Wall Tile That Will Make You Feel Awesome

I don't know about you, but I thought that I have been there, done that and got the t-shirt when it comes to wall tile. I never imagined that I would ever experience the awesome feeling of seeing something new and breathtaking in the world of wall tile. Was I living in a cave wearing blinders in the dark? Was I transported to another planet where wall tile was nonexistent? Was I stranded on an island in the middle of the South Pacific?
No, I was living in the Chicago area and the thought came to me that I should take a look to see what has happened to wall tile in the 21st century. What a splendid idea! So I did...
As I began to explore all the possibilities I began to realize that wall tile has become an amazing decorating art form that has truly evolved over the past few years. As I researched the forms of wall tile available today, each step of my search brought me into new and exciting materials, styles, colors, shapes and textures that are sure to please even the most scrupulous of individuals.
At first, I came across wall tiles that are familiar to even the most novice wall tile seeker. These wall tiles were those made of ceramic, glass, limestone, marble/granite, porcelain, slate, travertine and mosaic.
The ceramic wall tile I first came across came only in earth tone shades. The glass wall tile had more to choose from. Different shapes of glass in each tile, multi-colored tiles and an array of surface textures.
When I looked at glass tile I found that you are able to get glass tile in every color under the rainbow. The options for glass tile textures are open to exactly what you are looking for. The variety of styles is one of the largest of the tile family.
The limestone wall tile was mostly of earth tone, but offered a multitude of design patterns and borders. This made it possible to mix and match designs to create works of wall tiles art on your surrounding walls.
The marble/granite wall tile was presented mostly in shades of off-white and beige, but dark brown marble and an aqua blue granite tile are also offered. It was nothing new. This type of wall tile has been around a long time.
The porcelain wall tile came mostly in medium to dark shades of tans and browns. With the exception of Flagstone (a mosaic porcelain style) and Cognac (with a design pattern), most of your porcelain wall tile is solid color.
The slate tile in general has a mixture of earth tone colors creatively combined into each tile. With grays, tans, browns and reddish browns mixed into the display depending on what particular color combination you are looking for.
With Travertine wall tiles, you have a diverse selection of colors to choose from. From earth tones of brown and beige, from rustic walnut to golden volcano, from Egyptian Gold to Tuscany Blend, these tiles have a natural beauty that has descended through the ages.
I'm sure you are familiar with mosaic tiles. Each tile consists of small tile or stone pieces placed in some sort of geometric pattern. There are a variety of pastel colors to choose from. You can also choose from tile pieces or stone pieces with a flat or polished finish.
Now let's get to what I call the interesting wall tiles. These are wall tiles that you have to see in order to get the full impact of their unique elegance. So let's get started.
I will now take a look at what is offered in hand crafted wall tile. First I will describe the hand crafted tiles available in an array of colors such as Mojave, Dijon, Vermouth, Espresso, Savannah, Breakwater and several other artful shades.
This is the Ashbury collection. As for the textured surfaces of these tiles, they are presented in Anchor Bay, Du Bois, Ghiradelli, Montreaux, Presidio, Soledad and several other elegant textured designs. You have to see for yourself how beautiful these truly are.
Next, we will take a look at the Classic Shapes Collection. Here we have classic shades of beige tones with elegant shapes called Mini Acanthus, Acanthus, Dot and Dash, Acropolis, Crown and Stop Corner, Peter's Lattice and Sonia's Flower. To see the articulate detail of these pieces, you have to examine them online.
The Artisan-Heritage Collection consists of Country Hen, The Rooster and Plentiful Platter. The title of each of these pieces does describe what is present on the tile, but does not express the detail these beautiful tiles will bring to your kitchen decor. You truly have to see these exquisite pieces for yourself to feel the charm and warmth that radiates from each piece.
Before I move on to Modern Wall Tile, I would like to delve into the Olde California Collection. This collection consists of multi-colored designs fired into these tiles making them a desirable addition to any room in which they are displayed. With titles such as Adobe, Patio, Plaza, Benecia, Clara, Diego, Mojave, San Gabriel, San Luis Rey and Vallejo, you just have to see the rich Spanish heritage devoted to these extraordinary works of tile art.
Other collections in the handcrafted tile category are the First Choice Collection, the Casual Elements Series, the Confetti Collection, the Campagna Collection and the Heritage Pecos. Take a few minutes and explore these and all the others I mentioned. You will discover how you can create an enchanted atmosphere in the comfort of your own home.
Now it is time to take a look at modern wall tile. This version of tile is creating a new frontier that will pave the way to future generations of artfully expressive fashion.
I will start with tile categories. Here you will find modern wall tiles in topics such as Glass Tile, Tile Blends, Ceramic/Porcelain Tile, Cork tile, Pebble Tile, Steel Tile, Brio, Lush, Mod Dots and Mod Rocks. Now I will attempt to provide you with some basic information on each of these. Remember, this is all Modern Tile.
For modern glass tile you have Mosaic, Blends, Square, Subway, Recycled and Tattoos. Out of all of these modern glass tiles, I thought I would give you an idea of the styles of Glass Tattoos offered. You have Sailor Girl, Compass Blue, Anchor, Compass Red, Koi, Swallow, Dagger Heart and Mom Heart. If you are familiar with regular tattoos, then you will have an idea of what these glass tiles look like. Otherwise, just go online and have a look at these and all the modern glass tiles that I have mentioned.
Moving over to Modern Tile Blends. This is just exactly what it sounds like. These tiles are made with blends of different tile materials. Here you can pick from stock blends that are tile blends that the manufacture has already catalogued, or you can put together your own custom blended tiles with unlimited possibilities.
Now we will discuss Modern Ceramic/Porcelain wall tiles. There are 2 main styles to choose from when it comes to modern Ceramic/Porcelain tiles. First you have your Mod Dots. These are glazed porcelain penny rounds. With a variety of colors to choose from, you can mix and match color dots for a modern look to any wall indoors or outdoors.
The other style of Modern Ceramic/Porcelain wall tiles is called RAW tiles. RAW Tiles are derived from fabric designs and graphics. The process for making these tiles was first used by Persians and over the years the technique was introduced to California from immigrating Spaniards. The modern version introduces patterns or designs on the tile that match well with contemporary decor.
Next we have Modern Cork Tile. This cork tile follows in the footsteps of Mod Dot tile. This is a cork mosaic in a penny round style. You have the option to stain the cork rounds to any color of your choice or using wood stain you may retain the natural color of the cork. Before grouting the cork tile a sealer must be applied. You have to see examples of the finished product in order to fully appreciate the beauty.
Our next example of Modern Wall Tile is Pebble Tile. These are natural polished pebbles. They are now available in six color combinations. These tiles are mesh mounted and are shaped in an interlocking pattern. With outstanding durability, these tiles can be applied indoors or outdoors.
So now we have come to Stainless Steel Tile. This tile is constructed with a heavy porcelain base and a 1mm stainless steel overlay. This tile is ideal for kitchen backsplash applications. Not recommended for standing water applications, such as spas or pools. With six styles to choose from, you're sure to find a style to match your application.
For those who wish to go green, most all of the Glass Modern Wall Tile that I have gone over is also available in recycled material. All of these products are environmentally safe and are generally easy to apply.
If you are ready to make a striking and dramatically pleasing appearance to one or more rooms of your home, then you should seriously consider wall tile. You will see how an ordinary room will suddenly turn into a masterpiece.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/1962732

Wall tiling over kitchen worktops. A detailed guide

Tiling a kitchen splashback is a task that can be carried out by many DIYers. It needs (like most tasks) some planning and preparation in order not to waste time and money. A simple to do list will help you on the steps to take hence trouble free and relaxed attitude in accomplishing your project.
So, where to begin? First of all find out if you are ready for tiling. A couple of things to consider are:
1) Are you in need to replace any kitchen units or worktops?
2) Have you got existing tiles over the walls?
If you are considering changing the work surface at some stages soon, then it will make sense to wait a bit longer as the tops thickness could be different from the existing one or maybe you discover that you prefer a different colour, style or fashion which won't match the tiles that you have purchased (this has happened several times).
With advanced technology is has been possible purchase special tile adhesives to install new tiles on to existing tiles. It is worth mentioning that (where suitable) special attention will need to be paid on the existing background. Can the existing substrate hold the weight of the new covering? Will the perimeter edges be seen? Will you be happy to see two layers of tiles sticking out from the walls or is better to remove the existing layer? Will the extra thickness of tile be pushing outwards the electrical outlets, causing problems with the socket's screws being too short? What about the electric cables on the sockets not been able to be stretched enough! All of this must be taken in consideration before you embark with your project. If you are taking the old tiles off the wall do make sure that all adjacent areas are protected by padded dust sheets and that you have full protection gear on as the tiles can easily cut through bare skin. Dust mask and goggles are an absolute must.
Sizing up the tiles Before you do anything else check to see if you have the correct tiles, the correct amount of tiles and if you are using border tiles and/or inserts/decor tiles then check for size variations. This happens often. If there are size variations you will need to take this into account before deciding on what type of spacing is more aesthetically right. What can happen is that you may have started to tile the wall and have a 1.5 mm joint, then you put the border on top and the border being to big, will go out of alignment from the rest of the tiles. Take your time. Try to visualize all the tiles on the wall, as a finished job, then you can foresee any possible problems and avoid them.
Nearly ready to tile Have a look on the tile’s packaging to see if there are special recommendations for spacing the tiles. Different tiles will require different joint sizes. If you use standard ceramic wall tiles you could use 2 mm tile spacers and if you use rustic tiles, 5 - 10 mm spacers. All is relevant to the style and working size of the tiles. Check for batch difference, and always open several boxes and use few tiles from each box. Check the worktops with a spirit level (Ideally one that is 120 cm or longer); see if the tops are level, if not you might need to space up the lowest section with tile spacers or cardboard.
If the base is too much out of level from one end to the other, then you will need to allow a full tile at the lowest point and then draw a level line at the top of this tile and any tiles that do not fit from the line down to the worktop, will need to be trimmed to size using a tile nippers or wet tile cutter. Many times when you try to draw the line you find that the sockets are in the way. If this happens then instead of using one tile at the lowest point, use two tiles, (one on top of the other and draw the level line at the top of the second tile) that usually works. Don’t forget to insert a tile spacer if you are using any. On rare occasions you will need a laser level with a continuous projected line or a rotating laser level. This will nicely go around the obstacles.
What spreading trowel to use. The thickness of the adhesive should be such that when the tile is in its final place, the adhesive should not squeeze out from the joints. Most times a trowel with 6 mm notches is fine and in general you can use tiles of 10 - 20 cm square. If mosaic is to be installed then you might need a 3 mm notched trowel and if hand made tiles are to be used, then either use the 6 mm trowel and butter up the back of the tile, or use a 10 mm and above to suit the tiles. More adhesive will be required if the tiles have a deep profile or studs than if the back is smooth. If there is adhesive squirting out from the tile joints, then use a thin flat screwdriver or Stanley knife to clear the joint and then use a damp cloth or sponge to clean the tiles. It is important not to have the adhesive getting in contact with natural stone (like marble) as it can stain it and then detract from its nice look.
Electrical points. Undoubtedly you going to have to cut around electrical points (sockets, fuse spurs, cooker switches, light switches, etc.) Make sure that you know where the electric supply is and SWITCH IT OFF. You should be able to isolate the kitchen electricity so that you can still use other sockets around the house.
Tiling tools. There are plenty of DIY tiling tools on the market that allow you to carry out tiling on a small budget. If you are using thin ceramic tiles then a tiling starter kit can help you. Here is what you will need for an average job.
* Manual tile cutting machine
* Spirit level
* Tile nippers
* Tile file or sanding block
* Electric tile saw
* Protective goggles
* Electric extension lead
* Squeegee
* Protective gloves
* 2 Clean buckets
* Sponge
* Stanley knife
* Tile spacers
* Pencil or tile marker
* Mixing trowel
* spreading trowel
* Silicone shaping tool or kit
* Tile trim mitre box
* Ear protectors
* Dust masks
Tile Trims. On some occasions it is necessary to add tile trims to the tiles. An example of this is where two tiles meet on an external angle, where the tile edge will need protection from being chipped or if the walls are not plumb and it is required to have cuts at both extremities, or if the tiles have no glazed edges. If you like or need tile trim, make sure you use the right size ones to fit the thickness of the tile. Some tiles do not require tile trims as they have their edge glazed, others will need trims. If you are painting the walls adjacent to the tiles, you could use the trims only on the external angles where the tiles meet and simply paint the unglazed edges on the top of the last tile.
Windows. If one wall to be tiled has a window on it, find the middle point of the window sill and measure with the tiles to see how big the end cuts are. If the end cuts are too small, offset the middle point to half tile and recheck. Start with the best measurement in order to achieve the best look ( you will want a cut that is bigger than 20 mm). Attention must be applied to not end up with opposite cuts too big (nearly full tile), as this would give you very small cuts on the front vertical of the window and hence can give you problems with either cutting the tiles or an even worse problem with alignment if the vertical edges are off plumb. Also check to see if the window sill is level. Many times it isn’t and if that’s the case you can find the highest spot and when it comes to tile the front (between the worktop and the windowsill) start from there and when you are ready to tile the top of the sill, fill it level with adhesive. If the difference is too much, you might have to use two layers of tiles or make good with some plaster or cement before tiling.
First tile the front wall to the height needed and then cut and apply the tile trim (if required) on the perimeter and then tile the window sill and sides.
Grouting Once the tiles have been installed let them dry overnight before grouting. You will need to buy the right grout for the tiles used:
* Thin joint grouts for small joints (some grout can be used from 1 - 5 mm)
* Wide joint grouts for joints of 3 -20 mm
* Standard grouts
* Flexible grouts (developed for porcelain tiles or where small movements are possible)
* Epoxy grouts for industrial and/or special hygiene areas
Always read the manufacturer’s instructions on the usage and application.
Silicone Once the grout has dried you can apply the silicone sealant if needed.
You can buy silicone suitable for general use, this is usually of the “Acetoxy” type but if the tiles are made of natural stone then you will need a silicone suitable for this (ask your supplier for a “Neutral Cure” silicone) as general silicone might stain some marble. Silicone is a beast of its own. You will need to be quick and careful with it! It can be helpful if you purchase a silicone tool kit.
If you have to remove old silicone, help is at hand in the form of “silicone remover”. Easy to work with making it easier in removing decayed, mouldy silicone. more...
Hope this is clear and helpful to you. Happy tiling. :)

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/635885