From morning chai to midnight snacks, the kitchen is where life happens. Choosing the right tiles ensures it stays stylish, easy to clean, and durable enough to handle everyday hustle. However, picking kitchen tiles isn’t merely about their looks; it’s one of the most crucial decisions in kitchen design planning. A wrong choice can be costly both in terms of money and maintenance. To help you make an informed choice, here are the top mistakes to avoid when choosing kitchen tiles.
1. Ignoring Tile Durability
Kitchen tiles are exposed to heat, spills, and heavy foot traffic, so durability is crucial. Choosing tiles based solely on appearance without considering their strength and resistance can lead to premature wear and tear.
- Floor Tiles: Opt for matte finish vitrified tiles or go for anti-skid tiles on floors. They offer better grip and are highly durable. Works well for kitchen floors as they experience heavy foot traffic and constant movement.
- Backsplash Tiles: Ceramic tiles with a glossy finish work well as they are resistant to moisture, and stains. They are also easy to clean, ensuring longevity and hassle-free maintenance.
- Countertop Tiles: Choose heat-resistant and non-porous materials like granite tiles to prevent damage from hot cookware and spills.
- Wall Tiles: For vertical surfaces, go for glossy tiles that repel stains and grease, making maintenance effortless.
2. Overlooking Slip Resistance
Kitchens often deal with spills, oil splashes and water while cleaning utensils, making slip-resistant flooring essential for safety. Glossy tiles on the floor may look appealing but can be a slipping hazard, especially in homes with kids or elderly members. Choose a matte or textured finish tiles for the floor, as they provide better grip. Anti-skid tiles are a great option to prevent accidents in the kitchen.
3. Selecting the Wrong Tile Size
Tile size plays a vital role in the kitchen’s overall look. Large tiles in a compact kitchen can make the space look cluttered, while small tiles with excessive grout lines can make cleaning a challenge. For spacious kitchens, large-format tiles like 800X2400mm and 800X1600mm, create a seamless look. Similarly, medium-sized tiles (300x600mm or 600x600mm) work best for smaller kitchens.
4. Mismatching with Kitchen Theme
Choosing tiles that don’t complement your kitchen’s overall design can result in a cluttered look. Whether you prefer a modern, rustic, or traditional kitchen, tiles should align with the theme. Stick to a cohesive colour palette and select tiles that enhance the kitchen’s aesthetics.
For instance, if you have a modern kitchen design with stainless appliances and light-coloured cabinets, opt for glossy or subway tiles in shades like white or grey to maintain a streamlined look. On the other hand, a rustic kitchen with wooden cabinets would pair well with warm-toned, wooden tiles. You can install them in herringbone or chevron patterns for added visual interest.
5. Compromising on Backsplash Tiles
Many homeowners overlook the backsplash, focusing only on flooring. However, the backsplash protects walls from stains and adds personality to the kitchen. Invest in high-quality, easy-to-clean backsplash tiles. Ceramic tiles in floral or mosaic designs can be eye-catching, whereas plain white subway tiles bring a timeless, clean look to any space.
6. Choosing Only Trendy Designs
Trendy tiles can be appealing, but they may not remain stylish over time. Bold patterns and unusual colours might make the kitchen look outdated quickly. Stick to timeless tile designs and introduce trends through accessories, wall paint, or decor instead of permanent fixtures.
7. Underestimating Budget Planning
Many homeowners miscalculate tile costs, focusing only on the price per square foot without considering installation, wastage, and maintenance expenses. Always set a realistic budget by factoring in:
- Tile cost per square foot
- Additional 10-15% for breakage and wastage
- Installation and labor charges
- Long-term maintenance expenses
Conclusion
To get the right kitchen tiles, focusing on more than just design is essential. By avoiding these 7 common mistakes, you ensure a kitchen that will be lasting, functional, and beautiful to behold. The right choice today will save you time, effort, and costly repairs in the future. Orientbell Tiles offers a wide range of high-quality kitchen tiles designed for both style and practicality. Explore our collection to find the perfect match for your dream kitchen.
