Selecting the right tiles for your living room can be tricky. You want something that is stylish and will last for years, but you also need something that is practical and easy to care for. In this guide, we will discuss the different things you need to consider when selecting tiles for your living room. We will cover everything from color to durability, so that you can make an informed decision about what is best for your home. Let’s get started!
Why You Should Take Your Time Choosing Tiles for Your Living Room
Your living room is one of the most important rooms in your house. It’s where you entertain guests, relax after a long day, and spend time with your family. Tiles can play a big role in the overall look and feel of your living room, so it’s important to choose carefully. Below are a few reasons why you should take your time when choosing tiles for your living room.
To match them with the overall aesthetic of your home
Your living room is likely the most visible room in your house, so the tiles you choose should match the overall aesthetic of your home. If you have a modern home, you’ll want to select tiles that are sleek and contemporary. For a more traditional look, opt for tiles with classic designs or rich, earthy colors.
If you’re not sure what style of tile to choose, take some time to browse through magazines and design websites for inspiration. You can also ask friends or family members for their opinion. Once you have an idea of what you’re looking for, you can start shopping around.
To keep place comfortable and inviting
Your living room should be a comfortable and inviting space. The tiles you choose can help create this atmosphere. If you want your living room to feel cozy, select tiles with warm colors or rich textures. For a more relaxing vibe, opt for light-colored or smooth tiles.
You want to be sure that the tiles you choose are durable
Living room is one of the busiest rooms in your house, so you’ll want to choose tiles that are durable and easy to care for. If you have kids or pets, it’s especially important to select tiles that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. Cheap tiles may look great at first, but they can quickly start to show their age.
How to Choose a Color of the Tiles
When it comes to choosing a color for your living room tiles, you have a few options. You can choose a tile that’s the same color as your walls or furniture. This creates a cohesive look and can make your living room feel larger.
Avoid bright colors
While you may be tempted to choose a bright color for your living room tiles, it’s best to avoid this. Bright colors can be overwhelming and make your living room feel smaller.
Instead, opt for a tile that’s a few shades lighter or darker than your walls or furniture.
If you’re not sure what color to choose, white is always a safe option. White tiles can give your living room a clean and airy feel. You can also add interest to a white tile by choosing one with a textured or patterned surface.
Neutral pastel colors are also a good option for living room tiles. These colors can help create a calming atmosphere in your space.
Avoid dark colors
If your living room is small or doesn’t get a lot of natural light, you’ll want to avoid dark tiles. Dark colors can make a room feel cramped and cave-like. Instead, opt for a light or neutral tile color. This will help keep your living room feeling bright and open.
Living rooms are meant to be relaxing and inviting spaces. If you choose a color that is overly bright or bold, it can be jarring and make your living room feel less inviting.
When selecting a tile color for your living room, it’s best to stick with neutral or light colors. If you have a small living room or one that doesn’t get much natural light, avoid dark tiles. This will help keep your space feeling open and airy. [1]
Choose the Material of the Tiles
Another important factor to consider when choosing tiles for your living room is the material. When it comes to choosing tiles for your living room, you have a few different materials to choose from. The most popular options are wood, ceramic, porcelain, natural stone, vinyl and linoleum materials.
Wooden tiles
Wooden tiles are made from, you guessed it, wood! Hardwood floors are popular in living rooms because they’re beautiful and durable. If you choose wooden tiles for your living room, be sure to select ones that are finished and sealed. This will help protect them from scratches, stains and water damage.
Ceramic tiles
Ceramic tiles are made from clay and they’re kiln-fired to create a hard surface. Ceramic tiles are a popular choice for living room floors because they’re durable and easy to care for. They come in a wide range of colors, making it easy to find the perfect match for your space.
Porcelain tiles
Porcelain tiles ara type of ceramic tile that is made from fine porcelain clay. They are fired at high temperatures, which makes them denser and harder than other types of ceramic tiles. Porcelain tiles are available in a wide variety of colors, sizes, and shapes.
Linoleum tiles
Linoleum tiles are a type of flooring tile made from linseed oil and other natural materials. Linoleum is generally more durable than other types of flooring, making it a good choice for moderately high-traffic areas such as living rooms.
Vinyl tiles
Vinyl tiles are a type of flooring tile that is made out of PVC plastic. They are usually good for use in areas where there is a decent amount of foot traffic. Just as the other options, vinyl tiles are available in a variety of colors and patterns, which makes them ideal for creating unique designs.
Vinyl tiles are easy to install and maintain, making them a popular choice for many homeowners. However, vinyl tiles can be damaged by water or sharp objects, so they should be used in rooms where there is not a lot of moisture.
Natural stone tiles
Once of more luxurious choices, natural stone tiles are the way to go. Natural stone tiles are made from a variety of materials including granite, marble, limestone, slate, and sandstone. Each type of stone has its own unique appearance and coloration that can add beauty and visual interest to your living room.
The type of stone you select will affect the durability and maintenance requirements of the tile.For example, softer stones like limestone or sandstone may require more frequent sealing and polishing in order to maintain their appearance.
If you’re looking for an elegant tile for your living room, natural stone is a great choice. However, keep in mind that these tiles are more expensive than other options. [2], [3]
Consider the Maintenance
One thing you’ll want to keep in mind when choosing a tile for your living room is the maintenance. Some tiles are easier to clean and care for than others. If you have pets or children, you’ll want to choose a tile that’s easy to wipe down and won’t show dirt or stains easily.
Porcelain and ceramic tiles are two of the easiest types of tiles to maintain. They’re stain-resistant and can be easily wiped down. Porcelain tiles are also exceptionally durable, making them a good choice for high-traffic areas.
Certain natural stone tiles on the other hand will require more maintenance as they are more porous. They will need to be sealed on a regular basis to prevent staining, but they are worth the effort because of their beauty. Even marble will eventually start to show wear after years of use and isn’t particularly resistant to stains.
Wooden tiles are another beautiful option for living room floors. However, they require more maintenance than other types of tiles. Wooden tiles must be sealed and waxed regularly to protect them from water damage. They’re also more susceptible to scratches and dents. If you do choose wooden tiles for your living room, make sure you’re prepared to take care of them properly. [1], [4], [5]
Match Tiles With Your Daily Lifestyle
When selecting tiles for your living room, it’s also important to consider how the tile will look with your existing furniture. If you have dark wood furniture, you’ll want to select a light
When choosing tiles for your living room, it’s important to think about your daily lifestyle. If you have a lot of foot traffic in your living room, you should prioritize durability above all else. If you entertain often, you may want to choose a tile that’s stain-resistant.
Durability
Last thing you want is to accidently crack the tile by dropping something on the floor. Some tiles have a PEI rating assigned to them. This is the Porcelain Enamel Institute’s way of rating a tile’s durability and hardness. The PEI scale goes from 0-V.
Class 0 is for tiles used on walls
Class I is for residential use on floors with light foot traffic.
Class II is for medium foot traffic in residential or commercial areas.
Class III is for high traffic areas in both residential and commercial applications.
Class IV is for heavy traffic, residential and commercial use.
Class V is used only in industrial and commercial applications, as using it in a home would be overkill.
A good rule of thumb is to choose a tile that is rated for class III floor traffic as it can withstand the wear and tear of everyday living. [6]
Consider the Size of the Room
The size of your living room will also play a role in your tile selection. If you have a large living room, you’ll have more leeway when it comes to choosing tiles. You can go for a bolder look or even opt for patterned tiles without overwhelming the space. Smaller rooms, on the other hand, benefit from more subdued designs. Large tiles can make a small room feel even smaller, so stick to smaller sizes or opt for neutral colors to open up the space.
You’ll also want to choose tiles that are proportional to the size of your living room. It’s best to go with larger tiles as they can make a small room look bigger. [1], [5]
Consider the Overall Design of the Living Room
When choosing tiles for your living room, it’s important to consider the overall design of the space. You’ll want to select a tile that compliments your furniture and décor. What style are you going for? What feeling do you want to create? Answering these questions will help you narrow down your tile options and make a selection that fits with your vision for the room.
Furniture color matters as well. If you have dark wood furniture, you’ll want to select a light-colored tile so the space doesn’t feel too heavy. If you have white furniture, you can get away with choosing a darker tile. Just be sure to balance the tones so the space doesn’t feel too jarring.
It’s also important to find a matching relationship between the tile, walls and ceiling. You don’t want the tile to clash with your other décor, but you also don’t want it to be too bland. You may either create a strong contrast or a subtle one. It all depends on your personal style and the overall look you’re going for.
When it comes to patterned tiles, less is usually more. Overly busy patterns can make a small living room feel claustrophobic. Stick to simple designs or choose solid-colored tiles and add interest with accent pieces like rugs or throw pillows. [5]
Choose the Matching Grout Color
The grout is the material used to fill in the spaces between tiles. It’s important to choose a grout color that compliments your tile selection. If you’re going with a solid-colored tile, you’ll have more freedom when it comes to choosing a grout color.
For patterned tiles, it’s usually best to stick with a neutral grout color like white or gray. This will help the patterns on the tile stand out without overwhelming the space.
When selecting a grout color, it’s also important to consider the overall design of the room. If you’re going for a more traditional look, classic white grout might be the way to go. [1]
Comparison of Indicators for Selecting Tiles for a Living Room
When selecting tiles for your living room, several indicators should be considered to ensure you make the right choice. This table presents a comparison of various indicators in the imperial system, providing key information to help you make an informed decision.
The table below showcases important indicators that play a crucial role in selecting tiles for your living room. Each indicator is described briefly to help you understand its significance. The data in the table is presented in the imperial system for ease of reference.
| Indicator | Description | Recommended Range |
|---|---|---|
| Size | The dimensions of each tile | 12″ x 12″ to 24″ x 24″ |
| Thickness | The thickness of the tile | 0.25″ to 0.5″ |
| Material | The type of material used for the tile | Ceramic, porcelain, natural stone |
| Finish | The surface treatment of the tile | Glossy, matte, textured |
| Color | The color or pattern of the tile | Depends on personal preference and room decor |
| Slip Resistance | The tile’s ability to prevent slipping | ASTM C1028 coefficient of friction > 0.6 |
| Water Absorption | The tile’s ability to absorb water | Less than 0.5% for porcelain, less than 3% for ceramic |
| Maintenance | The level of maintenance required | Depends on personal preference and lifestyle |
| Price | The cost per square foot of the tile | Varies based on material and design |
This table provides a comprehensive overview of the indicators you should consider when selecting tiles for your living room. Size, thickness, material, finish, color, slip resistance, water absorption, maintenance, and price are all important factors that can impact both the aesthetics and functionality of your living room tiles. Use this information as a guide to choose the most suitable tiles for your space.
FAQ
What color of tiles is best for the living room?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question – it depends on the specific look and feel you are going for in your living room. However, some colors tend to be more popular choices for living rooms than others. Some of the most popular tile colors for living rooms include white, cream, beige, gray, and light blue. If you want something a little more unique or dramatic, you can always go with a bolder color like black, deep blue, or even green. However, keep in mind that darker colors can make a room feel smaller, so if your living room is on the small side, you may want to stick with lighter colors.
Which type of tiles are good for the living room?
When it comes to tiles for the living room, there are a few things you need to take into account. One thing you should definitely consider is the durability of the tile. The living room is one of the busiest areas in any home, so you’ll want to make sure that the tile you select can withstand a lot of foot traffic. Another important factor to consider is the color of the tile. You’ll want to choose a color that compliments the overall design of your living room.
Should floors be darker or lighter than walls?
There isn’t a definitive answer, it depends on the look you are going for and what will work best with your specific room. If you want a cozy and intimate feeling, darker floors can be good, but if you want a more open and airy feel, lighter floors might be better. In general, lighter colors make rooms feel larger while dark colors make them feel smaller.
Another thing to keep in mind is how easy it is to keep the floor clean. Lighter colors will show dirt and stains more easily than darker ones, so if you’re not planning on doing a lot of cleaning or if you have pets that shed, it’s probably better to go with a darker color.
What are the factors to consider when selecting tiles for a living room?
When choosing tiles for your living room, several factors should be taken into account:
- The overall style and aesthetic of your living room
- The size and layout of the room
- The amount of foot traffic the area receives
- The durability and maintenance requirements of different tile materials
- Your personal preferences and budget
What tile materials are suitable for living room floors?
Several tile materials are commonly used for living room floors:
- Porcelain tiles: These are highly durable and resistant to stains and moisture, making them suitable for high-traffic areas.
- Ceramic tiles: These are affordable and come in a wide range of styles, but they may not be as durable as porcelain tiles.
- Natural stone tiles: Options such as marble, granite, or travertine can add a luxurious touch to your living room, but they may require more maintenance.
- Engineered wood tiles: These tiles mimic the look of real wood but offer better durability and resistance to moisture.
- Laminate tiles: These budget-friendly tiles provide a variety of designs and are relatively easy to install, but they are less durable than other materials.
What tile size is ideal for a living room?
The choice of tile size for your living room depends on several factors:
- Room size: Larger tiles, such as 18×18 inches or 24×24 inches, can make a small living room appear more spacious, while smaller tiles, like 12×12 inches, may work well in larger rooms.
- Layout and patterns: If you plan to create intricate patterns or use different tile sizes together, consider the overall design and how the tiles will fit.
- Grout lines: Smaller tiles require more grout lines, which can make the room feel busier, while larger tiles have fewer grout lines, providing a cleaner look.
What tile color should I choose for my living room?
The choice of tile color depends on your personal preferences and the desired atmosphere of your living room. Consider the following factors:
- Lighting: Darker tiles can make a room feel cozy and intimate, while lighter tiles can create a brighter and more spacious look.
- Existing décor: Consider the color scheme and furniture in your living room. You can choose tiles that complement or contrast with the existing elements.
- Style: Different color palettes can evoke different styles. For example, neutral tones provide a timeless look, while bold colors can add a contemporary or vibrant touch.
What are the considerations for tile maintenance in a living room?
When selecting tiles for your living room, it’s essential to consider the maintenance requirements:
- Durability: Choose tiles that are resistant to stains, scratches, and wear, requiring minimal upkeep.
- Cleaning: Some tiles are easier to clean than others. Porcelain and ceramic tiles are generally low-maintenance, while natural stone tiles may require specific cleaning products and sealing.
- Grout lines: Grout lines can accumulate dirt and grime over time. Opt for larger tiles with narrower grout lines or choose darker grout colors to minimize the appearance of dirt.
Are there any eco-friendly tile options for the living room?
If you’re looking for environmentally friendly tile options, consider the following:
- Bamboo tiles: Made from a rapidly renewable resource, bamboo tiles are a sustainable and durable option for living room floors.
- Recycled tiles: Some manufacturers offer tiles made from recycled materials such as glass or ceramic, reducing waste and environmental impact.
- Cork tiles: Cork is a natural and renewable material that provides insulation and sound absorption, making it an eco-friendly choice.
Useful Video: *TILE IS GOING TO CHANGE YOUR LIFE! (promise)*
Conclusion
Living room is supposed to be the most welcoming place in your home, so you need to make sure to choose tiles that reflect your personal style and create a warm and inviting atmosphere. But, how do you choose the perfect tiles for your living room? Well, there are a few factors to consider. The most important one is probably what type of look and feel you want your living room to have. Do you want it to be cozy and inviting, or sleek and modern? Once you’ve decided that, you can start thinking about the other considerations – like color, pattern, and texture. And don’t forget durability too! Keep in mind that floor tiles will likely be one of the first things people see when they enter your home, so make sure they make a good impression! We hope this guide has helped make the process a little bit easier.
References
- https://www.propertygeek.in/how-to-select-tiles-for-a-living-room/
- https://levelfinish.com/blog/whats-the-difference-between-glazed-and-unglazed-floor-tiles/
- https://www.tfo.com.au/blog/tiling-tips/how-to-choose-tiles-for-living-room/
- https://www.homedit.com/living-room-floor-tiles/
- https://www.orientbell.com/blog/how-to-select-tiles-for-the-living-room
- https://totaltiles.co.uk/help-center/what-is-a-pei-rating/