At AceKitchen we've helped hundreds of people in Surrey and London to pick the best materials and colours for their kitchen renovations in Surrey. In this article we'll help even more people by sharing our extensive experience and provide you with helpful and practical tips on how to select the best kitchen tiles for your new kitchen. Without further delay, let's get started!
Be confident with your choice of kitchen wall tiles: Follow these 5 steps
Selecting the right kitchen wall tiles can be a daunting task, with countless colours, patterns, and finishes available. Here's how to make the process easier:
- Choose Your Colour: Your tile colour should match or complement your kitchen's overall aesthetic, whether traditional, modern, or rustic.
- Decide on a Pattern: Consider how patterns can influence the space. Vertical tiles, for example, can make ceilings seem higher.
- Select the Right Finish: Glossy finishes offer a luxurious feel, while matte finishes can be more practical and subtle.
- Consider the Layout: The tile layout can impact the kitchen's visual appeal.
- Think About Functionality: Ensure your wall tiles are practical for kitchen use—easy to clean and maintain.
1. Choose your colour
When selecting the perfect tiles, lighter colours such as white, cream, or grey can make a kitchen feel more spacious and bright. While lighter tiles can show stains more easily, a glossy finish can reflect natural light, adding brightness. For high-traffic areas, durable materials like porcelain or limestone are ideal. One could blend various colours to create a unique look. Always consider ordering a sample to ensure the proper colour scheme and style match.
2. Consider Texture
The texture of our tiles significantly influences the overall look of our kitchen. Smooth tiles provide a sleek, modern appearance, while textured tiles like those with a matte finish or glass tiles add depth and interest. Bevelled tiles are excellent for masking minor wall imperfections, while tiles with a natural beauty such as marble create an elegant vibe. When combined with the right grout and finish, textured tiles can transform our kitchen space into a stylish and functional area.
3. Don’t forget the splashback
The splashback is an excellent chance to showcase our style. Opting for bolder colours or distinctive patterns can create a striking focal point. If our tiles are moisture-resistant, we can maintain a seamless look across the wall. Choosing ceramic or porcelain tiles can make cleaning easier. Using a good sealant ensures durability. This way, our splashback integrates seamlessly with countertops and cupboards.
4. Select the Ideal Size & Shape
When deciding on the appropriate size and shape of tiles for your kitchen, it's essential to assess the area you intend to cover. Whether you plan to tile the entire room or focus on specific zones like splashbacks, different sizes and shapes can create distinct visual effects.
Tile Size:
- Small Tiles: Ideal for creating intricate patterns and are often used in smaller areas.
- Large Tiles: Cover more area swiftly and give a seamless look.
Tile Shape:
- Square & Rectangular: The most common shapes, easily installed and versatile.
- Patterns: Opt for layouts like herringbone or chevron for added style.
5. Try Before You Buy
We might already have an idea of the style we're aiming for, whether it's vibrant pastels or a clean, minimal off-white look. It's crucial to obtain tile samples before making a final decision. This allows us to position tiles against the wall to assess their fit with the space. Considering options like a herringbone pattern, mosaic tiles, or tiles with a bevelled edge can enhance the desired effect. Choosing samples helps ensure our chosen tiles harmonise with the rest of the kitchen decor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors should be considered when selecting the colour of kitchen floor tiles?
When choosing the colour for kitchen floor tiles, it's important to take into account the amount of natural and artificial light in the room. Lighter colours can make a kitchen appear more spacious and brighter. Additionally, the colour should complement the overall design theme of the kitchen and harmonise with other elements such as cabinets and worktops.
Which characteristics define the best tiles for kitchen walls?
For kitchen walls, we should look for tiles that are easy to clean, resistant to moisture, and durable. Ceramic and porcelain tiles are popular choices due to their resilience and low maintenance. It's also crucial to ensure the tiles you pick for walls are suitable for vertical surfaces and aesthetically complement the floor tiles.
How does one decide between glossy and matte finishes for kitchen tiles?
Deciding between glossy and matte finishes involves considering both aesthetic and practical factors. Glossy tiles reflect more light, making spaces look larger and brighter, but they also show smudges and fingerprints more easily. Matte tiles, on the other hand, offer a more subtle look and are less likely to show water spots and dirt, making them a practical choice for busy kitchens.
What are the key considerations for choosing durable kitchen floor tiles?
Durability is a key factor for kitchen floor tiles due to the high foot traffic and exposure to spills. We should opt for tiles with high hardness ratings such as porcelain, natural stone, or quality ceramic. Additionally, it's wise to ensure the tiles are slip-resistant and check the wear rating to determine their suitability for kitchen environments.
How can tile size and pattern influence the design of a kitchen?
Tile size and pattern can significantly impact the kitchen's design and feel. Large tiles create a more seamless look and can make a small kitchen appear larger. Patterns such as herringbone or brick can add visual interest and texture. Consider the room's proportions and the desired aesthetic when selecting the tile size and pattern.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of different tile materials for kitchens?
Various tile materials offer distinct benefits and drawbacks:
- Ceramic: Affordable and easy to maintain, but not as durable as other options.
- Porcelain: Highly durable and water-resistant, though it tends to be more expensive.
- Natural Stone (e.g., travertine, marble): Offers unique and elegant aesthetics, but requires regular sealing and maintenance.
- Vinyl: Inexpensive and easy to install, yet less durable than ceramic or porcelain.
Choosing the right material involves balancing your budget, design preferences, and maintenance willingness.