Tips For Selecting Your Tile

1. Allow time to choose. You don’t want to be forced into making a hasty decision. You will live with your choice of tiles for years, as they’re a long-term investment so take time to get it right.

2. Create a mood board. This does not have to be anything fancy, just a few pictures torn out of magazines or an online board like Pinterest.

3. Allow space in your budget to purchase samples. When choosing tiles for your home, source many samples. Samples of floor tiles should be laid down and wall tiles positioned vertically. Walk around them in all lights: daylight, artificial light, sunlight, and on a dull day. As you revisit the samples you can remove the ones that don’t work in your space. Keep removing them until you are left with your final selection. I promise you, it’s worth the effort.

4. Build a relationship with your designer. Talk to them so they understand the look you’re after. Take magazine cuttings with you or show them photos on your phone of the look you like. If you aren’t sure discuss it with them. A good designer will know their tiles and will know what’s available out in the marketplace. They can source samples that are not regular stock items to help you find the right tile.

5. If you’re dealing with large quantities discounts may be negotiated, if there are multiple room, multiple projects, The Galleria of Tile is happy to work with you on pricing.

6. If you have in floor heat, then tile is a great choice as they are a fabulous conductor of heat.

7. Tiles should meet recognized ISO standards to ensure they have the correct qualities for their use, this includes testing for thermal shock. Important when choosing a tile to be used externally, we can advise you of this during your showroom visit.

8. Consider what the body of the tile is made of. I’ve used porcelain, as it is a high-fired ceramic that makes for a tough tile to withstand changes of temperature and hard wear.

9. Slip resistance – if you are using tiles in bathrooms, wet rooms or externally around a pool area, then you must get to know ‘R’ ratings. Suitable tiles will be given an ‘R’ rating ranging from R9 to R13.

10. Some tile materials may require specialist sealing or cleaning products. It will depend on the body type of your tile and its intended use.

11. Match your grout carefully as there is now a wide color selection available. It can ruin the entire look if you don’t. For example, when choosing a wood effect tile we prefer to match the grout so it blends as one making the tiles look longer and more like a plank of wood. If you wanted the ‘on trend’ industrial look on walls you would probably choose a brick-sized tile and pick out the grout in a darker color.

12. Consider using profiles vs bullnose for a more modern, clean look.

13. Think about this size of your tiles as a larger tile used in a small room makes it look bigger. Fewer grout lines gives a more streamlined look.

We hope you have found this advice helpful, to see more of our work on our Gallery page, Facebook and on Instagram. 

7 Kitchen Upgrades to Make Your Home Stand Out to Buyers

If you’re getting your house ready to sell, you might be wondering what upgrades you can make to help your home stand out amongst the competition. With the kitchen being one of the most memorable and important areas of any home, you’ll want yours to not only make a great first impression but also a lasting one. That’s why it’s essential that your kitchen has a modern appeal and valuable amenities that will wow potential homebuyers.

So, if your home has outdated features or appliances that are not working as well as they used to, now is the time to make those kitchen upgrades before your home hits the housing market. Improvements like smart-tech appliances, sleek fixtures, and modern cabinetry all add up to a worthwhile investment in the eye of a homebuyer. As you’re preparing your home for sale, consider these seven kitchen upgrades that can help your kitchen become the heart of the home for buyers.

1. Cabinetry that sets the tone for the entire kitchen

Even if the rest of the kitchen has been upgraded, potential buyers might not see it that way if the cabinets look worn out. Outdated kitchen cabinets can be a big turn-off, especially now that clean, modern finishes are more common and expected from potential homebuyers. Luckily, there are a handful of options for every budget when it comes to this type of kitchen upgrade. 

If you like your cabinet’s current color and style, you can easily give it a fresh look by replacing the hardware. If your existing cabinets are structurally sound but need a face-lift, you can upgrade them by painting or restaining. You can try to tackle this kitchen upgrade on your own as a DIY project. But, if you’re someone that tends to color outside of the lines, consider hiring a professional to paint your cabinets for you. 

Another kitchen upgrade to consider is refacing your cabinet doors. This is a great option if your cabinets are in good condition but have an outdated style. You’ll be able to give your kitchen a whole new look and design without the hassle of completely tearing it apart. However, if your cabinets are on the verge of falling apart, it’s best to just have them replaced. While it may be a more costly option, you won’t want the look of your kitchen cabinets to be the reason a buyer holds back from making an offer.

2. Upgrade to energy-saving and smart-tech appliances

Kitchen appliances are one of the most important aspects of any kitchen. These days many homebuyers are looking for sleek appliances with smart-tech and eco-friendly features. These can include WiFi-enabled refrigerators and dishwashers that connect to your smart home ecosystem and can be controlled using your voice or an app. 

Large appliances that use a lot of energy are some of the main kitchen features that homebuyers want to be eco-friendly -- both for the environment and their energy bill. So, if you’re planning on replacing appliances like your refrigerator or dishwasher before listing your home, opt for an energy-saving model. And as you’re looking for eco-friendly kitchen appliances, make sure you look for the Energy Star label. Kitchen upgrades like these can help set your home apart from others in your area and make a lasting impression on buyers.

3. Upgrade lighting and plumbing fixtures

While your appliances typically take center stage, small details such as the lighting, plumbing fixtures, and even the kitchen sink also get noticed by homebuyers. If the style is outdated or the lighting is too harsh, it can have a huge impact on your kitchen’s overall appearance. 

Replace your outdated fluorescent overhead fixture with a modern lighting fixture, whether that’s pendant lights or a statement piece. Or, a transformative yet simple kitchen upgrade is to add lighting underneath cabinets. From LED strip lights to puckets, this can be an easy way to transform your space. 

When it comes to plumbing fixtures, you should of course consult a plumber to ensure your plumbing system is working properly before listing your house. Beyond that, consider upgrading your exterior plumbing fixtures, like your faucet and kitchen sink, if the design is outdated or just doesn’t go with your kitchen’s new style. While plumbing fixture upgrades can be done on your own, it’s advised to have a plumber or handyman help make the switch if you’re not as experienced. 

4. Attention-grabbing countertops

Kitchen finishes like durable, neutral countertops, and the right flooring are essential when it comes to upgrading your kitchen. Much like stainless steel has become a standard finish, the same goes for solid-surfaces and countertops. Upgrade your old laminate countertops with a more desired material like granite, slate, concrete, or tile. However, if you’re upgrading your kitchen on a budget, consider using composite countertops to give a granite appearance for a lower cost. Opting for neutral colors that compliment your kitchen cabinets and give an overall fresh, clean look is always a safe bet. 

5. Make your floors stand out

When choosing flooring for your kitchen, many homebuyers want durable yet beautiful finishes. If you want to upgrade your kitchen floors to a long-lasting material then consider installing natural stone tile or wood flooring. Engineered hardwood, granite, and porcelain tile are among a few other great flooring upgrade options as well. Whichever flooring you choose based on your kitchen’s style and your budget, ensure that it’s installed properly. Some flooring options, like tile, can be difficult to install on your own and can be ruined entirely if installed incorrectly. 

6. Upgrade kitchen amenities to stay competitive

As you’re preparing to sell your home, the overall goal of your kitchen upgrades should be to appeal to homebuyers. By upgrading your kitchen’s amenities to include unique or creative features, it can help really set your kitchen and home apart from others. If you’re living in a city, like Portland, where composting is a common and encouraged practice, consider building a convenient yet appealing under-counter composting unit. Or, if you live in an area where many kitchens have built-in espresso machines or built-in wine coolers, you should consider these kitchen upgrades as well. Of course, you don’t need to go above and beyond. But, if many homes in your area have unique amenities and features, you probably should too. You can browse listings online or you can talk with your real estate agent to get a better idea of what the desired kitchen amenities are in your local housing market.

7. A fresh coat of paint or new backsplash can be the final touch

As much as we’d all love an endless budget to upgrade our kitchen with the newest appliances and smart-home gadgets, that’s not always the case. Luckily, sometimes all a kitchen needs is a modern backsplash or a fresh coat of paint. Consider adding white subway tile or, for a more unique style, you could add a patterned tile to your backsplash. When it comes to painting the kitchen walls and ceiling, you can never go wrong with a white or neutral color. However, if you want to add character to your kitchen while still complimenting its modern style, you could paint the walls a fresh yet subtle shade of blue. 

Originally published on Redfin

Should I Install Vinyl or Tile Flooring? Pro's and Cons

Deciding between installing vinyl or tile can be a tough choice. Homeowners often consider which level would benefit from which flooring type, with considerations of temperature, look, and general appeal? But what about in custom custom remodeled bathroom? What design looks and feels the best – but is also practical in a bathroom setting? Our expert bathroom remodelers have curated a list of pros and cons to both of the options, but before we get into that – lets get some basic considerations out of the way:

Location

The location of the flooring, and the decisions made in regards to that are crucial. Having tile in areas such as your entry way, kitchen, master bathroom, or even guest bathroom can be extremely beneficial – while having vinyl other areas of your home might be beneficial.

Budget

Now before you jump to conclusions, the reason we bring this up is because people often decide to buy whatever is cheaper today – not considering the home value investment for the future. Depending on where, and how much flooring you want to put down, one option may be better than the other because you’ll invest into your home re-sell value – so consider your options wisely.

Balancing these two questions is very important because it might just give you a better investment option for the future. Money isn’t everything when it comes to remodeling your home, but certainly does play a big factor. With that, lets get into the differences between tile and vinyl!

Pro's & Con's of Tile Flooring

Pro’s:

1. Tile is much sturdier than vinyl.

2. Tile is stain resistant.

3. Tile is harder to scratch than vinyl.

4. Tile is very low maintenance.

Con’s:

1. Low priced ceramic tile cracks – not dents. You will not have this issue with a quality porcelain tile.

2. Not all tile types are waterproof.

3. Tile gets much colder much quicker than vinyl.

4. Grout lines connecting tile is much more visible than seamless vinyl.

5. Tile is more expensive than vinyl.

Pro's & Con's of Vinyl Flooring

Pro’s:

1. Vinyl is water resistant – and stain resistant as well. (what is underneath i not waterproof)

2. Vinyl is can be durable, depending on the kind you buy.

3. You can add insulation below vinyl, allowing you to control floor temperature.

4. Vinyl has many different styles.

5. Vinyl dents – not cracks.

6. Vinyl is cheaper than tile.

Con’s:

1. Vinyl is easier to scratch than tile.

2. Vinyl is not easily repaired.

3. Can have water issues with pets and if floors are over cleaned. The top of the floor is waterproof, but what is underneath is not.

All in all – both options make sense, have their pro’s, and have their cons. If you are in a high moisture zone, such as a bathroom, tile might make more sense than vinyl – versus if your in your basement and it gets chilly quick, vinyl might make the better option. Both have their own visual appeals and remodeling benefits, but also have their own negatives. Are you looking to remodel your home, such as your custom bathroom, and are curious what your best options might be? Reach out to our bathroom remodel experts at The Galleria of Tile and we can come out for a free consultation, and be able to offer our industry leading experience. To learn more, please visit our website and check out our blogs for industry tips, tricks, and secrets!

Bathroom Tile Trends

Picking out tiles for your bathroom remodeling project is not so simple anymore. There is so much variety in design, shape, color, and texture that it can be overwhelming.   A few years ago, tiles were mostly laid down for their functional benefits (resistance to water, durability, low maintenance) but today, their aesthetic impact is just as important as their function. This is why manufacturers have expanded their selections to provide really unique styles for homeowners.  With advice from our experts, we have identified the top bathroom tile trends you should be on the lookout for. They focus on the finishes, colors, shapes, and patterns.Graphic Patterns

Graphic Patterns

Whether on the floor or the wall it’s the perfect accent tile in any room!  Either in soft subtle hues or bold contrasting colors the intricate patterns available for these tiles with lure you in and capture your heart. This trend is number one on our list because it’s going to be, or should I say, it already is HUGE! Patterned tiles will continue to expand in popularity. From subway tiles to ceramic, it’s safe to say that graphic pattern tiles can be anywhere and everywhere. This style really gives homeowners the chance to tap into their creative side or hire a designer to get creative for them.  Right now we are mostly seeing encaustic ceramic tiles being a popular choice for those with patterned tiles, however, porcelain styles are coming out with the same thing! Expect to see an array of bold prints and colors all over tiles this year!

Move Over Matte Glossy Tile,

Matte Finishes are Here to Stay

The popularity of matte finished tiles follows us into the new year. They feature a soft but powerful beauty–style that does not get too overwhelming.  An advantage of matte tiles is that they do not show smudges and water marks as easily as glossy tiles. This makes them ideal for the bathroom floor, especially in busy bathrooms. The low sheen makes them easier to maintain. When installing matte finish tiles make sure there is enough lighting, both natural and artificial, as these tiles are not known for reflecting light.

Glossy finish tiles feature a more dramatic effect on the bathroom. They tend to create an elegant, highly polished look and feel. This is why they are still popular. They are especially great for small bathrooms as they tend to reflect plenty of light and create the perception of a space that is larger than it seems. But because they need more maintenance work and are a slip hazard, glossy finish tiles are often used on walls or low-traffic bathroom floor areas.

If you are looking for understated elegance with unspoken sophistication, go for matte finish tiles. They are also great if you want an earthy style in your bathroom. But if what you are looking for is something a bit more dramatic and attention-capturing, glossy finish tiles are right up your alley.

Neutrals

(Especially White!)

Contemporary designs make big use of neutral colors and this remains the case for bathroom tile trends. Bright colors such as blue, red and yellow are not commonplace in the bathroom and will not be the shining star anytime soon. Instead, homeowners are falling more in love with neutrals and especially nude neutrals such as grey and creams.  Grey and beige have become super popular as complementary neutrals.  So much so, that a new color has emerged by name and featured in product selections. So be on the lookout for: “Greige”.

Check out our gallery to get inspiration for your project.  For bathrooms that need a bit more brightness, white is perfect.  The bathroom is built for relaxing and these colors reinforce this atmosphere. By being neutral, they allow the mind to stay calm and relax creating a sanctuary in the home. You can use these colors from the flooring all the way to the ceiling. To ensure the bathroom doesn’t become lifeless, layer in different shades of neutral colors, textures, shapes and/or finishes to bring everything together in a new and lovely way.

Subway Tiles with

More Pizazz!

Some may think subway tiles can be boring. Those white 3 by 6-inch rectangles can be quite commonplace. Subway tiles will get a bit more interesting as the tiles depart from the traditional size and pattern. Specifically, we are going to see these tiles offered in more colors, larger sizes, and a-typical design patterns (dome, beveled, arched, and sculptural). Subway tiles are getting thicker and longer, with dimensions as large as 8 by 20.  Pair that with contrasting grout color and the stage has been set for a marvelous reversal from the common all-white look. You can even couple different colors of tile in vertical or horizontal bands or incorporate different patterned tiles to create a delightful wall mosaic for your bathroom. It’s even becoming popular to see homeowners using mismatches tiles patterns or textures to get that unique bathroom design we all desire.  The possibilities are really endless since subway tiles can be mixed and matched in all sorts of fascinating variations.

Dimensional Tiles

It is not just colors and patterns of tiles that are getting more diverse, manufacturers are also playing around with the shapes. Bathroom tile trends will vary from traditional rectangle to a variety of other geometric shapes.  One particular shape that has made a resurgence in recent times is the hexagon. Hexagonal tiles are making their way back into the bathroom in all sizes, colors, and textures especially on shower floors, where they create a uniquely different appearance.

To take it one step further, create unique patterns, using different colored tiles, and repeat through the space. Why stop at the shower floor?  You could place these striking tiles on your bathroom floor in big bold graphic tile design patterns, geometric shape tiles and combine with color patterns to create complicated and visually arresting styles.

Geometric tiles can be used on a large scale (all walls or entire flooring) to set the tone for the bathroom or they can be used on an accent wall to create a bold pivot from the rest of the bathroom. In small bathrooms, they help improve the perception of space especially when matched well with neutral colors. In large bathrooms, they form artful accents in places like the spa area or the makeup station.

Wood Planks and Flooring

Wood planks are just beginning to make a splash in the marketplace.  Non-traditional tile sizes have been getting popular for some time now. Most people are going larger overall, but with planking, you can customize the size.  Most widths are 6″, but the lengths vary from 12″ to 48″ long. Allowing you to create ornate patterns such as herringbone.  While realistic wood grained tiles are most common like oak, maple, & cherry; there are lots of other finishes available to make then seem distressed, weathered, or white washed.  Porcelain wood grain tiles are perfect for the bathroom, since it offers greater stain and water resistance without sacrificing design aesthetics. The wood grain tiles only enhancing the organic feel much needed in a bathroom space.  For a more compelling look, you could try mixing natural stone planks and other materials such as concrete with the wood grains. This adds an unexpected but welcome style to your flooring.

Marble Flooring in Soft Tones & Larger Scale Patterns

Marble is a high-end material that is popular for its stunning luxurious beauty. Marble is a natural rock and each piece comes with its own unique coloring and style. The differences in veining and subtle color shading results in an appealing overall look. Despite its connection to palaces and mansions; marble has gradually made its way into our homes, particularly the bathrooms. Thanks to Mother Nature, technology, and improved transportation; homeowners have access to a large variety of different color & patterned slabs to choose from. But like so many other areas of the house, we are seeing a return to soft color tones this year. These neutral finishes allow the natural beauty of marble to shine through at its best and without any impediments.

To add an interesting twist, marble flooring that features large-scale patterns work especially well in large bathrooms. The floor essentially becomes a large piece of canvas where the natural beauty of the marble complements the interesting pattern embossed onto it.  Interestingly, you do not have to get actual marble to enjoy this style. The marvels of technology allow manufacturers to design porcelain tile to resemble natural marble in almost every aspect. So, if you are going for a luxury look on a more reasonable budget, marble-looking tile is something to seriously consider as you plan your 2019 bathroom renovation.

Textural Finishes

Add variation, color depth, and surface interest in any area of the bathroom by incorporating textured field tile.  Textures can appear subtle or pronounced depending on the material used, finish applied, and the color desired.

Raked sounds just like the name… it’s as if someone pulled a rake over the surface and left all the lines across the surface.

3D dimensional tiles can inspire just about anything, from a feeling to an object or place.  But when it’s all said and done, it’s usually considered a piece of art.  This category comes in all sorts of shapes, sizes, and styles which can be combined into endless combinations for a one of a kind space.

These types of tiles create new focal points in the home using distinctive tile pieces and applications as diverse as a dining room wall.  Elegance just isn’t for the rest of the home anymore.

Metallic Finishes

METALLIC?! Yes, metallic, is our soon to be shining star of trendy bathroom remodels. This is at the end of our list because it is more of an up and coming tile trend for your bathroom. However, we’re already in love with it. Metallic is shiny and reflective, giving your bathroom a gorgeous yet edgy makeover. This modern look isn’t quite there yet, but we expect to see it popping up more and more over the course of the next year.

Conclusion

Choosing the right tiles for your bathroom can be quite a challenge. There is so much variety. You have to choose what color, finish, and shape you want not to mention the material itself.  Hopefully, the above information on bathroom design trends will help you decide which tiles will look best on your bathroom floor or walls.

Why Tile?

Tile is a trend in many home remodels today, and while one would think this is a recent development, tile installation can be dated back thousands of years. It wasn’t until the industrial revolution that tiles began being mass produced. Thank you, Queen Victoria!

She probably had nothing to do with it, let’s be honest.

Besides the vast history, there are many important reasons to consider including tile in your next kitchen or bath remodel.  Other than drawing attention with their beauty and durability, tile is very environmentally friendly and undeniably cost effective in the long term.  Here is why you’ll love living with your new tiled space.

Longevity

Good quality tile paired with proper installation can last a lifetime.  Carpet, laminate and vinyl will always need eventual replacement, but it is hard to argue the durability of a great ceramic or porcelain tile.

Air Quality

The quality of the air inside your home is always a concern.  Not only does carpet have the ability to hold in allergens, (such as dust mites, mold germs, and bacteria) but according to the CDC not only carpet, but also wood and vinyl has the ability to release VOCs (volatile organic compounds) into the air, which can contribute to many health concerns. Tile, on the other hand, is fired in a kiln at an extremely high temperature and is incapable of releasing these chemicals, and also inhospitable to the germs, bacteria, and mold which can also cause health issues and allergic reactions.

Environmentally Friendly

Most tile factories reuse water and other materials during manufacturing, which keeps a large amount of scrap and wastewater out of our facilities. The regional availability of these products has also been said to lower emissions and energy consumption in the shipping process.

Overall Cost

Of all of the options on the market today, did you know that ceramic tile is actually the least expensive over the life of the tile?  A study, completed in 2005 by the Tile Council of North America shows that on average, ceramic tile costs less per year than any other floor finish over the life of a building (50 years).

Carpet, laminate and vinyl prove to be significantly more expensive due to their shorter life spans.

Here are a few more advantages to trusting a quality ceramic tile:

• Durability: When properly installed and maintained, ceramic tile will not fade or lose its original qualities and can last the life of your home.

• Waterproof: A quality ceramic tile, when installed with proper materials, is impervious to water.

• Clean & Healthy: Ceramic cannot host allergens or volatile compounds that can impact the overall health of your family.

• Low Maintenance: Most ceramic tile can be cleaned using nothing more than warm water and a rag, and a mild detergent only when necessary.

• Fire Resistant: Mechanically, ceramic tile is one of the strongest finishes, and will not burn at any temperature.

• Fade Resistant: The colors are permanent and will never be affected by UV rays or fading from sun exposure.

• Outdoor Capabilities: Porcelain and ceramic tile are frost resistant, and because of their high firing temperature are 30% harder than natural stone, therefore, they are the perfect choice for outdoor spaces.

• Best Value: Ceramic tile will add value to your space and costs less in the long term than any other flooring option on the market.

• Resale Value: A quality tile will increase the ROI on your remodel and the overall resale value of your home.

For more facts and information on the life cycle of flooring and ceramic tile, from the Trade Council of North America, check out https://www.tcnatile.com/.

To read more about Volatile Organic Chemicals, more information can be found here: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/indoorenv/chemicalsodors.html