Whether prepping your home for sale or upgrading it to suit your lifestyle, investing in quality tile can make sense. It’s also a great way to boost your home’s value. Many big box stores can be hectic and chaotic, but specialty tile showrooms provide a relaxed shopping experience. They also offer a large selection, allowing you to ask questions and make a leisurely decision.
Aesthetics
From travertine and limestone to slate-look tile, there are plenty of options for homeowners who want a distinctive look that will elevate their home’s style. And tile has a lasting impact, unlike a quick upgrade like new paint colors or throw pillows. If you have a design goal for your room, you should seek out a specialty tile retailer where staff has regular training in the products they sell and how to install and care for them. They’ll likely have a selection of matched batches that ensure shades and sizes are identical for each tile; they may also offer one-on-one consultations at their showrooms. For example, a tile shop in Chicago will have a showroom with examples of tile so homeowners can consult with designers who offer customization ideas.
Durability
Whether you’re redoing your bathroom shower or upgrading your entryway, adding a new tile floor can dramatically change the look of your home. But not all tiles are created equal, and it’s important to choose one that’s durable enough for the high-traffic areas of your house. The right tile can withstand the stomping of snow boots and kids in soccer cleats while keeping its clean, elegant beauty for years. Consider choosing natural stone or wood-look tile for a durable and beautiful option.
Value
The initial investment in high-quality tile can pay off handsomely, boosting home value. From a new bathroom floor to a stunning backsplash, upgrading your tiles is one of the best ways to add value to your home without breaking the bank.
Unlike big box stores, specialty tile retailers have lower overheads and can offer better discounts. Moreover, they may also be able to source products that are not available in the bigger shops. Local independent tile shops tend to be family-owned and operated and often have a strong reputation in the community. They can provide personalized customer service and offer expert advice on tiling. These businesses may also have a good relationship with the vendors that supply them, meaning they can give you bigger discounts than their larger competitors. Retailers have showroom locations nationwide, offering curated collections of ceramic, glass, porcelain, stone, concrete and wood tile. Its designers can give you a personal design consultation in-store or remotely. There is a wide selection of colors and patterns and the company’s sustainability initiatives.
Easy Installation
Tiles are durable and resist dents, scratches, and scuffs, so they’re great for high-traffic areas like entryways and bathrooms. They’re also water-resistant and less likely to fade in sunlight, making them a smart choice for rooms with a lot of natural light. Choosing the right tile for your home depends on your lifestyle and design goals. For example, a beautiful marble backsplash can elevate the look of your kitchen and add to your home’s value, while a simpler tile pattern is ideal for bathroom floors and walls. Shop around and visit many tile showrooms to get ideas and compare prices. Dedicated tile retailers usually have access to the full catalogs of various tile companies and can match or even beat prices from large home centers. Some even have actual bathroom or tiled room replicas that can help you visualize the designs. The key is staying within your budget while selecting a quality product you love. It’s also important to pad your estimates for waste and breakage. Many experts recommend buying extra tile, especially for a larger project.
Ease of Maintenance
Whether you choose bathroom, kitchen, or entryway tiles, they must be durable and easy to maintain. The right tile can withstand spills, splashes, scratches, and everyday use. Plus, many are moisture-, stain-, and chip-resistant, so they’ll resist looking worn down over time. If you’re ready to upgrade your home, consider buying your tiles at an independent specialty retailer. These shops have lower overheads, meaning they can sell their products competitively. Plus, they can specialize in a certain type of tile. Some have a robust selection of tiles to choose from. Its tile selector breaks down options by installation location, and lists features such as heat- and moisture-resistance. Its checkout calculator helps you figure out how much tile you’ll need. It also offers free samples, a generous return policy compared to most stores (although they charge a restocking fee) and a one-on-one design consultation with an in-store expert.