Visual Impact

When you’re trying to decide on the proper flooring for your home, it can be a little overwhelming, to say the least. Today, with improvements in both manufacturing and installation, there are literally hundreds of options to choose from.

If you’re looking for something that’s both versatile and easy to maintain, however, you really can’t go wrong with tile. Tile is known for its versatility. It can be used on floors and walls, it’s great for both indoor and outdoor applications, it’s tough, and it’s easy to clean, too. On top of all that, tile is attractive and can actually increase the value of your home.

Tile comes in a wide variety of colors, shapes, and sizes, giving you an endless number of design possibilities. You can even get different textures to create an interesting look or provide for better footing. And due to the skyrocketing popularity of tile in recent years, manufacturers are now offering a variety of trim pieces and matching accessories to choose from.

One of the least known benefits of tile is its insulating capabilities. For example, during these cold winter months, the sun coming in through your windows will actually heat up the tile. Then, at night, the tile releases that heat, which can help keep your tootsies warm. Conversely, in the summertime, tile helps keep your house cool by absorbing the sun’s hot rays. In the evening, this heat is then released and carried away through your home’s ventilation system.

Tile isn’t just for floors, either. Nowadays, many people are choosing tile for their kitchen countertops. Although it’s more expensive than a laminate finish, it will cost you less than a similar countertop made of stone. Walls are a great place to install tile, too. Since their water resistant, tiles are the preferred covering for commonly wet applications, such as showers and backsplashes.

Another benefit of tile is its effect on your health. Unlike carpet, vinyl, and some pre-finished hardwood floorings, which may release harmful chemicals into the air, tile actually improves your indoor air quality.

It’s obvious that tile has a lot of benefits. But the best benefit of all may just be how easy it makes your life.

“Tile is great because it’s easy to care for,” says Bob Krashna, who together with his wife, Tina, owns Ceramiche Tile & Stone in Pittsburgh. “Usually, a quick wipe with a damp mop will do the trick.” Krashna adds that even when tile is neglected over time, a good, thorough washing is all it takes to getting looking good as new.

Compliments of Ceremiche Tile & Stone

Ceramiche Tile & Stone has over 40­­­ years of experience in the tile industry. With an emphasis on design, Ceramiche provides its clients with the best possible product in order to achieve the look they desire. “We set ourselves apart by offering new and unique products,” says Krashna. “Plus, we help you every step of the way throughout the process in order to make your experience as enjoyable and satisfying as possible.”

Ceramiche’s West End showroom features ceramic, porcelain, and natural stone tiles from all over the world, and all of it is neatly organized to help you find what you are looking for. Best of all, their designers will work closely with you to create a tile layout that best compliments your home. They can also provide a professional, trustworthy installer to help make sure your job is done right.

Tile is also a wonderful choice because of its durability. When done correctly, your new tile will be around and looking great for a long time. But again, that’s only if it’s done correctly.

“The key is proper installation,” says Pete Paracca, owner of Paracca Interiors Flooring America.

“As long as you make sure to have an expert install your tile, it should last as long as you live in your house.”

Compliments of Paracca Interior Flooring America

Located on Route 8 in Valencia, Pa., Paracca Interiors Flooring America are experts trained in flooring sales and design. Pete and his wife, Sallie, can help you find the perfect floor for the way you live. “Our 500-store nationwide buying power guarantees you low prices on thousands of flooring options backed by the most solid warranties,” says Paracca. “Our goal is to make sure you enjoy your shopping experience and find exactly what you want so that you are confident in your purchase.”

Paracca Interiors Flooring America is known for their customer service. They stand behind their products and services, and their guarantees protect you and your investment to ensure you a confident, worry-free, and enjoyable shopping experience.­

No matter what type of flooring you have, eventually you’re going to have an accident that causes some type of damage to it. Unfortunately, repairing this damage can end up costing you an arm and a leg. Unlike other types of flooring, however, tile is very easy and inexpensive to replace.

Compliments of Tile & Designs, Inc.

“When you spill red wine or coffee on carpet, or when you accidentally cut your vinyl floor, you usually have to replace the whole thing, or at least a large section,” says Lee Knox, owner of Tile & Designs, Inc.. “But with tile, if one of the panels is damaged or broken, all you have to do is replace the damaged tile. It’s easy, and it saves you a lot of money in the long run.”

Located on Ellsworth Avenue in Shadyside, Tile & Designs works hard to help you dream, build a design, and deliver a great end product. “For over 30 years, we’ve grown and adapted to the ever-changing world of construction, home design, and style,” says Knox. “And as we continue to modernize to meet our clients’ needs, we will continue to preserve and sustain all environments through quality craftsmanship and superior products.”

Tile & Designs also features an ever-growing library of recycled materials, which allows them to create tiles that are both beautiful and sustainable. “Tile is a fit in the green world,” says Knox, who invites clients to experience their state-of-the-art showroom, play with their products, and understand the benefits of a fully trained designer.

So with all these positive points about tile, you’d probably think it would come with a big price tag. Think again.

Compliments of Architectural Clay Products

“One of the biggest misconceptions about tile is that it’s too expensive,” says the Bope family, owners of Architectural Clay Products. “Actually, it’s really quite affordable. In many cases it’s the same cost as vinyl flooring.” Mark Bope adds that the lifespan of tile greatly exceeds that of vinyl, adding to its intrinsic value. “You really can’t get a better flooring option for your money,” he says.

Located on Pittsburgh’s North Shore, just off of Route 65, Architectural Clay Products is a major wholesale distributor of brick, tile, and allied products. “Our primary customers are architects, designers, builders, and contractors, as well as homeowners,” says Mark. “We have an extensive showroom and warehouse, which is open to the public, where you can see our wide range of beautiful tile products.”

Architectural Clay Products was established in 1960 and is a 3rd generation, locally owned company, featuring one of the region’s most extensive collections of ceramic and porcelain tile, natural stone, and brick. Over the last three years, they have been undergoing an exciting period of development and have greatly expanded our showroom size (7,000 square feet), increased their offerings of new manufacturers, natural stone tiles, and LEED certified materials including porcelain tile, cork and bamboo. Today they offer flagstone tile, terracotta tile, European ceramics, glass and metal tiles, thin brick, Indiana Limestone, Real Stone Systems panels, Entrance mats and Luxury Vinyl which separate Architectural Clay Products from other tile companies.

Versatility, durability, beauty, affordability, and easy maintenance—what more could you ask for in a flooring? When you’re making the choice for your next floor or wall covering, consider tile. You won’t be disappointed.