Tile Floors Archives - Page 4 of 9

Hardwood Flooring, Tile Floors
November 14, 2019

Plank Tile 101: Everything You Need To Know About Tile That Looks Like Wood

It’s a modern day catch-22.

On the one hand, you want a timeless, beautiful floor that will look great for years to come.

On the other hand, you want a durable floor that can take all that your family can dish out.

What’s a homeowner to do? Consider plank tile.

What is the tile called that looks like wood?

You’ve probably seen it before and wondered what it is. Walking in, it looks just like hardwood. But once you get closer, walk on it, it’s clearly not hardwood. It feels more like tile.

Tile that looks like wood is made from either ceramic or porcelain tile, designed to give the look and feel of a hardwood floor. If often comes in plank tile format, even though it can take on many sizes and shapes.

What we love best about plank tile is how close it looks to the real thing. Many people have to get down on the floor and touch it to discover the difference. It’s that good. And if you’ve ever installed tile in your home before, you already know the benefits tile can bring to some of the most high-traffic areas. Plank tile is a great compromise when you want classic good looks, yet know your floor takes a beating throughout the year.

What are the benefits of plank wood tile?

Why are plank tiles gaining in popularity? Because of their strength and durability.

Here in Colorado, we love hardwood. Maybe it’s something about growing up with pine trees all around us. When we think about the Rockies, we think cabins and mountain retreats. Hardwood goes hand in hand with that concept.

But hardwood isn’t practical for every home, or every situation. Hardwood in an entryway or mudroom is nothing but trouble. Hardwood in a kitchen or bathroom can be more trouble than it’s worth. Hardwood isn’t designed for water and moisture, which means you’ll spend a lot of time on care and maintenance when you install them in these spaces.

That’s where plank tile has the edge. Plank tile looks like hardwood, but it acts like tile. It can be matched with any decor; installed in a variety of color choices, one that will perfectly match your style.

It never has to be refinished. It’ll stand up through spills, and messes, and moisture. And if you’re worried about having a cold tile floor on a Colorado winter morning, stop worrying. Plank tile is perfect for laying over radiant heating. That means you can have toasty warm floors you’ll love all winter long.

What is better, tile or wood?

It depends.

Flooring is a personal choice. If you really love hardwood, then by all means, install it. You’ll love it.

But if you’ve got questions about whether it’s the right choice for your home, then it may be time to look at other options. Plank tile is one of the best choices you can make when durability and strength are in question. If you know your floors take a beating from high-traffic, pets, and kids, plank tile might be the right choice for you.

It’s easy to get confused by studies that show what materials hold their value best. If you know you might be selling your home in the future, is it better to get what real estate agents tell you will help your home sell? Or do you listen to your gut and select something you know you’ll love, and will last through all you can dish out? We think it’s best to look at the big picture.

For example, a recent Consumer Reports article makes suggestions as to the best upgrades to make to boost your home’s value. If you dive down for specifics, you’ll see hardwood flooring rules. But if you back away and look at the big picture, you’ll see it’s more about the aesthetics of a room. If you have a well-designed room with classic good looks, people don’t focus on individual items. Instead, they work to picture themselves living there. And if plank tile makes sense, of course, they’ll jump at it.

Do you grout wood plank tile?

Plank tile is designed to mimic the look of hardwood floors. But if you know anything about tile, you know you install tile with grout holding each individual tile in place.

Do plank tiles need grout? It depends.

Tile typically needs grout to allow for movement and settlement. This narrow material has give, to allow tiles to continue to look good without cracking or breaking.

Yet grout is also what will make plank tile look like a tile floor rather than hardwood flooring.

The key is getting an installer who is good at installing plank tile. The best installers can install without grout, placing the tiles flush against one another for a smooth look. They can also install it with minimal grout – just enough to give your flooring a chance to move. This might be your best choice if you’ve had problems with settling in the past. Only you know how your home reacts; if you’re worried about movement, stick with the grout.

How expensive is tile that looks like wood?

The good news is there are options for every budget. Just like hardwood, you’ll find a wide variety of wood-look tiles that fluctuate according to quality, type, manufacturer, and durability. Can you get plank tile for a few dollars a square foot? Of course. Can you find it for $20 dollars a square foot or more? You bet.

Be cautious of generic plank tile that seems too good to be true. Your flooring takes a lot of abuse, no matter where it’s installed in your home. Do you really want chips, cracks, and breakage to occur in the first year after installation? We’re here to help you make the right choice to ensure high quality from the start.

Will wood tile go out of style?

When something comes into fashion, it’s natural to worry about trendiness. Will the look come and go in a matter of years?

Technology has an important part in the flooring industry. Plank tile wasn’t possible even a few short years ago. But now that it’s here, we think it’ll stay. It’s a beautiful addition to any home. It works well with radiant heating. And it’s a classic look that’s both durable and functionally, something busy households need.

If you’re ready for beautiful yet durable look of plank tile, stop by and see our full selection. It can make a welcome addition to any room in your home.

Tile Floors
October 21, 2019

8 Reasons To Use Ceramic Tile In Your Kitchen Remodel

What’s the most used, most remodeled room in a home? According to the National Association of Home Builders (HAHB), it’s the kitchen. NAHB data shows that 81 percent of remodelers requested work be performed on their kitchen, with the bathroom running in close second place.

Is a kitchen remodel in your future? Where do you start?

Why not start at the bottom … with your floors.

Your flooring sets the stage for your entire kitchen design. It creates mood, adds depth, can control the aesthetics of everything else you install in the room.

And while we know there are a lot of choices for you to consider, we think one of the best is ceramic tile. It’s simply one of the best flooring choices for kitchens.

Ceramic tile is made with inorganic materials like clay. That makes it easy to maintain, more durable, and less vulnerable to moisture and stains. But is it the right flooring choice for your kitchen?

1. Ceramic tile is beautiful

If you want options, look no further than ceramic tile. With today’s modern technology, there are infinite possibilities in creating the kitchen of your dreams.

Why is ceramic tile one of the best choices for kitchen flooring? Possibilities.

Ceramic comes in three formats: glazed, unglazed, and porcelain. Glazed is coated to provide better stain and moisture resistance. Unglazed is hard and dense and showcases a more natural look. Porcelain tiles are the hardest, densest tile available, with color going all the way through the thickness.

Ceramic tile is manufactured in sizes from one to twenty-four inches square. Don’t like square? Why not go with the newest entry: ceramic planks. They imitate the look of hardwood, making them a perfect choice for your kitchen.

Want a particular color or pattern? If you can dream it, you’ll find it … with ceramic tile.

2. Ceramic tile is durable

Ceramic tile is made from clay, fired in a kiln, and finished to provide a hard, durable surface.

A kitchen is tough on a floor – one of the toughest rooms in your home. But tiles can withstand as much as you dish out, and still look great in the process.

If the refrigerator leaks, your tile floors will still look great after the cleanup is completed. If it chips or cracks, keeping a few extra tiles on hand means you’ll be able to replace it and have your floors looking great again with just a little work.

Ceramic tile is truly the workhorse of the flooring industry, one of the strongest, long-lasting flooring choices you can make for your kitchen.

3. Ceramic tile is easy to clean

Ceramic tile is also one of the easiest flooring choices to keep clean. Sweep up daily dust, pet hair, and debris. Vacuum for a deeper clean. Mop as necessary. Unlike organic flooring choices like hardwood, ceramic tile won’t warp or curl with spills and moisture.

When properly installed, there isn’t a place dirt or germs can hide. You can even use heavy duty cleaners to keep it sparkling and looking brand new. Just check with your ceramic tile manufacturer for the perfect solution for your tile.

4. Ceramic tile is priced right

You’ve dreamed about solid wood floors in your kitchen. But the sticker shock is real, especially when you consider the maintenance it will take to ensure they look good for years to come.

That’s why more homeowners are turning to ceramic tile. You can find the right choice for you at any price point you desire. Depending on the quality, the style, and the composition, it can be one of the most economical kitchen flooring choices available.

5. Ceramic tile is healthier

When you think about everything you do in the kitchen, only one thing is for sure about any flooring choice you make: it will have to withstand a wide variety of activities. The knocked over water bottle. The spilled glass of wine. The pickle jar that falls from the fridge. The mess from a backed up drain.

But it’s more than that. How about the pet that sleeps at your feet? Have you noticed those furballs accumulating in the corners?

And what about pollen from outside, that lands subtly across your floor?

Allergens don’t have a place to hide or hover into with ceramic floors. They can easily be swept, vacuumed, or wiped away. And considering you spend most of your time in the kitchen, isn’t it nice knowing it won’t add into your allergy attacks?

6. Ceramic tile is easy to install

Ceramic tile does require special tools to install, and can be challenging to cut and fit into place, especially if you are a DIYer.

Yet installing ceramic tile can also be a forgiving DIY project, especially in smaller spaces.

And if you hire a contractor to do the work for you, you can have your project completed in a short amount of time. Ceramic tile doesn’t need acclimating as hardwoods do. And you can easily piece it around just about any cabinet, wall, or other hindrance you might have in place.

It’s easy to customize your kitchen with ceramic tile.

7. Ceramic tile is warm

Ceramic tile isn’t very good at retaining heat. In fact, it can stay rather cool to the touch, making it perfect for warm places.

Yet here in Colorado, ceramic tile is the perfect choice if you’re interested in installing radiant heating.

Ceramic tile is thin and mineral-based, giving it the perfect qualities for conducting heat. And because it contains no organic material, it won’t deteriorate if the hydronic system leaks water.

It heats up rapidly, and will even retain some of the heat for a short while after it’s turned off.

8. Ceramic tile is stylish

Have we mentioned that very little can beat the look of ceramic tile? That’s because there are an infinite number of ways to install it and keep it looking its best.

Go small, and create mosaic designs. Use decorative inserts and borders for a one-of-a-kind look. Change out colors and weave patterns in to suit your personality. Or use different shapes, such as hexagon, and let your imagination run wild.

We love ceramic tile and think it’s the perfect addition to any kitchen remodeling project you take on.

If you need a little inspiration, why not stop by our showroom today.

Flooring, Tile Floors
October 6, 2019

Why Ceramic Tile Is Always A Great Choice For Bathrooms

No matter how big or small your bathroom is, there’s a place for ceramic tile.

In fact, from a global perspective, ceramic tile is one of the most popular flooring choices you can make. And the demand is expected to continue growing.

And who can argue that ceramic tile is one of the best flooring choices you can make, especially in a bathroom. Bathrooms are tough on just about every material you put into it. It must withstand humidity and moisture. It has to ensure messes and spills. And it has to be easy to clean and easy to maintain.

That makes ceramic tile the perfect choice for your space.

Need a little inspiration? Let’s start with a few important reasons why you should consider ceramic tiles.

Ceramic tile is affordable

The very first reason many homeowners start looking at ceramic tile is because of its affordability factor. It can be more affordable than other popular choices, such as porcelain, stone, marble, or quartz.

Like everything, you get what you pay for. But with ceramic tile’s affordability factor comes a wide array of options. You can find any color, pattern, size, or style you desire. You can mimic some of the popular flooring choices like stone or wood. You can intermix the tile for a look that’s truly your own.

The one thing you’ll never get with ceramic tile is boring. There are unlimited possibilities when working with ceramic tile in the bathroom – all at a price that’s easy on the budget.

Ceramic tile is strong

Your bathroom floors take some of the most abuse anywhere in your home. They face daily humidity and moisture, They deal with wet towels and lots of lotions and potions. They have to be strong, day after day, month after month, year after year.

What makes ceramic tile strong and durable is the way it’s made. Most ceramic tiles are made from white or red clay, formed, fired in a kiln, and finished with a glaze. Because they are manmade, they come in any style or pattern you can imagine. That’s what makes them so popular.

However, to keep the finish strong and durable, it is recommended that you use a suitable cleaning solution made for ceramic tile. To keep its finish looking good for years to come, ensure you clean it in as mild of was as possible.

Ceramic tile is waterproof

We’ve hinted to it several times in this post. One of the biggest reasons ceramic tile is perfect for the bathroom is because it’s waterproof. And the bathroom is notorious for moisture, so it’s a perfect fit.

Whether your kids splash water out of the sink and on to the floor on a regular basis, your tub or shower leaks water over the edge, or an occasional overflow problem with your toilet, your ceramic tile will never show the wear.

Just be sure you clean all messes up as quickly as possible. If your tile is installed the correct way, there shouldn’t be a problem. That means proper installation, grout in place, caulking sealing all of the edges – that ensures water stays on top and doesn’t seep down underneath.

Ceramic tile can add depth and ambiance

With many flooring choices, what you see is what you get. Luckily, that’s not the case with ceramic tile.

Ceramic tile is often made with different textures. When you install them in the bathroom, they can add depth and character. Because they come in a wide array of sizes, you can mix and match and create just about any pattern imaginable. You can create ambiance just by focusing in on specific areas of the room. Highlight by using different tiles around the baseboards. Or changing colors by a tub or shower. You can even take tile up the walls, and create an entirely new look and feel. All you have to do is use Pinterest as your guide, and you’re sure to find your inspiration in no time.

Ceramic tile is easy to install

With some flooring choices, your floors will have to acclimate before you can proceed with installation. Not so with ceramic tile. Remove old flooring, and you’re ready to go.

Ceramic tile is easy enough some homeowners prefer to make it a do-it-yourself project. We can help you make the right selection if that’s your desire. If you want to let a professional install it without worry, we can help you with that choice as well.

Ceramic tile can add warmth

That’s probably not the benefit you expected. Ceramic tile is known for its coolness factor. Tile is often used in the hottest climates in the world because it stays cooler underfoot.

Yet ceramic tile is the perfect companion to radiant heating. If you want warm floors on a cold morning, nothing pairs better with radiant heating than ceramic tile.

In fact, you might love the feeling of warmth underfoot so much that you expand where you install ceramic tile in your home. Once homeowners discover the benefits of having radiant heating, many start adding it to other rooms in their home. Like the kitchen. Or the laundry room. Or even your living space.

Is ceramic tile the best choice for you?

Yes, we love ceramic tile a lot; it’s one of our favorite flooring choices because of the number of ways you can use it throughout your home.

If you would like help deciding if it’s the right choice for your remodeling process, stop by, and have a look.

We assure you you’ll find the perfect look at a reasonable price. And because you can install it quickly into your home, you can have it in place whenever you desire.

Are you ready for ceramic tile in your bathrooms?

Tile Floors
July 27, 2019

Choosing The Right Commercial Tile For Your Location

Selecting flooring for a business location is a little more difficult than picking out tile for your home. Not only does it have to look warm and inviting for your visitors, but it also has to be durable and hold up well in high traffic situations.

Can you walk into a flooring store and select anything? Or is there an art to finding the best commercial tile for your location? First impressions are everything. So before you make your final selection, consider these items first.

Durability

Businesses often have a lot of action throughout the day. People come in and out at all hours. They come in whatever the outside weather – sleet, rain, snow, or sun. They don’t think twice about the flooring; they concentrate on where they are going. But that doesn’t mean they won’t notice if something is wrong.

Ever noticed ripped up flooring? Carpeting fraying around the edges? Or tiles that are scuffed and broken? Doesn’t make a very good first impression, does it?

A durable commercial tile stands up to whatever the traffic into your commercial property can dish out. It should be easy to maintain, as well as stand up to scratches, stains, marks, and more.

The tile industry rates all tile according to the PEI scale. A PEI 1 is more fragile, while a PEI 5 is most resistant. For a commercial setting, we recommend selecting a PEI 3 or above. The more traffic your area gets, the higher the rating. This will ensure you are happy with your final selection well into the future.

Safety

When you operate a business, safety should always be at the top of your focus list. Different flooring choices offer different traction levels, depending on the situation. Because Colorado’s weather can change on a dime, it’s important to have flooring that works in any kind of situation, and won’t be more prone to accidents when some tracks in water, slush, or snow.

A glazed ceramic tile, for example, will be slippery when wet. This wouldn’t be a good choice for entryways where people can track in water from the outside.

Instead, look for a textured tile that provides a stronger hold in all kinds of situations. This can include natural stone, textured porcelain, or even an unglazed ceramic tile. You should also discuss with your flooring consultant sealants to ensure your tile continues to look good and wear well in all kinds of situations.

Maintenance

Commercial tile should be able to handle traffic without a lot of care. You want tiles that are easy to clean, easy to maintain, and can do so for years without a lot of thought.

That’s why so many commercial properties select tile as their number one favorite for overall functionality. It won’t scuff and wear like hardwood, won’t scratch and fade like vinyl. Depending on the circumstances, you can expect your commercial tile floors to last for years, and still look as good as the day you installed them.

Just be conscious of the cleaning products you use to maintain the finish. You can speak with one of our flooring consultants about the best way to care for the commercial tile you choose.

Design

When you select tile for your commercial location, you can create any design or style you prefer. That’s because tile comes in an almost infinite supply of sizes, colors, patterns, and options.

For business applications, we usually recommend that you stick with “tried and true” tile rather than going with the latest trends. You never want your flooring to “stand out” and be the only thing people talk about when they head out of your building.

Instead, focus on statements, on choosing a tile that reflects your personality. For a large office building, stone tiles can create an elegant entrance. For a small studio, wood-look tiles may be the perfect way to invite people in. Or maybe mix it up with porcelain tiles, and create truly unique mosaics using different sizes, shapes, and colors. You’ll be amazed at what you can create with just a little thought.

Keep in mind that your flooring also controls the noise level of the room. While carpet or cork floors absorb sound, tile can amplify it. If you’re looking for a quieter environment, you may do best by combining tiles with rugs.

You also want to match the grout to your tiles for a consistent look. Grout is what holds your tiles together. It can also change the look of your flooring from subdued to dramatic. Be sure to have a proper sealant in place so the grout won’t wear, become moist and spread mildew or mold. Be sure to clean the grout properly to avoid problems down the road.

What’s the best tile for your commercial location?

Now that you know what to look for, let’s discuss some of your options.

Ceramic tile – Undoubtedly, this is where your largest selection will come from. Ceramic tile is made from clay pressed together and fired at high temperatures. Ceramic tile can be glazed or unglazed, and come in many different styles and sizes. They are ideal for commercial locations because of their durability and versatility. Be sure to look for high quality tiles, as they will stand up to high traffic situations in the long run.

Porcelain tile – Made from a mixture of clays like quartz and feldspar, these are fired at higher temperatures and are generally more durable than ceramic. They wear better, and won’t scratch like ceramic tile. They are great for entries and busy hallways. What’s more, it can come in all kinds of colors and patterns – why not select porcelain stone that mimics natural stone or slate? Plus it handles even better as it won’t scratch or chip.

Slate tile – This is a fine grain stone made from clay and shale. It’s created through heat and pressure, and offers a natural slip resistant surface that makes it the perfect choice where you need traction. Few would argue it’s earthy tones provide a stunning finish; that’s why you’ll see slate in a lot of high end office spaces.

Granite tile – Granite is harder than other stone, which makes it the perfect choice for entryways and other high traffic areas. The varied colors and veining is also something that is unbeatable in large open spaces. If well cared for and polished, it won’t scratch. But this is at the high end of the cost scale, so it’s best to keep it in areas where you want to make a statement.

Limestone tile – Looking for an eco-friendly version? Why not give limestone a try? This tile comes in earthy tones that work well in spas and offices looking to create a natural vibe. It is a denser stone that other tile choices, so it’s best to keep this in locations with a more controlled traffic.

Want more options? Not sure what’s the best tile for your commercial location? Stop by today and discuss your needs – we have many options perfect for your situation.

Tile Floors
July 14, 2019

How To Use Different Tile Shapes Throughout Your Home

If you’re in the market for new tiles, you’ve probably noticed that today’s selection gives you infinite possibilities. Visit one store, and you’ll have thousands of tile shape options. Head into another, and you’ll be faced with thousands more.

It’s all a little overwhelming. Where do you start?

Especially when you’re only goal was to remodel a room and give it a fresh, new update.

But now that you’ve seen the tile selection that’s out there, you’re ready to begin. You want something different, something with personality. You’re ready to expand beyond the norm, and head for the wow.

Skip the standard sizes, shapes, and colors. You’re ready for something more.

What does that mean? How about these for a few fresh, new ideas.

Penny Tile

Instead of going with a large or even extra large tile, think small instead. One of our favorite tile shapes is the penny tile. Penny tile, or circle tile, is making its way back on the scene. Originally popular around the turn of the twentieth century, these small circular tiles were found in black and white in all kinds of places.

No more. Today’s penny tile comes in a wide array of colors, styles, materials, and finishes. And once installed, the look is fabulous.

Because penny tile is small, it’s easy to install. That makes it perfect for a do it yourself project you’ve been itching to try. And because they’re small, they can be placed just about anywhere. Move them up from the floor, into your shower stall, and even covering the wall.

Of course, with a smaller tile, it means they will require more mortar and grout than larger tiles. But that roughness can create a safer, more slip-resistant surface. They do come in sheet format to make it easier to work with and easier to install.

Mosaic Tile

If you don’t want small circle tiles, how about square tile shapes instead? Mosaic tile usually come in small squares of two inches or less. And like the penny tile from above, mosaic tile comes in an array of colors, styles, patterns, and materials.

If you’ve ever traveled through history, looking at photos or movies about times past, you’ll notice mosaic tiles in their homes and open spaces. Yes, mosaic tile has been around a long time. Maybe it’s because of their versatility. Maybe it’s because you can create any design you please with just a little thought and ingenuity. Use them to cover your floors and walls. Use them to brighten up a border. Use them to compliment your bigger tile and open up the space. There isn’t a bad way to use mosaic tile.

Subway Tile

You can’t talk about tile shapes and not discuss the classic subway tile. This tile shape was made popular in the early 20th century when they were used in the design and creation of the New York City subway stations. And ever since, they’ve been a mainstay in the tile industry because of their beauty and versatility.

Subway tiles come in a variety of dimensions. They typically come in widths of 1 to 4 inches, with lengths of 4, 6, 8, and 12 inches.

If you think about the way subway tiles were initially applied, they were most often placed on walls to create an easy atmosphere for both durability and ease of maintenance. While they may have been designed for walls, they look just as good on floors. Mix and match.

What’s more, you can play with different color tiles, contrasting color grout, and move from subdued to vivid and bright with just a few changes. You can keep them straight in a line, or switch it up with a herringbone pattern to add uniqueness to your room.

Square Tile

You can’t discuss tile shape without talking about squares. This has been the most popular, widely used tile shape throughout history. There really isn’t a square too small or too large to create an elegant decor. Try small tiles in 1, 2, or 3 inch square for a colorful mosaic design. Think large with an 18 or even 24 inch square to create a clean, modern look. Or mix it all up for a design all your own.

Square tiles have an advantage of being easy to install. They easily fit together, and you never have to second guess how to create a pattern or look. You can mix and match with different colors or patterns. You can even combine them with other shapes for a more dramatic backdrop.

Just remember that with smaller tiles comes more grout. And more grout means a more textured, slip-resistant space. That gives you plenty of ways to create traction in water-prone areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and even your outdoor space.

Plank Tile

Plank tile is taking the industry by storm, and for good reason. With the advances in technology, today’s tile can take on any look, pattern, or color.

Want the look of hardwood and the durability of tile? You can have it now with plank tile. Technology can mimic hardwood patterns so closely, you’ll have trouble telling it’s not hardwood until you touch it.

Yet you’ll appreciate the difference when you make a mess in the kitchen, or the kids bring the outside in, tracking water and dirt all over your floors. Because it’s tile, it’s simple to clean and wipe away, without the worry about stains or scratches.

Don’t confuse plank tile with subway tile. Plank tiles are going to be wider and longer. You’ll find widths from 4 to 9 inches, and lengths from 12 to 48 inches. They are designed to mimic hardwood, and in some cases can do it better.

Looking for a whitewashed look? Want reclaimed wood? Have a specific color in mind? Sometimes that can be hard to find with real wood. But through technology, they’ve made it easier to get the lights and darks into the finished product, and make it look good in the process.

And just like hardwood, you can be as creative as you desire. Lay them straight out, or give a herringbone design a try. Stick with one color or mix and match with several. The possibilities are endless – one of our design consultants is happy to help you design and create the perfect space for your home.

Tile Floors
July 7, 2019

What Kind Of Tile Is Best For Outdoor Use?

Here in Colorado, we love our outdoors. If you ask some people, they’d prefer to find a way to live outdoors for as long as possible. What’s a little snow? That only means ski season is here.

If you want to stay outdoors longer, maybe it’s time to remodel your home and increase the outdoor living space. Skip the cement patio with a charcoal grill. It’s time to go BIG and extend the kitchen into something that makes your guests say: wow.

Of course, when you create an extended living space and add a kitchen outdoors, not every flooring will do. Especially here in Colorado where it can snow one day and set heat records the next, it’s important to have the right tile for outdoor use in place.

It should take cold and snow without cracking.
It should take heat and water without being slippery.
It should look beautiful, and transition well from indoors to out.

When you find a tile that can do all of that, you know you have a winner.

What to Look for with Tile for Outdoor Use

There are several characteristics for any flooring you choose that transitions from outside to inside, and for flooring that will frequently see moisture and messes.

Durability

When any flooring has to stand up all that Colorado weather can dish out, the first quality to look for is durability. It should hold up to intense sun without fading. It should stand up against rain and not provide a slippery surface. It should handle snow and sleet without cracking or degrading. It should handle moisture and damp conditions without changing its structure. It should also be easy to clean and scrub. Can you wash away the ketchup stain from the barbecue? Or how about the red wine from Saturday night’s party?

Porosity

The weather here in Colorado is anything but predictable. It rains. It snows. It freezes. It thaws. When you install tiles for outdoor use, be sure they can handle all of those changes. If tiles are too porous, they will absorb water. As it freezes and thaws, the tiles will crack and break. They can even pull away from one another and create an uneven surface area.

Hardness

For the same reasons your outdoor tiles should be well suited for moisture, they should also be hard enough to stand up to the abuse. If they are too soft, they won’t stand up to changes in weather. Or more cleaning as you move furniture and plants from here to there. And what happens if you accidentally drop a plate or a pan? Or a tree topples over in a freak storm?

Slip-resistant

While creating a slip-resistant surface is important in any room in your home where water and accidents can go hand in hand, it’s even more important in outdoor rooms. It isn’t a matter of IF; it’s a matter of WHEN. The reason most bathrooms have non-slip surfaces is that they use small tiles. Small tiles mean more grout, and grout provides traction. But outside, small tiles don’t make sense. You’ll use larger tiles to fill the space. And if they don’t have a slightly abrasive surface, your risk of falling rises.

What Types of Tile for Outdoor Use is Best

It’s hard not to fall in love with natural stone tile. It’s beautiful as well as functional. They come in all sizes and shapes. They also come in a variety of colors and finishes, and offer slip-resistance or even a well-polished look. If you’re trying to match and continue your indoor flooring choice, outside, this is the way to go. Consider:

Granite – the hardest and least porous of all natural stones. It holds up well no matter what the Colorado weather dishes out.

Marble – it’s as beautiful as it is durable. Slightly softer than granite, it will need sealing to continue to function at its best. But it’s difficult to find a more appealing surface with its many color variations with its veining.

Slate – we love it because no two tiles are ever alike. It’s easier to mix and match because the tiles will change from grays and greens, to browns and tans. You’ll love the effect.

Limestone – another light colored stone option that brings intrigue to your flooring. It’s very porous and will need regular sealing, but its finish can stand the test of time.

Travertine – this product contains lime deposits that adds texture as well as color variance. It’s very porous and needs to be sealed. But the color will make you say: wow.

Of course, natural stone isn’t your only option. How about porcelain tile?

Porcelain tiles come in a wide variety of colors, styles, patterns, and textures. Porcelain is made from clay, fired at high temperatures to make them very hard, durable, and non-porous. They can resemble natural stone, brick, rock, or even wood. But they handle so much better than the real thing.

That’s one of the best reasons to consider porcelain tiles. Depending on what your indoor living space looks like, it’s now possible to carry that look outside as well.

But How Do I Choose?

We know selecting the perfect tile for outdoor use will be one of your toughest choices. There’s so many selections – thousands of choices right here on our showroom floor.

How do you know what’s best?

How do you know what will handle well over time?

How do you know what you’ll love for years to come?

That’s where our advice comes into play. If you want to create a luxurious and durable outdoor living space you use as much as your kitchen, you can’t make a better choice then to select tile. And as long as you pay attention to durability and maintenance, you’re going to love your final selection. Just tell us your plans, and we’ll help you make the right choice for your situation.

Larger tiles – at least 12×12 or larger – create particularly impressive results. They can create the impression of a larger space. And depending on the color you select, and how well it matches your inside space, they can help create a seamless look.

Sit back and imagine all the fun you’ll have with your new outdoor space. The parties you’ll plan with the neighbors. The dinners you’ll share with friends.

Why wait to create your dream kitchen “someday.” Why not create it today?

It starts with an idea and a plan. And one of the best places to start is at the bottom – with your flooring. We can help you find the perfect tile for any outdoor space.

Flooring, Tile Floors
June 9, 2019

You’re Going To Love Wood Look Tile For Your Home

A lot of Colorado homeowners dream of using hardwood throughout their homes. It’s a beautiful choice. It’s aesthetically pleasing. Nothing says Colorado more than using wood throughout.

But if you’ve had hardwood before, as much as you love it, there might be something holding you back. It might be the care and maintenance – especially if you have kids and pets. What if there was another choice?

Enter wood look tile.

Wood look tile gives you everything you love about hardwood flooring, with the ease and durability of tile.

Wood look tile is one of the most sought after flooring choices in the industry. Changes in technology have made wood look tiles more realistic than ever before. But you’ll know the difference. You’ll have style and personality, aesthetic beauty, and an easy to maintain flooring choice perfect for your active lifestyle.

Not sure if wood look tile is right for your home? That’s why we’ve created this handy guide to give you all you need to know about this growing floor trend. And when you think you’re ready to start finalizing your decision, stop by. We can help you narrow your selection and choose the perfect tile for your unique tastes.

What is wood look tile?

A wood look tile is ceramic or porcelain tile designed to look like hardwood flooring. It replicates the aesthetics and appearance of natural hardwood sourced from all kinds of trees. Love cherry hardwood? Or traditional oak? Or maybe something more exotic like reclaimed hardwood? There’s a wood look tile for that.

Ceramic wood look tile comes in a wide variety of sizes, colors, and tones. It can be used in many different applications.

Likewise, porcelain wood look tile is designed to mimic almost any kind of hardwood you could imagine. And because porcelain tile is one of the hardest substances you can select for flooring, with a high breakage point, it’s one of the most desirable flooring choices in busy households.

If you drop something heavy on your porcelain wood look tile, chances are you won’t be able to tell after you clean the mess up. Try that on traditional hardwood floors.

What are the benefits of using wood look tile?

One of the top benefits of using wood look tile is its durability. If you’ve installed hardwood before in high traffic areas in your home and been disappointed with the results, wood look tile may be the perfect solution for you. Wood look tile is perfect for day to day use, as it won’t nick, scratch, crack, or warp like its hardwood counterpart. This means you can do day-to-day things without worrying about the implications – walking in heels, moving furniture, or playing with your cat or dog will no longer be cringe-worthy events.

Maintenance is also a breeze. For many homeowners, hardwood is a daily chore. You sweep. You vacuum. You mop. You jump at every spill. You sand. You wax. And you start it all over again.

If you’ve ever had tiles before, you know how much easier they are to maintain. Tiles have an easy-to-care for surface that can be cleaned with a wipe of a sponge or a swish of a mop. You don’t have to worry about every spill because tile will never warp. It requires minimal maintenance, and it will never stain the way more traditional hardwood choices can. Of course, that depends on the wood look tile you select, so it’s always important to talk with one of our flooring consultants to understand the nuances of your final selection.

And, of course, wood look tile is the perfect selection if you’ve been dreaming of installing radiant heating. Yes, you can install radiant heating under some hardwood selections. But it can be a difficult process, one you’ll have to watch out for to prevent warping and cracking. That’s where wood look tile excels. Tile and radiant heating are made for each other. This gives you a win-win for aesthetics and comfort.

How long does wood look tile last?

As a homeowner, changing out your flooring isn’t a fun job. It’s not something you want to tackle on a seasonal basis.

When you look at flooring choices, think durability. If you install it today, what are the chances it will still look good in a year? In ten years? Or more?

That’s where tile excels. Because of its hard surface area, with the right care and maintenance, it can last for decades. It can be nice to know you’ll only have to change out your flooring because you WANT to, not because you HAVE to.

Does wood look tile scratch?

We get this question a lot, typically from busy homeowners that have bad experiences with their hardwood.

Nothing can be more disheartening than having a pet make the first scratch minutes after the installer leaves. Or creating a deep gauge by moving a chair from here to there.

While we can’t tell you that it’s impossible to scratch a wood look tile, we will tell you it’s more difficult to do than with traditional hardwood flooring. Tile has a harder surface. It stands up better to normal, everyday punishment.

With everyday living, it will look better for longer. And if that’s what you’re looking for, we’d tell you this is your perfect choice.

Is wood look tile a fad … or here to stay?

Remember the bright orange shag carpet in your parent’s home?

Or maybe the wild patterns vinyl displayed decades ago in kitchens across the land?

While people loved them at the time, they quickly became dated. Try selling a house when the flooring “screams” fad – it’s not an easy process.

So of course, you don’t want to select a flooring choice and pay good money for something that will be out of date in just a few years. And while there is no guarantee with any type of flooring, we think wood look tile is here to stay.

Why? Because its looks and durability are hard to beat. It looks almost like the real thing, and yet it can be added anywhere in your home and provide you with exceptional results. Think kitchen. Or bathroom. Or laundry room.

Should I use wood look tile?

Only you can decide if wood look tile is best for you.

But if we’ve piqued your interest, why not stop by and look at our full display? Then pick a few samples and bring them home. See how they look in the rooms you are considering. Touch it. Feel it. Play with how they look at different times of the day.

And discover why wood look tile may be the perfect choice for your remodel.

Flooring, Tile Floors
May 18, 2019

Which Tile Material Is Best For Your Home?

Tile is one of the most versatile materials you can use for the floors in your home.

But if you’ve ever visited a flooring store for ideas, you were probably overwhelmed at the possibilities. You’ll find every color of the rainbow. Patterns – yep, you’ll find a huge selection. Tiles come in a wide variety of sizes too.

Where do you start?

How do you decide?

Tile is a great choice for the high-traffic areas of your home. Tile can last for years with proper care and maintenance. And durability? We can’t say enough about how easy tile is to maintain. It’s a great choice in a busy home.

But before you pick on color or pattern alone, there are a few things you should know about tile material. In general, tile can be placed into three different categories: clay (porcelain and ceramic), stone, and glass.

Clay Tile

Think of clay tile as the workhorse of the industry. This is where you’ll find high-quality tile at economical prices. This is also where you’ll find the widest selection.

Clay tile is made of clay. Manufacturers quarry clay, press it into a mold, apply extreme pressure, and heat it to a high temperature to seal it into size. Clay tiles are a great choice for high moisture areas of your home, including the kitchen, bathrooms, entryways, and laundry room. They are one of the most durable materials to install, and offer water-resistance where you need it most. Plus you can’t ignore the colors, patterns, shapes, and sizes that make clay tiles the perfect product to install throughout your home.

You’ll find clay tiles listed as ceramic or porcelain.

For ceramic tile, materials such as shale, gypsum, and sand are combined and molded together, then are worked into a material called bisque. Once molded, they are fired in a kiln at extreme temperatures; the higher the temperature, the stronger the tile. Yet ceramic tiles are porous right out of the kiln. A glaze is applied before they are placed back into a kiln and fired again.

This molding process gives ceramic tile its versatility. If you can dream up a color, pattern, style, or size, chances are there’s a ceramic tile option to fit your needs.

Porcelain tile is a form of ceramic tile that meets higher moisture standards. According to the Porcelain Tile Certification Agency, porcelain tile is ceramic tile that has a water absorption of 0.5 percent or less. The clay used in porcelain tiles is more refined. It’s fired at higher temperatures. It’s manufactured under greater pressure than its ceramic counterparts.

That also means porcelain tile has more flexibility in the manufacturing process. If you want the looks of natural stone with the benefits of clay tiles, porcelain is your answer.

Stone Tile

It’s hard to ignore the natural beauty of stone. It combines rustic good looks with strength and durability.

Natural stone is quarried in different places throughout the world. It’s slabbed, finished, and cut to size. Because stone is natural forming, they vary in size and strength, depending on the material you select.

Granite

Granite is a popular choice for countertops and backsplashes. It also makes a great choice for flooring. People select granite because of its strength and durability. It can be polished to resist scratching, and is completely waterproof when sealed. When people select granite for their countertops, they choose it based on color variances and unique veining. When you apply granite to flooring, these unique patterns can be carried throughout the home in beautiful ways.

Marble

Marble tile offers many of the same benefits as granite. You’ll find the colors, shapes, and sizes can give any room in your home a personalized touch. However, marble is more porous than granite, which means it’s more susceptible to stains and scratches. If you install marble in your home, especially in high traffic areas, proper maintenance and sealing will be required on a regular basis.

Limestone

If you’re looking for an earthy, natural look, you can’t go wrong with limestone. While color and pattern choices are minimal, if you’re looking for an earthy, unique texture, you can’t ignore limestone. Limestone is less dense than both granite and marble, and is easily stained and scratched. Regular maintenance is mandatory to keep limestone tile looking its best. But if your goal is to create a natural look throughout your home, give limestone a second look.

Slate

Slate is also a durable stone tile that adds a dark, modern look to your home. Depending on how it’s quarried, it can take on a textured look, or honed and smoothed for a softer finish. Its hardness means its water resistant, making it an excellent choice for high traffic areas in your home.

Sandstone

Like limestone, sandstone is a softer stone that comes in lighter shades of brown, tan, red, and gold. It’s beautiful in the right area, but it’s porous and will stain and scratch easily. It’s also softer underfoot than other stone choices, making it a good choice if you’re looking for smooth surfaces with natural beauty.

Glass Tile

When you’re looking to add uniqueness and a punch of color to a room, it’s hard to ignore the possibilities glass tile brings to the market. While glass tile made its way to design centers a few decades ago, it’s never lost its reputation for being able to bring a little bit of fine and whimsy to surfaces throughout your home.

Keep in mind that glass tiles can crack under pressure. You’ll most likely find splashes of glass tiles built into backsplashes and used as accents. They are usually smaller in size, and allow you to create unique patterns by installing one tile at a time.

What’s Right For Your Home?

If you’re remodeling your home and looking for the perfect tile to include in your design, the best place to start is by stopping by our showroom and start comparing your options. With a little bit of thought and planning, the sky’s the limit with what is possible with this material. You’ll find every color, size, pattern, and shape you can think of, and even some you didn’t know existed.

Stop by today to see our entire tile selection today.

Tile Floors
August 22, 2018

Interior and Exterior Stone – Is There A Difference?

You don’t have to drive very far to see stone being used in a variety of ways. We love rustic looks in our buildings and homes here in the Rocky Mountains, and stone is often a part of that design.

You’ll find stone used outside on walkways, patios, and even to accent your home. On the inside, you’ll find it used as flooring, countertops, and backsplashes. In contemporary bathrooms, you may find it on everything from the floor to the ceiling. It’s a popular choice because it looks great in so many ways.

However, before you fall in love with one specific look, it is important to realize there are different stones for different uses throughout your home. In general, stone is divided into four different categories:

Sedimentary
Metamorphic
Igneous
Man-made

Sedimentary stone is formed from organic elements such as rivers and plants. You’ll find it sold as limestone, sandstone, or travertine.

Metamorphic stone starts out as natural stone and is changed through heat and pressure to change the qualities of the stone. This includes marble and slate.

Igneous stone originates from volcanic materials. The most common stone used in today’s homes is granite.

Man-made is just as it sounds – made by man. It includes anything not formed in nature, such as cement.

Which should you use outside, and which should you use inside?

Especially here in Colorado where temperatures fluctuate greatly, it’s important to keep in mind where it will be used and how people will interact with it.

Exterior stone should be hard and dense. If it’s too fragile, it may crack when the temperatures change And because the great outdoors often has more uses, it’s also important to select one that’s highly durable and not too porous. You don’t want the color to easily change with simple everyday activities.

Also, ensure it has non-slip characteristics. Because it may often be wet from the weather or from outside activities like watering landscape, be sure the surface area is non-slip. One easy way to ensure safety is to shrink the size of each stone and include more grout; this creates a natural skid-proof surface area.

For inside use, it’s often a personal choice. Stone has harsh qualities to it. In most cases, it will take over the look and feel of your design. Be sure the color is something you can live with for years to come. And in wet environments such as the laundry room or bathrooms, be sure you use non-slip stone to create a safer environment.

What’s the best place to use stone in your home environment? Whether you’re upgrading your interior, or adding curb appeal to your exterior, stone is a perfect choice.

Tile Floors
August 3, 2018

Where To Use Glass Tile

If you’ve been paying attention to home decorating shows or magazines, you’ll notice that glass tiles are as hot as ever. They come in every color and pattern imaginable. And they’re so versatile, you can use them anywhere in your home.

Still, it’s difficult “seeing” something that looks great on a showroom floor and reimagining on your floors or walls. Will you love it? Or will you hate it? The last thing you want to do is have something you don’t like installed and in your home for years to come.

We think glass tiles are the perfect addition to these spaces:

Kitchen

The kitchen is by far the most popular place to install glass tiles because you can do so in many ways. See that space between your counters and your cabinets? It’s the perfect canvas for any type of creativity. Have fun with it. You can use a solid color throughout. Or you can mix and match and create patterns that flow throughout the space. Why not play it up over your range?

Bathroom

The bathroom is also a great place to play with glass tiles. You can use them as backsplashes above the vanity, and have fun with the patterns around your mirrors. You can add rows of color in your shower or around your tub. We’ve even seen glass tiles used effectively to highlight windows and add to the open space. Use your imagination and create a space that’s uniquely your own.

Laundry

Glass tiles make the perfect accent for any room in your home. They are also a great way to create ambiance and lead the eye to a focal point in your room. Play with tiles above your washer and dryer. Or use it as a backsplash over your counter space and sink. You can carry a color theme throughout your living space, or add something new that blends well with the rest.

Imagination is the only thing you’ll need when deciding how to incorporate glass tiles into your living space. Stop by and see your possibilities today.