Large vs. Small: What Size Should Your Tiles Be?
Picking flooring tiles is never easy, and one decision that people often find particularly trying is whether to install several large tiles or a far greater array of smaller ones. The solution is sometimes obvious, but not always.
The decision between large and small tiles is not merely a matter of personal preference; it involves careful consideration of various factors that can influence the ambiance, visual perception, and practicality of the space. There are a variety of bespoke ones available on the market, such as Essex Tiles by Eden Clay and others, and each tile size option brings its own set of advantages and considerations. Understanding how these impact your design goals is crucial for making an informed choice that harmonizes with your vision.
Large tiles, often defined as those exceeding 12 inches in width or length, have gained significant popularity in contemporary interior and exterior design. Their expansive surface coverage gives a room a more seamless appearance by reducing the number of grout lines. This effect can create an illusion of space in smaller rooms, making them appear more open and less cluttered.
Furthermore, the minimalistic aesthetic offered by large tiles lends itself well to modern and sleek designs. In addition to the visual benefits, large tiles can also be easier to clean and maintain due to their larger individual surface area.
On the other hand, small tiles, often referred to as mosaics when they’re particularly tiny, have their own charm and practicality. These tiles are incredibly versatile, allowing for intricate patterns, textures, and designs that can add a unique character to a space. Small tiles are well-suited for areas with complex shapes or curves, as they can be easily cut and adjusted to fit precisely. Moreover, they offer enhanced slip resistance in wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens due to the increased number of grout lines that provide additional traction.
As you embark on your tile selection journey, this blog will delve deeper into the considerations for choosing between large and small tiles. We’ll explore various design styles that each size complements, discuss the impact on visual perception, examine maintenance requirements, and provide insights into creating the desired ambiance for your space. By understanding the nuances of tile sizing, you’ll be better equipped to make a decision that aligns with your preferences while optimizing the functionality and aesthetics of your environment.
Why Should You Choose Larger Tiles?
Larger tiles are a lot easier and faster to install since you’ll need far fewer of them. This is nice for DIYers, and it’s going to help save time, inconvenience, and money if you need to have a tradesman in to tackle the job.
Even after being installed, larger tiles are arguably a lot more convenient. This is down to the vastly reduced amount of grouting that needs to be used with larger tiles. All those grout lines collect dust and stains, making them very hard to keep clean.
Though not a hard and fast rule, you should also adopt larger tiles in larger rooms. Going for smaller ones will make a room seem uncoordinated and busy, and larger tiles seem to possess a sense of timeless grandeur more appropriate in bigger rooms.
Why Should You Choose Smaller Tiles?
Smaller tiles take longer to install than large tiles but keep in mind that that’s only a one-time issue. In fact, it conceals one of the most important benefits that comes with using smaller tiles: convenient and inexpensive replaceability. If one of the tiles sustains damage, it will be much easier to put the problem right if the tile is on the smaller side. Additionally, you’re less likely to experience problems with lippage, where one edge is higher than that of the adjacent tile.
Smaller tiles are also ideal if you have a smaller space to work with. Using just a couple of large tiles will make rooms that are on the cosier side feel even smaller, and you’ll find it hard to fit them naturally around difficult angles.