Choosing Kitchen Tiles, What To Know Before You Buy
- Licari Tile
- Jan 17
- 4 min read
When remodeling or designing a kitchen, selecting the appropriate flooring and backsplash materials is essential. Porcelain tiles provide an ideal combination of durability, style, and easy maintenance. Although ceramic tiles are also durable, they are generally more affordable. For a Spanish-style home, you might consider Saltillo or Travara tiles. Step one is finding the right tile store that offers assistance in showing you tiles to match your needs and style preferences, seek out a tile store with knowledgeable sales staff. Licari Tile & Home has been doing just that for 40 years! Now, let’s dive into what makes certain tiles a top choice and how to choose the best ones for your kitchen.
What Makes the Best Kitchen Tiles?
Choosing the best kitchen tiles means looking at several factors. First, consider the tile’s durability. Kitchens are high-traffic areas, so the tiles must withstand daily wear and tear. Look for tiles with a high PEI rating (Porcelain Enamel Institute rating), which measures hardness and resistance to abrasion. A PEI rating of 3 or higher is ideal for kitchen floors.
Next, think about the tile size and shape. Larger tiles can make a small kitchen look bigger, while smaller tiles or mosaics add texture and detail. Rectangular tiles, like subway tiles, are popular for backsplashes because they create a clean, modern look.
The color and finish of tiles are important considerations. Light-colored tiles can brighten a kitchen space, whereas darker tiles are more effective at concealing stains. Matte finishes are beneficial for reducing the risk of slipping, a crucial factor in kitchens where spills are frequent. Licari Tile & Home offers a wide variety of tiles and has a knowledgeable team to assist you throughout the process.
Finally, consider grout color and maintenance. Dark grout hides dirt but can fade over time. Lighter grout looks fresh but needs more cleaning. Choose grout that complements your tile color and is easy to maintain. Licari Tile & Home offers a large selection of tile and grout cleaners, from stain removers, sealers, to everyday cleaners. That help protect your tile investment for years to come. Click here to shop Tile & Grout Cleaners
Best Kitchen Tiles for Style and Function
When selecting the best kitchen tiles, balance style with function. Here are some popular options:
Glossy ceramic tiles: These reflect light and make the kitchen feel larger. They work well for backsplashes but can be slippery on floors.
Matte ceramic tiles: These have a non-reflective surface, providing better traction. They are great for kitchen floors.
Textured ceramic tiles: These add depth and grip, perfect for busy kitchens.
Patterned ceramic tiles: These create a unique look and can be used as accents or full flooring.
For a timeless look, classic white subway tiles are a favorite. They fit any kitchen style and pair well with colorful or neutral cabinets. If you want something bold, patterned tiles with geometric or floral designs can add personality.
We recommend visiting Licari Tile & Home your local tile supplier to see samples in person. This helps you visualize how the tiles will look in your kitchen lighting.
Is Ceramic Tile Good for a Kitchen?
Yes, ceramic tile is an excellent choice for kitchens. It is durable, water-resistant, and easy to clean. Kitchens often face spills, heat, and heavy foot traffic, and ceramic tiles handle these challenges well.
Ceramic tiles resist stains and scratches better than many other flooring options. They also tolerate heat, so placing hot pots or pans on a tiled countertop or backsplash won’t cause damage.
Another benefit is the variety of styles and colors available. You can find ceramic tiles that mimic natural stone, wood, or even fabric textures. This versatility allows you to customize your kitchen’s look without sacrificing practicality.
Keep in mind that ceramic tiles can be cold and hard underfoot. Adding rugs or mats in work areas can improve comfort.
How to Maintain Your Kitchen Tiles.
Maintaining tiles in the kitchen is simple. Regular sweeping or vacuuming removes dirt and debris that can scratch the surface. Mop the floor with warm water and a mild detergent weekly to keep tiles clean.
Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can dull the tile’s finish. For grout, use a grout cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and water to remove stains.
If you notice any cracked or chipped tiles, replace them promptly to prevent further damage. Keeping your tiles in good shape extends their lifespan and keeps your kitchen looking fresh.
Where to Find the Best Tile for Kitchen?
Finding the right supplier is key to getting the best kitchen tiles. We suggest choosing a family-owned business with a wide selection and knowledgeable staff. They can guide you through the options and help you find tiles that fit your style and budget.
In Los Angeles, there are many tile suppliers, but not all offer the same variety or service. Look for a place that stocks a broad range of tiles, including different sizes, colors, and finishes. This way, you can compare and pick the perfect tile for your kitchen.
If you want to explore options online, click here Kitchen Tiles. This can give you ideas before visiting a showroom. If you need cabinets Licari Tile & Home offers free design layouts, just email your measurements. For more information see Cabinets
Choosing Kitchen Tiles can seem hard but with all the correct information it's easy.
With the right tiles, your kitchen will be a welcoming, functional space for years to come. Whether you prefer classic or modern styles, ceramic tiles offer endless possibilities to make your kitchen shine.
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