Tile, ceramic, porcelain, natural stone, or even terrazzo and concrete, can last a lifetime or longer. Properly installed and maintained tile holds up to heavy foot traffic, is nearly impossible to stain, and difficult to damage. Tile can be the bulletproof choice in flooring.
When it comes to longevity, tile is as close to “forever” as it gets in the world of flooring as tile can last more than 75 years. Examples of tile holding up well past 100 years are far from unheard of. In most cases, the limiting factor to a tile floor’s lifespan is its appearance and style. While a tile floor may remain in excellent or even like new condition for decades, it may eventually look dated and out of style. So, homeowners choosing tile should at least consider timeless colors and looks that will look just as in style in 20 years as they do today.
Classic tile looks that will likely stand the test of time-
If you’re considering tile, and you want a look that will likely never appear dated or out of style, consider the following:
White tile – a tried and true choice
White tile in porcelain or ceramic, is always a popular and in-style choice. Bright white tile adds brightness to any room, an especially positive attribute in kitchens and bathrooms. Installing bright white tile – especially large format types – also makes rooms feel larger, making it an exceptionally good choice for most rooms or areas of a home, including entry halls and even great rooms.
As most tile is easy to clean, a bright white tile floor can be maintained and cleaned with minimal time and effort for the most part, making it a great choice for busy homeowners.
White tile floors give homeowners nearly unlimited options with furniture and décor. Everything goes well with white. Because of this, it also has outstanding flexibility as it can be an ideal choice for rooms that have a modern, traditional, informal or formal appearance.
Stone or stone look tile – a rock solid, enduring look
Simulated stone or stone tile has become extremely popular – especially for kitchens and bathrooms – in recent years. Stone has seemingly always been in style, but until recent years was a budget breaker for many homeowners. However, manufacturers have developed new stone look tile products that are or nearly are, indistinguishable from real stone, making this look more affordable than ever. Marble, for example, can be prohibitively expensive, but simulated marble products have the same look and feel, will never go out of style and are much more affordable.
If you’re considering a stone or simulated stone tile that you want to look in style for decades, marble, limestone and slate are best bets. These types all have an elegant, classic appearance that will stand the test of time.
They also can be easy to clean and maintain, though stone should be cleaned with stone-specific products. Finally, stone and simulated stone tile can be extremely durable and can hold up to heavy foot traffic, large dogs, and routine spills.
Gray is here to stay
Gray has become a popular choice in home décor in the last decade or so and for good reason. Gray is neutral so it can complement nearly any color furniture or décor. It comes in an infinite variety of shades, giving homeowners the opportunity to use a gray theme that can be varied from room to room, or even within a room. Gray can be a cool color, or it can be warm and inviting, depending on lighting, furniture, and décor.
So gray tile has become “in” and unlike many trends, seems likely to stay a classic choice. Tile manufacturers have recognized this and responded with an enormous range of gray tile options. This range includes classic and more contemporary patterns in ceramic or porcelain, as well as stone or stone look tile in shades of gray. Stone and simulated stone also varies from tile to tile, giving it an engaging appearance not tightly connected with one specific shade of gray.
Gray tile – especially variegated looks – also hides dirt well, which can reduce the frequency of cleaning.
Travertine tile – an enduring look
Travertine tile – a limestone containing swirls and engaging variations in shade and color – has long been a popular choice for homeowners. While it has gone through periods of especially strong popularity and then waned a bit, it has seemingly never fallen out of style.
This makes it a safe, classic choice for homeowners who want a look that will stand the test of time. Travertine can be used in any room but is and nearly always has been, a particularly excellent choice for kitchens and bathrooms.
It’s available in a wide range of shades and shapes, real or simulated. This gives homeowners endless options when it comes to color, overall looks and price. It’s extremely durable and easy to care for, making it a durable option.
Proper installation is the key
A long-lasting, classic looking tile will stand the tests of time, heavy traffic, kids, pets and spills only with proper installation. Improperly installed tile flooring is susceptible to cracking, and broken or cracked grout. Details matter when it comes to appearance. Tile flooring, regardless of the material, properly installed by professionals will have exceptionally precise cuts, fit perfectly around hearths, HVAC vents, under toilets and molding, and will be consistently flat. It will also feature a pattern perfectly centered in the room.
This requires training, experience, expertise, and tools specific to tile cutting and installation.
Our staff and flooring professionals are experts, having installed countless floors in homes, businesses, schools, and churches. Their expertise and knowledge mean your new floor will be installed perfectly and look beautiful for years to come.
Installing new tile is an exciting proposition. To ensure you get the results you want, it’s important to plan, make smart choices and work with experts.
Contact us today and let us help you transform your home with classic tile looks that will endure!