Flooring tiles and wall tiles are essential elements in interior design and play a pivotal role in enhancing the aesthetics and functionality of a space. While both types of tiles serve decorative and practical purposes, there are notable differences between flooring tiles and wall tiles that are worth exploring. With this in mind, we at Flooring Solutions of Oklahoma would like to discuss the differences between wall and floor tile.
Wall Tiles VS Floor Tiles
Tile Durability and Weight: Flooring tiles are designed to withstand heavy foot traffic, furniture movement, and other forms of wear and tear. As a result, they are usually thicker and more durable than wall tiles. They are engineered to bear weight and resist abrasions, making them suitable for high-traffic areas. On the other hand, wall tiles are lighter and thinner since they don’t need to endure the same level of stress.
Texture and Slip Resistance of Tile: Due to their application in areas where people walk, flooring tiles often feature a more textured surface to provide traction and prevent slips. This helps maintain safety, especially in wet conditions. Wall tiles, on the other hand, can have smoother finishes that are better suited for vertical applications.
Tile Design and Aesthetics: While both flooring and wall tiles come in a wide variety of designs, colors, patterns, and materials, there are some styles that are more common for each application. Flooring tiles tend to have a greater emphasis on durability and functionality, so they may feature more subdued designs that complement the overall decor of a room. Wall tiles, however, often feature bolder and more intricate designs, as they serve as a focal point and contribute to the visual appeal of a space.
Tile Size and Shape: Flooring tiles are generally larger and come in various sizes such as 12×12 inches, 18×18 inches, and even larger formats. The larger size helps cover expansive floor areas with fewer seams, creating a seamless look. Wall tiles are often smaller and more varied in size to accommodate different wall dimensions and layouts. Subway tiles, mosaic tiles, and smaller ceramic tiles are common choices for walls.
Tile Installation Techniques: The installation process for flooring tiles differs from that of wall tiles due to the varying stress and strain each tile type faces. Flooring tiles require more robust adhesives and leveling techniques to ensure a strong bond and a level surface, while wall tiles may use lighter adhesives since they primarily deal with vertical loads.
Water Absorption of Tile: In spaces like bathrooms and kitchens where water exposure is common, the water absorption rate of tiles becomes crucial. Flooring tiles usually have lower water absorption rates to prevent moisture from seeping into the tile. Wall tiles can have higher absorption rates as they aren’t subjected to the same level of moisture as floor tiles.
Tile Maintenance and Cleaning: Flooring tiles, due to their exposure to dirt and foot traffic, are designed for easy maintenance and cleaning. They often have protective glazes that resist staining and are simpler to clean. Wall tiles may not require the same level of stain resistance and can be cleaned with less intensive methods.
Tile Wall & Floor Installation & More in Tulsa, Norman, Broken Arrow, Lawton, Edmond & Oklahoma City, OK
In nutshell, while both flooring tiles and wall tiles contribute to the aesthetics of a space, their differences in terms of durability, texture, design, size, and installation make them suitable for their respective applications. Understanding these distinctions is essential when selecting the right type of tile for a specific area, ensuring both functional efficiency and visual harmony in interior design. Whether you need wall or floor tile installed, the experts of Flooring Solutions of Oklahoma is readily available to provide high-quality workmanship.
