Ceramic Tiles: The Unsung Hero of a Sustainable Home

Ceramic Tiles: The Unsung Hero of a Sustainable Home

In today’s world, the focus on sustainable living has never been more pronounced. From adopting renewable energy sources to minimizing waste, many homeowners are actively seeking ways to make their homes more environmentally friendly. Among the plethora of options, ceramic tiles have emerged as an unsung hero. Their potential for enhancing a home’s sustainability is enormous. In this article, we will delve into the reasons why ceramic tiles are a perfect choice for the eco-conscious homeowner.

A Time-Tested Material

Ceramic has been a popular material for centuries. The timeless appeal of ceramic tiles lends a classic touch to your home and boasts durability. They are known to last for decades, reducing the need for frequent replacements. In addition, ceramic tiles require minimal maintenance, which cuts down on the use of chemical cleaners. To ensure that your tiles stand the test of time, taking proper care of them is essential. Here are some tips on how to make your ceramic floor last longer.

Allergy-Friendly and Health-Conscious

Ceramic tiles are non-porous, which means they don't harbor allergens, dust mites, or bacteria. This attribute makes them an ideal choice for those with allergies or asthma. Moreover, since ceramic doesn’t trap debris, the indoor air quality remains unaffected, contributing to a healthier living environment.

Energy Efficiency Galore

Ceramic tiles can significantly contribute to your home's energy efficiency. In warmer climates, tiles can help keep your home cool, reducing the need for air conditioning. Conversely, in colder regions, ceramic's thermal mass can be utilized to absorb and slowly release heat, minimizing heating requirements. This attribute reduces energy consumption and translates into lower utility bills, making it a win-win situation.

Environmental Production Process

The production process of ceramic tiles has evolved to become more environmentally friendly. Many manufacturers, including Céramique Au Sommet, are committed to reducing carbon footprints by adopting sustainable practices. From sourcing raw materials locally to recycling water and waste materials during production, the ceramic industry is continuously seeking avenues to minimize environmental impact.

Limitless Design Possibilities

Besides being environmentally sound, ceramic tiles offer limitless design possibilities. From colors and textures to sizes and patterns, the options are endless. Explore our collection, and you'll find the perfect match for your aesthetic preferences without compromising on sustainability.

The Economic Aspect

Investing in ceramic tiles is not just an environmentally conscious decision but also an economically sound one. The long-term cost savings are significant due to their durability and low maintenance requirements. While the initial investment might be higher than some alternatives, the lifecycle cost of ceramic is considerably lower.

Conclusion

The sustainability of ceramic tiles goes beyond the material itself. From production to installation and maintenance, every aspect of ceramic is geared towards reducing environmental impact. Whether renovating an old space or constructing a new one, choosing ceramic tiles is a step towards creating a sustainable home. Not only will you be contributing to the environment, but you'll also be investing in a solution that is durable, allergy-friendly, energy-efficient, and aesthetically versatile. Embrace ceramic tiles and make them the cornerstone of your green living strategy.

Tips on How to Efficiently Use Ceramic Tiles in Your Home

Choosing suitable tiles for your home takes a lot of work, especially with the many choices available. But if you're looking for an affordable, high-quality option, ceramic tiles may offer more advantages. 

Ceramic tiles are great for flooring as they are rugged, durable, and need no special maintenance. They are also easy to install, and there are a wide variety of options when it comes to sizes, designs, and colors. It's easy to find a ceramic tile design that will suit your home's aesthetics. 

But ceramic tiles are not just for flooring. Here are tips on efficiently using ceramic tiles to add beauty and more functionality to every space in your home. 

Create Fun Entryways or Hallways with Wall Accents

While walls are typically accented with paint or wallpaper, you can easily use ceramic tiles to create a fun and vibrant vibe. Create a welcoming look and feel by adding ceramic wall tiles with colors and designs of your choice. You can use tiles with bold geometric designs to add interest to an otherwise boring hallway. 

Upgrade Your Living Room

Living Room

Ceramic Tiles for fireplace and living room’s floor.

You can elevate your plain living room into a cozy space with ceramic tiles. You can start by jazzing up your fireplace. Instead of using the old red brick design, use colorful ceramic tiles with unique designs. You can use these tile pieces to create a centerpiece that attracts attention and makes a significant visual impact. 

If you're not keen on renovating your fireplace, you can always go for wall art. Get some leftover ceramic tiles and create abstract art that you can frame and hang up on the mantle or an empty wall in the living room. 

Don't Just Focus on Kitchen Floors and Countertops

Kitchen renovations nowadays get the lion's share in most renovation budgets. But when upgrading your kitchen styles, you should focus not only on the floor tiles and countertops. Why not create a kitchen backsplash with a beautiful design?

Kitchen walls

Ceramic Tiles for Kitchen backsplash

You can't just slap white tiles as your backsplash and call it a day anymore. With the many design, colors, and styles of ceramic tiles available, you will never run out of ideas to make a more appealing backsplash that still matches the kitchen's overall theme. You can also create a small bar area using herringbone ceramic tiles. 

Create an Elegant Vibe in Your Bathroom

Ceramic tiles are waterproof, durable, and hygienic, so these are commonly found in bathrooms. It is advisable to use ceramic tiles with warm and neutral colors for a clean look. However, you can always use bold colors and designs to create your desired statement.

Enhance your bathroom

Ceramic tiles are great for around your bath

You can use textured ceramic tiles for the bathroom walls as they make for the perfect background for any bathroom fixture. You can try small ceramic tiles for your shower; just make sure they are slip-resistant. 

The Bottom Line

Whatever look you want for your home, ceramic tiles can help you achieve it. And if you're looking for a reliable supplier and installer of ceramic tiles, Ceramique Au Sommet is the place to go. We offer the finest ceramic and porcelain tiles for your floors and walls!

Ceramics Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Tile Size

One advantage of ceramic tiles is that you have many options. Even in artisan-made or designer tiles, there is usually a range of patterns, colors, and even shapes to choose from. Whatever your specifications, you can find ceramic tiles to suit your needs. But after you've chosen the perfect tile design, you still have another important decision to make: What size of tiles should you choose?

There is no right or wrong answer to choosing ceramic tiles. It's entirely a matter of personal preference and the look you're going for in your home. That said, here are some details to consider in making the best decision for your space.

Factors That Influence Your Choice of Tile Size

1. The Size of Your Room

The size of your tiles can affect the perspective in your room. For example, large tiles in a small room can make the space appear larger. Conversely, small tiles in a large room can give the illusion of a cozier, more intimate space. Balance is key here. You don't want your tiles to be so small that they look out of proportion with the rest of the room, but you also don't want them to be so large that they overwhelm the space.

2. Using the Tiles on the Floor or Walls

Tiles for flooring are typically larger than those used on walls since they need to withstand foot traffic. Of course, you can use smaller tiles on your floor if you want to achieve a particular look. Just be aware that they may require more maintenance since the grout lines are more prone to dirt and debris.

Ceramics Buying Guide 2024

3. The Style of Your Home

The style of your home can also dictate the size of your tiles. For instance, larger tiles might be the way to go if you want to achieve a sleek and modern look. If your space has a rustic vibe, smaller tiles might be a better match. Of course, ultimately, it's up to you to decide what size tile will best fit the overall aesthetic of your home.

4. Your Budget

Your budget is a significant consideration when choosing the right tile size. Smaller tiles are typically less expensive than larger ones. If you're working with a tight budget, smaller tiles would be more practical. 

Your Choice of Tile Size

Here at Ceramique Au Sommet, we offer a wide range of tile sizes and formats:

• 24x24: Perfect for high-traffic areas

• 24x48: Best for large, grand spaces

• 12x24: Ideal for flooring, but can be used for walls 

• 12x12: Our most popular size for both floors and walls

• 2x2: Great for backsplashes and accent walls

• 30x30: A luxurious, large-format tile for floors or walls

• 30x60: The ultimate statement tile

Each size has unique benefits that help you achieve specific interior design goals. But don't be afraid to experiment, mix, and match to find the perfect combination for your space.

Find the Perfect Tile Size for Your Home at Ceramique au Sommet

Now that you know all about choosing the right tile size, it's time to find the perfect ceramic tiles for your home. Ceramique au Sommet has a wide selection of floor and wall tiles in various sizes, so there will be an ideal match for your needs. Browse our online catalog to see our full selection of ceramic tiles today. 

How to Mix and Match Ceramic Tiles Like a Pro

With so many colors and styles of ceramic tiles, people may struggle to choose the right combination. If you love more than one design, there’s no need to fret. You can always mix and match ceramic tiles. And nowadays, there is no hard-and-fast rule on matching different styles of ceramic tiles. 

Some people adhere to the golden rule in home design, which says that simple always looks better. But that doesn’t work for everyone. There are those who aren’t satisfied with simple and basic tile designs. They prefer a variety of styles but struggle with putting them together for a single space. 

Here are some tips for mixing and matching ceramic tiles: 

Balance Busy Patterns

Don’t use two to three busy patterns. The rule of thumb is to use patterned tiles with plain tiles. For example, you can use textured penny tiles for the bathroom floor but switch to plain white ceramic tiles for the walls. You can also go for tiles with complementary patterns if you want an accent wall, but don’t fill all the walls with patterned tiles. You can use small glass tiles in different colors for the accent wall and stick to large plain tiles for the other walls. 

Experiment With Scale

Mixing and matching tiles is not just about different colors. You can also play around with small- and large-scale patterns. Use at least three shapes of tiles: hexagonal, square, and rectangular. The important thing is to use a monochromatic color if you’re experimenting with scale. Don’t mix and match colors and shapes because your space will look cluttered.

Consider Natural Stone 

You can also use natural stones with your ceramic tiles, such as granite and marble. Use granite for your countertop and flooring while sticking to ceramic tiles for the kitchen backsplash. You can do it the other way around as well. 

Combine Different Types of Finishes

Ceramic tiles come in matte and glossy finishes, which can be combined. For example, you can use glossy tiles for your living room and matte tiles for your kitchen since glossy kitchen flooring may cause accidents. As long as the colors and scales are cohesive, matte and glossy finishes should work well together. 

By combining these two types of finishes, you can combine similar-size tiles and busy patterns. 

Use the Same Color but Different Shapes

You can experiment with same color tiles in the bathroom, but by using different shapes, you create a more unique look. For example, if you want an all-white bathroom, enhance the look with different tile shapes. You can use small hexagon tiles for the flooring and rectangular tiles for the wall. 

The Takeaway

It may seem overwhelming to match tiles on your own. By asking for recommendations from friends and family, it can be a fun activity. Of course, you will have the final say since you are designing your space. 

As you mix and match, don’t hesitate to ask questions and get suggestions from your tile manufacturer or distributor. Their experience in the tiles business will also give you a good perspective on the best combinations for your space. 

Picking the Right Tiles for Your Bathroom Renovation

Renovating your bathroom is a big undertaking. Most people see the bathroom as a place where they can relax. If your home is usually noisy with kids and dogs running around, the bathroom is a kind of solace. It’s the only place in your home where no one should bother you. The time you spent there is for yourself. 

RIGHT TILES

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RIGHT TILES 〰️

Picking the right tiles is essential

Here’s a few tips for your bathroom renovation

This is why many people prioritize renovating or remodeling the bathroom when they have the budget. And the most important part of the process is picking the tiles because they set the tone for the entire look and feel of the room. The tiles are the first thing you will notice when you enter any room, especially a bathroom. 

Types of Tiles

Manufactured tiles are divided into two categories: ceramic and porcelain. While the latter is usually a more durable and hard-wearing option for bathroom tiles, ceramic is more affordable. This makes ceramic the tile of choice for most homeowners who want to save some bucks to renovate their bathrooms. And since bathrooms are not a high-traffic area like the living room and kitchen, homeowners usually pick ceramic tiles for the walls and floor. 

On the other hand, you can opt for porcelain tiles if you have more budget. These are denser than ceramic tiles, and they are easy to maintain. Most contractors also prefer to use porcelain tiles for the bathroom walls. 

Ceramic and porcelain tiles come in either glossy or matte textures. Polished tiles are perfect for small bathrooms because they reflect light, thus making the space feel bigger and brighter. It is also easy to wipe down, so cleaning the bathroom won’t be a chore. However, smears easily show on glossy surfaces, making this a disadvantage of glossy tiles. 

Then there are matte tiles. These non-shiny tiles are preferred by homeowners aiming for a natural look with neutral and earth-toned colors. Matte tiles look like natural stones such as cement, stone, and wood, making them the perfect choice if you’re aiming for a nature-inspired theme in the bathroom.

Maintenance 

Choose a tile that is easy to maintain. Bathrooms are hard to maintain because of the water, moisture, and other elements that make them accident-prone. However, by choosing the right flooring, you’re already halfway to your goal of having an easy-to-maintain bathroom that’s free from slips and falls. 

There’s no need to sacrifice aesthetics for the sake of functionality. Both ceramic and porcelain tiles come in various colors, designs, and shapes, so it’ll be easy for homeowners to pick the one that suits their taste. 

Size 

Another vital thing to consider is the size of the tiles to be used in the bathroom. If you have a small bathroom, use smaller tiles, too. Using big tiles for a mid-sized bathroom will make it look and feel imbalanced. Always choose the appropriate tile size for any room. You can also consider mosaic tiles if you’re feeling a bit creative. 

Conclusion

Consider how you’re going to use the bathroom when you choose the tiles. Your guest bathroom can have textured tiles that are harder to maintain since only a few will use the bathroom. The personal bathroom you use every day should have more practical tiles because it’ll be harder for you to maintain cleanliness. If you choose textured and hard-to-maintain tiles, ensure you have the time and technique to keep them clean. 

Sources:

https://citizensustainable.com/quartz-sustainable/#Is_Quartz_Environmentally_Friendly

https://www.spectracf.com/quartz-flooring/

https://www.alpinepainting.com/blog/what-is-quartz-flooring-and-will-it-work-in-my-facility

How to Choose the Right Size Ceramic Tiles

One of the great things about ceramic tile is that there are so many options. As you sort through your choices, you will find yourself selecting colors and styles as well as sizes. There is a vast range of sizes to choose from a few inches across to those several feet across. 

To some extent, your choice will be a personal decision. However, you want your ceramic tiles to look good in your space, and not everyone is an interior designer. If you aren’t sure what size of ceramic tiles is ideal for your space, consider the following tips. 

Start With the Size of the Space

As a general rule of thumb, if you have a small space, you want smaller tiles. Moreover, if you have a large space, you want bigger tiles. So, most bathrooms would do best with small to medium tiles, while open-floor kitchens, spacious living areas, and big dining rooms will do best with large tiles. 

Of course, you can also break these rules to make a space feel larger or smaller. When done right, large tiles can add elegance and spaciousness to a midsize bathroom. Or smaller tiles can give you the ability to create intricate patterns on the floor of your larger space.

Consider Grout Lines

The more tiles you have on your floor, the more grout lines you need to connect the tiles. This is largely an aesthetic consideration. Specifically, if you want a sleek, modern appearance, larger tiles will be a better choice as there will be fewer connections. 

However, you may also choose to use grout lines to your advantage and make them part of the design. 

The important thing to remember is that the more grout lines that you have, the busier the space is likely to look. 

XXL CERAMIC TILES

Choose an Extra lLarge tiles to be installed in small bathroom renovation project to give a WOW effect.

Think About the Shape of the Space and Logistics of Installation

If you want to minimize the number of tiles you need to cut to fit the space, you don’t want to use too large tiles, as they are unlikely to fit your space perfectly. While you should think about this, it should not restrict you. 

After all, it is not that hard to cut tiles to the proper shape. Besides, professionals do it all the time. You need to be aware that installation may take a little longer if more tiles need to be cut, which may increase labor costs. Of course, some of that is mitigated because fewer tiles will need to be installed if they are large. 

You Can Combine Sizes

If you can’t choose between several sizes of ceramic tiles, consider combining a few sizes. This can create a cool effect or pattern that makes the floor or wall even more visually appealing. However, you will have to do some careful planning to ensure that your chosen sizes work together well. If you do use multiple-size tiles, remember that this will also make your space look busier and potentially smaller than it would with larger tiles. 

Sources:

https://www.granadatile.com/blog/how-to-choose-the-right-size-tile

https://www.tilemountain.co.uk/blog/how-to-choose-the-right-size-tiles/

https://www.cletile.com/blogs/cle-notes/choosing-the-right-size-tile-for-your-small-space

https://www.americanolean.com/get-inspired/articles/4-tips-for-using-tile-sizes-to-your-advantage

The Advantages of Using Ceramic Tiles

Ceramic tiles can be extremely versatile, and there are a lot of advantages associated with the material. For instance, it can easily resist stains or water. Once you have a better understanding of the ins and outs of ceramic tile, you can make a better decision about your flooring. Keep reading to find out more about the advantages of having ceramic tile placed in your house. 

Durability of the Tile

Ceramic tile is a highly resistant surface, and it is very tough. That means that it is often hard for cracks to develop. If you install it right and with the right maintenance, you can expect it to last for a couple of decades. In case one or two of your tiles do not last as long, it is not that hard to replace them. 

Resistance to Water

If you choose ceramic flooring tiles with a glaze on them, you will also have a protective surface to prevent water issues. That way, neither stains nor water will have an impact on the tile. If you get a glazed tile, it is also good for humid weather. Plus, you can use them in areas exposed to more water, such as the laundry room or bathroom.

Of course, you can also get non-glazed tiles. They might need to be sealed if you do not want them damaged by water. It is also a good idea to seal the grout between each of the tiles. That can keep out the water, so it does not cause the area to get moldy. It also makes it easier for you to keep them clean. 

Avoiding Allergies

The surface of your ceramic tiles will be very hard. That means you do not need to worry about allergies because you won’t get exposed to fibers like those from rugs. Plus, not as much dust and other dirt are likely to build up on the surface of your ceramic flooring. It also means that you will not need to worry about pollen or animal hair on the surface. That will make the air easier for you to breathe if you have allergies. 

Even if you do not have any allergies, it can be more hygienic for you to have hard floors. Even regular vacuuming does not get every last bit of dust off the carpet, and you might still have to shampoo the floor. But with ceramic tiles, it is easy to ensure cleanliness. 

Easy Tile Maintenance

It is not that hard for you to care for your ceramic floors. Liquids, dirt, and other stains are only on the surface of the tiles. That means that it is not hard to simply wipe up any liquid issues. You can also choose to either vacuum or sweep the surface of the flooring. 

Closing Thoughts

There are many advantages to having ceramic tiles in your home. Understanding the benefits can help you make a more informed decision about whether the material is right for your flooring.

Tips for Tiling Your Shower with Ceramic Tiles

Tips for Tiling Your Shower with Ceramic Tiles 

Ceramic tiles are ideal for kitchens, wet rooms, and any other rooms in your home. Perhaps where they shine the most is in your bathroom shower. Ceramic comes in a wide variety of colors, shapes, and sizes, giving you endless options when it comes to design and style.

Tiles for Shower Floors

The tiles on the floor of the shower need to meet a few requirements: They need to be water-resistant, slip-resistant, and sized just right for the space of the shower. They also need to be able to stand up to the humidity and moisture in the shower. While stone and porcelain tiles are typical in many homes, ceramic is becoming more popular for homeowners.

Tile Shape

One of the most common choices for shower floors and walls are mosaic tiles. Not only is mosaic aesthetically pleasing to the eye, these smaller tiles can easily fit into the shape and slope of the shower floor. Mosaic tiles also have more grout lines than larger tiles, which helps to add texture and a slip-resistant surface.

When looking for mosaic ceramic tiles you’ll find a variety of choices for design. Hexagons, square patterns, and arabesques all add a unique style to the shower that can complement or contrast with the rest of your bathroom.

Ceramic Tile Color and Pattern

With so many colors and patterns available, it can be easy to go overboard on design. Build a color palette based on the vanity colors and cabinetry in the bathroom. One of the options for design is to match your ceramic shower tiles to the rest of the room to create a unified and flowing look. Another option is to go for a bold look and make a statement with contrasting hues that add a pop of color. And don’t forget grout color. You can build even more color by using colored grout between the tiles.

Types of Ceramic Tile

Ceramic tiles and Porcelaine tiles can be either unglazed or glazed. Unglazed tiles are manufactured by using different types of clays that are ground and combined together into a fine powder. This powder is then blended with water and formed into tiles. Glazed tiles go through one further step in the manufacturing process. The surface of the tile is coated with a glaze that gives it a glossy look.

Finalizing the Look

Once you’ve come up with the perfect color scheme and design for your shower tiling it’s time to add the final touches with a shower faucet, handles, and a shower head that makes a statement of their own. Shower heads come in a wide variety of sizes and shapes, including square and circular. Or consider an overhead rain shower head that can give you a waterfall experience when showering. Coating on shower fixtures varies as well and includes stainless steel, polished chrome, brushed nickel, or the new trend of oil-rubbed bronze.

Let the professionals help you when it comes to choosing and installing ceramic tiles in your shower. Contact Ceramique au Sommet for their expert advice and answers to all your questions.