Why is bathroom floor tile different than any other tile in the house?

There’s something comforting about having a gorgeous bathroom. However, there are certain limits regarding what types of surfaces and materials are used. Practical bathroom design includes materials that can deal with plenty of water and steam and also be easily and deeply cleaned. Bathroom tile needs to repel water and is easy to clean with powerful cleaners to kill germs, bacteria, mold and other nastiness.

This is why carpet in the bathroom is a no-no. You can’t completely clean carpet. Therefore, what’s different about bathroom floor tile is that it should incorporate both the practical and the aesthetic.

But, there isn’t just one type of tile. There are many options.

When choosing tile for your bathroom, planning is essential. Before you start, take a good look at your bathroom. Is it big or small? Do you want dark bathroom tiles or light tile? Are you OK with maintenance or is your goal minimum cleaning and scrubbing?

Here are a few tips on selecting the best bathroom floor tile, wall, and shower tile.

Does The Floor Tile Have To Match The Shower Tile?

Typically you’ll choose a floor tile, a wall tile for the shower/ tub surround, and an accent tile that will be used as a focal point. However, many choose one style for the entire room. It’s less common to have everything match than it is to have different styles of tile. But, if you like things super clean-lined, or maybe you hate making decisions about home décor, this is a perfectly acceptable way to go. This bathroom is a superb example of a matching floor and shower tile.

Same floor tile or different floor tile in all bathrooms?

In all the projects I’ve done, I’ve never used the same tile in all bathrooms in a home. Commercial projects often would choose that option, but not residential. They can all be different while remaining consistent with your style and the architecture of the home. At the very least, you could use different variations, sizes, and patterns of the same tile brand.

Think Light Colors

Light colored subway bathroom tile is an extremely popular home trend right now. Plus, white, off-white or light colors can make the room feel spacious. When it comes to grout colors, be sure the grout doesn’t contrast too sharply with the tile.

Rule of Three

If you’d like to create a unique tile pattern, stick to no more than three tiles that share the same color palate. Using more bathroom tile colors is a distraction to the eye. Following this simple rule will help make sure your bathroom tile isn’t too gaudy.

Single Accent Piece

Try an accent color or pattern with your tile, but don’t go overboard. Choose just one design or color of bathroom tile as an accent and it will give your bathroom a timeless look. Too many bold colors and patterns will compete with each other. 

Slippery When Wet

While glass, and glossy, bathroom tile is pretty and makes for a great wall or accent tile, it becomes extremely slippery when wet. Avoid glass tile on floors, especially in bathrooms with a shower or bathtub. And, consider a mat finish for your bathroom floor tile.

Consider Upkeep

Once you’re finished with remodeling your bathroom you’ll want to be done with it. So, always consider maintenance. If you’re looking for a bathroom tile that doesn’t require much maintenance, think porcelain or ceramic. Tiles made from natural stone require more upkeep since they are more porous.

TOP TRENDS IN BATHROOM TILE DESIGN FOR 2022

Bathroom remodeling isn’t as simple as it used to be. A few years ago, tiles were mostly chosen for their simplicity and functionality (durable, easy to cleanup, and water resistant) but today, their aesthetic impact is just as important as their function. This is why manufacturers have expanded their selections. Here are a few of the top trends in 2022.

Try a Matt Finish

Matte finish tiles have become very popular for their soft warm look, and ability for the colors to not overwhelm. They’re also very functional showing fewer imperfections and smudges than glossy tile making them easier to maintain- not to mention less slippery when wet. Glossy finish tile are still very popular, giving a more dramatic effect and greater reflection of light which grabs your attention. But, for that un-stated sophistication matte finish tiles are becoming more popular so don’t be afraid to give them a try.

Neutral and White Tile

You can never go wrong with large white tiles.

Contemporary designs are making use of neutral colors and this remains the case this years bathroom tile trends. Bright colors are more retro, and not common with todays bathroom designer trends. Grey and beige have become super popular.  So much so, that a new color has emerged by name and featured in product selections – “Greige”.

By being neutral, they allow the mind to stay calm and relax. You can use varying neutral shades from floor to ceiling, or make use of an accent or darker floor tiles to offset the look.

Subway Tile Aren’t Always White Anymore

Subway tile was traditionally glossy, white, and can seem boring. But lately subway tiles are getting a lot more interesting. We now see these tiles offered in more colors, larger sizes, and a-typical design patterns.  We even see subway tile set horizontally, vertically, herringbone, or any number of patterns.

Dimensional Tile

It is not just colors and patterns of tiles that are getting more diverse, manufacturers are also playing around with the shapes. Bathroom tile trends will now vary from traditional rectangle to a variety of other geometric shapes.  

Graphic Tile Patterns

Graphic patterns have been a huge trend for a while now, and continue to gain in popularity. Whether on the floor or the wall it’s the perfect accent tile.  Both subtle and bold contrasting colors the intricate patterns in these tiles give a defined signature that lures you in. Typically ceramic tiles are a popular choice for those with patterned tiles, but now you’ll see porcelain patterned tiles emerging. Expect to see more and more of this style in the year ahead.

Wood-Look Flooring Tile

Wood plank tiles have been popular for some time now, and now they’re making a splash into bathrooms. Wook-look porcelain tiles give the bathroom a warm look, are typically neutral colors, and are easy to maintain.

Metallic Finishes

Yes, metallic, is our soon to be shining star of trendy bathroom remodels. Metallic tile have been around for a long time but are gaining popularity for bathrooms. I personally think they’re awesome as a trim, but it’s a brave person to cover a floor with it. That’s because they’re shiny and reflective, come in many sizes and colors, giving your bathroom a gorgeous yet edgy makeover. As an accent they are perfect. Expect to see them more and more.

Large Tiles

Tiles continue to be larger and are being made even larger. Wood-look porcelain tile are now as much as 48” long. Not only for floor tile, these larger tiles can be used in shower walls. They can make your bathroom look larger, sleeker, and with fewer grout lines make easier cleanup. This is an awesome look! However, installation can take more skill. When going with large bathroom tile, you must maintain a minimum grout joint width of 3/16-inch. Also, be sure there is at least 90 percent mortar coverage below the tiles as their large size makes them more prone to cracking. 

Geometric Shaped Tiles

Create a modern-day mosaic appearance by using different tile shapes. This method produces stunning geometric looks that range from bold to sophisticated. Used on the bathroom floor, as a backsplash, or shower walls tiles are no longer meant to be so square. This is perhaps my favorite because you don’t have to go big on color, or install them in any crazy pattern. They are simply impressive as they are.