Smart Shadow13" x 36" Matte Black Porcelain Tile - Sample

The top trends are large-format tiles that reduce grout lines, 3D textured tiles with fluted or ribbed surfaces, and a focus on natural and handcrafted looks like zellige and terracotta. Also trending are mosaic artistry, biophilic designs, and a return to warm, earthy colors.

Porcelain tile is considered the most durable option for flooring. It's made from a denser clay and fired at a higher temperature than ceramic, making it extremely resistant to scratches, moisture, and heavy foot traffic.

The choice depends on your needs. Porcelain tile is a great choice for bathroom floors and showers because of its superior durability and water resistance. Ceramic tile is softer and more porous, but it's more affordable, easier to cut, and comes in a wider variety of colors and textures, making it a good choice for bathroom walls.

Large-format tiles are oversized tiles, with some sizes as large as 24x48 inches. They are trending because they create a seamless, sleek look with fewer grout lines, which makes a space feel more expansive and is easier to clean.

Use large-format tiles with light grout lines to create an uninterrupted visual flow. You can also use light-colored and glossy tiles to reflect light, which makes the space feel more open.

The trend is towards a full-height backsplash that is the same material as the countertop for a seamless, luxurious look. Other popular options include classic subway tiles and textured or handmade tiles that add a sense of artistry.

Yes, wood-look porcelain tiles are a popular trend. They provide the warmth and aesthetic of natural wood with the superior durability, water resistance, and low maintenance of tile.

Epoxy grout is the best choice for high-moisture areas. It is non-porous and highly resistant to stains, mold, mildew, and chemicals, unlike traditional cement-based grouts, which require sealing.

For a clean, seamless look, choose a grout color that matches your tile. For a dramatic, high-contrast look that highlights a tile pattern, choose a grout color that is a few shades lighter or darker than the tile.

For everyday cleaning, use a mild soap and water with a soft cloth or mop. Avoid harsh, acidic cleaners, which can damage the grout. Regular sweeping or vacuuming also helps prevent abrasive dirt from scratching the surface.

Mosaic tiles are tiny tiles, often less than 2x2 inches, that are used to create intricate patterns and designs. Large-format tiles are oversized, a square foot or larger, and are used to create a minimalist, seamless look.

The herringbone and chevron patterns are a hot trend for adding visual interest and a custom feel. Other popular options include a classic staggered or brick layout, and a vertical stack for a modern look that can make a room feel taller.

Use 3D textured tiles with fluted or ribbed surfaces on a feature wall in a bathroom or living area. You can also use natural stone tiles with a honed or leathered finish to add a subtle tactile quality to a space.

Natural stone tiles like marble, slate, and travertine are highly durable and offer a unique, luxurious aesthetic. They also add a great deal of resale value to a home and are a timeless design choice.

No, patterned and geometric tiles have become a design staple. They are a great way to add personality and visual interest to a space, especially in a small powder room or a laundry room.

Look for a tile with a high slip resistance rating, often found on the product packaging. Textured porcelain tiles with a matte finish or small-format tiles with more grout lines offer excellent grip.

A "Sensorial" tile design is one that appeals to more than just sight. It's about using tiles with a tactile texture that feels good to the touch, a finish that reflects light in a specific way, and a pattern that creates a sense of rhythm and flow.

For a hairline crack, a specialized tile repair kit with a color-matched epoxy filler can be used. For a more professional and long-lasting repair, it is best to carefully remove and replace the cracked tile entirely.

"Color-drenched" is a trending technique where a single, rich color is used for the floors, walls, and even the ceiling. This creates a bold, immersive, and luxurious environment that feels unique and intentional.

Porcelain, ceramic, and natural stone are all excellent choices for a fireplace surround. They are durable, fire-resistant, and can be used to create a stunning focal point. A large-format tile is a trending choice that creates a seamless, modern look.