So, you’re ready to pick out tile for your home or project—exciting! But before you start scrolling through endless inspiration photos and heading to showrooms, there are a few things you really need to know. Tile can completely transform a space, but small missteps can lead to big regrets. Whether you're a homeowner tackling a renovation or a designer guiding a client, these seven insights will help you make the right choice from the start.

1. Budget Isn’t Just About the Tile

Let’s be honest—the cost of the tile itself is only one part of the equation. Many people set their budget based on price per square foot and forget about:

• Installation costs, especially for large-format or patterned layouts.

• Grout, sealant, and underlayment materials.

• Extra tile for cuts, waste, and future repairs—always order 10-15% more than your square footage!

If you’re working with a contractor, get a full breakdown of costs upfront. If you’re DIYing, be sure to factor in tool rentals and unexpected hiccups.

 

2. Tile Size Can Change Everything

Tile size doesn’t just affect how a room looks—it impacts installation difficulty, maintenance, and even how big your space feels. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Large-format tiles (24x48, 32x32): Fewer grout lines, sleek and modern, but require perfectly level floors and professional installation.

• Small-format tiles (2x10, mosaics, or hexagonal tiles): Great for showers, backsplashes, or feature walls, but require more grout upkeep.

• Standard 12x24 tiles: A safe, versatile choice that works in almost any room.

If you want to make a small room feel bigger, go large-format. If you want visual texture, opt for smaller or mixed sizes.

 

3. Not All Tiles Work Everywhere

Just because a tile looks good in a showroom doesn’t mean it’s right for every space. Choose wisely:

• For high-traffic areas: Use porcelain—it’s denser and more durable than ceramic.

• For bathroom & shower floors: Look for a high DCOF rating (slip resistance matters!).

• For walls & backsplashes: You can go with ceramic, glossy, or textured tiles—no need for heavy-duty durability.

• For outdoor use: Avoid polished tiles—they get dangerously slippery when wet. Look for an R10 or R11 slip rating. 

 

4. Grout Color Can Make or Break Your Design

Your tile choice is only half the equation—grout color has a huge impact on the final look. Some general rules:

• Match your grout to your tile for a seamless, modern feel.

• Go for contrast (white tile + black grout) for a bold, graphic effect.

• Light grout looks great but needs more maintenance—white grout in a high-traffic area? Think twice!

Pro tip: Always test grout colors on a sample board first—grout dries differently than it looks in the bag.

 

5. Ordering Too Little Tile Is a Costly Mistake

Running out of tile mid-project is a nightmare. Why? Because different production batches (or “dye lots”) can have slight variations in color and texture.

• Always order at least 10% extra (15% for patterned layouts like chevron or herringbone).

• Leftover tile is useful for future repairs—accidents happen!

It’s way cheaper to order extra upfront than to scramble for a match later.

 

6. Tile Finishes Affect Maintenance & Durability

Think about daily life when choosing between matte, glossy, and textured finishes:

• Matte tiles: Hide smudges and dirt, great for floors, but may require sealing.

• Glossy tiles: Easy to wipe clean, great for walls, but show water spots and fingerprints.

• Textured/ribbed tiles: Stylish and dimensional but require more scrubbing in kitchens and showers.

If you want low-maintenance, stick with matte for floors and glossy for walls.

 

7. Don’t Just Follow Trends—Think Long-Term

Trendy tiles are fun, but they’re also permanent. Unlike paint or furniture, tile isn’t something you change easily, so think about longevity:

• Go bold in small spaces—a powder room backsplash is a great place to experiment.

• Choose neutral, classic tiles for large areas like floors to keep your space timeless.

• If you’re selling soon, stick with colors buyers love—soft beiges, whites, and warm grays.

? Featured Tile: New Classic Beige 24x48 – a versatile, travertine-look tile that works in any space.

Final Thoughts: Plan Smart, Avoid Regret

Tile is one of the best investments you can make in your space, but making the right choice takes more than just picking what looks good online. Keep these seven tips in mind, and you’ll avoid the most common tile-buying mistakes.

Need help choosing the perfect tile? Brick City Tile offers a curated selection of high-quality tiles at prices that make sense. Browse our collections, order samples, and start your project with confidence!

? Have questions? Reach out to our team—we’d love to help!