Not everything that people do to update their homes ends up bringing value to the property but tile is something that adds beauty and can increase the price of a home. It’s a great way to update or even upscale the look of a house. Tile gives homeowners a chance to be whimsical, express their individuality or make a bold statement. The options in style, shape and color are virtually limitless and homeowners can find smart ways to utilize tile throughout their property. From floors and backsplashes in kitchens and bathrooms to wainscoting (where a wall needs protection or a splash of pizazz), tile can make it happen, beautifully.  Here are five types of tile to consider:

Unique, handmade artisan tiles make your home one-of-a-kind and come in an amazing array of styles and colors.

Artisan Tile

Sometimes referred to as “handcrafted tile”, artisan tile is a beautiful choice that can be made in whatever colors, patterns or shapes fit the project. This type of tile is unique because it is custom designed and can even be one-of-a-kind. Often eco-friendly, these tiles can be made of recycled materials or natural materials. Because they are handcrafted (and glaze is brushed on by hand) when these tiles are fired in the kiln different hues and unique attributes come out of the material. From old-world, painted tiles to glossy, shaped tiles artisan tile could be the perfect touch for making a home spectacular.

Ceramic tiled bathroom

Ceramic Tile

Ceramic tile is made of thin layers of clay that are hardened by firing and glazed. They are easily mass-produced and readily available. They are easy to clean and don’t harbor germs (so they are a great choice to use in the interior of a home). They come in an unending variety of styles, colors, shapes and sizes and are usually a more economical choice than porcelain. In fact, they are the least expensive type of tile. Perhaps that is why this type of tile continues to be so popular in home renovations and remodeling projects.

Porcelain tile flooring in living room.

Porcelain Tile

Porcelain tiles are made of finer and denser clay than ceramic tiles which makes them more durable. They can be used for flooring and are more waterproof than ceramic tiles. The strength of these tiles (and the fact that they are very easy to clean) make them a popular choice. As an added bonus, they are not expensive to repair and maintain. They also come in colors, shapes and styles to fit almost every project. As is illustrated in the photo, combining different tiles (or the same tile in different colors) can create a stunning and dramatic look. Tiles can also be more subdued and elegant, combined and arranged to express whatever style pleases the homeowner.

Glass tile shower niche and wall.

Glass Tile

Glass tile is non-porous and can be used on the interior or exterior of the home. They are also great for swimming pools. Glass tiles are gaining in popularity because of their beauty and the fact they can be used in mosaics. They come in many different finishes like polished, frosted, etched, cracked and reflective and they come in thousands of colors, shapes and sizes.

Metal Tile

Metal tile backsplash.

For something different (or to add sparkle and richness) some homeowners are looking to metal tile. Traditionally, this type of tile was used for accents but more and more people are trying them where they used to utilize other types of tile. These tiles may be solid metal or may have a metallic glaze. Copper, bronze, silver, titanium, pewter and stainless steel are just a few of the options available in metal tiles. Depending on what type of metal tile is utilized (and where the tile is located) there may be specialized maintenance or cleaning required to keep the tile looking like new.

Because of the limitless possibilities available in all types of tile, you may want to consult with a designer to help you find the perfect tile for your project. Tile selection is one of the services offered to Perry Newman Design clients and is just one, small piece of the process that takes homeowners from conception, through construction, to the completion of their unique home remodel. Click to call Perry now and get started!