At McCaleb Homes we love combining rich historical details and modern functionality into our home designs. One design element that has long been associated with luxurious and classy interiors are porcelain tiles. Thankfully, you do not need to have a luxurious budget to obtain these elegant beauties today though. If you are on the lookout for ways to add a bit more sophistication to your home décor, look no further than porcelain tiles.
Although porcelain tiles have a very delicate appearance, they are anything but. Ceramic tile is a very popular choice among homeowners and builders alike, but porcelain tile is actually far more durable. If you choose to add porcelain tiles to your space, you will be able to enjoy them without updating or repairing for decades. As with most things in life, you get what you pay for.
A vast majority of today’s porcelain tiles hail from places like China, Italy, Turkey, and Spain. If you are looking to add some flair to your home, these tiles can do just that. Classic mosaic tiles can transform just about any space you set them, and they come in a wide range of colors and patterns. Whether you are a modern chic decorator or an eclectic bohemian type, there is a tile out there to fit your style.
When thinking of doing a tile project, for most of us, our minds immediately jump to adding a kitchen backsplash. And while a backsplash is always a beautiful addition, there are far more ways to showcase your porcelain tile. Design opportunities for these tiles exist just about anywhere you have a surface large enough to show off their stunning durability. Large square tiles, for example, are a popular choice for areas like flooring.
One spectacular use for porcelain tile is around the fireplace. If you want to add an especially interesting piece, instead of simply placing the tiles flat, thin square tiles can be set horizontally atop each other to create an intricate stacking effect.
Accent walls are an excellent way to spice up a room without overwhelming your senses. For a real statement, you can use porcelain tiles to accomplish this. If you are wanting to get extra creative, try hanging your tiles at an angle. This will create a beautiful diamond pattern. Along with this pattern, to give your wall a bit more of an Art Deco style, be sure to choose a punchier color, such as a royal blue.
Because porcelain is so durable, it is also heavy and dense. Upon installation, it will require you to use just a bit more elbow grease, so take extra precautions to be sure the right installation procedures are being used. If hiring a contractor, you should make sure that the professional has the accurate knowledge of installation standards set out by the Tile Contractors Association.
Porcelain itself is a very porous material. If not sealed properly, your lovely tiles may hold onto stains. Modern porcelain tile manufacturers, however, will often apply a special treatment to tiles to properly protect them from potential staining. For example, an advanced nanotechnology treatment is available that aids in protecting surfaces like glass, granite, and of course, porcelain.
Overall, porcelain tiles give generously when it comes to their beauty and longevity. As a result of their current popularity, there is no shortage of choices when it comes to the colors, designs and styles they are available in. And with a little bit of creative vision, there is no end to the possibilities for these elegant tiles.