Is Tile a Good Material for Texas Homes?

Designing a gorgeous home in North Texas is full of possibilities and creating customized design within the floor plan is often a top priority. We love recommending striking tile as an outstanding choice for flooring, backsplashes, and accent walls in Texas homes due to its ability to withstand the climate, its durability, low maintenance, and design versatility. When choosing tile, consider the specific needs of the room such as moisture levels and foot traffic, and always weigh your personal preferences to select the best type and style for your home. Here are a few of the best reasons that tile is great material for homes in Texas:

Does Tile Handle the Texas Climate Well?

Absolutely! Tile stays cool underfoot, which is a significant advantage during hot Texas summers. Both ceramic and especially porcelain tiles are highly resistant to moisture, making them suitable for Texas’s often humid conditions. In fact, tile won’t warp or sustain damage from humidity. Unlike some other flooring materials like hardwood and standard laminate, tile doesn’t expand and contract significantly with rapid temperature changes common in Texas, minimizing the risk of cracking.

• Porcelain tile is virtually waterproof, making it an excellent choice for any areas prone to mixture, humidity, spills, or even occasional flooding.
• Ceramic tile is water-resistant and suitable for kitchens, bathrooms, mudrooms, and laundry rooms.

Can Tile Handle the Activity in an Active Home?

Within a busy household, durable tile floors resist scratches, dents, and can withstand heavy foot traffic around the clock. The high-temperature firing process makes the material hard and resistant to wear and tear. When properly installed and maintained, tile floors can last for decades and age well over time. Many tiles have a glazed surface that provides an extra layer of protection against stains, scratches, and moisture. For extra warmth and softness, you can easily add soft area rugs to make your tough surfaces even more comfortable to stand on for extended periods.

What Are the Most Popular Ways to Use Tile in Texas?

In Texas homes, tile is utilized in a variety of popular ways, leveraging its durability, resistance to heat and humidity, and design versatility:

• Kitchens: Tile flooring is a staple in Texas kitchens due to its water and stain resistance, making it ideal for spills and heavy foot traffic. Popular choices include large-format porcelain tiles for a modern, seamless look and durable ceramic tiles in various styles. Wood-look tiles are also gaining popularity, offering the aesthetic of hardwood with the practicality of tile. Tile backsplashes are a prominent design feature in Texas kitchens, offering protection from splashes and an opportunity to add color, pattern, and texture. Subway tile with contrasting grout, geometric patterns, and decorative statement tiles are also trending.
• Bathrooms: Perfect for bathrooms with premium water resistance, tile is used extensively on floors and walls, especially in showers and around tubs. Common applications include ceramic and porcelain tiles, with trends leaning towards larger sizes and matte finishes for a sophisticated look. Tile is commonly used on bathroom walls for its moisture resistance and aesthetic appeal since it can cover entire walls for a luxurious feel or be used as accents around showers and vanities.
• Entryways & Mudrooms: The durability of tile makes it perfect for high-traffic entryways and mudrooms, where it can withstand dirt and moisture tracked in from outdoors.
• Living Areas: While carpet and wood are also popular, tile is increasingly used in living areas, especially in open-concept homes, for its easy maintenance and cooling properties. Large format tiles can create a modern and expansive feel.
• Fireplace Surrounds: As a non-combustible and decorative material for fireplace surrounds, tile options range from sleek modern tiles to rustic stone-look tiles.
• Outdoor Spaces: Durable porcelain tiles designed for exterior use are extending into patios, outdoor kitchens, and pool decks, offering a stylish and weather-resistant surface.

Buying New Tile in Gainesville, TX

Premium quality tile offers longevity and low maintenance, while increasing a home’s resale value! When you are ready to invest in high quality tile, visit our Gainesville, TX flooring showroom to explore chic options and speak with one of our tile specialists about the best choices for your property.