Having maintained a constant presence in homes and public places for centuries, tile is a flooring form with a storied history, and its staying power certainly holds true in modern times. Both trendy and timeless, tile is a great solution for many functional challenges, and it also boasts endless style potential, in both spaces like kitchens and bathrooms. At Kimball Carpet One Floor & Home in Medicine Hat, Alberta, we boast an extensive inventory of indoor and outdoor tile products, with plenty of options for every space, style function, and budget. Are you considering a tile installation for your residential or commercial property? Here are some things to consider as you narrow down your selections.

What are the Different Types of Tiles?

With so many tile products now available, making your ultimate selection can be a harrowing task. Today, there are tiles made from glass, mosaic, metal, and other materials, however, some things remain unchanged, and the majority of modern-day tile is crafted using either ceramic, porcelain, or stone. Although all of these are durable options, there are some distinctions to consider.

Ceramic Tile

• Most popular

• Lightweight

• Versatile

• Moisture resistant

• Budget-friendly

• Durable

• Low maintenance

• Great indoors

Porcelain Tile

• Dense

• Durable

• Waterproof

• Versatile

• Stronger

• Low maintenance

• Great indoors and outdoors

Stone Tile

• Natural

• Luxurious

• High-end

• Durable

• Water-resistant

• Versatile

• Low maintenance

• Great indoors and outdoors

Where Can Tile Be Installed?

Since tile can withstand moisture and heat, it can pretty much be installed anywhere in the home. Ceramic and porcelain are especially popular in kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms, but they also can be installed in living rooms and basements. In addition, tile can be installed on walls and backsplashes, and it can be used to create custom showers and baths. For these smaller areas, be sure to consider decorative tiles such as mosaic tiles and glass tiles. These, while not as durable as floor tiles, are more stylish.

Ceramic is a durable tile and is recommended for indoor settings. Because of its durability, it can be installed on a floor, or on walls to add backsplashes or accents to a room. They come in many shapes, sizes, and colours, and can be personalized in whatever way you choose. Installing ceramic tile in an original pattern can bring the eye to one specific place in a room. Ceramic tile offers a solid solution for adding the illusion of wealth, without the high maintenance or cost.

Porcelain’s ability to resist moisture and activity is a priority for some and adds to its many benefits. Installing porcelain tile in walkways and spaces with high activity without having to worry about if it will crack means peace of mind for the future. Porcelain tile is even durable enough for outdoor settings such as patios and decks, and it can also be installed as a custom shower. You’ll commonly find natural stone in entryways, hallways, kitchens, and bathrooms. Since many stone tiles can handle freeze-thaw cycles, you can even use them outside for patios and walkways.

What is Wood-Look Tile?

Porcelain and ceramic wood-look tile flooring are available in the form of long, rectangular panels that beautifully emulate natural wood. This trending product is popular for its sophisticated appearance and durable performance features. Wood-look flooring is a great solution in climates with hot summers and cold winters, where real hardwood is susceptible to warping. Our wood tile patterns feature an array of gorgeous shades, from darker, rustic looks, to clean white and grey wood tile. Unlike natural wood flooring, tile that looks like hardwood is completely waterproof and able to handle drastic temperature changes, steam, spills, and humidity without warping. It’s also easier to care for, and never requires sanding or refinishing. Not to mention, just like real hardwood, tile is hypoallergenic and designed to last for the life of your home. In addition to its functionality, wood grain floor tiles are exceptionally stylish.

Where Can I Install Wood-Look Tile?

They look beautiful in a bathroom, kitchen, mudroom, or beyond. You’ll also find plank tiles in many commercial settings prone to moisture, like bars, restaurants, downtown retail stores, and more. Wood-look tile showers and backsplashes are also exceptionally popular. Whether you’re interested in a distressed wood look porcelain tile for your farm-style kitchen, or a spa-like wood look tile bathroom, the experts at Kimball Carpet One are here to help. Contact us today if you’re interested in learning more about this stylish flooring option.

Where Can I Shop Tile Near Me?

When you need quality tile in Medicine Hat, Alberta, look no further than your local tile shop, Kimball Carpet One Floor & Home. As a member of Carpet One Floor & Home, Kimball Carpet One Floor & Home is privy to the purchasing power of over a thousand stores yet remains closely tied to its surrounding neighbourhoods. Simply put, our cooperative affiliation allows us the ability to offer up localized services, expansive variety, and competitive pricing. Visit our showroom, which is located at 578 South Railway SE, today, or visit us online, and shop our incredible selection of tile.

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