TILE TERMINOLOGY

FIELD TILE: The primary tile used to cover a wall or floor.

DECORATIVE TILE: Complimentary, specially formed or decorated tiles. Can be trim or inset pieces. Made from ceramic, porcelain, stone, glass, or metal. Includes listellos, a narrow decorative tile.

TRIM: Edges, corners, and other finish pieces of ceramic, porcelain, or stone used to complete the installation and typically made of the same material as the main ceramic, porcelain, or stone tile. (bullnose, out corners, v cap, etc.)

APPLICATIONS

FLOORS: Floors provide flow and consistency. To connect rooms with different looks, take advantage of the variety of colors, textures, and finishes tile offers.

WALLS: Tiles take on a very different character when applied to walls, because you are looking straight-on at the design, texture and style. Unlike the expanse of the floor, walls and other vertical surfaces are smaller expanses and allow the focus to be on detail and artfulness.

SHOWERS AND TUBS: Although their main purpose is function, showers and bathtubs can be beautiful. Using tile on the walls and ceilings of a shower enclosure with the addition of decorative tiles can turn what was an otherwise dull shower or bathtub into a lasting piece of beauty in your bathroom decor.

BACKSPLASHES: Backsplashes have become a fashionable aspect of the kitchen or bath. They once were a standard four inches high and were used primarily behind the stove and sink for protection from moisture and grease. Now they are used anywhere there is a counter and have become an important design feature. A variety of materials can be used for backsplashes: natural stone, metals, mosaics, glass, and ceramics.

COUNTERTOPS: Countertops and backsplashes go hand-in-hand. Utilize the variety and endless design possibilities of tile to achieve a cohesive look.

FIREPLACES: Tiling around a fireplace makes a statement. Fireplace tiles in all sizes and different colors mean endless redecorating opportunities for this focal point.

PATIOS: Tile makes an ideal surface for patios and spas, both indoors and out. For areas that are exposed to the elements- especially in colder climates, think porcelain. Tile is perfect for the new trend toward "outdoor rooms" such as family rooms that flow to outdoor spaces.

TEXTURE AND FINISH

Texture is a very important element for achieving an overall effect. Each tile has physical texture as well as virtual texture created by colors and patterns. A rough, uneven look will give a room a completely different look than one decorated with a smooth and crisp texture.

Finish is an important factor that contributes to the overall look. A glass finish will brighten up a room where a matte finish helps to create a warm, cozy atmosphere.

POLISHED: Smooth-polished and glazed tiles proved a classic look that works with a variety of design schemes.

MATTE OR HONED: Matte finishes are softer and may be richer looking.

TUMBLED STONE TILE: Marble, travertine, and other natural stones that are cobbled and distressed to capture the romantic look of stone from centuries past are known as tumbled stone tile. Its weathered surface and seemingly timeworn edges enhance its color palette.