Unique Uses for Tile
by Patricia Taylor
Description: Tile isn't just for floors anymore. Here are some creative uses for ceramic tile.
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Traditionally, tile has been used in bathrooms and kitchens.
Different tiles are used for backsplashes, counters, tub
enclosures and floors. However, tile is now coming into its
own. Home decorators are learning how to use tile to create a
finished look on everything from ceilings to tables.
The basic belief is, ‘if there is a seam, tile can cover it.’
Ceiling tiles often have an unfinished or rough look. While
many homeowners are using tiles to fix ceilings in basements
and old homes, they never look finished and neat. The metal
seams, or the broken gaps that appear between the tiles.
Home decorators can use both vinyl back plastic faux tile or
they can use kitchen tile to cover the seams. A concaved strip
tile, normally made for edging, will give the seams a polished
look.
Coarse terracotta style tile is great for adding texture and
color to dark areas and recesses. Broken tile has been used to
decorate old lamps, plant pots, frames, mirrors, and tables.
Now, decorators are using broken chunks of tile to create
mosaics on walls, to cover old window wells, and on doors.
Tile can be used anywhere that has traditionally been covered
in wood trim. It takes a brave decorator to use tile with a
bold creativity. Traditionally, glazed tile has been used on
walls, stone on the floor. Now, a stone trim at the bottom of
an entrance increase durability and adds an artistic flair.
Bull nose and half bull nose trim is perfect for trimming
utility rooms and garage entrances. They increase durability
and reduces cleaning time.
Counter tile and trim is as versatile as floor tile. It moves
from walls to trim with ease. Marble and stone has the
advantage of coming in a variety of colors and textures. It is
more expensive, but a decorator may be able to buy scraps from
contractors.
Tile excels on the patio. Its versatility and ease allow
decorators to create curves and mold the patio around the
natural landscape. Stepping the tile can also direct rain and
water run off, protecting the landscape.
A good base is necessary for tile. However, careful planning
allows decorators to lay a patio around trees and gardens.
Today’s tile can be laid over virtually any surface. Tile can
be safely installed over linoleum, concrete, and wood.
Another adventure home decorators have embarked on is 3-D tile.
The tile manufacturers have been exploring with embossed tile
for several years. Now, home decorators are working to pile
tile on tile.
Layering tile on tile can be an easy way to add an artistic
flair to a normally dead wall space.
The last venue for artistic people in the kitchen is homemade
tiles. Many people make their own tiles to explore depth of
perception, shape, and color. While homemade tiles are very
easy to make, they are incredibly time consuming.
Creating tile takes patience, depending on the medium,
material, used, the tile makers may need the help of a potter
to prevent distortion or fragile tiles.
The beauty of tiles allow home decorators to add a unique flair
to their home without making drastic changes to the interior.
Patricia Taylor advises on home furnishings
and decor from her web site at http://www.bedlinenhere.com. She
invites you to get her FREE home decorating guide here
http://www.blanketshere.com
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