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If you have children, you know how hard they can be on most types of flooring. Whether from the accidents and spills that occur when they are very young, or the constant foot traffic you can expect during their teen years, your floors are continuously put to the test. Damage from the use of toys, mud and dirt tracked in from outside, and spills and stains from beverages and food can all make the floors in your home quickly lose their attractive appearance. That’s why the experts at our tile store in Anaheim, have put together this list of the top flooring options that are child-friendly:

Child-Friendly Flooring Solutions

Fortunately, certain flooring options are much more child-friendly than others, making it easier than you may think to have floors that are capable of retaining a beautiful surface even with a house full of youngsters. Some especially good options include porcelain, quartz, and certain types of natural stone. Below are some of the most kid-friendly flooring materials available on today’s market:

Traffic-Resistant Quartz

Quartz flooring is an all-natural flooring solution comprised of calcium carbonate and quartz sand. It is this unique combination that gives it its beautiful, luxurious appearance. However, quartz is also one of Earth’s hardest materials, and therefore is a great choice for areas that receive heavy foot traffic. If you have teenagers who are constantly on the go, you can rest assured that quartz flooring will withstand the daily wear and tear their foot traffic brings.

Tough Porcelain

Because porcelain tile is engineered specifically for toughness, it is also a perfect option for households with children and for use in high traffic areas. It has a particularly hard surface, which makes it highly resistant to scratches and other types of damage. It is also a spill resistant choice, which is another great child-friendly feature. The tough surface of this type of flooring ensures that it will retain its beautiful appearance year after year.

Stain-Resistant Stone

Stone tile is naturally resistant to daily wear and tear. This is especially true regarding harder materials such as granite. For this reason, natural stone is a stylish option for essentially any room in your dwelling, and many varieties keep their beautiful finish in spite of high activity. However, slate, travertine and other natural types of stone at the softer end of the spectrum may require more maintenance to prevent the signs of wear and tear from becoming apparent. Therefore, you should carefully review all your options when considering natural stone tile to make sure you find one that is stain resistant and able to hold up well under heavy foot traffic.

The aforementioned flooring materials are versatile as well as attractive, offering the ideal combination of benefits to homeowners with children. Finally, all of the options mentioned above can be found in various shades, making it easy to find one that blends well with your home’s existing decor. You can also find all of these options at our Anaheim tile store! Call us today so we can help you choose the perfect tile flooring for your project!

Dirty, stained tiles are unattractive regardless of where they are found, and can make your bathroom or kitchen appear dingy and lackluster. Fortunately, it is not difficult to remedy this situation by following a few of the simple tips from the experts at our tile store in Anaheim.

Proper Cleaning Techniques for Tiles

There is a broad range of all-purpose cleaning products available on today’s market with which you can effectively clean your tiles. Always follow the specific directions regardless of which product you choose. As a general rule, for simple cleaning, you should begin by spraying the tiles with a light coating of the selected formula. Allow it to sit on the tiles for approximately fifteen minutes. Then, use a slightly damp cloth to wipe down the tiles.

If you prefer natural cleaning solutions, you can create your own formula with the following:

• One gallon of clean water
• Quarter cup of borate detergent
• Half a cup of ammonia
• Half cup of white vinegar

Once the formula is mixed, place a thin layer of baking soda over your tiles and then add your homemade cleaning solution. Scrub the tiles until all dirt and film are removed.

Dealing With Mineral Buildup and Hard Water Stains

If your bathroom tiles have a buildup of limescale or have been affected by hard water stains, you should invest in a mild limescale remover formula. In most cases, extra strength formulas can compromise the protective finish of the tiles, so these should be avoided if possible. If you prefer a natural formula for this task as well, simply dilute a gallon of warm water with half a cup of warmed vinegar and spray a generous coating over the tiles, allowing it to sit for several minutes before rinsing. We also recommend consulting with the staff at your Anaheim tile store to see what their advice is for the specific tile you have in your home.

Grout Cleaning

Grout cleaning is perhaps one of the most dreaded household tasks. However, there is a simple, easy and inexpensive way to clean the grout in your home. Simply mix equal parts of cream of tartar and lemon juice until you achieve a thick pasty consistency. Take a soft bristled brush and scrub the grout with the paste until it once again looks like new. There are also commercial grout cleaners available, but this simple homemade remedy is often more effective.

Routine Care Tips to Prevent Stains and Limescale Buildup

Instead of having to indulge in heavy cleaning several times a year, it is easier to simply maintain the cleanliness of your tiles on a regular basis. For example, you should spray down your home’s tiles once every three to four weeks with a solution consisting of one gallon of water to which two tablespoons of all-purpose cleaner is added. Place the solution on the tiles for approximately 15 minutes and then gently wipe with a damp sponge. This activity goes a long way toward preventing heavy stains and the need for excessive cleaning.

Dirty, lackluster tiles can make even the most attractive rooms look dingy and drab. Fortunately, by following the tips outlined above you can keep your tiles looking new and attractive. Finally, if limescale and hard water are serious problems, you may also wish to invest in a water softener or a whole house filtration system.

Trying to decide what kind of tile to use in your home can be a challenging endeavor. If you are wondering which type is best for your next renovation project, the experts at our tile store in Anaheim highly recommend that you consider porcelain. Porcelain is created by heating various types of clay to high temperatures, and the innovative techniques used in the manufacturing process have made the substance a suitable choice for use on floors and in other areas of your home. Below are some reasons why porcelain tile makes a great choice for your next remodeling project:

Porcelain Tile is Beautiful

If you are redecorating and want to add a beautiful touch to your dwelling, porcelain tile is a great choice. Not only does it come in a variety of colors and designs, it makes a lovely addition to numerous surfaces in your dwelling, such as floors and walls. It can also be used as a decorative border in a bedroom, kitchen or bathroom. Additionally, it adds a beautiful touch to ceilings, back splashes, countertops, and can even be used as a lovely border around outdoor fountains.

Durability

Because porcelain is dense, hard and water resistant, it offers exceptional durability. This makes it the perfect choice for high traffic areas of your home that may be prone to extra wear and tear. Its water resistant surface makes it an excellent option for bathrooms and kitchens as well.

Easy to Maintain

Porcelain tile is also exceptionally easy to maintain. It does not chip in freezing temperatures or warp in warm temperatures. For this reason, you do not have seasonal repairs that are often necessary with wood flooring or ceramic tiles. Additionally, the folks at our tile store in Anaheim mentioned that if normal cleaning measures are implemented, you need not worry about the tiles staining or becoming scratched.

A Variety of Options

Most homeowners are happy to discover that there is an abundance of options from which to choose when selecting porcelain tile. This is because unlike carpeting or wood, which are typically one solid color, porcelain tiles can be purchased in essentially any design or pattern you desire. For this reason, it is not difficult for most consumers to find a tile that is appealing.

A Cost Effective Choice

Porcelain tile holds off moisture and does not chip and crack as easily as other types of decorative materials. Additionally, it holds up well as flooring option, even in high traffic areas. Because of the exceptional durability associated with porcelain tile, it ultimately costs you less money than other options. Naturally, other types of tiles can be purchased for a bit less money, but they must also be replaced more frequently, which leads to wasted time and extra expense.

It is always wise to have porcelain tiles installed by a reliable contractor, as this is the best way to ensure a satisfactory outcome from your renovation project. With proper installation care, porcelain tiles can be used in a variety of ways to add beauty and charm to your home for many years to come.

During a remodeling project, you will have to make what feels like thousands of decisions on a variety of issues. However, when it comes to laying new tile, the staff at our tile store in Anaheim stress that choosing the correct grout is an essential task that should not be overlooked. Grout is important because it seals out water and dirt, supports the structural integrity of the tile and compensates for tiny size differences between each tile. Unfortunately, if you choose the wrong grout or fail to seal it, numerous problems may occur. Below are some tips to help you with this task:

Knowing Where to Begin

There are two primary types of grout, which are synthetic grout and cementitious grout. Generally speaking, synthetic grout is the best choice for areas that may frequently become wet, with cementitious grout being the most appropriate option for all other areas. You must also choose from among sanded, non-sanded, and epoxy grout. Epoxy grouts are the most resistant to water damage, stains and harsh cleaners, and therefore are the most durable among all three types. Additionally, epoxy grout usually does not need a sealer.

Sanded grout is an excellent choice for installations with wide grout lines, such as an eighth of an inch or wider. This is because sand grout has a cement base to which sand is added, and this helps prevent the cracking and shrinking of the tiles.

Non-sanded grout is a cement-based grout that is generally utilized for smaller grout joints that are less than an eighth of an inch wide. It is the best option for tiles that are being installed vertically, such as on walls. This is because it holds its position better during the application, as its texture is somewhat sticky.

Selecting the Best Color

Color selection is largely a matter of personal taste, but there are practical ways to narrow down your choices. For example, if you want the surface of the tile to be the focal point, you should match the grout color as close as possible to the tile. If you enjoy a vintage look, consider selecting a grout color opposite to that of the tile. If you want a pleasant contrast, choose a shade that will highlight the primary color and pattern of the tile and make it more noticeable. If you are a bit overwhelmed with the selection process, it is always a safe bet to choose neutral grout, as such colors blend well with all shades and patterns.

However, always keep in mind that grout typically seals darker than its original color, and therefore you may want to choose a slightly lighter shade than that of the end result you have in mind.

Sealing the Grout

It is also very important to seal the grout, particularly if it is light-colored and will be installed in a moisture prone area. With the exception of epoxy, which is pre-sealed, all grout must be sealed to ensure the best results from your tile project. Penetrating grout sealer is typically recommended, as it creates an impenetrable barrier by soaking through the other materials. In certain cases, a membrane sealer is recommended, but such sealers should not be used in bathrooms and other moisture prone areas. Regardless of which kind of sealer you select, it should be reapplied at least once every 15 years.

Whether you’re using marble, travertine, or granite, adding new tile to one or more rooms in your home is a great way to improve both its beauty and value. In most cases, however, it is best to have a professional complete the job to ensure satisfactory results. Talk to the experts at our Anaheim tile store for more information about grout.

Travertine is a highly popular, natural-stone flooring option found in many homes throughout the country. Known for its durability, beauty, and interesting appearance, this type of stone is essentially a kind of limestone, which is formed when certain minerals are dissolved by groundwater. It is this process that gives the stone its unique and beautiful look. Below you’ll hear from the professionals at our tile store in Anaheim regarding the eight biggest benefits associated with tile flooring of this kind:

Water and Moisture Resistant

Travertine floors are highly resistant to moisture and water. This helps prevent mold and mildew in any area where these tiles are installed. Additionally, because tiles of this kind are most often used in kitchens and bathrooms–where mildew and mold tend to proliferate at a rapid pace– flooring of this type is also a practical choice.

Aesthetic Appeal

Travertine tiles feature a timeless appeal and beauty with which few materials can compete. The classic, distinct appearance of these tiles is characterized by a somewhat weathered look, the latter of which gives it a highly unique quality. In fact, it is believed that the stone dates back to ancient Roman times.

Easy to Cut and Shape

Flooring of this type works well in virtually any space, including small spaces or areas that are uneven. The reason it lends itself well to any floor layout is because travertine tiles are easy to shape and cut. This cannot be said about many other flooring options.

A Variety of Finishes and Colors

Travertine tile also comes in a wide variety of colors, which many interior designers in Anaheim find advantageous. Consumers can choose from tan, brown and beige, or opt for white, gold or rusty, red tones when selecting the shade. After the perfect color is found, homeowners can also customize their flooring by choosing from among several finishes. For example, travertine flooring can be polished, textured, brushed, tumbled or honed, and each finish offers an appeal all its own.

Durability

Similar to most natural stone flooring, travertine tiles are exceptionally durable and hold up well under heavy foot traffic. The hardness rating of this stone is comparable to marble, but unlike other types of stone, it handles extreme temperature changes very well. This durability makes it a suitable choice for both indoor and outdoor settings. In addition, tiles made from such stone offer exceptional longevity when cared for appropriately.

Versatility

Travertine can be purchased in numerous forms, and for this reason it is suitable for additional uses, such as counter tops, wall facades and sink basins. Therefore, consumers who want to match walls, sinks, or counters to their new flooring will find that this can be done without much difficulty.

Easy Maintenance

Although travertine flooring requires slightly more maintenance than floors made from ceramic or marble, maintaining these tiles is an easy endeavor if the appropriate cleaning and sealing products are used. For example, spills should be wiped up immediately with a manufacturer-recommended cleaner, and the tiles should be swept frequently to prevent the floor from sustaining scratches. However, as long as these simple tasks are completed, this type of stone is relatively low maintenance.

A Cost-Effective Option

Homeowners who want the beauty of natural stone, but find most options in this category cost-prohibitive should consider travertine tiles. Although this kind of stone is still considered a luxury option, it is often much more cost-effective than granite, marble, and similar alternatives.

If you have a home improvement project that you’re trying to accomplish on a budget, call our Anaheim tile store today!

Many people enjoy the look of ceramic tile, but may not be aware that it offers a vast array of practical advantages. Below, the experts from our tile store in Anaheim have listed seven surprising benefits of ceramic tile:

Mildew and Mold Resistant

Mildew and mold must have two distinct things in order to grow and thrive: water and food. For this reason, mold and mildew can proliferate on a variety of substances, including wood, fabric and plasterboard, provided the areas are also moist. This is why mold is often present in kitchens and bathrooms. However, ceramic tile is not hospitable to mold, as such tile is made from inorganic ingredients from which spores cannot gain nourishment.

Improved Air Quality

Everything in a home impacts the air quality within its four walls. Because ceramic tile is manufactured from natural substances and fired at several thousand degrees when it is made, the final product is essentially organic. This means that any area in which ceramic tile is used, volatile organic compounds–VOCs–are not emitted. The lower the number of VOCs, the higher the quality of the air.

Formaldehyde-Free

Numerous construction materials contain a substance with which most people are familiar, called formaldehyde. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, formaldehyde is linked to a broad range of respiratory disorders, such as asthma, emphysema, and even lung cancer. It is especially dangerous when inhaled by children, the elderly, and anyone whose immune system is in a compromised state. Due to the health threats presented by formaldehyde, its use is severely restricted in many ways. However, certain composite wood products are allowed to emit a specific amount of formaldehyde. Ceramic tiles, on the other hand, contain no formaldehyde at all. Therefore, one need not have concerns about this toxic substance when such tile is used.

Hypoallergenic

Those with asthma and allergies often search for hypoallergenic products to avoid exacerbating their symptoms. In warm seasons when pollen and other allergens are rife in the air, some people choose to spend the majority of their time indoors. However, this may expose someone to poor air quality, depending on how clean the indoor air is in his or her particular dwelling. Interestingly, ceramic tile surfaces boost the quality of indoor air as dirt, dust, pollen and other allergens cannot penetrate the surface of ceramic. Rather, they can simply be washed away without the need for harsh cleaners.

Easy To Maintain

Because of its nonporous surface, ceramic tile is easy to maintain in general. Deep scrubbing is rarely necessary, and staining usually does not occur if simple, appropriate maintenance is employed. In most cases, professional cleaning is never necessary for ceramic tile floors.

Slip Resistant Tile

Ceramic tile is often recommended if slip resistant options are preferred. The slip proof film does not detract from the beauty of the tiles, which still appear shiny even though they do not present a slip-and-fall risk. Most manufacturers offer a broad range of slip resistant tiles from which to choose, making it easy for consumers to find an appealing option.

Environmentally Friendly

Ceramic tile has a lifespan of approximately 60 years, which means it is associated with a very small carbon footprint. In most cases, homeowners can go a lifetime without needing to replace their ceramic tile floors unless they wish to do so for re-decorating purposes.

Non-Flammable

Ceramic tile is also non-flammable, which means if exposed to flame, it will not emit toxic fumes, produce smoke, or burn. Because of this characteristic, it meets virtually all building codes in the United States with regard to fire safety.

Ceramic tile is one of the most efficient materials you can use in your home. If you are ready for your next interior design project, call our Anaheim tile store today! (714) 284-0118

If you own pets, you’re probably familiar with the damage that they can cause to floors. “What kind of flooring is best for pet owners?” is one of the most frequent questions we get here at our tile store in Anaheim.

The truth is that some floor damage should be expected in homes with pets. The best way to manage it is to choose a flooring system with your furry friend’s needs in mind.

The following types of flooring are advantageous for pet owners:

Stone and Tile Flooring

Stone and tile are still the gold standard when it comes to pet-friendly flooring solutions. Both materials are virtually impervious to scratches, meaning that you won’t end up with undesirable scratch marks even if you don’t trim your pet’s paws as often as you should. Both materials are also water and mildew resistant, making any accidents easy to clean up without permanently damaging your floors. Stone floors such as harder stones like granite and quartzite can be sealed to make them highly resistant to wear and spills. This is true even if you don’t discover an accident right away, giving you much more freedom than other options.

Engineered Hardwood Flooring

Wood flooring is great for a home’s resale value and engineered hardwood floors are compatible with pets. First, we can say White oak and/or Brazilian cherry are two woods that offer more scratch resistance than other options. Next, make sure to use a high quality sealant to minimize the direct contact between your floor and your pet.

If you want to be extra careful, choose a wood with a thick veneer. This way, you can sand any scratches down for a brand new look without compromising the structural integrity of your flooring system. Alternatively, you can go for an intentionally worn look that allows any scratches to blend seamlessly with your decor.

Another way to help hide the scratch marks is to choose rustic or distressed look hardwoods. These styles already look worn and any scratch marks will naturally blend in.

Bamboo Flooring

Bamboo is another option if you want the look of wood in a pet-friendly home. Bamboo is naturally stain and moisture-resistant, helping it stand up to any accidents. It also won’t scratch easily if you use a bamboo that does well on the Janka test, such as strand woven floors.

Cleaning tends to be pretty easy with bamboo too, so you won’t dread the maintenance associated with your flooring system whether the spill is pet-related or not.

If you are trying to decide what the best flooring option for your home is, we urge you to call our Anaheim tile store and talk with our experts! (714) 284-0118

Choosing the right tile is essential for successful and lasting outdoor projects. In fact, patio tiles are great for outdoor work — since they can withstand inclement weather and harsh elements. These tiles are also easy to install and maintain, while offering a myriad of countless design options to meet all your needs. With true durability, versatility and longevity, outdoor tiles continue to enhance numerous outdoor living spaces and projects. However, not all tiles are designed equally — and therefore — it’s important to choose the right type to correlate with your existing project. With that in mind, the experts at our tile store in Anaheim have put together this guide for choosing your outdoor tile.

When choosing outdoor tiles, here are some of the facets to keep in mind:

Durability

Your tile work needs to stand up against rain, as well as sun-rays. Similarly, it must be able to deflect excessive moisture and damp conditions. With this in mind, you need durable outdoor tiles with strong surfaces, but not too porous. The ultimate goal is to install tiles that are strong and designed to last for years to come. However, they should also be self-sustainable for the most part — requiring little to no maintenance.

Hardness

Outdoor patio tiles must also be hard and dense. In fact, tiles that are too soft can easily be susceptible to cracks and chips. Similarly, falling branches, twigs, and even tree limbs can seriously damage soft tiles. They are also susceptible to cracking due to acidic beverage spills, especially lemonade.

Non-slip Surfaces

Outdoor patio tiles should also be slightly abrasive to prevent slipping. It’s a fact that outdoor tiles can get slippery when wet — especially if they come into contact with rain or garden sprinkler systems. With this in mind, you need tiles that offer optimal slip-resistance to prevent accidents and mishaps. No truer is this than for tiles that lead into or encompass outdoor pools and Jacuzzi.

Porosity

Outdoor tiles must be able to withstand harsh weather and elements. However, if the tiles are too porous, they will absorb any water they come in contact with. This is harmful to tiles since they can crack and dislodge — especially in freezing temperatures. With this in mind, you need to look for outdoor tiles that can sustain the weather changes and keep your projects intact.

We’ve put together a list of the best tile materials for your outdoor project, all of which can be found at our Anaheim tile store.

Granite

Granite is the least porous and hardest of all natural stones. It’s known for its strength, durability and resiliency. Granite also holds up to adverse weather conditions and especially colder temperatures. It is even available in solid white, solid black and other color variations.

Marble

Marble is slightly more porous than granite, and is the second hardest of all natural stones. It too is known for its durability and resiliency, but needs to be sealed. Marble is available in a wide array of colors and variations, as well as beautiful veining and rough or polished finishes.

Limestone

Limestone is known for its softness and rich, light-colored appearance. It is very porous and must be sealed for optimal stain protection. Limestone is available in a wide range of colors: brown, white, and tumbled or polished finishes.

Travertine

Travertine is similar to limestone and features lime deposits. It too is very porous and requires sealing to prevent stains. From white to deep brown, travertine comes in a variety of colors, as well as polished or tumbled finishes.

If you need help deciding on a material, call our tile store in Anaheim today to speak with one of our experts! (714) 284-0118

The American anthropologist Loren Eiseley said that if magic can be found on this planet, it is found in water. It’s no surprise that we use water to enrich the aesthetics of our lives and add value to our property.

In this blog, the experts at our tile store in Anaheim will go over the best tile materials to use for your pool or fountain.

Granite

While tile’s role in pools began solely at the water line, it has grown both inward and out, and developed into the choice between the fanciful mosaics of glass and porcelain and the natural beauty of stone. Granite is an enduring stone and a very dense one. It contains a glittery quality whose source lies in the bond of feldspar and quartz crystals. A few different colors are available, and it will never fade beneath the harsh exposure of the sun’s rays. Granite’s porous nature means it is a cool and safe surface for walking on barefoot around pools.

Porcelain Tiles and Porcelain Pavers

While porcelain tiles can be patterned after granite and other stones, its true beauty shines when it is used to display more distinctive art. The choices are endless with color and designs, but the critical factor in selecting this materials is the advantages of not absorbing heat and being less brittle than stone. And slip resistant porcelain pavers are best option for the pool area, they have a very low porosity that helps to facilitate faster draining and drying.

Limestone

A sedimentary stone formed in shallow, warm marine waters, limestone often has the visual interest of fossil fragments or bands of contrasting color. It is made up of coral, shells, and calcium carbonate. We have used limestone in construction since ancient times. The variety of colors combined with the uniqueness of its fossilized pattern is visually appealing when used with water outdoors. It is, however, more sensitive to the wearing of colder climates with their greater threat of freezing.

Glass

Glass tiles are durable and excellent for use in and around water. The fact that they do not suffer moisture absorption means they avoid such undesirable effects as mildews and molds. When utilized in fountains and pools, they add splashes of color and texture that does not deteriorate or fade with time and the sun. Glass tiles are safe for use in areas that experience winters that plummet below freezing. As versatile as porcelain is, it is hard-pressed to compete with the glittering, reflective, refractive qualities of glass when it comes to mosaics. Glass does have grout and adhesive as its Achilles’ heels; lesser quality at installation time will result in a shorter lifespan of patterns and placements.

Travertine

Travertine is a type of limestone. It is a porous sedimentary rock, cream in color, also formed by deposits of calcium carbonate; more porous than is base limestone, in fact, giving it greater safety against slips. It has a timeless elegance as another example of age-old building materials. Usually available in beige tones, Travertine tiles can be attained in an aged finish. Unfortunately, this material shares its weakness with limestone in that freezing temperatures have ill effects on its lifespan.

Whether uniting water with stone, glass, or porcelain, remember to enjoy the loveliness and liveliness of a fountain or pool tiled in individual preference and lasting beauty.