Selecting a floor tile for your projects at home is exciting. However, it can also be challenging. It’s exciting in the sense that you will choose from a long list of selections. And, it’s challenging because of the fact that you will have to consider a lot of factors before making your final decision.

Certainly, the task of choosing floor tiling is not a joke. Luckily, this buying guide will help you select the right type of floor tiles for your home.

 

  1. Consider the type of tiles.

Tiles are classified according to their hardness, and hardness is one of the most important factors to consider when selecting floor tiles.

A tile’s hardness measures the ability of the material to withstand scratches and other damages. As a customer, it will be hard for you to identify the hardness of a tile. Fortunately, tiles these days now come with ratings. These ratings have been decided by the PEI or the Porcelain Enamel Institute. Before the tiles are rated, they go through a rigorous laboratory testing.

Here’s a scale that you can use when selecting a tile:

Class I: No foot traffic.

Class II: Light foot traffic.

Class III: Light traffic to moderate traffic.

Class IV: Moderate traffic to heavy traffic.

Class V: Heavy traffic to extra heavy traffic.

 

  1. Ensure slip resistance.

Tiles are generally known to have the tendency to be slippery. They can become even more slippery in bathrooms, which are usually wet.

Slip resistance is another factor that you will need to keep in mind when choosing tiles, since it is a matter that has to do with you, your family, and your visitors’ safety. If you have children or elderly people at home, you will need to install slip resistant materials for your floor tiles. Or, you can simply choose non-slip floor tiles.

When shopping, look for tile products with a high COF or Coefficient of Friction.

Here’s a quick guide to ensure slip resistance in your tiling:

Slate: This type of material has a natural slip resistant texture.

Ceramic or Porcelain: If you are going to go for ceramic or porcelain tiles, make sure they come with special textured surface. To be sure, ask about slip resistant coatings.

Pebble Stone: Pebble stones have a highly-textured surface. They boast a unique visual aesthetic.

 

  1. Choose the right color for your room.

Only you can really choose the best tile color for you. You must choose your own preference to be able to make the right decision when buying. If you ever have a hard time choosing a tile color for your home, there are some rules that you can follow.

Here are the basic rules in choosing a tile color:

  • Light colors make a room appear larger.
  • Dark colors can help add warmth.
  • Neutral colors allow easy customization.

 

Final Thoughts

Selecting floor tiles may be challenging, but it is exciting. By considering the important factors that matter, you’ll be able to easily make the right decision that satisfies your needs.