The Definitive Guide To Tile Patterns

The Definitive Guide To Tile Patterns

The Definitive Guide To Tile Patterns

Learn Your Tile Pattern Options And How To Go About Choosing The Pattern That Works Best For You

Tile patterns vary considerably, and you’ll have no lack of options from which to choose. If you аrе in the dark regarding those options, take a look at the questions and the list we’ve created below. Once your tile project is complete, remember it’s most likely going to be around a long time, so take your time and seek the opinion of others, especially professionals.

Experienced Tile Layers will have seen an infinite amount of tile projects if they’ve been around a while. Their advice will help you make your final choice. It’s one thing to imagine whatever area you are tiling completely finished, and quite another to talk with someone who has seen many! What begins in your imagination will be influenced significantly by the reality you create in choosing one tile pattern over another.

There аrе a million and оnе littlе mistakes a beginner саn make when dealing with tilе раttеrnѕ. But there are a few quеѕtiоnѕ уоu саn аѕk уоurѕеlf to hеlр guide уоu and аvоid mоѕt of thеm. Kеер thеѕе three ѕimрlе quеѕtiоnѕ in mind when researching to find the tilе раttеrn that works for you. Answering them will save you time and aggravation, but also will keep you within your budget!

  1. Are mу tiles thе right ѕizе? Choosing оn thе wrong ѕizе tiles iѕ еаѕilу оnе оf thе most соmmоn miѕtаkеѕ mаdе whеn dеаling with tilе раttеrnѕ. Mаnу реорlе purchase tilеѕ without thе help оr аdviсе оf a рrоfеѕѕiоnаl. We don’t recommend going solo on this. It’s too easy to simply buy thе wrоng size tile for the ѕрасе you’re working with.

    Well-intentioned people buу tiles thаt are too ѕmаll or tоо lаrgе fоr thе space оr rооm thеу аrе tiling. Subsequently, thеir tilе раttеrn will nоt lооk or hаvе the effect that it should. Thе ѕizе оf thе tilе uѕеd hamаkеѕs a huge imрасt on how a rооm is реrсеivеd in the end. If уоu uѕе tilеѕ that аrе too big, your rооm will lооk too ѕmаll. On thе оthеr hаnd, if уоu use tiles that are too small, уоu саn make your rооm appear too big. Looking objectively аt уоur space and deciding еxасtlу whаt you aim to accomplish will hеlр уоu answer this quеѕtiоn соrrесtlу.

  2. Are my wаllѕ ѕtrаight? For some reason, the vаѕt mаjоritу of home owners аlwауѕ seem tо think thаt the walls in thеir hоmе are perfectly straight and ѕquаrе. Sо much ѕо, thаt thiѕ iѕ a quеѕtiоn thаt mоѕt DIY hоmе оwnеrѕ never even соnѕidеr, let аlоnе аѕk. It iѕ асtuаllу muсh mоrе соmmоn for walls not tо be straight and ѕquаrе. Thiѕ саn bе duе tо many rеаѕоnѕ, such as wаrреd frаming fоr еxаmрlе.

    Nоt оnlу аrе most wаllѕ not реrfесtlу ѕtrаight, but bесаuѕе they аrеn’t ѕtrаight, neither аrе the corners. Bоth of thеѕе factors will ultimately affect the amount оf tiles уоu need to purchase аѕ wеll аѕ thе tile раttеrn you choose. Whilе this may ѕееm аlаrming tо many hоmе оwnеrѕ at firѕt, there is no need for соnсеrn аѕ. The ѕоlutiоn liеѕ in the аnѕwеr tо thе next quеѕtiоn.

  3. Hоw does my lауоut look? Anоthеr еxtrеmеlу соmmоn mistake that саn nоt only саuѕе fruѕtrаtiоn and wаѕtеd time are nоt mаking a drу lауоut of their tilе bеfоrе they install it. Whilе all professionals knоw bеttеr, thiѕ iѕ nоt thе case with mаnу DIY’ѕ whо аrе a littlе tоо еxсitеd tо get ѕtаrtеd. Yоu wоuld bе surprised hоw many people ѕimрlу ѕtаrt in thе mоѕt соnvеniеnt соrnеr оf thе rооm and kеер gоing until thеу rеаlizе thеir tilе раttеrn iѕn’t lining uр or lооking likе it ѕhоuld.

    A drу lауоut iѕ will ѕhоw уоu what tiles nееd to be сut, if аnу, аnd hоw thеу nееd to bе рlасеd tо look аnd fit right. It’s also very imроrtаnt fоr аnоthеr rеаѕоn wеll. While thаt beautiful tilе pattern уоu сhоѕе lооkеd good оn paper, in your hеаd, аnd еvеn whеn you lаid out a fеw tilе ѕаmрlеѕ on уоur flооr, it’s not enough to provide you with an accurate assessment of what the finished tile job will rеаllу lооk like in уоur rооm.Tile patterns can make a floor or wall look too widе, оr nаrrоw. A layout can reveal сlаѕhеѕ with the соlоrѕ оf thе walls, оr maybe it juѕt doesn’t look like you thought it might. Hореfullу уоu’ll lоvе it, however, аnd be validated that you mаdе thе right dесiѕiоn. But it is always bеttеr to lау it оut first, and ask уоurѕеlf whаt уоu rеаllу think. If уоu don’t quеѕtiоn, уоu соuld ѕреnd thе next 15-20 уеаrѕ lооking at a bad personal decision that is worth the time and effort. This hарреnѕ wау mоrе often than уоu might think.

The Definitive Guide To Tile Patterns Infographic

Listed here are the options you will have to choose from.

Tilе Grid

The mоѕt соmmоn of аll tilе раttеrnѕ, thе grid method lооkѕ еxасtlу likе it ѕоundѕ. Square tilеѕ аrе аrrаngеd one a top the оthеr аnd ѕidе by side ѕо thаt it has thе appearance оf a grid. This iѕ аlѕо vеrу boring. Trу tо аvоid thiѕ mеthоdѕ. It аddѕ vеrу little tо a room’s арреаl. One оf the (only) аdvаntаgеѕ of thiѕ look iѕ that it mаkеѕ tilе сlеаning easier because the grоut runs in simple сhаnnеlѕ and not in аnу kind оf соmрlеx раttеrn.

Diаmоnd

An act аѕ ѕimрlе аѕ rotating thе tilе forty-five dеgrееѕ аnd then lауing thеm out in a grid pattern саn have a trеmеndоuѕ effect оn the lооk оf a room. Whеrеаѕ thе bаѕiс grid lооkѕ dull, thе diamond раttеrn iѕ mоrе аеѕthеtiсаllу рlеаѕing аnd rеԛuirеѕ nо mоrе work than thе оthеr design. If уоu want a ѕimрlе, chic lооk, diаmоnd iѕ thе wау tо gо.

Tilе Bаѕkеt

If уоu аrе opting fоr rесtаngulаr tile, the bаѕkеt раttеrn саn аdd a соmрlеx lеvеl оf сhаrm tо a rооm. Take twо or three tilеѕ and lау thеm vertically; the combination оf аll three ѕidе bу ѕidе ѕhоuld bе in thе ѕhаре оf a square. Bеѕidе that, lay the same number оf tilеѕ hоrizоntаllу and repeat thе раttеrn. Eѕѕеntiаllу thiѕ replicates grid tile раttеrnѕ, but iѕ mоrе viѕuаllу intеrеѕting bесаuѕе thе “squares” within уоur grid аrе divided intо three рiесеѕ.

Road

You саn сrеаtе a раttеrn thаt rеѕеmblеѕ a rоаd wеаving through a сitу blосk bу аltеrnаting square аnd rесtаngulаr ѕhареd tilеѕ. Stаrt bу рlасing a rоw оf ѕquаrе tilеѕ in a row, аѕ if уоu were creating a grid pattern. On tор оf thоѕе, hоrizоntаllу run a rоw оf the rectangular tilеѕ, and thеn аnоthеr rоw оn tор of thаt. Finаllу, start thе раttеrn аgаin, by placing your ѕquаrеѕ аtор thе two rесtаngulаr rows.

Pinwhееl

This iѕ оnе оf the more соmрlеx tilе раttеrnѕ, but сrеаtеѕ a vеrу intеrеѕting lооk tо your flооr. Start in thе middlе оf the flооr аnd place a ѕquаrе dоwn. Next, рut a rесtаnglе рiесе оn tор of thаt, squaring up thе еnd оf thе rectangle with the tор lеft соrnеr of your square. There ѕhоuld bе a good роrtiоn оf уоur rесtаnglе hаnging оvеr thе top right оf thе square. Tаkе аnоthеr rесtаnglе and place it with thе right ѕidе uр аgаinѕt this оvеrhаng. Repeat this around the perimeter. Onсе this iѕ complete thе раttеrn саn bе rерliсаtеd over thе rеmаindеr of thе floor.

Comparing Manual Tile Cutters; Five That Make The Cut

Comparing Manual Tile Cutters; Five That Make The Cut

Should you use a manual tile cutter or an electric tile cutter – what's the difference? First, let's briefly compare the two.

Manual Tile Cutters

The benefits of using a manual tile cutter:

  • Excellent fast cuts with minimal effort
  • Many size options
  • Easy To Use
  • Power options for different materials
  • Fixed or single point breaker or mobile or multi-point breaker
  • Low maintenance

The disadvantages of manual tile cutter:

  • Limited cut options
  • Prone to less accurate cuts (depending on the user)

Electric Tile Cutters

The benefits of an electric tile cutter:

  • More cutting options depending on model
  • Diamond blade with electric motor
  • Will cutter a broader range of materials
  • Can operate with or without water for cooling

The disadvantages of an electric tile cutter:

  • Slower
  • Bulky/heavy transport

Once you’ve determined which is the best tile cutter to use for you, you’ll have plenty of options to choose. In this article, we’ll focus on five different brands of manual tile cutters.

  • RUBI
  • RTC
  • Batipav
  • Sigma
  • Tomecanic

Rubi Manual Tile Cutters

For speed and convenience, RUBI manual tile cutters are used more often than electric cutters. The variety of manual RUBI tile cutters gives you the option of matching the right cutter with the material you are cutting. A good match will result in cleaner cuts. Thicknesses between 6 and 10 mm tiles are more fragile and will need a cutter that provides for gentle treatment. RUBI offers the widest variety in purchasing options, and therefore allow for a greater variety of cuts.

There are quite a variety of options to choose from within the RUBI brand. We’ve listed five of those options here with descriptions to give you the information you need to make the best choice.

1. RUBI Slim System Thin Tile Professional Cutter – 122″ Cut

  • Provides straight cuts without inconsistencies Offers high-quality performance.
  • Cutting capacity of up to 310cm. (extendable)
  • Built for cutting large format porcelain, between 3mm and 8mm thick Silicone cords and fixed suction pads
  • Tungsten carbide roller w/titanium treatment bearing of Ø22mm
  • Gradual separation and adjustable pincers to reduce tile breakage

Price: $595

2. RUBITR Series Tile Cutter – 24″ to 28″

  • Multipoint breaker gives precisediagonal cuts
  • Perfect for both wall and floor tiles
  • Central pivot swivel square
  • Lateral stop for repetitive cuts
  • Improved visibility with double guide for of the scoring and cutting
  • Scoring wheels for every material (interchangeable)
  • Guides are rectified steel and chromed with anti-rust treatment.
  • Sturdy aluminum, 2-layer base supports large format tiles with shock absorption

Price: $409.95–$489.95

3. RUBI TS Plus Series Tile Cutters – 17″ to 29″

  • Single point breaker
  • Up to 800 Kg breaking pressure
  • Reinforced base
  • Perfect view of the scoring/cutting line with double guide
  • Rectified and calibrated chrome steel guides and anti-rust treatment.
  • Interchangeable scoring wheels (6 mm to 22 mm range)
  • Transport case

Price: $325.00–$465.95

4. RUBI TS Series Manual Tile Cutters – 17″ to 26″

  • TS Series built for precision cuts and breaking power

Price: $315.00–$389.95

5. RUBITX-N Series – 28″ to 49″

  • TX series has added breaking for use on large format tile.
  • Powerful cutter with detailed angular measurement system
  • Optimal cutting of ceramic, porcelain, and pressed tiles
  • 1000Kg power breaker
  • Central pivot swivel square for precise angular cuts
  • Adjustable scoring wheels
  • Reinforced breaking
  • Lateral stop
  • Aluminum two-layer base with shock absorption
  • Heavy duty case included

Price: $595.00–$1,050.00

RTC Manual Tile Cutters; For Accurate Smooth Cuts

Combining the best of the best features, the RTC Razor comes in several designs. The Razor Pro has 11 ball bearings mounted in the handle carriage to guide the handle on the guide bar. The handle itself is a cantilever braking mechanism that increases braking power better than any cutter on the market.

The RTC Razor Pro Single Bar Push Cutter – 22″ to 52″ offers the same features as the Razor, but cuts perfectly on ultra-hard porcelain with an accurate scoring line on a rough surface tile.

 Price: $395.00

Sigma Manual Tile Cutters; Options From Minute To Mammoth

For many decades, Sigma Italia has built some of the most elite manual tile cutters in the industry.  Ranging from the 14″ 2G Sigma Tile Cutter to the 3F3 60″ Sigma large format beast, Sigma’s variety is impressive.

Sigma Tile Cutters cut porcelain clean and fast. They have specialized in making equipment for tile installers since 1964.They offer a guarantee that all models meet the highest safety and strength standards, including the very high European standards.  Sigma sells Pull Cutters, Sigma Thin Panel Tile Tools, and Sigma Max Cutters.

Designed with a spring-loaded ball bearing mounted scoring wheel, The Sigma Max Push Handle cutters are custom-madeand manufactured for accurate and consistent scores on uneven surfaced tile. They are perfect for wood or stone looks on an ornate or textured tile. Their design eliminates difficult cutting of textured tile with a manual cutter. It alsoreduceswasted tile pieces and uneven breaks.

The pull handle action Sigma Tile Cutters set the bar high in design and durability. Sigma Italia has repeatedly produced this industry standard for several decades.  The Sigma Pull Handle Tile Cutters vary in size from 14″ to 36″.

Battipav Manual Tile Cutters; Five Industry Heroes With Endless Options

Battipav offers five different categories of manual tile cutters. Each category has multiple models to choose from and ensure every need on any project can be met. Listed here are five categories.

  1. Super Pro 450
  2. Profi
  3. Cutters X-Pro
  4. Ultra
  5. Basic Plus

Price: $280.00–$635.00

Tomecanic Manual Tile Cutters; Four For The Floor

Tomecanic manual tile cutters are used widely by do-it-your-selfer’s and professionals alike. They cut reliably, quickly, and smoothly. Replacement cutting tools and blades are readily available and priced at a good value.

Tomecanic manual tile cutters are high-quality and dependable. All models are designed to help you preserve excess waste material resulting from bad cuts. Their reputation is highlighted by durability and high-performance. Below are the four most popular selling Tomecanic Manual Tile Cutters.

Tomecanic 24″ Supercut 2160 Tile Cutter

  • Designed to score fired clay ceramic tiles with a glaze coating,this ceramic tile cuttercan cutfully vitrified porcelain tiles as well as some unglazed clay tiles.
  • Able to withstand 2500 lbs. of pressure, the braking system comes with a robust multipoint separator.
  • The single rail guide does not flex cutting in the center of porcelain tile
  • Self-lubricating bearings help cutting head slides easily on
  • Better shock absorption with breaking pads mounted on springs
  • Cut-out under breaking pads allows for tile cuttings to fall for easy cleaning.
  • Allows thick materials to be quickly cut
  • Length of Cut – 24″. Diagonal Cut – 16″. Weight – 27 lbs.
  • 9 ball bearing system cutting head allow for super accurate and easy scoring.
  • Large breaker and spring loaded pads for easy snapping of tile.

Tomecanic 35″ Supercut 2190 Tile Cutter

  • 35″ length of cut and 24″ Diagonal cuts
  • Breaking System Lever produces 2500 lbs of pressure when splitting tiles with a robust multipoint separator
  • Cuts floor tile, mosaics, porcelain, and similar materials
  • Easy and accurate scoring
  • Big-size breaker with spring loaded pads for easy snapping of tile.
  • The single Rail guide doesn’t flex when breaking porcelain tile in the center of the tile

Tomecanic 29″ Supercut 2175 Tile Cutter

  • 29″ length of cut and 20″ Diagonal cuts
  • Used for cuts on a variety of materials including porcelain, floor tile, and mosaics
  • Big-size breaker with spring loaded pads for easy snapping of tile.
  • Breaking System Lever produces 2500 lbs of pressure when splitting tiles
  • No flex when breaking porcelain tile in the center of the tile (single rail guide)

Tomecanic Primo 16″ Tile Cutter

  • Ideal for the do-it-your selfer
  • Cuts tile straight and at a 45-degree angle; also cuts porcelain
  • Length of Cut – 16 inch Diagonal Cut – 11 inch Weight – 6 lbs.
  • Heavy-duty steel base
  • Precision score and snap and replaceable wheel included

Price: $350 – $597

Comparing Tile Leveling Systems

Comparing Tile Leveling Systems

Comparing Tile Leveling Systems

RUBI Tile Level Quick Leveling System

Method: RUBI Tile Level Quick comes in the format  of a kit making it a user-friendly purchase that won’t waste your time looking for material and tools separately. Nippers, quick strips, caps are all sold together in a bucket-type container.

This process of installing and leveling your new surface is about as easy as it gets. The overall method can be summarized in three easy steps.

  1. Place the tiles using the grooved-based straps (the groove allows for a better grip). The straps allow for a minimum joint of 1/16” and unlike other leveling systems, there is no need to dip the straps in water before using them.
  2. Slide the re-usable caps over the strips as they sit vertically sticking straight up from your tiles.
  3. Use the plier tool to bend the straps over the caps, putting pressure on the caps and securing the tiles in place. This restrains the shifting of parts while the adhesive is setting, and prevents tile lippage that results in a finished flat surface. This tile leveling system can be used for the installing of both horizontal and vertical surfaces, meaning it’s usable for both floors and walls.
  4. After the floor or wall is set (the double gluing technique is always used) the caps are removed by an impact. Simply by kicking them off a floor surface or removing them from a newly tiled wall, ready to use for the next job. (Note: Always remove the caps in the direction of the grout joint).

This system was developed to save time in installing large format ceramic tiles, particularly in rectified porcelain tiles, as well as to provide the perfect setting and leveling with virtually any material or dimension. Ideally,12” x 12” tiles or larger work great with this system. The RUBI Tile Level Quick System reduces installation time for both floors and walls, making it a more efficient use of your day. Of course, for a professional, that means increased savings and profit.

The kit comes ready to use in a practical bucket-style storage container with a well-placed handle for easy use and carrying. Here is what you comes with the kit:

  • Tile Level Quick 1 pliers which can be utilized for both floor or wall tiling.
    (Note: The pliers are made of two types of metals allowing a height control system that is easy to use.)
  • 100 strips
  • 100 reusable cups

Material: Large format ceramic tiles (particularly in rectified porcelain tiles). Can also be used for leveling granite and marble tiles.

Thickness: Compatible with the tile of thickness levels between 1/8″ and 5/8.”

Price: Approximately $55 per kit

RUBI Delta Tile Leveling System

Method: You do NOT want to get in a fight with a wall or a floor. The RUBI Delta Tile Leveling System is akin to bringing in a fleet of military tanks to enforce a no-lippage policy. No lippage equals flat floor or wall surface. So how does this tool in your arsenal of leveling systems work?

The concept is fairly elementary and easy to implement. It’s often referred to as the “back buttering technique.”

Using a coordinated system of strips and wedges, the tiles are first set into place using the strips. The wedges are then placed under the loop-like strips, and the nippers are used to allocate the amount of pressure to hold the curing tiles in place. Once the adhesive has completely cured, the wedges and strips are removed with a rubber mallet or by kicking them off of the tiles. You can reuse the wedges multiple times, so don’t throw them away!

The RUBI Delta Tile Leveling System is recommended for 12” x 12” or larger tiles. Thicknesses can vary from 1/2″, 9/16” or 3/4″ depending and is reliant on the form or model of the strips you use.

The plastic strips that come with the Delta System are available in different thicknesses, 1/32″, 1/16″, and 1/8″, and also a variety of heights that allow you to work with tiles of various thicknesses: 1/8″-1/2″, 1/4″-9/16″ or 7/16″-13/16″. The plastic material of the strips is specifically designed to avoid problems with air bubbles when pressure is applied, which ensures that the tiles align. It’s worth noting that the DELTA system allows any installer the option of working with any tile spacer.

RUBI does offer DELTA strips to professional installers in three different packaged units. Strips come in bags of 100, 200 and 400 units (for some models there is a 2400 unit box they offer).
This system delivers as promised, preventing tiles from moving while the adhesive sets as well as while installing.

The RUBI Delta Tile Leveling System kits come in three formats

  • 1/32″
  • 1/16″
  • 3/32″

The kit includes:

  • One nipper plier that can be used for both flooring and walls (horizontal and vertical tiles)
  • One bag of 100 units of strips for use in ceramic tiles with thickness between 1/8″ and 1/2″
  • One bag of 100 units of reusable wedges.

All components in the the RUBI Delta Tile Leveling System kit come in a bucket with a handle making it easy to move with you.

Material: 12” x 12” or larger ceramic tiles

Thickness: Compatible with tile thicknesses of 1/2″, 9/16” or 3/4″

Price: The RUBI Delta Tile Leveling System is not available in the USA yet. It can be purchased in Canada or Europe.

DTLA Tile ComparingTile Le veling Systems

Spin Doctor

Method: The Spin Doctor Tile Leveling System involves a process in which the installer screws into place a baseplate using a twistable cap. It takes minimal effort and can be accomplished u sing just one hand, which is especially useful when installing larger tiles and reducing fatigue. The Spin Doctor System is composed of four separate components which you can purchase separately.

The spacer posts may be used again after being removed from the base as additional spacers or wall shims. The caps have an open design that allows the installer to view the grout during installation. The caps are removed quickly and easily and can be used again when the tiles have been set and cured.

  • Red Breakaway Threaded Spacer Posts 1/16” (1.5 mm)
  • Black Breakaway Threaded Spacer Posts 1/8” (3mm)
  • Leveling Cap
  • Optional Anti-Friction Protection Plate

Material: Accommodates all materials.

Thickness: Accommodates most all thicknesses.

Price:

  • Black Breakaway Threaded Spacer Posts 1/8” (appx. $16 for 100-piece set)
  • Red Breakaway Threaded Spacer Posts 1/16” (appx. $14 for 100-piece set)
  • Leveling Cap (appx. $78 for 100-piece set)
  • Optional Anti-Friction Protection Plate (appx. $14 for 100-piece set)

QEP

Method: QEP Tile Leveling Clips are plastic spacers used in combination with leveling wedges to form the LASH Tile Leveling System. This system is available in two sizes, original (for 3/16” to7/16”) or XL (for ½” to ¾” tile). The LASH system is quick to install and adjust and hold the height of the tiles evenly while the tiles cure. Made of durable nylon and colored a bright yellow for easy identification, QEP clips are used for installing stone, thin and rectified porcelain and marble tile. Learning to use the QEP system is relatively easy, and once you get the hang of it, installations go pretty fast. When used correctly, the result is a smooth tile surface with a professional finish.

Material: Marble, Stone, and Porcelain Tile

Thickness: Original (for 3/16” to7/16”) or XL (for ½” to ¾” tile)

Price:

  • LASH Tile Leveling, Aligning and Spacer Clips ($10 per 96-pack)

Tuscan Cap And Strap

Method: The Tuscan Leveling System works for use with marble, stone, granite, ceramic, and any large format style. The Tuscan Cap and Strap is a two-piece system (cap and strap) and is interlocking , meaning that the tile pieces fit together similar in fashion to a puzzle. This “puzzle process” helps the surface cure evenly and provides for less warping and shrinkage during setting. Furthermore, tiles are laid more efficiently without the need to re-lift tiles for additional shimming or adding more mud. The caps, similar to the Spin Doctor Tile Leveling System, are also reusable. One important thing to note is that the “Cap and Strap” method does require that you use a unique ergonomic installation tool. This tool comes with your purchase if you buy this system as a set.

Material: Marble, Stone, Granite, Ceramic, and any large format style

Thickness: The Tuscan Cap and Strap System is recommended for gauged tiles 12″ or larger of any uniform gauge thickness.

Price:

  • Caps (appx. $190 for 200 Reusable caps)
  • Straps (appx. $120 for 500 leveling Straps)
  • Pearl Abrasive Tuscan Level Standard Ergonomic Tool (appx. $49)
  • Full kits run from $189 (System DIY Kit), $345 (System Pro Kit), or $800 (Contractor Kit)

Seam Clip

Method: The One-Piece Seam Clip system is enticing because it requires no special tools to install or remove tiles. The system works by sliding the base under the tile, closing the wings on the side, and removing t he top portion by tapping it with a rubber mallet after the tiles have cured. Whether installing granite, stone, marble, ceramic, and some larger tile formats (3/8″ to ½” in thickness) , seam clips are very easy to use.

There is a premium Seam Clip Leveling System produced in Australia that uses “Clip-iT” wedges. These wedges, made of polymer material for indoor or outdoor use, are durable and reusable and appropriate for use with natural stone, porcelain, ceramic, marble, or granite tiles. The wedges are specifically designed to reduce the stress and fatigue that often occur on an installer’s fingers. The wedges have round edges and a broader, soft thumbprint area.

Material: Granite, Stone, Marble, Ceramic, and some larger tile formats

Thickness: 3/8″ to ½” in thickness

Price:

  • Tuscan Seam Clips Only (appx. $51 for 150-piece set)
  • Tuscan Seam Clips Only (appx. $142 for 500-piece set)
  • Tile Master (appx. $116 for 300 Spacers and 100 Wedges)

T-Lock

Method:The T-Lock Tile Leveling system operates under the premise that every tile laid assis ts their adjacent tiles to remain flush by their surrounding tiles. T-Lock can provide a faster installation process involving spacers and wedges. A relatively uncomplicated process, the T-Lock system can result in precise leveling with no added tools necessary.

Material: Any tile material including large format, heavy tiles with rectified (sharp) edges.

Thickness: Universal system works for all thickness measurements.

Price:

  • T-Lock 1/8” Complete Kit (appx. $115)
  • T-Lock Wedges (appx. $38 for 100 Red Wedges)
  • T-Lock Clips (appx. $66 for 250 1/8” Clips)
  • T-Lock “Perfect Level Master” Pliers Tool (appx. $63) *Only works with T-Lock Tile Leveling System

Your floor or wall should be aesthetically pleasing, but also perfectly level. Understanding your options regarding which leveling system to choose is crucial. While all leveling systems aim for the same goal of creating precision evenness, not all are universal in their usability and success rate. Your new tile surface will go through a curing process, and it is during that process that leveling systems maintain the secured placement of each tile. If your tiles remain in place and don’t slide or sink during that curing process, your surface will be as smooth as a glass mirror.

*For additional reference, please see our “Comparing Tile Leveling System” visual guide explaining each tile leveling system with graphics.

9 Tricks You Can Do With Your Bathroom and Make it Even More Aesthetically Pleasing

9 Tricks You Can Do With Your Bathroom and Make it Even More Aesthetically Pleasing

9 Tricks You Can Do With Your Bathroom and Make it Even More Aesthetically Pleasing

Bathroom remodeling in Los Angeles is all about the details; whether you are going to get professional help or it is a weekend DIY project, there are lots of things that you can do better and make a big difference in the ultimate outcome. Ceramic tiles are considered the easiest tiles to handle so feel free to experiment with those. Following are some tricks you can do with your bathroom space and make it more aesthetically pleasing.

Stripes

Using stripes in bathroom is not an out of the world idea and neither a new one. However, when everyone thinks about horizontal stripes, you should go with vertical stripes that would send a bold message to everyone. Interestingly, the verticals stripes work with all colors and textures; you can use matching colors for vertical stripes with different tones or you can use an exotic color for stripe while using a mild color for the rest of the wall. There is no limit on patterns too and you can experiment with patterned tiles using for vertical stripes.

Stripes Combo

Using vertical and horizontal stripes combo is the latest trend in tiling industry and our designers at DTLA Tile and Stone have used this layout in many bathroom spaces successfully. Although using a stripe combo looks like the next step of using a vertical or horizontal stripe but actually these are two entirely different layouts with entirely different idea behind them.

The purpose of using a single stripe is to put some diversity in the equation and this is particularly good for typical bathroom spaces. On the other hand, the idea behind using a stripes combo is to put some harmony in the bathroom space which is atypical and comes with lots of design elements.

Cutting Tiles at 45 Degree Angle

Now that’s a whole new way of giving your bathroom space a dramatic look. Cutting tiles at 45 degree angle instead of the usual 90 degree would help you make your bathroom more aesthetically pleasing and give it a modernized look within your budget. However, this idea is not for everyone and specifically not for the first timer because you would need to cut lots of tiles.

Cutting tiles would also increase the chance and cost of breakage. The best way to apply this idea is on ceramic tiles as they are relatively cheaper and easier to cut. Also, you need to mark the tiles carefully with the right angle otherwise they would fit properly or/and look weird.

Flooring

Sometimes you find a tile with a bold design and you are not sure whether it would be a good idea to use it in your bathroom or not. Regardless of the design on the tile, it is always a good idea to use a feature tile on your bathroom to give it a sense of diversity. However, it would be even a better idea to use it in a small space so preserve the design of the rest of the space. For example, you can use a feature tile in shower flooring.

Monotonic Bathroom

Interestingly, monotonic bathroom design is the simplest idea but it just got some traction now. We are not talking about using a uniform color in your bathroom space but it is about using the same patterned or feature tiles in the entire bathroom space including floor and walls. This kind of bathroom design can create a little drama and based on our experience in DTLA Tile and Stone, this design beautifies the bathroom spaces with a window that can break the fluidity of the look.

Do Your Research

That seems like a cliché but the majority of homeowner (whether they get professional help or do DIY project) don’t do their homework before getting their hands dirty. Even if you are hiring professionals to do the job, you need to look at lots of photos to get inspiration and to decide which kind of bathroom you want. Of course experts can recommend things but they can’t possibly know what you want. You can either do a quick Google search or use some specialized websites like Pinterest to get creative ideas.

Dual Tone

Using two entirely different tones in your bathroom space is a great way to create a sense of symmetrical design even though the layout is asymmetrical. However, selecting those two tones need some extra efforts and you might need the help of computer generated graphics to get the idea. Also, this color scheme looks good in bathroom spaces with less design complexity. Some popular and most obvious schemes are blue-white, green-white and maroon-white but don’t afraid to do your own experiments.

Lighting is Important

If you ask us one thing that we have learned the hard way at DTLA Tile and Stone, it would be the importance of lighting. A good bathroom design would be a good bathroom design only if you have good lighting arrangements there. You need to consider the lighting situation (whether the bathroom would get natural light in the day time or not) before you choose the tiles or design the bathroom. Strategically placed lights can emphasize the design elopements of the bathroom space and that’s what matters.

Hex Tiles

Hex tiles now have the same status that triangular tiles had a few years ago but unlike triangular tiles (which are not as popular as rectangular tiles or square tiles) hex tiles are getting lots of popularity nowadays. Although you can use bigger hex tiles on your bathroom walls but it would be even a better idea to use rectangular or square tiles in your bathroom space with a sober color and use small hex tiles in your shower space with an exotic or at least bright color like aqua. Small hex tiles come in mosaic sheets that are easily installable.

Latest Bathroom, Kitchen and Tiling Trends of 2017

Latest Bathroom, Kitchen and Tiling Trends of 2017

Latest Bathroom, Kitchen and Tiling Trends of 2017

Bathroom designing, kitchen remodeling and tile installation need your time and money so it is essential to put some efforts into the equation and get the best outcome. Renovating is all about moving one step further and making your bathroom, kitchen or other space look good. Of course there are some classic looks that are timeless yet most of the people opt for latest trends and designs. Latest designs also increase house value significantly that would be beneficial if you are planning to sell the house.

Following is a list of some latest bathroom, kitchen and tiling trends of 2017.

Terrazzo Tiles

Terrazzo is a relatively unpopular type of tile at this moment but this trend is going to change in upcoming months. These types of tiles are made with the pieces of marble, granite, quartz and glass. The bold design of Terrazzo tiles can help home owners use it in kitchens and bathrooms for a modernized look. These tiles are water and scratch resistance that means you can use them as kitchen backsplash or on bathroom walls. Terrazzo tiles are available in virtually unlimited designs and textures.

Same Tiles for Floors and Walls

Right now, it is a common practice to use different tiles (different colors, material and even different shape) for bathroom floor and walls. However, more and more designers and home owners are opting for same tiles for wall and floor. There are two main advantages of this approach; first of all, it gives the bathroom space a solid look with design fluidity and secondly it is cost efficient.

Even More Diverse Color Range

That is pretty simple; designers and manufacturers have been trying to introduce more colors and textures since the day one and no wonder you would see lots of new color trends in 2017 too. The latest tiling trend with respect to color and texture is the use of more complex designs and a hint of abstraction. As stone tiles are relatively expensive than other popular types like ceramic tiles, manufacturers would introduce more ceramic tiles with stone look.

Mix and Match

2016 was all about bold experiments and this trend is not going to stop in 2017. The idea behind mix and match approach is to use hundreds of designs in thousands of different ways. For example, using abstract mosaic tiles with a monotone tile wall in bathroom is a popular trend that sends a bold statement. So, don’t shy and don’t be afraid of doing experiments on your own.

Patterns

Many tile manufacturing companies in Italy have started designing tiles asymmetrical layout and design. These patterns are getting popularity in rectangular and square tiles, and soon they would appear on brick and mosaic too. These fragmented tiles could be used to form geometrical shapes in bathroom or other spaces. Interestingly, if you use these tiles randomly, they can successfully give an abstract modern look.

Bricks

Every year, new trends are emerged in tiling industry and some of them last longer than expected. Last two years were all about hex tiles and those tiles are still in fashion. 2017 is about bricks and unlike hex tiles, brick design could be used in numerous ways. It could be designed in a way to give a classic look or with a random tile installation and mortar spill design it could give a modern look to your bathroom space.

Horizontal and Vertical Lines

No doubt, using horizontal and vertical lines in kitchen, bathroom or other space is not the latest idea yet it could be used in a number of new ways thank to the more and more upcoming tile designs and patterns. Horizontal and vertical lines are not only used create a visual illusion of bigger or taller space but lines can add depth in a plain design. Using lines is considered one of the most effective and cost efficient way to beautify the space.

Grayscale

Gray has always been a popular color choice for bathrooms and other spaces. Tile manufacturing companies understand the popularity of grayscale tiles and in 2017 you would see even more patterns, styles and a wider range of grayscale tiles in the market. Adding an exotic color (via horizontal or vertical line) on a plain grayscale wall in your bathroom space can dramatically improve the look. Gray has proved the entire theory wrong that you need colors to make a bold impression.

Graphical Mosaic

Mosaic tiles have been around us for years and manufacturers have been working on new designs tirelessly. Expect to see a wide range of graphical mosaic in 2017 as many design elements are getting traction in the industry. Patterned mosaics could be used to form an asymmetrical layout or you can ditch the randomness and strategically place these tiles to form a modern symmetrical look.

3D Tiles

Thanks to the modern tile manufacturing process, now manufacturers can make tiles that can give a 3D appearance of texture. These 3D tiles might need an expert installation for the maximum effect but after installation, they give a whole new meaning to modern designs. As you can anticipate, manufacturers can make virtually unlimited designs of 3D tiles with ridges and other geometrical designs; so expects tons of new designs in upcoming months.

Creative Designs and Patterns

Of course patterned tiles are quite popular all over the globe but with the passage of time, patterned and geometric tiles have become a synonym of modernized bathroom or kitchen design. According to many industry experts and designers, the classic look and basic design elements would give an even bigger entry in near future. Brick tiles (which have thrice the length than width) would give a new meaning to modern designs by designers using them in more creative ways. Herringbone and other similar tile layouts can help create dramatic effects in the space.

Comparison Between Different Tile Cutting Methods

Comparison Between Different Tile Cutting Methods

Comparison Between Different Tile Cutting Methods

The process of tile installation is not that difficult on its own as all you have to do is apply the thin set and place the tile at its predefined place but there are lots of other things for example selecting the best tile for the application and tile cutting process that might need professional help if you are not willing to do it yourself. There are many different ways to cut tiles and each of them has its own benefits (and flaws too). Even if you use the simplest possible tiling layout for easiness, you still have to cut tiles in corners and to fit smaller pieces in smaller spaces.

Lets talk about different tile cutting methods which tile installers in Los Angeles use.

Wet Saw

Wet saw is the most common method of cutting tiles; the equipment consists of a saw with diamond blade, powered by electric and water is used to cool down the blade so you can use it for extended time period. There are different types of wet saw that are used for straight cutting, edge cutting and to make L shapes. However, the whole equipment is pretty expensive for a weekend project and it is mainly used by professionals because they use it frequently.

People who want a tile cutter for one-time project usually opt for other much cheaper methods. If you want to buy a wet saw for tile cutting, keep the safety at your first priority as some newer models offer lots of safety features.

Grinder

Using grinder to cut tiles is similar to using wet saw except a few differences; for example, first of all, there is no water involved. You can manually put water on the blade to cool it down though. Another major difference is the structure and method itself; in case of wet saw, the equipment stays at its place and you move the tile but in case of grinder the tile stays at its position and you move the grinder. Using grinder to cut tiles is usually considered a shortcut or a backup plan where you can use the grinder manually in case no other thing (like wet saw or pliers) is available.

Tile Nipper

Tile nipper is quite similar to pliers with thick edges so you can grab the tile and put force with other hand to cut it. Tile nipper is a common method among people who do DIY tile installation projects and need something effective and cost efficient. You can get a decent tile cutting pliers at a fraction of the cost of a wet saw. However, unlike other methods, tile nipper does not exactly cut the tile in two pieces but it breaks the other part.

For example, if you want to use ¾ of a tile then the other ¼ piece would be lost during the process. As you can handle the force, layout and everything manually while using tile nippers, they are mainly suitable for cutting edges or give tiles specific shapes.

Score Tile Cutter

Score tile cutter can cut tiles in two pieces and the method is fairly simple so you can learn it in few minutes. All you have to do is line up the mark on tiles using a scoring wheel, put the other end of the scoring wheel exactly under the tile where you marked it and snap. Do not mark the tile multiple times and try to do it in one try because marking the tile multiple times would damage the tile and scoring wheel itself.