Top Tips on Choosing the Perfect Floor Tiles for Your Busy Family Home

Blog written by Antonia from TidyLife

 
Natural stone-effect tiles such as concrete or Quarry tiles are able to withstand heavy footfall over many years, so are a popular option for families. Porcelain tiles are also another great option for those seeking durability because they're heavier and less porous than some other tiles, for example ceramic. Kiln-fired at high temperatures, porcelain tiles are dense and durable, meaning they are ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, porches and even outdoor areas as they don't tend to absorb water.

Safety

Safety is another crucial factor to consider when choosing floor tiles for a family home. Look for tiles that have enough traction to reduce the risk of slip and fall accidents. This means looking for tiles that are more matte or textured in finish. Tiles with a slip-resistant surface are a great choice, especially if you have energetic kids or elderly people living in the house. 

As we've talked about, kitchen and bathrooms are generally the busiest areas of the home. By installing anti-slip tiles, you reduce the risk of anyone falling and injuring themselves. These tiles also work well in halls, porches and patios where rainwater can sometimes splash or puddle.

Ease of maintenance

Floor tiles in any busy family home will get dirty of course and so easy maintenance is a priority. Food and drink spills, muddy paws and wellies, pet and toddler 'accidents', scuffs, stains... it’s all just a part of life so choosing floor tiles that are easy to clean and maintain are going to make life easier.

Tiles with a smooth or glossy finish may look great in the beginning but require more maintenance to keep them looking new. However textured tiles may require a bit more scrubbing to get in the nooks and crannies. Consider tile and grout colour too - a grey tile and grout for example will stay looking clean for longer than pure white which is harder to maintain a pristine look.

Budget

We all have to budget when it comes to replacing a floor, but quality is often reflected in the price. Low cost tiles may seem attractive, but they won't be as durable as the higher-priced options. There’s no point in buying cheap ceramic tiles that will undoubtedly crack further down the line which is a hassle and an extra expense to fix.

 

 

It’s better to find a balance between price and quality. Spending a bit more on porcelain or stone might be more expensive initially, but it means your tiles will offer those higher levels of durability and will outlive and outperform the cheaper options.

Style

Finally, choose a tile style that matches the interior design of your home. Consider your likes and dislikes because choosing a tile you fall out of love with quickly will be an expensive mistake. Think about the colour, texture, and pattern of the tiles to ensure they complement the overall look of your house. It can help if you create a digital mood board where you can lay your materials, wall colour, tile etc together and ensure there is harmony.



Tiles can blend in seamlessly (check out these neutral tiles that go with everything) or can stand out with an eye-catching pattern to give your home some personality.

In conclusion, choosing the best floor tiles for a busy family home requires careful consideration. Tiles that are durable, safe, easy to maintain, and within your budget, while also matching your interior design, should be your ideal choice. Don’t compromise on quality, as quality tiles will last longer and save you money in the long run.