Hexagon tiles which are also known as hex tiles have been getting popularity all over the globe. These tiles are used in mostly bathroom remodeling in Los Angeles however you can use them effectively in kitchen remodeling jobs too. Like other shapes (rectangle, square and triangle) hex tiles are also available in lots of colors, materials and sizes. Considering using hex tiles in bathrooms is a newer concept, you can remodel your bathroom with hex tiles to give it a modern look that would help in selling the house if that’s your plan.
Tips about Using Hex Tiles in Bathroom or Kitchen Space
Let’s see how you can use hex tiles effectively to make your bathroom more attractive.
Add Texture
If you think your current bathroom or kitchen space is kind of boring then hex tiles can help you there. Interestingly, triangular tiles were introduced to send a bold message and now hex tiles have adopted that job. Using hex tiles with contrast grouting can help the layout pop and make an impression. This particular design looks like a textile design and add textures in the bathroom space.
Use Multiple Designs
Unlike other tile shapes like rectangle and square, hex tiles are pretty tolerant when it comes to using multiple designs at a single wall or floor. As mentioned above, hex tiles come in many colors and you can mix and match different colors for a modernized design. For example, you can use the same color with different tones or you can even use contrast tiles for an abstract design.
Don’t be Shy
Unfortunately, many people think that hex tiles are only associated with bathrooms and kitchens. It is unreasonable assumption as all other shapes like bricks, rectangles, square and triangles are used everywhere including countertops, backsplashes, floors and walls. Hex tiles should be used more often regardless of the application if the design space allows. You can use hex tiles anywhere you want including stair walls or floors.
Color Splash
Hex tiles allow the home owners to do lots of experiments with colors. You can mix colorful hex tiles with a single wall made of single color tiles. This specific design idea can help you beautify kids’ room without spending ridiculous amount on tiling and flooring. Even few colorful hex tiles in the boring design space can make the design pop. However, don’t forget to balance the use of different colors and it is recommended to use a pseudo random color formation.
Create Drama
Hex tiles are not linear as square tiles or rectangular tiles; if you use different tones with matching grouting, it is possible to make a bold statement by making the entire wall with hex tiles. As square and rectangular tiles could be used at a single space to give it a varying effect, the same could be done by using hex tiles with square tiles or rectangular tiles. For example, you can use hex tiles on an entire wall and use rectangular or square tiles for flooring.
How to Install Hex Tiles?
No doubt hex tiles look good in any kind of space whether a room, kitchen or bathroom. However, these tiles need more careful installation than other shapes like square or rectangle because they have more sides. Considering you are spending a hefty sum of money on kitchen or bathroom remodeling, it is recommended to hire a professional for tile installation job especially if you don’t have any experience in tile installation. Let’s see how you can install hex tiles properly.
First of all, you need to clear the space; removing the old floor is half the job so don’t take it lightly and consider this too while setting a budget for the tile installation job. If the old floor is already removed or you are installing tiles for the first time then you need to make the floor dust free. Also ensure the floor is not too smooth otherwise the mortar won’t grip it firmly. Unlike square and rectangular tiles that could be installed in corners without any nipping, hex tiles need to be perfectly cut for the corners.
You can use tile nipper or wet saw to cut tiles and make them compatible with the corners. Once you install the first few tiles in the corner, the rest is a pretty straightforward job. Bigger hex tiles come individually and you need to install them manually while smaller hex tiles come with mesh sheets just like mosaic tiles. These mesh sheets make job very easy as you don’t have to install tiles one by one but based on the size of the sheet, you can install multiple tiles at once.
However, you still need to set sheets carefully as making a small mistake with one sheet of hex tiles would result in dislocation of several tiles. There are two types of mortars in the market; pre-made and powdered form. It seems the pre-made mortar is an easier option but professionals prefer powdered form so they can control the density of the mixture. While making the mortar, do not make lots of it at once because it gets dry very quick and once hardened, it is useless.
After installing all the tiles, it is recommended to give it few hours to dry. After that you can start applying grout. Usually contrast grouting looks better with hex tiles but there is no hard and fast rule so you can select any color of your preferences. Based on the gap between tiles, you can apply sanded or un-sanded grout – both of these types are easily available in the market. Sanded grout is good for larger gaps while non-sanded grout is thin and suitable for smaller gaps. After applying the grout, you can clean the excessive grout with cheesecloth. Give the grouting 72 hours to dry and then you are good to go.