Bathrooms can range from simple to luxurious, and everything in between. But when you decide to undertake a bathroom remodeling project, chances are you have a dream design in mind. After all, bathrooms only need to be utilitarian, but they can also be a an oasis, a spa retreat and a respite from a long day. Because of the environment, every aspect of the bathroom is susceptible to getting wet or being exposed to moisture. This is why non-porous tile is the way to go – but just because tile is a foregone conclusion, doesn’t meant that your style is. There are many ways that you can use your creativity when choosing bathroom tile for this particular home renovation project.
Porcelain, ceramic, and glass tiles are all nonporous and hold up well to the all the moisture. In contrast, marble and many natural stones are porous – and therefore typically not applicable for a project such as this.
What You Need to know About Bathroom Tile
Porcelain tile can range in cost from as low as two dollars per square foot up to $15 per square foot or more. This tile is low-maintenance and considered to be perfect for bathroom floors and walls. The tile’s surface absorbs virtually no moisture and resists stains; requiring only soap and water to keep it clean. However, not all is ideal with this type of bathroom tile. Porcelain tile is notoriously difficult to install, both because its dense nature makes precisely cutting to size tedious, and because it requires more grout than other tiles.
Ceramic tile starts a bit higher in price, ranging from $3 to $30 per square foot.
The well-known white subway tile is a classic look for bathrooms. but ceramic should never be limited to just white. The tile comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns which gives homeowners a variety of design choices. It is extremely durable and is perfect for shower walls. However, ceramic is less dense (hard) than porcelain and won’t work as your choice of floor tile. Ceramic is not as water resistant as porcelain, but perhaps the biggest downside to ceramic is that any color or design can chip off, as it does not go all the way through the tile. Therefore damage is difficult to hide and fix.
Depending on type, stone tiles can range from $1 per square foot all the way up to $30 per square foot.
Stone provides unique beauty to a bathroom, and because natural they are friendly to the environment. Stone does not have a slippery surface like ceramic and porcelain, which can be very helpful for many homeowners; and its durability makes it a good choice for showers. Still, it can be difficult to clean and you’ll have to accept natural cracks which may increase in size over the years. You can seal the stone initially and then once per year to protect its surface and make it water resistant.
Glass tile is a much more expensive option for bathroom tile, typically costing between $30 and $40 per square foot. These tiles are luxurious and sophisticated, resistant to stains and mold, and available in a spectrum of gorgeous color. Remember though, glass tile can be difficult to install and can scratch easily, so be careful where you choose to display it.
Expert Tip: If you are working on remodeling your bathroom and want that opulent look without the price tag to match – you can use more expensive tiles for accents, borders or statement areas.
At West Coast Design Build Florida, we will work with you to install and design the bathroom of your dreams. So bring us your inspiration pieces and photos, and lets get to work bringing your vision to life.
Recent Comments