If you’re interested in giving your kitchen a distinctive, upscale look then you should consider ceramic tiling. Although it’s certainly a matter of taste, when you compare the rich look of ceramic tile to that of linoleum or vinyl the choice becomes obvious. The texture, density, finish and feel of ceramic tile are superior to vinyl and linoleum.
Cost of Ceramic Tiles
Basic 12” ceramic tiles can cost anywhere from $1.00 to $3.00 per tile, while higher end, specially designed tiles will run from $10.00 to $20.00. Smaller tiles, which come in 4” or 6” squares, cost between $0.11 and $0.60 per piece.
When buying a ceramic tile floor, you also need to consider the cost of installation, which can range from $4.50 to $7.50 per square foot. The more complicated your floor the more it will cost. Floors that require complex patterns, a lot of cutting and involve incorporating various angles will cost more.
There may also be a minimum cost for installation. Thus, if you have a small floor, although the rate for installation might be $5.00 per square foot, it could calculate to be more. As an example, if you have a kitchen floor that measures 50-square feet and the contractor charges $5.00 per square foot, your price for installation should be $250. But if that contractor has a $300 minimum on all installations, then the actual price would be $6.00 per square foot.
Design Choices
Ceramic tiles come in a large range of colors, textures and shades. If you want a natural look, you can go with a light sandstone tile or if you’re interested in the elegance of an imported tile, you can purchase ceramic tile that has a toned off-white appearance. Glossy light blue offers a trendy resonance, while deep red has a Latin look.
Alternate colors, go monochromatic or choose a uniform design for the central part of your kitchen floor and add a patterned border. There are innumerable choices when it comes to buying ceramic tiles for your kitchen floor.
A few things to consider in choosing colors:
- If you’re keeping everything else the same, then make sure your new floor is coordinated with existing elements.
- If your kitchen is dark, light colored tile can help brighten up the room.
- Tile is easier to clean than grout. It’s better to choose a light colored tile and a dark colored grout that will hide dirt.
- If you have a small area, stay away from complex patterns. Your floor will look cramped and crowded. Keep it simple and your kitchen floor will look expansive.
- If you’re redoing you’re entire kitchen, choose other elements first and then coordinate your floor with those items. There are so many tiles choices, you won’t have a problem finding something that you like and will look great.
Durability
Ceramic tiles for your kitchen floor are graded from I through V. Tiles that are graded higher tend to be tougher and wear longer. For a kitchen floor a rating of III or higher is recommended.
Although tiles are naturally porous, ceramic tiles are given a glaze that seals them. This makes them resistant to moisture and water. It also helps protect tiles from damage due to falling objects. The glaze makes ceramic tiles resistant to scratches and basic wear and tear. These tiles are also fire resistant.
Although tiles tend to be tough, they may be damaged by heavy falling objects or by a heavy object that is placed on the tile for a long time. Also, grout must be checked and maintained if it starts to deteriorate as this can compromise the integrity of the floor.
Maintenance
The glaze on ceramic tiles makes them exceptionally easy to maintain. Simple sweeping and damp mopping will usually do the job. Spot cleaning of dried spills may be necessary.
Also, these tiles tend to be resistant to dust and dirt. Plus, they won’t harbor dust mites or allergens. However, it’s important that sealers, adhesives and grouts that are environmentally friendly are used or these will counteract some of the positive effects already noted.
Upgrade Your Kitchen Easily
One of the great things about using ceramic tiles for your kitchen floor is you can instantly upgrade your kitchen without changing anything else. There are so many different choices when it comes to tiles that you’re sure to find something that will look fantastic in your kitchen. Elegant, trendy and beautiful, ceramic tiles are more than a solution, they are a statement of taste.
