CARPET VS. VINYL: CHOOSE THE BEST FLOORING FOR YOUR HOME

Choosing the right flooring for your space is crucial, setting the tone for the entire room. Two popular contenders often come into play among the many options available: carpet vs vinyl tiles. Both have their own set of advantages and considerations, making the decision a challenging one. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the showdown between carpet and vinyl tiles, exploring aspects such as durability, maintenance, aesthetics, cost, and installation to help you make an informed choice for your flooring needs. 

[Vinyl-30×30]-1197

Durability 

When it comes to durability, selecting a suitable flooring material is critical to ensuring longevity and enduring the rigors of daily life. Carpet and vinyl are two standard options, each with its durability advantages. Carpet, known for its softness and warmth, offering comfort underfoot and sound absorption, may be less durable than vinyl tiles. They can be prone to staining, wear, and tear, especially in high-traffic areas. Vinyl flooring, on the other hand, is well-known for its durability and resilience to scratches, stains, and moisture, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways. Vinyl flooring has been a popular choice for homeowners looking for durable and practical flooring options due to its ability to resist daily wear and tear and ease of maintenance.  

[Vinyl-30×60]-LD1803K-1 + [Vinyl-18×122]-LD6265-4

Maintenance

Maintenance is an important consideration when choosing between carpet and vinyl flooring because it directly affects the longevity and appearance of your floors. Carpet tiles require regular vacuuming to remove dirt and debris and occasional spot cleaning or steam cleaning to maintain freshness and remove stains. They may not be suitable for households with pets or allergy sufferers. Vinyl flooring, on the other hand, requires less maintenance, with regular sweeping and mopping usually enough to keep it clean and looking good. Vinyl’s resistance to moisture and stains allows for simply removing spills and messes, avoiding extensive cleaning. It is an appealing alternative for busy homes looking for flooring that can endure the demands of everyday life because it requires little care and is long-lasting.  

[Vinyl-18×122]-LD6605-3

Aesthetics 

The aesthetics of flooring significantly impact a room’s mood and visual attractiveness. When comparing carpet with vinyl, aesthetics become essential because each has unique visual qualities. The rug creates a soft, cozy, inviting ambiance with various colors, textures, and patterns to fit different design styles. Whether you like smooth, luxurious carpeting for a formal living room or durable, stain-resistant carpet for a busy family room, carpet allows you to create the style and feel you want. 

Vinyl flooring, on the other hand, comes in a variety of styles, such as wood, stone, and tile. With advances in printing technology, vinyl can nearly resemble the natural appearance of these materials while also offering durability and water resistance. Whether you prefer the warmth of mahogany, the elegance of marble, or the industrial chic of concrete, vinyl flooring has various options to suit any décor style. Furthermore, vinyl’s ability to mimic natural materials makes it a popular choice for homeowners seeking a high-end appearance without the related maintenance and cost. 

[Vinyl-18×124]-LD83019-4 + [30×60]-Q362

Cost 

Vinyl tiles are generally more cost-effective than carpet tiles in terms of material cost and installation. They are often budget-friendly for homeowners looking for durable and versatile flooring. Vinyl can save homeowners money by avoiding regular replacements and costly maintenance, making it a cost-effective option in the long run. Moreover, the cost of carpet tiles can vary depending on material, quality, and design factors. Generally, carpet tiles have higher installation costs than vinyl tiles.

[Vinyl-18×124]-LD203087

Installation 

Carpet tiles are relatively easy to install, as they come in individual squares that can be laid down and replaced individually if damaged. They may require adhesive or tackifier for installation. Vinyl flooring, on the other hand, has a more straightforward installation method, with self-adhesive or click-lock systems available, making it suited for both professional installers and DIY enthusiasts. Vinyl tiles or planks can be installed directly over most existing flooring, eliminating the need for substantial subfloor preparation and potentially cutting installation costs. Vinyl is a popular choice among homeowners looking for its versatility and ease of installation.

Furthermore, the complexity of installation may impact the project’s completion timeline. Carpet installation often takes longer due to the meticulous stretching, cutting, and seam-sealing necessary. In contrast, vinyl flooring may typically be laid more rapidly, especially with click-lock or peel-and-stick choices that require minimal preparation and no drying time. 

 

Key Takeaway 

There is no clear winner in the battle between carpet and vinyl tiles, as each option has its strengths and considerations. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your needs, preferences, and lifestyle factors. If you prioritize durability, low maintenance, and modern aesthetics, vinyl tiles may be the way to go. However, if comfort, warmth, and a wide range of design options are more important to you, carpets could be the ideal choice. By weighing the factors of durability, maintenance, aesthetics, cost, and installation, you can make an informed decision that enhances the beauty and functionality of your spaces for years to come.

Now that you’re armed with the knowledge and tips to pick the right tiles for your home, it’s time to turn your vision into reality. Take the first step and embark on your tile transformation journey today!

THE EVOLUTION OF LARGE FORMAT TILES THIS 2024

Within the ever-evolving field of interior design, 2024 is a year that will be remembered as a turning point in the development of big-format tiles. This blog post explores the cutting-edge designs and paradigm shifts that redefine how tiles function in our homes. Large format tiles are no longer limited to just functionality; instead, they are becoming vibrant canvases for artistic expression that captivate the interest of both architects and designers. Large format tiles have evolved from massive proportions that alter perceptions of space to complex designs that push the limits of artistic daring in 2024. This progress reflects the fusion of sustainability, technology, and creativity. Come along on an exploration of the ground-breaking trends reshaping the design scene as we explore the cutting-edge world of big format tiles, which will have a lasting impression on interior design in the future. 

 

[90×180]  831E

BIGGER

Exploring bigger dimensions is a defining theme in developing large format tiles within the dynamic field of interior design. As we go off on this evolutionary journey, 2024 stands out as a turning point when size goes beyond practicality and becomes a catalyst for redefining the fundamental qualities of architectural spaces. Large format tiles break free from convention and constraints that alter how interior spaces are seen. They are no longer limited to typical measurements; they redefine our living spaces’ physical and visual dynamics, from vast flooring that flows effortlessly across rooms to towering accent walls that grab attention. These tiles invite a sense of grandeur and openness that was once unimaginable. 

Large-sized tiles offer an abundance of creative opportunities beyond their mere size. Today’s designers can create immersive surroundings beyond the traditional, turning rooms into interactive art pieces. Massive scale is a narrative technique that helps designers elicit strong feelings, identify focal points, and produce unique atmospheres, improving the aesthetics of interiors. This new wave of design invites us to think big, step out of the usual, and embrace environments that evoke wonder, push the limit, and challenge the basic notion of what it means to create boldly and innovatively. 

 

 

[75×150] 7218

BOLDER

The year 2024 is a creative lighthouse, challenging architects and designers to go beyond the box and discover the untapped possibilities of large format tiles as intricate works of art. Large format tiles are becoming dynamic canvases with solid patterns and textures that entice the senses and redefine the basic structure of interior spaces.

The landscape of large format tiles transforms into an artist’s palette as we explore this boldness, inviting a departure from the usual and embracing the extraordinary. These tiles combine geometric patterns, realistic renditions of natural materials, and avant-garde designs to create standout pieces that cut beyond conventional limitations. Intricate designs serve as a means of self-expression for designers and enhance the visual appeal of spaces while allowing them to create tales that uniquely represent the interests and preferences of their clients. Large format tiles will no longer be just surfaces in this dynamic interplay of form and function; they will become essential components of customization and storytelling within the larger tale of modern design. 

[60×120] 24GE & 31WE

BETTER

As we approach 2024, a paradigm change becomes apparent as state-of-the-art technology transforms these tiles’ once-static and practical character dynamically. This revolutionary period pushes the limits of accuracy, durability, and adaptability and prioritizes sustainability, signifying a turning point in the relationship between environmental responsibility and design. With their technological capabilities, large format tiles are no longer only decorative accents in a room; they also signal a deliberate effort towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future. 

In exploring the relationship between technological advancement and sustainability, several breakthroughs that redefine the possibilities of large format tiles will be revealed in 2024. With the tremendous creative flexibility that digital printing technologies afford designers, complex and elaborate designs come to life. Yet, improvements in glazing methods guarantee resilience to fading, staining, and wear, prolonging the life and usefulness of ceramic tiles. However, the progression also includes a dedication to environmentally sustainable techniques and performance improvements. The industry is turning large format tiles into symbols of responsible, progressive design rather than merely decorative accents by utilizing eco-friendly materials, cutting production waste, and implementing energy-saving techniques. It becomes visible when we traverse this intersection of sustainability and technology, not just as visual beauties but also as essential components of a comprehensive design strategy that honors creativity and the environment. 

 

Key Takeaway

The development of large format tiles is evidence of the dynamic character of interior design as we navigate the 2024 design scene. These tiles—bigger, bolder, and better—reflect a change in design sensibility rather than merely being a fad. They challenge us to rethink our living spaces, breaking away from the traditional and embracing a conventional modern elegance. The development of large-format tiles is an ongoing process that holds promise for a day when the options for design will be as boundless as the tiles themselves. 

5 Wall Tiles to Brighten Up Your Home

[60x60] EG20

What are some wall tiles that can brighten up your home?

  1. Mosaic
  2. Concrete-look
  3. Light wood
  4. Pebble patterned
  5. Marble-look

 

There’s never an inopportune time to transform the appearance of your walls. Sometimes, you just need a fresh new set of wall tiles for your home. You’ve probably done all kinds of home renovation ideas, but you just can’t simply get the design right. No amount of paint coating change, furniture arrangement, or lighting fixture installation can achieve the allure of vibrant spaces. But did you know that a simple wall tile can already do so many wonders? Featuring a mix of bright colors, muted shades, stone-looks, and rustic designs, these tiles might just be the missing piece for a beautiful dwelling space.

 

Mosaic Pattern

[30x30] W-02

 [30×30] W-02

Based on one simple glance, the mosaic-patterned [30×30] W-02 has all the makings of the perfect kitchen wall tile. The cool color combination of modern grey, light, sky blue, and white are unmistakably reminiscent of refreshing splashes of water after a tiring cooking session.

If you’re not necessarily a fan of mosaic patterns, then this is the tile that can change your mind. The design is just so versatile to work with — it can complement various colors like black, wood-color, white, or any other shade of your preference. Have this tile as part of your mini-backsplash, or for your kitchen walls. Your kitchen’s contemporary fixtures will blend right in.

 

Concrete-Look

[30x60] I02-T

 [30×60] I02-T

This design can only be attributed to the reliable craftsmanship of Floor Center tile designers. You certainly won’t find this ideal design anywhere else in your ventures — and that’s exactly what the [30×60] I02-T does. It functions as a sleek, universal bathroom tile that provides you with a versatile design you’ll definitely want to try out.

Concrete-look tile designs offer an industrial touch that can fit every bathroom. Its modern allure creates warm and relaxing tones that are welcome to the eyes and perfect for exuding tranquility in your space.

 

Light Wood Patterned

Bedroom with corkboard

 [30×90] G2C-14MEA

 Anyone who’s ever been to a luxury suite understands the time and effort it takes to create a beautiful interior space. Popular tile designs of patterned wood works are what you might just find in these kinds of spaces. The appeal behind wood-patterned tiles is the sheer aesthetically-appealing look that they exude. If you want to achieve this vibe for your house, then the [30×90] G2C-14MEA is just the tile you’re looking for.

This light wood-look tile can very give your bedroom a down-to-earth outdoor appeal. As this design takes inspiration from the ever-changing yet always beautiful nature, so can your walls. Wash these tiles over with the bright, yet unassuming glow created by warm light, or natural lighting from your windows.

 

Pebble Patterned

empty chair in restaurant

 [29.2×59.2] H-3B59913

Oftentimes, you just need something simple to create awe-inspiring wall spaces for your home. Instead of patterned designs or intricate looks, you might turn to basic yet exquisite charm. With its simple matte white pebble design, the [29.2×59.2] H-3B59913 is the trusty design partner that can make this happen for you.

This pearl white colored tile is best for your patio and outdoor areas. Have this tile as part of your standalone wall design, or combine it with other clean, modern-look tiles to achieve a contemporary look for your own patio area.

 

Marble-Look

[30x90] Q83-001MGA + [30x90] Q83-001PGA

 [30×90] Q83-001MGA + [30×90] Q83-001PGA

There is just so much to admire from Greek architecture. The great artists of this time have produced marvelous sculptures like the Parthenon and Venus de Milo that are still admired to this day. For all that ancient Greek artistry has to offer, the Combination of [30×90] Q83-001MGA + [30×90] Q83-001PGA are certainly your gateway to making this type of architecture a part of your home.

This tile combination is both from the Muse Collection which has a smooth matte finish, making it a lovely addition to your walls. More than that, however, the simple, marbled look will definitely take you back to the rich Mediterranean microcosm. Make this tile a part of your living room design to add a splash of exquisiteness to your environment.

 

Key Takeaway

Floor Center has just the right wall tiles for your home. If you haven’t gotten around to it in the past, this is the opportunity for you to conduct a much-needed wall space redesign. From simple black-colored tiles and mosaic patterns to marble ivory looks, the tiles on this list are to die for.

Looking for something else? Click here to check out all other available tile designs!

We’re also on Viber! Be the first to know the latest tile tips, trends, and promos! Join our FC Tile Viber Community.

Room Decorating Ideas for Couples

Room Decorating Ideas for Couples

What are room decorating ideas for couples?

  1. Warm and Rustic Wooden
  2. Wooden Walls
  3. Elegant and Minimalist

 

Your bedroom should be a place for rest and relaxation, all the more if shared with your significant other. This space should be intimate, romantic, and private for both of you to come home to. Because of this, one of the most key components to think about is the influence of your bedroom’s interiors. We’re here to help you make you and your loved one’s space the best it can be with these couple room decorating ideas.

Whether you’re looking to either reconstruct or start fresh, you want to be on the lookout for only the most appropriate placement of your furniture, color schemes, and comfort details to make sure that your room will represent your togetherness.

 

Warm and Rustic Wooden

Warm and Rustic Wooden

Embrace the classic, warm, and rustic look by incorporating the hues of wood into your space. Retain your wall with neutral shades of beige and light browns and allow the wood to be the star of the show. You will be able to find the perfect shade of wood for you as there are many tones that wood provides (from the blondest to the darkest, and everything in between). One of the most divine things about adding wood to space is that it can stand as an accessory, an artwork, or even alone. But if you want to go all out with the priceless wood look, adding this style to your flooring is the ultimate way to go.

Although there is nothing wrong with pure wooden flooring, there is another way you can add a wood look to your space with more practical benefits. Wood-look tiles are a cost-effective, timeless, and visually pleasing option for couple spaces. With the use of wood-look tiles, you can be able to save more money and gain all the best benefits that tiles provide such as durability, less maintenance, and more variety to choose from, which are all perfect for your romantic space.

The [40X40] F53 style is your best bet! It provides all the most valuable benefits of tiles, executes a perfect wood-look finish and atmosphere, and lastly, is the perfect tile size to make your room look more spacious.

 

Wooden Walls

Bedroom with corkboard

Next to flooring, walls represent the biggest surface that can make or break the look of your room. Since walls are what surround your space and are the first thing you see when you step in, its design will make up the complete overall atmosphere and aesthetic. When it comes to decorating walls, incorporating wood is the best thing you can add to your intimate space. It is completely timeless and will never go out of style.

The look of wood is incredibly versatile Using wood to your walls creates a balanced visual symmetry. Its shades can create different ambiances for your space. Lighter shades make spaces look bigger, fresh, and airier. On the other hand, richer and deeper tones of wood can create a classier and luxurious effect.  No matter what shade of wood you select, it will immediately add warmth, texture, and a sense of natural grace to your room – perfect to set a peaceful and cozy environment for you and your loved one.

This is also an advantage for you to make your room look more serene and peaceful by adding house plants because it impeccably complements wood. An outdoor touch is a great way to boost your mood and add color to your interior.

 

Elegant and Minimalist

Elegant and Minimalist

You and your partner might be a fan of the sophisticated, classy aesthetic. If this is the case, adding a slash of gray to your space will immediately do the trick. Whether it may be to your walls, floors or beddings, shades of gray are timeless and will make your space appear very clean and elegant.

There is a lot of love for gray nowadays because it is an exquisite balance between dark and light. It is not completely overwhelming to add to your room. Any element and shade of gray that you add to your space can offer the perfect complement to any furniture, especially wooden tables and chairs. Elegant interiors are very spacious, so it is best to add tiles like [60×60] M90-7 to create larger depth for your room.

 

Key Takeaway

These couple room decorating ideas will surely give you more options to make you and your loved one’s room an intimate and romantic space to come home to after a long and tiring day. Your walls and floors carry out a big factor for achieving this, so make sure that you’re choosing only the best. If you need high-quality bedroom tiles, Floor Center offers only the best products in the market. You can shop for our tiles online and have them delivered straight to your home. Click here to learn more!

How to Tile Over Your Existing Wall Tiles

shutterstock_541755955

How do you tile over existing wall tiles?

  1. Inspect Your Existing Tiles
  2. Choose the Right Tile
  3. Prepare the Wall
  4. Pick Your Adhesive
  5. Begin Installation

 

When it comes to price, tiling over existing tiles is more affordable than retiling the entire wall or floor. If you don’t have a lot of time on your hands, this can be a great time-saver. You can finish your tiling work faster without having to deal with a large mess. If you want to save money, tiling over existing tiles is also a cost-effective option. There’s no need to hire extra pairs of hands to complete your retiling work. You can consider this as an easy do-it-yourself project. Here’s how you can tile over your existing wall tiles.

 

Inspect Your Existing Tiles

Inspecting your current tile setup is important. You have to make sure that they’re adhering well to the current substrate. It’s easy to tell when the tiles are successfully installed, make sure that your tiles don’t produce any hollow or drum-like sounds when you tap them. You can check for the sound by tapping each tile with the back of a screwdriver and listen for the hollow sound. If you find that the area sounds solid, you can proceed to tile over it. Tiles that sound hollow have to be replaced before tiling. If your existing surface is uneven, tiling over it will be uneven as well. So it is critical that you make sure that the surface is even before proceeding with your tiling job.

 

Choose the Right Tile

kyseriesfctile

Current wall tiles can make a huge impact on your project. If the wall tiles you’ve used previously are flat, you can use any tile you want. It’s much easier to install everything on a flat surface. However, you may face some difficulties when the tile pattern is uneven. Tiles with a wave pattern or layers can be difficult to install over. It doesn’t matter if your substrate is even, you will need to adjust according to the design of the pre-existing tile.

Take a straight edge tool. You need this to check how the wall tiles undulate. Use this as a reference when choosing your tiles. If they appear to be too uneven, use small tiles to accommodate the uneven tile surface.

One tile design you can try for your wall tiles is from Floor Center’s 30X60 KY collection. Hex Beige (KY10) and Hex Blanc (KY14) are glossy tiles that are the ideal fit for your bathroom. The light colors reflect your ambient lighting perfectly. The gloss texture allows for easy cleaning.

The Palette collection simulates stone tiles. Enjoy the earth tones of Creme (I-3602) and Beige (I-3603). These 30×60 rustic tiles are perfect for the outdoors. Replace your garden or patio wall tiles with these neutral choices.

 

Prepare the Wall

Prepare your pre-existing wall by cleaning it thoroughly. Clean the tiles with alcohol and a clean rag because this can remove the dirt and grime without adding excess moisture on the surface. Alcohol will also remove any sticky residue from shampoo and soap. Keep your area well ventilated when you’re using alcohol to clean the surface.

For the pre-existing grout, try removing as much as you can. Grout joints can grow mold spores. If these joints stay warm and humid, spores will begin to grow no matter what you place over it. Removing your pre-existing grout won’t affect the tiles you will lay over it.

 

Pick Your Adhesive

shutterstock_310563185

Once you find the tile design you want and properly laid out your joints, you will need to choose the appropriate adhesive. The adhesive doesn’t require special properties like waterproofing and weatherproofing. If you install your tiles properly, you won’t run into moisture problems.

 

Begin Installation

Lay down the adhesive with a trowel evenly on the surface. Begin at the center and work your way out as you lay the tiles. Remember to be careful and avoid sliding the tiles around as you lay them down. Wait for the tiles to fully set before adding your grout.

Mix your grout according to the instructions. If you’ve made the proper spacing between your tiles, this should be easy. Evenly spread the grout and make sure there’s an adequate amount in between each space. Wipe off the excess with a rag and wait for it to dry. Once it’s dry, you should notice a film on the surface. Clean off the remaining residue with grout solution or water.

 

Key Takeaway

Save some extra cash by installing new tiles over pre-existing tiles. You can achieve an updated look by using this method. To make sure that your project is clean, follow the steps above. For other impeccable wall tile designs, visit Floor Center to learn more!