Renovating a kitchen or bathroom? The tile world demystified!

The materials most often used in kitchens and bathrooms:

Ceramic

• Made of white or red clay, ceramic tile is easily recognized because the top decorative layer is not the same colour as its bottom layer. In the event of a chip or crack, this means the damage will be easily visible.

• Since the clay is molded and baked into shape, there will be variations in the dimensions of each tile and rounded corners, forcing the grout lines to be of a minimum of 1/8”.

• The available sizes are often limited.

• Given its lower purchase price, it can prove to be an excellent choice for low-budget renovations.

Porcelain

• Made of sandstone, porcelain provides a better colour-match between its top and bottom layers, therefore chips and cracks are hardly noticeable.

• Finishes and textures are easily created allowing for more realistic imitations.

• Generally speaking, it is referred to as rectified porcelain meaning that each tile has been precisely machine-cut, assuring the least possible variability in the dimensions, thus allowing for grout lines as thin as 1/16”.

• Its greatest advantage is its resistance to temperature variations, making it the perfect choice for a bathroom sauna or even an outdoor kitchen!

Glass

• Made of crushed, ground or powdered glass mixed with resin.

• Offers a wide range of colours, shapes and finishes.

• Since most are translucent, it enables the use of LED strips to create a modern, sophisticated design.

• Inconvenient : glass is a material that scratches easily

• Often used for kitchen backsplashes or bathroom detailing.

Slate

• Cut from natural stone, its colours can vary widely from blacks, greys, greens, purples, and oranges.

• Depending on its source, slate may require a sealant. For a low maintenance option, opt for a slate made in Canada since these tend to be denser.

• It is impact resistant and reacts well with temperature variations.

• It is easier recognized by its unique texture.

• Often used for kitchen and bathroom floors.

Marble

• Natural stone, it stands out by its distinctive and unique veining.

• Marble is very porous and absolutely requires a sealant that must be reapplied periodically.

• As with any natural stone, it is possible to order oversize slabs to cover larger areas with lesser grout lines.

• Because of its porosity, it is not be recommended for kitchen countertops.

• For the bathrooms, we found imitations in porcelain which are easier to clean.

Granit

• Again a natural stone, it is usually more speckled than its marble counterpart.

• Denser than marble, it allows for a various surface finishes and requires much less sealing.

• Has very high heat tolerance but can chip in case of impact.

• Also available as large slabs.

• Can be used as kitchen or bathroom countertops or as bathtub podiums and wall coverings.

Limestone/Travertine

• Natural stone formed by shell and coral mineral deposits, its colours are normally softer and offer less variability.

• Extremely porous, sealing the stone will be a necessary and continuous process.

• Softer than other stones, desired shapes and edges can be easily carved.

• Its distinctive advantage lies in its non-slip surface texture. However, this material is not recommended for showers because it may stain due to its porosity.

Installation Style

Aligned:

Tiles are placed in a grid pattern parallel to the walls. Offers a more urban look for modern renovations and gives a more refined style to your kitchen and bathroom remodel.

Staggered:

Also known as bricklaying, the rectilinear grid is staggered from one row to the next with a repeat every second or third row, depending on the desired proportion. More versatile look, it will fit the renovation style you want. Staggered installation adds texture to the visual of the renovation and will match the kitchen cabinets or bathroom fixtures to be renovated.

Diagonal:

Tiles are arranged at a 45 degree angle and can be aligned or staggered, this look enhances any classic kitchen or bathroom.

Herringbone:

Tiles are laid out as to create a zigzag effect. This type of installation is generally reserved for more classic remodels but is making a comeback as a stylish modern detail. It is usually used in small quantities due to its high installation cost.

Random:

Characterized by mixing different tile sizes in a pattern that seldom repeats. It is usually reserved for a more traditional renovation.

Mosaic:

Smaller tiles found in various shapes mounted on a mesh backing create a predetermined and variable pattern. Mosaics are usually used as a detail in order to enhance your decor and create a specific focal point in your kitchen or bathroom.

Ceramic is an important element in the finishing of a renovation project. We are here to help you choose the type and installation of ceramic tiles that meet your needs.