Restyle with New Tile

(ARA) - The next time you run the vacuum over your worn-down, dirty carpet, take a moment to daydream. Wouldn't it be great if you were instead sweeping a broom over your brand new tile floor?

Tile is not only easier to keep clean than carpet, but easier to install, available in more colors and designs, and suitable for more surfaces -- floors, walls and countertops. It looks great in every room in the house, from the entryway to the kitchen, formal dining room, living room, bedrooms and bathrooms.

"The nice thing about tile is it comes in so many different shapes, sizes, colors and designs, there's something out there that will appeal to everyone," says Tamara Christian, president of National Trade Productions. "For instance, Italian tile manufacturers offer bright colors and bold patterns, yet tiles from Spain come in deeper colors and more delicate textures. The variety is seemingly limitless." Christian's company is the show manager for Coverings, the world's leading showcase for ceramic tile and natural stone floor coverings.

One of the leading trends is how people can use tile to create a luxurious, spa-like feel in their homes. New homes already have "the look," and people with older homes want it too. According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association, consumers are replacing showers with whirlpool tubs; changing out toilets and sinks; adding new vanities; and replacing vinyl flooring with tile.

"Perhaps the most important thing consumers need to understand when they start a remodel project is that all tile is not created equal," says Christian. She points out that durable ceramic or porcelain tile works best for high traffic areas like the kitchen, foyer and bathroom because they're wear-resistant and clean up easily, while natural stone tile works best in a kitchen backsplash or as a chair rail border.

Other factors to keep in mind when choosing a tile -- some unglazed tile requires the application of a sealer or grout release before installation; grout can stain porcelain and other unglazed tile products so it should be tested before being spread; and some tiles, especially matte or deeply textured surfaces, may require more aggressive cleaning than simple mopping.

Tile is exceptionally versatile, not only in terms of visual appeal but also for installations. It is equally at home in a rustic setting as it is in a more contemporary, modern design. For more information on tile, log on to www.coverings.com.

Courtesy of ARA Content