. ft.)

4. Round to the nearest heat cable size because you cannot cut the wire.
(ie.: 66.6 sq. ft. = 70 sq. ft.)

Choose the best way to secure the wire. Here are two of the most common methods:

Embed the wire in a membrane:
This works as both a method to secure the wire as well as acting as an uncoupling underlayment that allows you to tile immediately. It can be layered directly over the entire subfloor, making it possible to install electric heating even on tricky substrates like wood and level concrete with hairline cracks present. Once this underlayment and heating wire are in place, you’re all set to start installing your tile on top of it.

Embed the wire in self-leveling underlayment:
The heated wire is strung between and secured by straps running the length of the room. This method does not provide an underlayment for the project. This means that prior to tiling, you must cover it with at least 3/8″ of self-leveling underlayment to embed the wire and ensure that it is not damaged during the tiling process.

A thermostat to control the system.

Depending on your desired point and the capabilities you would like, there are different thermostat options. Programmable and non-programmable options are available to fit any of your needs.

Electrical considerations.

When running the heat wire, you can assume that the wire will draw 1 Amp for every 10 square feet.  So, for 120-volt circuits only up to 150 square feet is recommended to be installed per circuit. For spaces from 150-300 square feet, a single 240-volt circuit can be used, but anything larger than 300 square feet will require multiple circuits. Also, it is recommended to have a dedicated circuit for your in-floor heat due to the amount of power that it will draw. This ensures that there is no need to sacrifice warm floors for being able to use a hair dryer! As always, we recommend referring to a licensed electrician for specific questions or concerns.

Installation

Disclaimer: This is not a step-by-step guide to install in-floor heat. For specific installation recommendations, always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions or consult with a professional before installing. The following is what you can expect during installation.

Measure and Plan

The spacing for the heat wire will depend on many factors including the subfloor, location, and installation method. General guidance is provided assuming there is a 3″ spacing. Areas with exterior walls or those with a greater desire for warmth may be spaced 2.5″ – 3″. Areas such as hallways, entryways, and areas with low heat loss may be spaced 3″ – 3.5″.

Always plan out the wire to ensure than there is no crossover of the wires and that there is enough wire for your project without cutting. Remember, you should never cut a wire as it will result in a system failure. Also, ensure that you mark where built-in furniture, cabinets, fixtures, or baseboards will be so you plan to install around those items.

Prepare the Area

Prepare the floor by sweeping and vacuuming to remove all dust or debris while ensuring that the subfloor meets TCNA requirements. Always test the heat wire with an Ohms Meter prior to installation to ensure that it is working properly.

Lay the Wire

When installing the wire, use a float to press it in to place, keeping it tight but not forcibly stretching it.

If using the membrane method, apply thinset with 1/4″ square trowel to apply the underlayment to the floor and place the wire in the grooves of the cups in the membrane.

If using the self-leveling underlayment method, secure strapping every 2′ – 3′ to the subfloor with adhesive, staples, or nails and place wiring in strapping.

Using the layout that was created during the initial planning, lay the wire to specifications. Be sure to not cut, shorten, or cross the wire. During placement, always use a current metering device. It emits an audible alarm if the wire is damaged during the installation process, and ensures a worry-free installation.

Install the Sensor

Install the included floor sensor at least 11″ from the wall. This must be centered in the cable loop between two heating wires.

It is recommended to install a second back-up sensor, leaving the wires where they can be easily swapped with the first sensor. Though sensors rarely fail, placing a sensor in an alternative location can help overcome environmental factors that might go unnoticed until after installation, like where the sun comes through the window at certain times of the year or a dryer vent that creates heat near where the sensor is placed.

Install the Tile

If using the membrane method, after you place the wire and the sensor, place a layer of thinset as you install tile directly on top of the wire. No self-leveler is needed.

If using the self-leveling underlayment method, after placing the wire, pour at least 3/8″ of self-leveling underlayment to embed the wire. Allow the self-leveling underlayment to fully cure before proceeding with the tile installation. This ensures that the wire will not be damaged when the tile is installed.

Next, connect the power supply and thermostat. Be aware that state or local codes may require electrical components be installed and/or connected by an electrician.

After connecting, conduct a final resistance test to ensure that all electrical components were installed correctly.

Turning on Your In-Floor Heat

You should wait at least 30 days after installing before turning on the in-floor heat. This allows the thinset, grout, or self-leveler to properly cure.

Explore our full collection of SunTouch radiant heated flooring products here.

Things to Remember

Securing the wire:

Once the wire is placed, use a high quality polymer-modified thinset when installing Pro-heat products. Make sure the thinset fully covers the wire when laying the tile.

The wire must be spaced properly and mechanically secured before installing tile; either in an underlayment designed for heat wire or a fully cured self-leveling underlayment bed.

Installing the wire:

The wire cannot be cut shorter to fit any area. It is better to have a smaller amount of heating wire and adjust as needed rather than having it run long. Do not cross or overlap the wire. Any modification or misuse of the heating cable will lead to system failure and ruin the investment in the heating system.

Resistance testing:

If resistance readings do not measure within guidelines at any time, do not proceed with the installation. Contact the manufacturer of your heating cables for help.

For more information on in-floor heat, your local store representative can help you every step of the way. As always, refer to the TCNA requirements and consult with a professional before installing.

The post A Beginner’s Guide to In-Floor Heat appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

While we wished we could be hosting an in-person event on our new products, we are thrilled that we were able to share it with our customers virtually! For those who were unable to make it to the presentation live, we wanted to share it again. Product Expert Luke Crownover shares inspirational photos of new collections like wallpaper-thin tiles, dramatic marble looks and artisanal decoratives while discussing their unique features and benefits. Stay tuned for more virtual product presentations in the upcoming months!

Want to get a closer look? Shop these collections and more online and in-store. Get started on making your design dreams a reality with our free design services.

The post A Virtual New Product Presentation – Summer 2020 appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

Last year, we introduced Bria Hammel, our first Brand Ambassador. Bria is the principal designer and CEO of Bria Hammel Interiors as well as CEO of Brooke & Lou and co-creator of Hammel House & Co. She leads a talented team of women who are dedicated to designing beautiful, inviting homes for clients. Her designs remain true to her signature traditional style with a hint of southern charm. 

We connected with Bria to talk about one of her passions: kitchen remodeling! Lucky for us, she was happy to share pointers.

Q&A with Bria

Q: Where do you start when deciding to do a kitchen renovation? What considerations should the client/homeowner have? 

A: I think it’s always important to start with the layout. Make a list of all of the needs, and then all of the wants for the space. Make it a point to capture all of the needs, and then if you can get all of the wants as well it will become your dream kitchen!

Q: When in the process should I pick out my tile vs. cabinets, appliances, paint colors, etc.?

A: We suggest to have everything selected before the actual construction starts. This really allows your whole process to run a lot more smoothly and efficiently. It ends up speeding up the process because if you have everything ordered, contractors can get in there and work quickly because they aren’t waiting on anything to come in. In what order you select things, is completely up to you. However, if you have a stand out tile that you know you want to use you can use that as your inspiration piece and go from there!

Q: What are some of the harder decisions/parts of the process for your clients and how do you navigate those? 

A: I think one of the hardest decisions for clients is where to take a risk. Clients tend to see tile as a pretty permanent fixture in their homes so it feels like a bigger risk to do something playful and fun. I always encourage our clients to pick one or two areas in the home that they can do something unique and special – and then keep the rest classic. I’ve often found that clients actually love the areas they took the risk in most!

Q: How much does it cost to remodel a kitchen? 

A: It’s all relative to size but if you are doing a complete overhaul and starting from scratch you can plan on spend up to $100,000 on a kitchen renovation alone. However, we always recommend taking your budget and figuring what details are the most important to you and take priority. For us, we recommend splurging on appliances, tile, and light fixtures and saving on hardware, accessories, and countertops (look into remnants!). 

Q: Any tips for how to best work with a designer?

A: Be open and honest about your budget. There are things designers can do to help you prioritize and creatively come up with solutions that are less expensive and can fit within your perimeters. Let your designer push you outside of your comfort zone a little bit too! We take pride in taking clients’ visions and bringing it to fruition and to the next level. 

Thank you to Bria for all this great information, and stay tuned for our next post featuring tips for renovating small kitchens.

The post Kitchen Remodeling Q+A with Bria Hammel appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

Types of finishes

Finishes, or different effects on the surface of a tile that alter its appearance, are generally divided into ceramic, porcelain and other man-made tiles vs. stone categories because of the different ways the materials can be treated. First, we’ll explore the processes that define stone finishes and then look at man-made tiles.

Stone

Stone tile with a polished finish has been passed under a series of polishing wheels with increasingly finer pads using water and polishing compound to assist in the process. This results in a smooth and shiny tile, perfect for adding a touch of luxury and glamour to formal and traditional spaces. Marble is a one type of stone that is often polished.

Satin finishes are produced through the same process as polished but using fewer polishing wheels. This lends a softer and less shiny appearance to the tile, the perfect balance between polished and honed.

Honed tiles go through the same process as polished and satin but with even fewer wheels that result in a smooth matte finish. This is the most casual finish of the three, reflecting very little light and contemporizing a design.

For a brushed finish, stone is run under wheels with metal bristles to achieve an orange peel-like finish. Benefits of a brushed tile are that its texture provides softness, it handles wear and tear and has a relaxed character.

To obtain a tumbled finish, tiles are put into large drums filled with aggregate and shaken. The aggregate wears down the surface of the stone, giving it a rough surface and more rounded edges. Tumbled stones offer increased traction, hide imperfections and flawlessly coordinate with rustic decor.

We’re going au naturel with this one. With natural finish stone tile, what you see is what you get. Nothing is done to the surface of these tiles, and, besides being cut to size, they’re just like they looked when they were quarried. Natural tiles give an authentic and outdoorsy look to your space. Slate is a common example of a natural finish stone.

Filled and unfilled are not exactly finishes, but they alter the surface of a tile so they’re worth mentioning and defining here. Filled stone has its natural crevices and holes filled with an epoxy resin mixed with stone dust in a color that closely resembles the stone’s natural color. This makes the tile easier to clean and install. Unfilled stone is left in its natural state, voids and all. This allows you to choose to fill it with the grout color of your choice or leave it in its rustic, raw state for a unique look.

Here, you can see the difference in appearance of an unfilled travertine compared to a filled travertine. Bucak Silver Honed Unfilled Travertine, on the left, has visible holes and crevices on its surface, whereas Bucak Light Walnut Honed Filled Travertine, on the right, has a lighter colored compound filling in these areas.

Ceramic and Porcelain

Polished tiles are double fired, first with the desired pattern or color and then with a clear coat. Afterwards, they go through the same polishing process as stone, passing under polishing wheels with water and polishing compound. Lastly, the tiles are sealed to retain their appearance. Stone-look porcelain or ceramic tiles are often in polished finishes to mimic the look of natural stone.

A glossy finish is different from polished in that it is created with a glossy glaze instead of a polishing wheel process. Depending on the texture of the tile, gloss glazes can pool in areas, creating thicker and thinner areas of glaze and variations in coloring.

Matte tiles are covered in a non-shiny glaze that is applied with an ink jet machine or in a waterfall stream glazing method. This process yields tiles with a flat finish that do not reflect light and offer a contemporary look.

Multifired tiles are one of the most exciting technological advancements in the industry in recent years. They’re so interesting, we devoted a whole blog post to them! These are tiles that go through more than two firings in a kiln, usually to give them 3-D texture, metallic finish or another interesting effect that is not possible with just one or two firings.

An anti-slip surface is perfect for tiling in wet areas like bathrooms, entryways or mudrooms. They’re also great if aging in place is a consideration in your home. A fine grit or sand is added to a matte glaze to create a rough, gripping texture on the tile.

Textured tile is made by pressing materials into a mold that give a textured effect, such as that of natural stone or wood. Then it’s glazed and fired to achieve the desired look. The below tile is actually a porcelain that has been textured to look like a tumbled stone.

Congratulations! You’ve just completed a crash course in natural stone and man-made tile finishes. If your head is spinning, don’t worry. Our tile experts are waiting in your local store to help you design your next project and choose your perfect tile. Schedule a design consultation or stop in today.

The post Guide to Tile Finishes appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

Featured: Rosa Cha, Industrial Garage, Santorini and Iceland.

From beginning to end, every step of tile design is important. Picking out the right color, shape and material is just as important as its installation. The layout of your tile can make it a stunning supporting piece or an eye-catching center of attention. Learn how to change the perception of your room and take your design to the next level.

Horizontal Straight Stack

If you want a more contemporary look, installing your tile horizontally is the style for you. Horizontal straight stack guides viewers’ eyes from the top of your design to the bottom. This layout showcases your tile the most and is perfect for boldly printed tiles.

Featured: Fabola Blu.

Vertical Straight Stack

Just like the guards at Buckingham Palace, these “soldier stacks” stand firm and tall. Installing tile vertically is a great way to make petite rooms appear taller. This layout also adds balance to your design when working with daring 3-D tiles.

Featured: Memphis Bianco Di Elba Ret.

“Horizontal and vertical straight stacks are my favorite tile patterns for bathrooms because they present a clean and fresh look. It’s important to have a polished design in your bathroom.” — Kirsty Froelich, Tile Shop design manager

Brick Patterns

1/2 Offset

There’s a reason why one half offset brick is one of the most traditional looks. The simple enhancement of offsetting stacked tiles by 50% gives your design a more appealing look and can hide any imperfections in the installation. This pattern is the perfect way to add flair without taking away attention from a focal point.

Featured: Laura Ashley Oriental Garden Charcoal and Imperial Grey Bevel.

1/3 Offset

The stair-step effect in this pattern is created by offsetting each tile by one third its length. We suggest using one third offset when designing with tile that is 8″ x 16″ or larger.

Featured: Cottage Grey Straight.

Herringbone

Install large or small rectangles at a 45-degree angle to form the lively herringbone pattern. Intensify the verticle and horizontal zigzag movements by incorporating different colors.

Featured: Victoria Grey Dark Brushed.

Double Herringbone

Double herringbone is created by connecting two rectangular shaped tiles with each other. This pattern is not commonly installed because it can be a difficult layout to perfect.

Featured: Color Mind Light BR. Design by Friedman General Contracting and Modern Barton Hills Oasis.

Chevron

The chevron pattern is often confused with the herringbone pattern. But don’t be mistaken—chevron is created by connecting the ends of tile that are specifically cut at an angle. This added touch gives your design a chic, stylish finish.

Featured: Tinos Black Chevron and Tinos White Chevron. Design by West Bay Homes.

Chevron is another great opportunity to use multiple colors of tile. West Bay Homes emphasized this stunning movement with Tinos Black Chevron.

Grid

The grid pattern is the easiest way to lay out tile. This timeless design is created by stacking square-shaped tiles in a grid pattern. Instead of using a rug at the entrance of your home, display a tile pattern on the floor for more beauty and durability.

Featured: London Camden.

Diagonal

The diagonal layout, also known as the diamond pattern, is very similar to the grid pattern. Installing tiles in a 45-degree angle makes your floor appear wider.

Featured: Imperio Marfil Matte.

Versailles

The Versailles pattern stands out as one of the most complicated and exquisite tile layouts. This puzzle-like design is made up of different sized rectangles and squares. While Versailles is commonly designated for floor designs, don’t be afraid to display it across the walls of your home.

Featured: Adoni Black Small Versailles. Design by Bria Hammel Interiors. Photo by Spacecrafting.

In the image above, Bria Hammel Interiors displayed Adoni Black Small slate tile in a Versailles pattern. Not only does the black slate provide a beautiful contrast with white cubbies, but the light grout accentuates it. View the full-size image on House Beautiful’s Instagram.

Hex

It’s no surprise that tile comes in all shapes and sizes. Liven your design with hexagon-shaped tiles and mosaics. These geometric shapes are excellent for modern layouts because of their ability to support both bold and timeless creations.

Featured: Black Hex and White Hex. Design by Cypress Design Co. Photo by Denise Bass.

Unsure of which tile pattern is right for your style? Schedule a design consultation with our experts to create the perfect look for your dream home.

The post Tile Patterns and Layouts appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.

Featured:Aqua Blu 24 x 47 in, Glass Silver Diamond, Dural Bronze Satin Brushed

What Is Large-Format Tile?

In recent years, we have seen a surge in LFTs as the tile industry continues to experiment and grow through new technologies. Just ten years ago, a mere 12” tile would have been considered large format. Today, the technical definition of a large-format tile is anything with one side that exceeds 16”, but the largest tiles we’ve seen were presented at the 2018 Cersaie Tile Show and they were over 10 feet long!

A versatile design option, these large tiles come in square and rectangular shapes in both ceramic, porcelain and stone options and can be used on walls or floors.

Looking for an LFT that is large enough to make the room appear larger than it is but won’t overwhelm your space? Our most popular size, 12″ x 24″, is a gratifying middle ground for most spaces. 

Aesthetics & Advantages

Increase functionality in your designs by incorporating large-format tiles. One of the best things that large-format tiles do is minimize grout joints, creating a crisp and elegant design. Not only does this create a seamless look, it is also easier to clean and requires less maintenance.

Simply due to the size of large-format tiles, you have the ability to create the illusion of a bigger space with neat, sharp grout lines. Observe below how the large-format floor tiles naturally create a more open, transitional space in this impressive fireplace setting.

Featured: Frisco Grey 24 x 48 in, Claros Silver Split Face

Designing With LFTs

A big, expansive tile is exactly what you need to make any space appear even more fabulous. Large-format tiles reduce visual interruption by requiring fewer grout joints. Consider using LFTs to maximize a large floor plan while creating a visually cohesive look. The design process is actually quite straightforward. Using large-format tiles horizontally will create the illusion of a wider space, and to make your walls feel taller and exaggerated, use LFTs vertically.

“Large-format tiles give you the opportunity to enhance the size of any living space and create a very elegant feel.”—Brandy Janke, The Tile Shop product designer

The gorgeous shower below displays a horizontal large-format wall tile that creates a bold statement and visually broadens the sophisticated space to appear wider.

Featured: Aqua Blu 24 x 47 in, Aqua Blu Mosaic, Glass Silver Diamond

Use large-format tile on your fireplace to create a clean, harmonious look catered to your personal style. We love the marble patterned Invisible Grey series because it fosters a modern yet warm feel featured below.

Because large-format tiles appreciate the size of spaces, they are a spectacular option for kitchens, entryways, mudrooms or any large, open areas. 

Large format achieves a grand perception as an entire space appears unified, on trend with a sleek wallpaper effect. The Metalica Cell tile creates a dramatic effect through a uniquely textured pattern while the neat, minuscule grout joints almost completely disappear from this modern space.

Featured: Metalica Cell Silver 18 x 35 in

An appealing characteristic of many large-format tiles is the multifired process that brings a unique dimension to their surfaces, creating rich textures and adding an elevated flair as seen in the photo below.

Featured: Decor Space Pearl 12 x 47 in

LFTs can be used to create a spa-like feel when used in bathrooms, as pictured in the luxurious space below featuring Lombaria in the shower and Parallelo Nero on the floor. It elevates the space, making it feel extra special for an at-home experience.

Photo by Spacecrafting Photography

To create a truly dynamic and eye-catching room, pair large-format tiles with mosaics to see the opposite sizes play off each other.

Featured: Snow Glass Stria 12 x 12 in, Hall Blanco 8 x 20 in

Design a captivating accent wall using Decor Impact’s dazzling 3-D starburst pattern.

Featured: Decor Impact 12 x 47 in

Wondering if LFTs are for you? First, consider that to enlarge any space you must pick the size of tile that supports your desired feel. Large format is excellent for complementing a larger room, but these innovative tiles can truly be used in any space. Additionally, if you want to intensify the size of a small room, a large-format tile might be just what you need to reflect a more spacious feel.  Schedule an appointment with our design associates to create your dream space and get expert advice on using large-format tiles.

Want more? Think bigger! Loving LFTs as much as us? Check out our impressive collection of large-format tile options here.

The post Maximize Your Space With Large-Format Tile appeared first on The Tile Shop Blog.