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Originally Posted On: https://www.stonetilecompany.co.uk/blog/transform-your-lounge-a-guide-to-choosing-your-living-room-floor-tiles

 

When it comes to choosing the perfect flooring for your living room, it’s essential to consider the different types of materials available. Each material has its own unique characteristics, so understanding them will help you make an informed decision. Consider factors such as lifestyle, style, maintenance, and budget when making your decision. You also need to consider proper care and maintenance so your new tile flooring will stay vibrant and beautiful for years to come. So lets dive into this comprehensive guide to choosing your living room floor tiles.

Types of flooring materials

Hardwood

Hardwood flooring exudes elegance and warmth, making it a timeless choice for any living room. With a wide range of woods such as oak, walnut, and maple, you can find the perfect hardwood to match your style. Hardwood floors are durable and can last for decades with proper care, however, they can be prone to scratches and will require refurbishment.

Laminate

The original low cost alternative to real wood, laminate flooring offers the look of hardwood at a more affordable price point. It is made of composite wood pressed together with a photographic print that mimics the appearance of real wood. Featuring click system of fitting they are great DIY friendly solution. They are not water proof and the print can wear and scratch very easily in high traffic areas of the home.

Vinyl

Vinyl flooring has come a long way in recent years and typically now branded LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tiles) , available in a wide range of designs, including ones that mimic the look of hardwood, stone, and tile. Vinyl is highly durable, water-resistant, and easy to clean, making it ideal for families with children or pets. It is also softer underfoot than hardwood or tile, providing added comfort.

Ceramic and Porcelain

Ceramic and porcelain tiles are popular choices for living room floor tiles due to their durability and versatility. Ceramic tiles are more affordable, while porcelain tiles are denser and more resistant to moisture, making them suitable for areas with higher foot traffic or where spills are common. Porcelain tiles come in various sizes, colours, and patterns, allowing you to create a personalized look. With the development of ink-jet printing and larger tile production, you can choose from a plethora of styles that mimic real wood, marble, concrete and stone so you get the look of the real thing without the on-going maintenance.

Natural Stone

For a luxurious and sophisticated look, natural stone flooring is hard to beat. Options like marble, travertine, limestone and slate add timeless beauty to any living room. Natural stone is durable and can withstand heavy foot traffic, however it requires regular sealing and maintenance to keep it looking its best.

Perla Soft Mirror Polished Porcelain Tiles – 600x600mm

Pros and cons of different flooring materials

Each flooring material has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Understanding these will help you make an informed decision based on your lifestyle, budget, and style preferences.

Hardwood

Pros:

– Timeless elegance and warmth

– Durable and long-lasting

– Can be sanded and refinished to remove scratches and stains

– Adds value to your home

Cons:

– Expensive upfront cost

– Prone to scratches and dents

– Requires regular maintenance and refinishing

– Not suitable for areas with high moisture levels

Laminate

Pros:

– Affordable alternative to hardwood

– Easy to clean and maintain

– Wide range of designs and styles to choose from

Cons:

– Lacks the authenticity and warmth of real wood

– Not as durable as hardwood

– Cannot be refinished

– May sound hollow underfoot

– Will easily scratch and can’t be re-conditioned

– Not waterproof

Vinyl

Pros:

– Affordable and versatile

– Highly durable and water-resistant

– Easy to clean and maintain

– Soft and comfortable underfoot

Cons:

– Can be prone to scratches and dents

– Not as visually appealing as hardwood or tile

– May emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs)

– Difficult to repair if damaged

Ceramic and Porcelain Tiles

Pros:

– Wide range of options in terms of size, colour, and pattern

– Porcelain is durable and resistant to moisture

– Easy to clean and maintain

– Suitable for high-traffic areas

Cons:

– Cold and hard underfoot if underfloor heating is not fitted

– Grout lines need to be protected to prevent staining

– Can be slippery when wet if selecting a polished surface

– Difficult to repair if cracked or chipped

Natural Stone Tiles

Pros:

– Luxurious and timeless beauty

– Durable and long-lasting

– Adds value to your home

– Unique variations and patterns

Cons:

– Expensive upfront cost

– Requires regular sealing and maintenance

– Can be porous and prone to staining

 

 

 Factors to consider when choosing living room floor tiles

When choosing the perfect flooring for your living room, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure it meets your practical needs and complements your style. Here are some key factors to consider:

Lifestyle

Think about how you and your family use the living room. Do you have children or pets? Do you often host parties or gatherings? Consider a flooring material that can withstand heavy foot traffic, spills, and scratches.

Style and Aesthetic

Consider the overall style and aesthetic of your living room. Are you going for a classic, modern, or rustic look? Choose a flooring material that complements your existing furniture, however will stand the test of time.

Maintenance and Durability

Consider the level of maintenance and durability you are willing to commit to. Some flooring materials require regular maintenance, such as refinishing or sealing, while others are low-maintenance and easy to clean.

Budget

Set a budget for your living room flooring project. Different flooring materials vary in price, so it’s important to choose one that fits within your budget.

Climate and Location

Consider the climate and location of your living room. If you live in an area with high humidity or moisture, choose a flooring material that is resistant to water damage. If you live in an area prone to flood damage you certainly need to consider flooring such as natural stone.

Popular tile options for living room floor tiles

Tiles are a versatile and stylish option for living room floor tiles They come in a wide range of materials, patterns, colours, and finishes, allowing you to create a personalized look that suits your style. Here are some popular tile options for living room flooring:

Marble tiles

Marble tiles exude luxury and elegance, making them a popular choice for high-end living rooms. They come in various colours and patterns, each with its own unique veining and characteristics. Marble flooring adds a timeless charm to any living room but requires regular maintenance to keep it looking its best.

You could consider marble effect porcelain tiles to avoid the regular maintenance. as they are produced with photo realistic high resolution prints you simply can’t tell the difference from the real thing.

Porcelain Tiles

Porcelain tiles are a popular choice for living room flooring due to their durability and versatility. They come in a wide range of colours, patterns, and finishes, allowing you to create a personalized look that suits your style. Porcelain tiles are highly resistant to moisture, making them suitable for areas with high foot traffic or where spills are common. You can choose from stone effect, concrete effect and marble effect styles in mirror polished finish, or if you’re looking for slip resistance you can select tiles with a R10 or R11 rating. Sizes can be up to over a meter in length so perfect for open plan living areas.

Ceramic Tiles

Ceramic tiles are another popular option for living room flooring. They are generally available in smaller sizes. Ceramic tiles are easy to clean, and budget-friendly, making them a practical choice for many homeowners.

Slate Tiles

Slate is durable stone and can withstand heavy foot traffic. The surface of the stone can be rough especially if you choose riven stone, so if you like going barefoot or are installing underfloor heating you may want to consider brushed finishes as this finish will make them a bit smoother, whilst keeping the riven structure. Slate floor tiles in darker tones of black, charcoal and multicolour tones, slate certainly bring depth and authenticity to a living room.

Limestone Tiles

Limestone tiles are a popular choice for period properties and is truly timeless, complement many interior styles. Limestone tiles are available in many colours, each with its own unique characteristics. Limestone is a hardwearing stone however, if not sealed properly will easily stain with acidic liquids or food.

Choosing the right tile size and pattern

When choosing your living room floor tiles the size and pattern can have a significant impact on the overall look and feel of the space. Here are some considerations to keep in mind:

Size

The size of the tiles can visually impact the size of the living room. Larger tiles can create a sense of spaciousness, while smaller tiles can make the room feel cozy. Consider the size of your living room and choose tiles that are proportionate to the space.

 

Pattern

The pattern of the tiles can add visual interest and personality to your living room. From classic herringbone to modern geometric designs, there are endless possibilities. Consider the overall style of your living room and choose a pattern that complements your existing decor.

Grout Lines

The colour and width of the grout lines can also impact the overall look of the tile flooring. Light-coloured grout can create a seamless and uniform look, while darker grout can add contrast and depth. Consider the maintenance and cleaning requirements of different grout options. Applying a grout protector when installed will ensure they don’t take on dirt in hight traffic areas.

Colour and texture considerations for living room tiles

The colour and texture of the tiles can significantly impact the overall mood and atmosphere of your living room. Here are some considerations to keep in mind when choosing colour and texture:

Colour

The colour of the tiles can set the tone for your living room. Light-coloured tiles can make the space feel bright and airy, while dark-coloured tiles can create a dramatic atmosphere. Consider the light you achieve in your living room and whether you need a lighter tile to make the room brighter or would prefer to create warmth with rustic tones.

Texture

The texture of the tiles can add depth and visual interest to your living room. Smooth and polished tiles create a sleek and modern look, while textured tiles add a rustic and tactile element. Consider the level of maintenance and comfort you prefer when choosing tile texture, especially as textured tiles will be harder to clean.

Maintenance and durability of different tile options

 

Maintenance and durability are important factors to consider when choosing living room tiles. Here’s a breakdown of the maintenance requirements and durability of different tile options:

Marble

Marble tiles require regular cleaning and sealing to prevent staining and etching. They are durable and can withstand normal wear and tear, but they are prone to scratches and can be damaged by acidic substances.

Porcelain

Porcelain tiles are highly durable and resistant to scratches, stains, and moisture. They are easy to clean and require minimal maintenance. With proper care, they can last for many years.

Ceramic

Ceramic tiles are low-maintenance and easy to clean. They can withstand light wear and tear. However, they may chip or crack easily under heavy impacts. The prints will also wear more easily in high traffic areas.

Slate Tiles

A low maintenance flooring solution for living room floors, especially period properties. however, if you don’t have underfloor heating, they will be cold underfoot. They will require sealing, however if chipped they can be simply re-sealed.

Limestone Tiles

Limestone tiles require regular sealing to prevent staining and etching. They are durable and can withstand normal wear and tear, but can be damaged by acidic substances.

 Budgeting and cost considerations for living room floor tiles

When it comes to budgeting for your living room flooring project, it’s essential to consider both the cost of materials and installation. Here are some cost considerations for different flooring materials:

Hardwood

Hardwood flooring can range in price depending on the type of wood species and quality. On average, hardwood flooring can cost between £30 and £90 per sqm, excluding intallation.

Laminate

Laminate flooring is a more affordable option, with prices ranging from £9 and £30 per sqm, excluding intallation.

Vinyl

Vinyl flooring is one of the most cost-effective options, with prices ranging from £15 and £50 per sqm, excluding intallation.

Ceramic and Porcelain

Ceramic and porcelain tiles can range in price depending on the quality and size. On average, ceramic tiles can cost between £9 and £30 per sqm, excluding intallation and porcelain tiles can cost between £16 and £90 per sqm, excluding intallation.

Natural Stone

Natural stone flooring is the most expensive option, with prices ranging from £22 to £200 per sqm, excluding installation. The price can vary depending on the type of stone and quality.

When budgeting for your living room flooring project, it’s important to consider the long-term value and durability of the materials. While some options may have a higher upfront cost, they can add value to your home and last for many years with proper care.

Conclusion: Enhance your living room with the perfect tile flooring

Choosing the perfect flooring for your living room is an exciting opportunity to transform your space and create a stunning atmosphere. Whether you prefer the timeless elegance of marble, the rustic charm of real wood, or the modern aesthetic of porcelain, there is a tile option that will suit your style and meet your practical needs. Get ready to reimagine your living room with stylish tiles that speak to your unique personality and taste. Transform your living room into the envy of your neighbours and create a space where memories are made.