They’ll Never Know it’s Tile. Wood-Look Tile Floors

Wood-look tile has become an increasingly popular choice for homeowners in recent years. And for good reason. These tiles offer the beauty, warmth and texture of natural hardwood, with the durability and practicality of ceramic or porcelain. Wood-look tile is also versatile; with many options available, it blends effortlessly with different interior design styles. Due to its high-performance rating, wood-look tile is an excellent option for various spaces in your home, from kitchens and bathrooms to family rooms and entryways.  

Understanding Wood-Look Tiles

What are wood-look tiles? As the name suggests, they are tiles designed to look like natural hardwood. They are made from various materials, including ceramic, porcelain and even stone. Ceramic and porcelain tiles are the most popular choices, as they are very durable and water-resistant. 

Ceramic vs. Porcelain Wook-Look Tiles

Ceramic and porcelain wood-look tiles are both good choices but have some key differences. Porcelain tiles are denser and more durable than ceramic tiles, making them more resistant to chipping and cracking. They are also less porous, which makes them more water-resistant. As a result, porcelain tiles are generally more expensive than ceramic tiles.

• Stain resistance: Wood-look tiles are also resistant to stains, making them easy to clean and maintain. 
• Scratch resistance: Wood-look tiles are resistant to scratches and dents, so this rugged flooring is a wise choice for homes with pets or children.
• UV resistance: Unlike real wood, wood-look tiles will not fade or discolor in the sun. So, the tile will stand up beautifully for areas in your home that get direct sunlight, such as a sunroom, family room or kitchen.  
• Doesn’t warp or splinter: Unlike natural hardwood, wood-look tiles are incredibly rigid and strong, so they won’t warp or splinter over time. This makes the tile a safe and stable choice for your home. 
• Aesthetic appeal: Wood-look tiles come in a wide variety of designs, colors and patterns, so you can find a style that matches your taste and your home’s décor. They can mimic the look of traditional wood species like oak and maple or more exotic species like teak and mahogany. 

Choosing the Right Wood-Look Tile for Your Home

With so many wood-look tiles on the market, choosing the right one to suit your application and home style can take time. Here are a few things to consider: 

How to Select the Right Tile for Your Home

• The size and shape of the tiles: Wood-look tiles come in various sizes and shapes, from small squares to large planks. The size and shape of the tiles you choose will depend on the size of the room and the overall look you want to achieve. For example, smaller tiles can make a small room look even smaller, while larger tiles can make a large room feel even more spacious. 
• The color and finish of the tiles: Wood-look tiles come in a wide variety of colors and finishes. Choose a color that complements your home’s other colors and finishes. And don’t forget about the grout: Light colors can make the space look brighter and more open, while dark colors can create a more dramatic look. 
• The texture of the tiles: Some wood-look tiles have a smooth texture, while others have a more textured finish. The texture of the tiles will affect the overall look and feel of the space, whether you’re going for sleek and minimalist or rich and earthy. 
• Moisture exposure: If you install the tile in a wet area, such as a bathroom or laundry room, you must choose a water-resistant tile. Porcelain tiles are a good choice for wet areas, as they are very dense and non-porous.
• Your budget: Wood-look tiles can range in price from a few dollars per square foot to hundreds per square foot. Determine your budget before you start shopping to narrow down your options. 

Wood-Look Tile: PEI Rating

When choosing wood-look tile, it is essential to consider the foot traffic. If you install the tile in a high-traffic area, such as a kitchen or entryway, you must choose a tile rated for heavy traffic. This is indicated by the PEI rating system that classifies tiles according to their durability and wear resistance, which ranges from PEI I (light traffic) to PEI V (extra heavy traffic). Here is a guide to the PEI ratings: 

• PEI I: Suitable for light traffic areas like bedrooms and closets. 
• PEI II: Suitable for moderate traffic areas, such as living and dining rooms. 
• PEI III: Suitable for heavy traffic areas, such as kitchens and entryways. 
• PEI IV: Suitable for very heavy traffic areas, such as commercial spaces. 
• PEI V: Suitable for extra heavy traffic areas like airports and train stations. 

Style and Design

Wood-look tiles come in a wide variety of styles and designs, so you can find a look that matches your taste and your home’s décor. Here are a few of the most popular styles: 

• Traditional wood-look tiles mimic the look of classic wood species like oak and maple. 
• Modern wood-look tiles often have a sleek and contemporary look. They may be in lighter colors or have a more distressed finish. 
• Rustic wood-look tiles have a more weathered and aged appearance. They are a good choice for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. 
• Exotic wood-look tiles mimic the look of more exotic wood species like teak and mahogany. 

PRO TIP: When choosing wood-look tile, order samples to see how they look in your home with your existing décor and lighting. 

What to Consider for Wood-Look Tile Installation

While wood-look tile is an excellent choice for DIYers, professional installation is recommended to ensure the best results, especially for large or complex projects. Here are some of the benefits of professional installation: 

• Experience and expertise: Professional installers have the knowledge and expertise to prepare the subfloor properly, install the tile and grout the joints. They know how to avoid common mistakes that can lead to problems, for example, knowing if a moisture barrier is required, if the subfloor needs leveling, etc. 
• Quality artistry: Professional installers take pride in their work and will ensure that your tile floor is installed to the highest standards. 
• Timesaving: Installing tile can be a time-consuming process. Professional installers can have your floor installed quickly and efficiently. 
• Peace of mind: When hiring a professional installer, you know the job will be done right.  

Wood-Look Tile: Top Brands and Collections

As product innovation pushes boundaries, it’s exciting to see the performance features and realistic hardwood finishes replicated in today’s durable wood-look tile. At Dover Floor & Tile Center, we showcase the industry’s leading brands and their collections:  

Shop Dover Floor & Tile Center for a Full Selection of Wood-Look Tile 

Wood-look tile is a versatile and durable choice for your home renovation. With so many different styles and options, you will surely find a tile that meets your needs and budget.

If you are considering using wood-look tile in your home, visit Dover’s boutique showroom in North Olmsted.

We have an extensive offering of wood-look tile products from all the top brands for you to sample, plus free project guidance from our award-winning designers. Please stop in and see us!  

The best is yet to come,

Beth Orr