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Thinking about remodeling your bathroom? Tile is a top pick for good reason—it’s easy to clean and comes in many colors and patterns.
You can use it on the floor and walls, but do they have to match?
Nope! Floor and wall tiles don’t need to match, but they should look good together. Aim for a cohesive look using monochromatic colors, coordinating patterns, or pairing complementary solid colors.
Curious about how to nail the perfect tile look? Keep reading for some easy design tips!
Floor/Wall Tile Combination 1: Monochromatic Magic
Choosing one color and shade does not have to be boring, especially if you choose a color that stands out against the fixtures in the bathroom.
Alternatively, you can select a plain color and let the decor or bathroom fixtures be the star of the show.
Floor/Wall Tile Combination 2: Playing With Patterns
Tiles come in diverse patterns and textures, so if you want to add some interesting design features to your bathroom, mixing and matching is the way to go.
One way to combine patterned tiles is to choose a pattern for one type of tile and pair it with a coordinating color for the other type of tile.
Another option is choosing two completely different patterns with matching color schemes. Remember, colors bring cohesion into the design so your bathroom tiles match.
Floor/Wall Tile Combination 3: Coordinating Solids
Whether you go for a monochromatic look with shades like dark grey and light grey or add a bold color to pop against neutrals, consider using one solid color for the walls and another for the floor.
Any of these combinations will give you an overall, visually pleasing look. There are unlimited combinations for matching wall and floor tiles.
The most important thing to remember is that while you don’t need your tiles to match exactly, they should work together to create a cohesive look.
Frequently Asked Questions
Now that you know cohesive combinations, you will be better equipped to make your tile purchase. But, as you plan a tile project, several other style and function questions arise.
Keep reading because we’ve covered most of your unanswered questions below.
What’s The Difference Between Floor And Wall Tiles?
Believe it or not, there is a difference between floor and wall tiles, and using the same tiles for both areas is generally not recommended. The primary difference is that floor tiles are more durable and can withstand being walked upon.
Wall tiles are more delicate and should not be used on the floor because they cannot typically bear weight. However, floor tiles may be used on walls if they are not too heavy.
What Is The Best Tile For Bathroom Floors?
Ceramic and porcelain tiles are both appropriate materials for bathroom floors. Which one is best is a matter of preference, but they are both water-resistant and durable.
In addition, they both come in a variety of styles that will fit your bathroom decor. Each offers a slight advantage over the other, though.
Ceramic tiles are cheaper and easier to install on your own, while porcelain tiles are more water-resistant.
What Is The Best Tile For Bathroom Walls?
For walls, either porcelain or ceramic tiles work best. Each type is versatile and durable, but make sure whichever you prefer is light enough to be used on the walls.
When you purchase your tiles, confirm that the tiles you select are suitable for the area in which you plan to use them.
Should Floor Tiles Be Darker Than Walls?
A design expert will tell you that flooring is typically darker than a wall covering. The location of darker and lighter tones creates a foolproof design. However, you do not have to stick to this rule of thumb.
Bathrooms that utilize the same color for both areas or even those with darker walls than floors can be equally stunning.
Before making your final choice, visualize how your bathroom would look with those colors in place. If helpful, affix samples to the floor and walls.
Which Color Tile Shows The Least Dirt?
Darker tiles are better at hiding dirt and other stains than lighter-colored tiles. Patterned tiles are also effective at hiding dirt because of the markings included in the pattern’s design.
Choosing a tile with a matte finish instead of a shiny finish will also help to hide dirt.
Do Larger Tiles Make The Bathroom Look Bigger?
Yes! Larger tiles create the illusion of a bigger bathroom. The more tiles you need to place, the smaller your floor will look. When you use larger tiles, you need less, giving your floor a more spacious look.
Should You Tile The Walls Or Floor First?
The most popular method is to start with the walls because it eliminates the risk of damaging a freshly installed floor.
Doing the walls first will also reduce the amount of cleaning you will have to do, as debris from installing the tiles falls onto an unfinished floor.
In Summary
Design experts follow guidelines for any design project. Adding tile to your bathroom walls and floor is no exception.
If you’re looking for a tried-and-true design to ensure your bathroom looks perfect, follow these guidelines.
Choose a darker color for your floor than your walls. Make sure that your walls match your floor. Use a larger tile to make your bathroom appear bigger.
But don’t feel obligated to follow these guidelines if you prefer a unique design or have your heart set on a particular design element.
Your bathroom will be stunning if you stay true to your design preferences while maintaining a cohesive look!
When you are ready to work, check out these helpful articles:
How To Fill Gaps Between Tiles
Can You Use Tile Adhesive As Grout?
i think wall and floor tiles should match.