When properly maintained and cared for, your tile floors will last for years to come. However, there are several times when you’ll know it’s time to update your tile flooring. From style changes to structural issues, there are key times in your floor’s lifetime when it’s time for something new.
Here are 4 ways to know it’s time to update your tile flooring.
Whether you just moved into a new home or your existing tile flooring simply isn’t your style anymore, this is one of the most obvious reasons for a tile change.
When you purchase a home, your style will likely not match that of the previous homeowner. (This, of course, is an important note to keep in mind when installing any tile: is it neutral enough for selling your home later?)
In addition, trends and styles change over time. What appealed to you 15 years ago may no longer seem like the right fit. A home makeover, remodel, or style change may prompt you to replace your existing tile.
You’ll notice flooring in certain areas in your home or business may experience more wear and tear than others. One of the areas we notice the most? Entryways.
Those areas that receive more foot traffic may need tile replaced far sooner than other areas. Luckily, areas like the entryway often have just a small amount of square footage that can quickly and easily be replaced.
Another factor is very worn tile is that you may not have the best suited tile for that particular area. When replacing your tile, look for options that are better suited for high foot traffic areas and the best wear and tear.
Several broken tiles can be replaced, but many broken or damaged tiles may need an entirely new floor. Here in Maine (link to Maine weather post), we can be subject to severe frost heaves that can cause numerous broken tiles throughout your floor.
Likewise, severe structural damage (from disasters like floods, fires, etc.) may also result in the need to replace your tile flooring. Obviously, when there’s damage underneath the flooring, it’s most important to ensure your home is still safe and structurally sound. Your tile flooring will need replacing in almost all cases.
In either case, working with an architect or structural expert may be necessary to ensure your flooring is re-done properly.
We always recommend stocking up on at least one extra box of tiles when installing a new tile floor. That way, you won’t need to worry later on whether a specific tile is in stock or the dye lot is the same.
However, if you have used all of your replacement tiles or you simply didn’t have any extra to begin with, it may be time to replace the floor entirely. If you are experiencing broken tiles and nothing to replace them with, consider re-tiling your floor soon.
If you’re unsure when it’s time to replace your existing tile, look to these four times and ask yourself if you’re in any of these categories.
If you have any questions, Tough Grout is here to help. Get a free quote today for grouting after you’ve retiled your flooring.