Everything About Subway Tiles

Do you find yourself dreaming of those beautifully tiled bathrooms and kitchens in magazines? You're not alone. Subway tiles are one of the most popular choices for both floors and walls, with good reason. They come in a variety of styles, colors, patterns, textures and shapes to complement any design theme or preference.

What Is Subway Tile?

Subway Tiles are a type of tile that is often used on the walls and floors in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, entryways or any other room where you want to have an easy-to-clean surface. The name comes from how they look like little squares with a center hole for grout filling; this same shape can be found among most types of ceramic tiles.

Subway tile is a design of ceramic or glass tiles, typically sized from 12x12 to 24x24 inches. It consists of two sizes: one size for the top row and another for the bottom row. The pattern can be anything - stripes, diamonds, zig-zag patterns (to create movement), rectangles with alternating color, or anything you can think of.

Different Types Of Subway Tiles:

There are seven types of subway tiles, as explained below, each with their own distinct features and benefits to help you decide which one is best for your needs.

Herringbone Subway Tile:

Herringbone Subway tile is a newer design that first emerged in the 1970s and has become increasingly popular over time as homeowners look for ways to make their spaces stand out. It features an alternating pattern where each row alternates from being parallel with one another or angled by 45 degrees. They are available in many colors, but most popular are white with brown or black accents.

Hexagon Subway Tile:

Hexagon Subway Tile is a newer design that first emerged in the 1970s and has become increasingly popular over time as homeowners look for ways to make their spaces stand out. It features an alternating pattern where each row alternates from being parallel with one another or angled by 45 degrees. They are available in many colors, but most popular are white with brown or black accents.

Mosaic Subway Tiles:

Mosaic Subway tile is the newest design and features an alternating pattern where each row alternates from being parallel with one another to tightly packed together like a mosaic. It has many colors and can come in any size.

Porcelain Subway Tiles:

Porcelain Subway tileis a durable material that will last you many years if taken care of properly. It's the most popular and widely available type on the market today due to its consistent look and lower cost.

Where Can You Use Subway Tiles?

Subway tiles can be used in both residential and commercial spaces. Subways are popularly seen on the walls of restaurants, patios, retail stores, homes or offices with a modern design. For instance, you may want to use subway tiles for your kitchen backsplash if it needs updating because they're easy to maintain (they don't absorb stains or odors) and come in many different colors.

subway tile backsplash:

You can use a wide variety of subway tiles in your backsplash. It is recommended to have at least one inch between the backside of each tile and wall, but there are no specific rules for how you should place them on the walls or countertops.

Subway tile is the most popular of all tiles. They are available in so many shapes, sizes and colors that you can find one to suit every budget and style preference.

Subway tiles are a frequently used tile in the kitchen backsplash where they create a border between the countertops and cabinets. They also can be installed horizontally to cover an entire wall or vertically on just one side of a cabinet. Subway tiles provide great contrast with other textures like granite, limestone, quartz stone, or stainless steel sinks.

subway tiles bathroom(shower):

Subway tile is an ideal choice for a bathroom backsplash. It can also be used on the floor surrounding the toilet, as well as in large shower stalls. Subway tiles come in many different colors and patterns to suit any taste or design preference. They are usually made of ceramic which makes them very durable when compared with other types of tile.

What is the subway tile pattern called?

There are many different patterns for subway tiles. Common names include “Reverse Chevron”, "Herringbone", and “Wood Grain." The pattern is often the result of a random effect or variation in production by hand-made items. Those variations can be seen in the size, thickness, shape, orientation and spacing of the tiles.

The subway tile pattern is different in each and every installation, because it's a handmade product with no two exactly alike. That makes this option great for those who enjoy variety or need to match existing patterns on their flooring or other surfaces. It also means that there are many design possibilities!

Why is subway tile so popular?

Subway tile is a popular design choice for homes because it's easy to install and money saving. When installing, all you need are basic tools like a hammer, drill, leveler and measuring tape. It doesn't require any special skills or specific materials so it can be installed by anyone who has an idea of what they're doing.

Furthermore, subway tile is energy efficient and durable which are great for homeowners who want to reduce their electric bills or avoid constant repairs. Last but not least, it's a cost-effective option that allows you to create beautiful spaces on any budget!

The most popular type of subway tiles used in home design today are ceramic and they come in a variety of colors, sizes and patterns.

How do you know what size subway tile to buy?

Subway tile is available in such an array of sizes, it's easy to figure out which one will work best with the kitchen backsplash area or other installation you have in mind. The most common are 12x24, 18x18 and 24x24 inches.

The first step is to determine the size of your wall - which will depend on the space available for your backsplash or other project area. Once you know that dimension, go ahead and multiply it by two (in both directions) to find out how much space you'll need for the tile. For instance, if your backsplash area is 12 inches by 24 inches, it would take one (12" x 24") or two (18" x 18") of those sizes to cover that space.

The next step is simple - just divide that number by the size of tile you're interested in, and round up to find out how many tiles are needed. For instance, if your wall is 12" x 24" and you want to use 18x18 inch subway tiles, it would take four (or two sets) of those sizes.

What size subway tile is best for kitchen backsplash?

A standard size of subway tile, which is also the most common in kitchens, is 12" by 24". This produces a "subway tile wall" that's about three inches thick. For a unique look and to avoid being too overwhelmed with color or pattern, you can use smaller tiles - for example, using the standard size of three-inch by six-inch tiles will produce a wall that's only about an inch thick.

Smaller sizes are also great for creating borders and accent pieces around appliances or other features in your kitchen! For those who want to create more subdued patterns without sacrificing space, 12" x 18" is a great size.

The size of subway tile you want to use will depend on how much space you're working with and what design elements in your kitchen you'd like to highlight!

Are subway tiles expensive?

Subway tile is relatively inexpensive and a good option for those who are looking to save on material costs. However, the price does vary according to size, thickness of the tile, pattern or style you want (such as herringbone), and quality rating. The average cost per square foot can range from $.50-$.90 per square foot, which can range from $75 to $300 for a standard size of subway tiles (12" x 24").

The price will also vary depending on what type you are using - such as composite or porcelain tile, or ceramic and natural stone options like marble and granite. As always, ask for a quote from your supplier to find out what subway tiles are right for you and how much they'll cost.

Advantages Of Subway Tiles

Subway tiles are cost effective, affordable and durable flooring solutions. I am sure that you don’t want to spend an arm and a leg on your home renovation project but at the same time you still need something with great value. Nothing is more fulfilling than making it yourself without breaking the bank or using huge amounts of money in the process.
Subway tiles are easy to install and maintain which means that you won’t need any additional help when it comes to installing them. You will save some money as well since there is no need for professional installation services. All you have to do is get the right tools, follow a few tips and tricks given by professionals and you are all set.
You will be able to find the subway tile design that best suits your style and preferences thanks to a wide variety of colors, shapes and sizes. Plus, there is no need for special tools because what you have at home will do just fine! That’s right; installing these tiles can make it possible for you to create a customized space that is just perfect.
Subway tiles can be used in many different rooms of the house from kitchens and bathrooms, to hallways and bedrooms. There are also many different patterns available so you will never get bored with your design choice! It’s easy to go bold or keep it simple depending on your personal taste.
Subway tiles are very easy to clean which means that they don’t accumulate grime or dust too easily, unlike other types of flooring materials. They can also withstand heavy traffic and may not get damaged with time if used in high-traffic areas of the house like hallways and entrances.
Subway tiles are not only durable but also eco-friendly. They can be recycled which means that they will last for a long time while reducing the number of harmful materials being used, such as chemicals, in their manufacturing process. Plus, you won’t need to worry about sending dangerous substances into your home from these types of flooring materials.

Different Colors In Which Subway Tiles Are Available

There is a wide range of fashionable colors for one to choose from, depending on the type and size. There are various shades including light grey, brownish-grey, blue green, violet tungsten etc., but they can be chosen by what you want your house to look like.

The color of your subway tiles also depends on the other materials and colors used in designing or constructing a building.

White Subway Tiles:

White subway tiles are one of the most popular choices for homeowners looking to add a timeless look to their kitchens, bathrooms and other interior spaces. It is often used for a minimalistic look and offers an opportunity to create dramatic contrast within the room.

A white subway tile is a great way to keep your bathroom looking clean while you wait for it to be remodeled or renovated. This type of tile will offer little distraction when not in use, but can provide a beautiful design element when you want to take a bath.

White tiles are also an excellent choice for bedrooms and other residential spaces where your home's natural light will highlight the white color of the tile. They can offer a sense of openness as they let in more natural light while providing a clean aesthetic to your surroundings.

You may find that these types of tiles are also an excellent choice for a kitchen backsplash, particularly if you’re looking to create the appearance of high-end cooking.

Grey Subway Tiles:

Grey subway tiles are one of the most popular colors in the market. They go well with any décor that you might have, and they work really well for kitchens because it provides a neutral but sophisticated atmosphere.

They come in many different shades, from light grays that have more of a white appearance to darker tones with variations like blue or green mixed into them. Gray is one color that can be combined with any other hue you choose to come up with a truly unique design.

Black Subway Tiles:

These are the most popular type of subway tile. They offer a classy look and come in beautiful patterns like herringbone, basketweave or wavy lines. Black subway tiles are ideal for a kitchen backsplash.

Blue Subway Tiles:

Blue subway tiles are one of the most popular colors for kitchen backsplashes. They can be expensive, but they're well worth it if you want your backslash to stand out and look beautiful. Blue is a calming color that will make anyone feel at home in their own home. When choosing a blue subway tile, there are many different shades to choose from. The light blue and dark blues are more common, but there are other shades as well that will make your kitchen stand out even more than before.

Green Subway Tiles:

The green hue has an earthy effect and is calming to the eye. It’s also one of the easiest colors to match with other tiles because it works well with most hues in nature, including browns, blues, greys and greens. Green subway tile is a perfect choice for those that want to create an earthy feeling in their kitchen.

Brown Subway Tiles:

The brown color of these tiles gives it the natural look and feel of stone or brick, but with less maintenance involved than actual stones. Brown subway tile works well in rustic kitchens that have elements like wood counters and other natural materials. It also does well in kitchens that have more of an earthy vibe, such as being decorated with browns, greens, or tans.

Cream Subway Tiles:

Cream subway tiles, also known as cappuccino tiles, are the perfect addition to any kitchen or bathroom. These beautiful and stylish tile designs will brighten up your space, whether you're looking for a simple way of updating an old room design or want something more extravagant like these marble-look ceramic tiles. They come in numerous colors, which makes them a versatile choice.

Red Subway Tiles:

Red subway tiles are attractive and will make a room look warm. It can become quite hot in the summer. Wearing socks or sandals while walking on them would be a good idea for this reason.

Beige Subway Tile:

Beige subway tiles are best for rooms that need to have a calm and relaxing environment. Some of the benefits beige subway tile can provide include creating a more serene atmosphere, reducing eye strain from looking at white walls too long, adding warmth to an otherwise cold room or providing contrast against darker colors in your interior design scheme. It is also easier to repaint beige subway tiles as opposed to other colors.

Pink Subway Tile:

One of the most popular colors for subway tiles is pink. Pink has been a color that many people have associated with femininity and love, which might be why it's so popular as a color choice in bathrooms or other parts of your home where you want to feel romantic. A lot of times, this color will also help improve moods and increase feelings of happiness.

Different Finishes In Which Subway Tiles Available

There are many different finishes available. Below we provide details about all types of finishes in which subway tiles are available:

Marble Subway Tiles:

Marble finish subway tiles are a trend in the market. The marble finish gives this tile pattern more depth and dimension than your typical, plain subway tile. Marble is one of the most popular stone finishes for flooring, furniture and countertops because it's such an elegant material with a lot of movement in its patterns that create an interesting texture.

Marble finish subway tiles have a matte finish, so they can be used in any room where you want to create an elegant look. You may also choose to use these types of tile as your backsplash for the kitchen or bathroom countertop creating a soothing and neutral feel that will compliment all other aspects of this space.

Marble finish subway tiles are perfect for a living room wall. They can be used on the floor, or over an entire countertop in your kitchen if you want to create a very elegant look that will make all of the other aspects of this space pop and stand out. The marble finish is not too glossy which means it won't leave that freshly-polished look on your flooring or countertop.

Matte Finish Subway Tiles:

Matte finish subway tiles are made of clay or porcelain. Matte finished is a low lustre and matte surface which provides an elegant look. This type of tile has been in the market since quite some time back, but it was not popular as they were not easy to clean. But now with advances in technology, these types have emerged as the more popular version of subway tile, with a wide range of colors available.

The matte finish ones are not glossy and have texture to it which makes them easier to clean and maintain while at the same time giving an elegant look to your home or office walls. This is one of the reasons why they are becoming so popular in recent times.

You can use these tiles in the kitchen around your stove, and also behind the sink as it is easier to clean them up because of their texture.

Glossy Subway Tiles:

Glossy subway tiles are made of ceramic and glass. These types of materials make glossy subway tile a good choice for creating an elegant space that stands out in the luxury market, or as part of effort to create a more modern design style. The high-gloss finish on these tiles works well with today's trend towards ultra-modern, geometric shapes.

These tiles are very popular because they give the feeling of a luxurious, highly polished stone. They can be used in any room of your home and go well with all types of furniture. Choosing glossy subway tiles will make an expensive look for less!

Acrylic Subway Tiles:

Acrylic subway tiles are a great choice for those who need to worry about water resistance and its easy care. Acrylic is also lightweight, making it easier to install on larger walls.

Wooden Subway Tiles:

Wooden tiles are the most popular subway tile of late. Wooden subway tiles have the look of solid hardwood with no maintenance. Wooden subway tiles can be used in any room of your home and provide a warm, natural look. Wood also requires less maintenance than porcelain tiles, making them a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms.

Glass Subway Tiles:

Glass subway tiles are one of the most popular types of tile for use in kitchens. They have a beautiful, glossy surface and can be used on many different areas, including backsplashes or ceilings to add depth to your kitchen space. The amount you spend per square foot depends largely on whether they're standard size or oversized (and the size of your kitchen). Standard sizes range from 12"x12" to 24"-36".

Stone Subway Tiles:

If you want a durable finish, stone subway tiles are the perfect choice. Stone is an easy-to-clean material and scratch resistant! It's also heavy so it will stay in place with minimal movement from shifting.

Rustic Subway Tiles:

Rustic subway tiles are a new trend for those of us looking to add some charm and warmth. The distressed look is perfect in any modern or contemporary space, but it will be especially important when you want the room to have that nostalgic vibe. Rustic ceramic tile looks like aged wood on one side and has another smooth finish on the other.

This type of subway tile is perfect for bathrooms, kitchens or even a living room to add some rustic appeal. In the bathroom it can be used around your bathtub to give off that cabin in the woods. It's also great as backsplash tiles because they are easy to clean and won't show water spots like other types of tiles.

Although rustic ceramic tile is relatively new to the market, it's best for anyone who wants their space to have an artistic flair and a little bit of old-fashioned charm. If you are looking for subway tiles that will make your home or office feel more like home then this type should definitely be on your list!

Different Size Of Subway Tiles

A standard size is 12" x 24". These are the most popular so they're easiest to find. They can be cut down in length and width, but it's best not to go more than ¼ of an inch shorter or wider because a lot of them have grout lines which usually get thicker as tiles are made smaller.

These size tiles can be broken down into two more sizes: half and quarter. Half tiles are 12" x 12", which is the most common second choice for backsplashes because they're easier to work with due to their small grout lines; Quarter tiles measure at six inches long by three wide, and it's best not to use them unless you have an intricate design in mind.

There are a few other, less popular sizes as well: 24" x 12", which is typically used for floor tiles and step treads; 30" by 18" for large areas like living room floors, etc.; And 24" x 36," which can be cut down to 12" x 24".

If you have any questions about our subway tile products or would like to schedule an appointment with one of our experts at Tieic. Please call on +91 94294 84412 and we will do everything possible to help make your experience as enjoyable as possible.

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