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Whether your home is brand new or you have lived in it comfortably for decades, there is always room for some sort of home improvement. At our tile store in Anaheim, we often hear from homeowners who are looking to spruce up their property with some new aesthetic, but don’t have a huge budget to work with, and they aren’t sure where to start.

With these thoughts in mind, the experts at our Anaheim tile store put together 5 home improvement projects that you can do yourself, with a minimal investment.

Crown Moulding

This is an elegant piece of trim that is installed around the perimeter of the room where the walls meet up with the ceiling. Crown moulding often sits at a 45 degree angle between the walls and ceiling. This makes for a very bold statement that will draw the eye upwards to that stripe of fine woodwork that is seldom seen in any but the most expensive custom homes. It’s not a good idea to do the whole house in it, but a living room or dining room can really benefit from this upgrade. You can find a step by step crown moulding installation tutorial here.

Indirect Lighting

With today’s low-heat light sources, it is possible to hide light fixtures almost anywhere. A low-level fixture might be installed behind a couch so that it shines upward on the wall behind the couch and illuminates a fabulous retro poster or some of your cherished collectibles. In a TV room or the master bedroom, indirect lighting can provide the perfect level of just-barely-there ambiance. You can find an instructional video for indirect lighting installation here.

New Bathroom Fixtures

This is one of the easiest DIY home improvement projects, that usually has the biggest impact. You would be surprised how much a new faucet can change the entire look and feel of a bathroom. With a very small investment and minimal work, you’ll be able to give your bathroom a facelift overnight.

Green spaces

New plants are a great way to spruce up your home without breaking the bank! A quick trip to a hardware store or nursery to pick up some indoor plants will literally breathe new life into your home for a modest investment.

Fire Pit

You’re paying a mortgage on the yard as well as the house, so why not get your money’s worth out of it by making it a more attractive and unique place to hang out? A fire pit might take some time to put together, but think of the countless hours you’ll spend sitting around it with your friends and family. You can find a DIY fire pit tutorial here.

Hopefully the experts at our tile store have been able to convince you that it’s actually quite easy to revamp the entire tone of a space with just a few simple changes. The key factor to remember in home improvement is that you are looking for something different and something that nobody else has thought of. Being bold in these little things can yield great dividends at a small investment in effort and money.

Luxurious limestone tile is the flooring choice for many discerning consumers. Lovers of limestone say it reminds them of the ocean, the sand, and blissful summer days. This construction material has been prized by interior designers, architects, and homeowners in general for years. Limestone is one of many natural building materials and is often used in homes and commercial properties in tandem with marble and granite. Limestone tile has varying textures depending upon the quality of the stone and the builder’s preference.

What is Limestone?

Limestone is an organic sedimentary rock that is made over centuries by settling sand and sediment. It usually forms in warm ocean waters, but it is not unheard of for limestone to be created in inland lakes. Most of the world’s oceans host areas where limestone is formed. This rock is often harvested from areas where ancient oceans existed, far from current bodies of water.  There are various varieties of limestone, each featuring unique textures and colors. Most commonly, limestone used in construction is gray, yellow, brown, white and occasionally, black.

Maintaining Your Limestone Floor

At our tile store in Anaheim, we hear from a lot of folks who have limestone in their homes, and have questions as to how it should be maintained. Limestone flooring should receive regular care in order to maintain its beauty. Before placement, each tile is polished. The finished product can have one of several different finishes, ranging from a matte finish, also referred to as “honed”, to a high gloss. Interestingly, limestone also has anti-bacterial properties. It can also be quite porous, so proper care is a must.

Sealing

Limestone tiles should be sealed on a regular basis. The perfect sealant will repel stains and prevent damage from general wear and tear. Before the initial sealing, and between applications, the tile should be cleaned. It is vital that the stone is cleaned properly before sealing. Limestone is porous and depending on the finish, may require more than one coat of sealer. Tiles with a matte finish are much more porous than those with a glossy finish.

Cleaning

Just like your carpet, limestone tile should be vacuumed. However, be sure to disable the rotating brush or use a canister-type vacuum cleaner. If dirt is left on the tile, when people walk over it the dirt is ground against the tile. This process can dull the shine of the floor. It is always a good idea to use rugs or mats near entryways to trap excess sand, dirt, and debris. In lieu of vacuuming, sweeping with a good quality broom will also clear away debris. After vacuuming or sweeping, the tile can be mopped with a pH neutral cleaning solution that has been diluted with water. Due to the way limestone is constructed, acidic cleaners could harm the tile. Be sure to avoid homemade cleaners, as these could damage the floor. Once the cleaning is complete, the floor should be allowed to dry completely before sealing.

Maintenance

Effective maintenance of the tile will help maintain its finish and prevent stains from setting. As soon as a spill occurs it should be cleaned up. If this is not done, staining could occur. Although stains can be removed with special stone cleaners or poultices, it is easier to simply prevent the stain from setting. Periodically the tile should be steamed. Over time, small pockets full of dirt and moisture can form, which can cause darkening. Steaming can remove these areas. With the proper care, limestone tiles will remain beautiful for many years to come.

Trendy Surfaces carries a wide variety of limestone tiles for you to choose from! Call our Anaheim tile store today to find the perfect limestone flooring for your project!

Designing or remodeling the fireplace in your home can be a highly rewarding renovation as it can set the tone for the surrounding space. Hearths have long been considered the heart of a home, and as such, need to be practical, functional, as well as aesthetically pleasing. The fireplace generally forms the focal point in a living or sitting room, so knowing the best tile options available can help create a fireplace look that flows with the feel of the home, as well as the home’s era. Tile around a fireplace not only has to look good; it also has to deflect smoke and be able to deal with extreme temperature changes.

Here is a list of our favorite tiles for fireplaces that you can find at our Anaheim tile store:

Marble Tiles

Marble tile is a very popular choice for a main fireplace wall as it has a remarkably smooth, clean, and sophisticated look. Marble’s longevity has been attested to in several ancient structures that have stood the test of time for hundreds of years, as well as withstanding the heat of these tropical climates. Marble tiles can come in a variety of cool neutral tones to complement any space. Many Victorian fireplaces boast a marble tile surround for an ornately opulent look.

Granite Tiles

Next to diamonds, granite is the hardest natural stone. It is highly resistant to cracking, chipping, and is also extremely heat resistant. It has a nice way of bringing natural beauty into a space, while also being easy to clean and maintain. As granite consists of mica and feldspar, it is both durable and stain-resistant. It is also a nice option to get a honed granite slab for a solid look with no seams, and the black look is sleek, unique, and modern.

Limestone Tiles

Adding a natural stone like limestone to a fireplace can increase the value of your home as it is a very popular choice. Not only does it resemble the look of marble, it comes in a wide variety of sizes, textures, and colors. As limestone is made over time from the fossils and shells of under-sea life, it has a depth and interest unrivaled by others in the natural stone family.

Travertine

Travertine tiles provide a sophisticated look echoing marble, as it was also used since ancient Roman times. It is from the limestone family, and comes in a wide range of earthy colors from cream to beige, ivory to gold, and silver to walnut. It is also available in a variety of finishes: polished, tumbled, chiseled edge, or honed. With the wide selection of finishes and color choices, there is a match for every fireplace to suit any home décor style and era.

3D Porcelain tiles

3D porcelain tile adds a modern twist to a more traditional fireplace mantle with high beauty and warmth look. The countless tones, designs make them very suitable for fireplace usage.

As the heart of a home, your fireplace is important, so it is equally important to find the perfect match when it comes to tile. Whether it is a sophisticated traditional look or a sleek modern feel you seek, our tile store in Anaheim has precisely what you’re looking for.

Thanks to the upcoming rainy season, foyers and entryways take a lot of beating. The entryway to your home makes that first impression and therefore needs to add a wow effect. However, lots of people are uncertain about how to decorate an entryway or foyer. While it needs to be floored with durable and resistant materials, it also needs to be stylish and elegant at the same time. Irrespective of whether you choose porcelain, limestone or marble to decorate your entryway and foyer, ensure that it is easy and clean and looks great as well. Here are some of the most durable and aesthetic materials that we carry at our Anaheim tile store.

Porcelain

Contrary to popular belief, porcelain tiles are among the most durable materials out there. Porcelain is suitable for even a high traffic entryway. One of the best qualities of porcelain is that it looks like stone — but isn’t. It is also easy to clean. Porcelain can be easily swept and mopped up without a fuss.

Limestone

This material is considered natural stone and is extremely popular in foyers and entryways. Various eye catching, natural wonders are marked by limestone. Limestone contains rustic charm and versatility, which makes it one of the most sought after flooring options to date. It can transform even the most worn out floors to that “wow” effect. Durability and ease of cleaning make it ideal for foyers, entryways and even bathroom floors.

Marble

Marble is another great material used in homes for centuries. It is a part of the natural stone family and is classic. Aside from its beautiful colors, marble is flexible enough to be used on walls and floors. It is also naturally translucent which exudes a glow when exposed to light. Natural stone like marble, is not chemically processed, so it is also environmentally friendly.

Travertine

Travertine is freeze and thaw compatible, meaning it won’t likely be damaged during the winter and spring. It also has a non-slip surface that makes it perfect for pool areas where water is likely to be splashed and people will be walking around. They’re even heat-resistant, meaning they won’t get scorching hot in the summer months when your bare feet are walking around on the pool deck.

Regardless of which material you choose to go with for your entryway, Our tile store in Anaheim has a host of options for you to choose from. Call us today (7147) 284-0118.

Bathroom countertops are available in so many different styles, sizes and materials. With so many different options to choose from, we understand it might be difficult to choose the right countertop material for your needs. To help you make the right choice, here is a look at some of the most popular bathroom countertop materials that we sell at our tile store in Anaheim.

Engineered Quartz

As its name suggests, engineered quartz countertops are manufactured in a factory by suspending real quartz crystal in a matrix of polyester resins. This product closely resembles natural stone, but manufacturers may add small amounts of metallic flecks or recycled glass to the mix to produce a particular design. Engineered quartz, which is also known as “engineered stone,” is available in virtually any color, size and shape imaginable. Additionally, it can be fabricated into any shape, making it the ideal material for manufacturing bathroom fixtures such as sink basins and mold backsplashes. As far as bathroom countertop materials go, engineered quartz is one of the best. It is durable, hygienic, and relatively inexpensive to maintain, and stain proof.

Porcelain

Manufactured from a type of clay high in kaolinite, porcelain bathroom countertops were introduced in the late ’90s, meaning they are relatively new in this space. They are particularly popular in Europe, especially in Spain and Italy. Some of the benefits associated with this bathroom countertop material include brilliant strength (porcelain is about 30% stronger than granite), a variety of color and pattern options, as well as scratch and heat resistance. Additionally, porcelain is available in large-format.

Marble

Although marble is one of the most common bathroom countertop materials. Marble countertops are incredibly beautiful, luxurious, and relatively inexpensive. Additionally, marble is available in various natural textures and colors including exotic green, pink, beige and grey.

Travertine

Travertine is available in a wide range of natural colors and shades including gold, ivory, beige and cream. It is also generally cheaper than other natural stone countertop materials such as granite and marble, durable and available in myriad shapes and sizes because it is easy to cut and shape compared to other decorative stones. It is worth noting that travertine countertop material needs to be properly sealed to make it easy to clean, durable and stain resistant.

Granite

Granite is a volcanic rock that can be cut into any shape and stained in virtually any color. For these reasons, granite bathroom countertops are typically incredibly durable, visually appealing, affordable ,scratch resistant, and heat resistant.

The experts at our Anaheim tile store suggest that when you’re choosing bathroom countertops you should consider the material carefully because different materials have different qualities. If you need help picking out tiles or slabs that will fit your specific needs, call us today at (714) 284-0118.

The timeless beauty and allure of tile flooring is perhaps the biggest reason why it’s becoming increasingly popular among homeowners. In particular, tile is widely preferred for kitchen renovations, thanks to its versatility and durability. Still, most individuals find it hard to pick the best kitchen floor tiles for their homes, which is why you might want to familiarize yourself with some of the options that are available to you.

As a tile store in Anaheim, we have compiled a list of our favorite materials for kitchen floor tiles.

Porcelain

Porcelain tiles are known to be harder, tougher, purer and stronger than their already sturdy counterparts. This is because they’re usually fired at higher temperatures, something that boosts their density. As a result, porcelain tiles are usually resistant to cracking, and need little in the form of maintenance. Considering that porcelain tiles are also capable of withstanding moisture and fire, it’s easy to see why porcelain is one of our favorite materials for kitchen floors.

Marble

Historically associated with wealth and opulence, marble is one of the most elegant materials you could choose for your kitchen. Installing marble tiles in your kitchen will create a sophisticated atmosphere that will be carried to all parts of your home. Aesthetic appeal aside, you might also want to choose marble tiles for the sake of durability and resistance to scratches. Marble tiles also have a translucent attribute, and while slight, could further enhance lighting in your kitchen, thus making the environment safer.

Travertine

Travertine is a limestone variety that occurs around mineral spring deposits. Its use as a flooring material dates back thousands of years, but it can also be used for backsplashes, countertops and other areas where tile is usually preferred.  Travertine tile has the ability to withstand extreme fluctuations in temperature, durability and excellent traction are a few of the reasons why one might consider travertine flooring for their kitchen. If properly installed and maintained, it would definitely enhance the interior decor of your home.

Ceramic

Previously known for its toughness, ceramic’s popularity has exploded in recent years, mainly due to its decorator effect. Being significantly softer than its porcelain cousin, the material is usually easier to cut and install. And while you could use ceramic tile in the majority of your home, there are a few good reasons why you’d want to choose ceramic tile for your kitchen flooring, such as; Easy maintenance: Regular sweeping and mopping is all it takes to keep ceramic tiles as good as new. Moisture resistance: This means you won’t have to worry about spills from the typical fluids in your kitchen. Resistance to odors and fire. As such, ceramic tile is a practical, functional choice for your kitchen floor.

Granite

Granite is a quartz-based stone that has emerged as the material of choice for kitchen applications. This is all thanks to its hardness, durability and ability to resist water seepage. Granite tile is also known to be resistant to allergens, which further enhances its popularity as a flooring option. Installing granite tiles in your kitchen could actually enhance the value of your home, thanks to the unique appeal created by the stone’s variegated texture and color.

Tile floors are an excellent choice for most kitchens. If you’re ready to see more kitchen floor tile design, please give us a call or simply stop by one of our tile stores in Orange County. We have locations in Costa Mesa. Anaheim, and Laguna Niguel.

The most important decision that homeowners have to make when selecting the ideal countertop is the choice of material. The decision is influenced by a variety of factors, including stain resistance, durability, appearance and overall kitchen theme. Fortunately, homeowners are truly spoiled for choice. The majority of materials available on the market require some degree of maintenance to retain their appeal.

Some of the best options include marble, granite and engineered quartz. Below, we break down the pros and cons of each material to help you make an informed decision about your kitchen countertops in Orange County!

Marble

Marbles are timeless with their classic beauty and elegance. They boast a long working life. With proper care and maintenance, marble countertops can retain their appeal for decades. Some of the statues made of marble are still standing more than 100 years after they were created.

These types of countertops are available in wide-ranging colors from which to choose. They vary depending on the area the stone was extracted. The finishing enhances marble’s color and glow.

Granite

Granite has the capacity to add an ultra-stylish look to any kitchen without compromising on functionality. These materials are highly durable and can add value to the kitchen. They also provide a viable way to increase the resale value of the home. The durability of granite makes it harder to scratch or chip, which translates to a longer working life.

Granite is known to resist dirt and bacteria, which is a vital property for a kitchen countertop. The material resists bacteria due to the presence of a sealer, which eliminates porosity. As a result, fluids and moisture do not soak onto the surface. On the other hand, the sealed, smooth surface makes it easier to clean. In the unlikely event that granite scratches or chips, the damaged surface can be fixed easily.

Engineered quartz

This material is engineered using quartz to create a stone with a natural appearance. A specially designed resin binder binds the quartz crystals. The material gives kitchen countertops various key benefits that are not associated with natural stone.

Homeowners can choose from wide-ranging colors, including earth tones. The material derives its depth of color from the quartz even though colorants can be added to achieve a particular tone. Engineered quartz are not only attractive but they are also durable almost like granite.

If you have any questions about marble, granite, or engineered quartz, call our tile store in Anaheim (714) 284-0118 – Costa Mesa (714) 540-5542 – Laguna Niguel (949)-446-8121

Granite tile is often used for flooring because of its exceptional beauty and durability. The same holds true for marble tile which can be found in many homes. They have the ability to transform rooms into incredibly attractive spaces. However, these two materials are known to be porous and sensitive. Spills can leave unsightly stains unless they are cleaned off right away. The tiles also respond differently to some cleaning materials, so utmost care is necessary to prevent damage. We often receive questions at our tile store in Anaheim regarding how to clean marble and granite. We’ve put together this guide to help keep your tiles clean and looking brand new!

A Note on Cleaning Products

Remember that these tiles are made from natural materials. If you want to avoid chemical damage, use specially formulated granite and marble cleaners instead of generic products. You should be particularly wary of ceramic tile cleaners as these have the tendency to dull the shine of marble. Check the labels to learn more about the contents. Avoid those that have extreme acidity or alkalinity. Don’t use DIY cleaning mixes that feature vinegar and the like. Prevent scratches by steering clear of rough scouring pads and wheeled vacuum cleaners. Use soft cloth instead, and apply it gently on the surface.

Removing Dirt and Scuff Marks

If you observe any problematic spots on the floor, act quickly to get rid of the dirt, mark or spill. You should use a pH-neutral cleaning product that is designed specifically for these tiles if you want the best results. If there is none available, then you may improvise by diluting liquid dish-washing soap in water. Dip a soft microfiber cloth or a similar material into the solution and start wiping away. Try this on a small discreet spot first for testing before moving on to a larger area. Gently rub the surface in straight lines. Once you are satisfied, use dry cloth to buff it up and get it shiny again.

Periodic Cleaning Best Practices

Don’t wait until you find problems before lifting a finger. Floor cleaning should be done regularly as dirt builds up on the surface over time. Use a mop to cover the whole area within a reasonable time. As advised earlier, specialty cleaners are ideal for this purpose. The mild dish washing solution may also be used as an alternative. Dip the mop in the solution and begin to wipe the floor in short strokes. Be gentle to avoid scratches. Once you have covered the whole floor, dip the mop in a bucket of cold water and use this to remove the soap residue. Finally, get dry microfiber cloth to dry things down and make the surface shine.

Long-term Care and Maintenance

Never ignore wetness or leave it to dry naturally. The moisture will seep into the tiles and create water marks. Always use clean soft cloth to wipe liquids away. Reduce the need to clean the floor by catching dirt at the entrances with floor mats and the like. Make it a habit to take off your shoes and switch to indoor footwear after entering the house. Use floor sealants to shield the surface from common forms of damage.

We’ve heard from a lot of our customers that remodeling a bathroom is just simply cost prohibitive. But as a tile store in Anaheim, we can tell you – it doesn’t have to be! You can have a luxurious bathroom, without breaking the bank. There are ways to achieve budget renovations that will pack an equal punch to full on overhaul.

Paint

Sometimes a simple paint job is enough to completely change the appearance and vibe of a bathroom. While this certainly isn’t going to be enough to give your bathroom a whole new look, it is the first step.

Since the bathroom is naturally a wet environment due to showering, flushing, and hand washing; it’s wise to invest in water withstanding and mold/mildew resistant paint.  Just be careful to paint around windows, toilets, mirrors, vanities, storage space, pedestal sinks, shower/tub combos, the floor, and ceiling fixtures.

Fixtures and Hardware

Light fixtures, sink faucets, bath faucets, shower heads, towel racks, toilet tissue holders, and shower curtain rods are all relatively inexpensive items that when replaced can give your bathroom a facelift. Although it may not seem like changing these fixtures will have a major impact on your bathroom’s appearance, but we can tell you first hand that after you make the switch, these subtle changes will amount to big differences.

If your budget is especially tight – you can find used fixtures online, as well as at thrift stores, or sometimes you can get by with a can of metallic spray paint!

Mirror Makeover

You would be shocked at how different a bathroom can look when you switch out the mirror. It’s a focal point in the bathroom, so choose one of two selections: get a completely new mirror, or find a suitable frame for the old one.  You can find used mirrors from secondhand stores, yard sales, flea markets, and consignment shops. Additionally, you can find an inexpensive frame for your mirror, and paint it in a complementary color to your new walls.

Freshen Up Accessories

Now that you’ve given your mirror a makeover, you can complete your bathroom remodel with a complete accessory overhaul. You’ll be surprised at how much of a difference it can make to buy or repurpose new accessories to give your bathroom a new feel. The simplest of items like shower curtains, rugs, artwork, and bath accessory sets can give your bathroom the fresh aesthetic that you’re looking for.

Social Media For Inspiration

If you’re looking for a bathroom upgrade on a budget, you are definitely not alone. We talk to a lot of folks at our Anaheim tile store who are hunting for bargains.

We have consistently heard that Pinterest is the absolute best source for getting ideas, inspiration and instructions on how to execute a bathroom remodel without emptying your bank account.  Pinterest is a social network that enables users to browse and share text, images, and videos with similar themes.

Pinterest has a seemingly endless supply of do-it-yourself bathroom remodel ideas, projects, and step-by-step instructions.