How to Choose the Right Tile for High-Traffic Areas
Bathroom with tile walls and floor
To put a nail into something, you use a hammer. To insert a screw, you use a screwdriver. To cut a piece of wood, you use a saw. Just like there are tools that are appropriate for the specific task at hand, there are types of tile that are better for certain uses than others. When choosing a tile for a high-traffic area like a bathroom, kitchen, entryway, or hallway, you want to ensure that you choose the one that will accommodate that area best. Luckily, you can choose one that is durable and cost-effective, while also keeping it stylish all at the same time.
Focus on Durability First
Since this tile will be in a high-traffic area, you should protect your investment by selecting a tile that will be very durable. There are many different tile materials, some more suitable for high-traffic areas than others. Take your time to consider the area that this tile will be installed in, and what level of durability that area calls for. Look for tile with a high PEI rating — that means it can stand up to wear and tear without looking beat up. Porcelain is usually your best bet because it’s denser and stronger than ceramic, which means it holds up better over time.
Consider Slip Resistance & Texture
Another critical factor to take into consideration is that high-traffic areas, like we are discussing, will get wet from time to time. Bathrooms, kitchens, and entryways are no strangers to moisture, spills, and messes. Look for tiles with slip-resistant finishes or textured surfaces. Check the COF rating on your tile — it tells you how slippery (or not) the surface is, which is of utmost importance for safety in places like bathrooms or entryways.
Easy Maintenance & Cleaning
The ease of maintenance and cleaning your tile should not be an afterthought. We often do not consider these things at the beginning of a project, but only after a mess actually takes place. Set yourself up for success by thinking about how easy a material will be to maintain and clean before you actually have that material installed in your home. Porcelain or Natural Stone with sealed finishes can be great options in this respect. They are fairly easy to clean and do not require much maintenance. In high-traffic areas, it is best to avoid materials like unsealed stone or anything with a high-gloss finish.
Style Without Sacrificing Strength
You will be seeing your tile choice in your home for years to come, so durability and practicality are, of course, not the only things to consider. The best choices will usually balance practicality with design. You cannot go purely based on looks, but also not purely on use. With each material, there are so many different looks to choose from. You have porcelain tile that looks like wood, large-format natural stone, neutral tones, and textured finishes, the list could go on and on! So, make sure that you choose a practical option, while still allowing your choice to display your style and design choice in your home.
The right tile for your high-traffic area will hold up beautifully under daily wear and tear. With all of the options out there, it can be pretty overwhelming trying to decide what the best fit for your situation is. Luckily, we are here to help make your decision easier than ever. Contacting a professional at HnH Tile is one way to get your project started right. Call or email us now, and we will help you make sure that your project turns out great!
office@hnhtileandflooring.com Wallace: 512-749-6942 Hunter: 682-308-8854