What’s the best kitchen floor tile?

With all of the fantastic tile materials, colors and sizes available – and virtually infinite design options – what should you know?

True or False: Is tile taking wood out of kitchen floors?

Tile is coming into its own.  I see tile as a great complement to wood, not a replacement.  As it turns out, every kitchen I’ve remodeled for the past several years has a wood floor. You can’t beat the warmth and feel underfoot.  Still, that doesn’t mean tile can’t be a great option, and you can see several takes on tile kitchen floors in our studio.

Why should I consider a tile kitchen floor?

In one word: durability.  Tile resists water damage, pet scratches, stains from spills, and nicks from having something dropped on it.  Tile’s water resistance is what makes it the first choice for bathroom floors.

What types of interior design tile options do you recommend?

When shopping for a tile kitchen floor, familiar options include ceramic, porcelain and natural stone materials.

• Ceramic tile is a durable material in a wide range of colors. Large spaces between ceramic tiles can make it harder to keep grout joints clean.
• Rectified porcelain tiles cut with precise edges and corners minimize grout lines for easier cleaning. Even though it may sound delicate, porcelain is very durable and stands up to a lot of wear. And, if you choose a porcelain tile with a subtle texture, it won’t be as slippery as ceramic or marble tiles.
• Natural stone tiles such as limestone or travertine are beautiful, but they do require more maintenance.

What’s trending in flooring tiles right now?

Large-format porcelain tiles are actually gaining in popularity.  You’ll see 12″ x 24″ tiles for floors, and 13″ x 39″ wall tile is widely used.  Porcelain is now being manufactured in large sheets up to five feet by ten feet, which is perfect for smooth, easy-to-clean shower walls.  Plus, these large sheets come in patterns that beautifully mimic popular marbles.  Keep in mind that tile doesn’t have to be limited to the kitchen or bath.  There are some porcelain tiles from Italy that are catching my eye right now, and they can be used to enhance entryways, a fireplace surround or main living areas.

How does the cost of wood flooring and kitchen tile compare?

That’s a tricky question.  You can find great tiles in a range of prices. Your installation investment varies depending on how complicated the design will be.  Naturally, it will cost more to install a diagonal, staggered or Versailles pattern. While a tile floor is likely to be less expensive than a wood floor, if you want something special, it’s no guarantee.

Looking to learn more about tile? We invite you to check out our kitchen and bath tile infographic for a quick take on what’s what.

As a Drury Design client, you will select from a variety of tile and wood choices to complement the mood of your room, your design, and your home.  Stop by the studio to check out kitchen designs with tile floors. While you’re here, browse hundreds of looks in our kitchen and bath tile design center.

Can’t wait to get home remodeling design ideas? Call us at 888.444.1055 to schedule your complimentary in-home design consultation.