Popular in the '70s and '80s, tiled bathroom and kitchen countertops can still found today, especially in Arts and Crafts-inspired homes. But when it comes to installing new tile counters, experts have mixed opinions. Sure, tile adds pattern and texture to a room.
Tile took off in popularity in the 1970s and 80s but remains a viable countertop option with few drawbacks. Tile can come as fired tile, ceramic or porcelain as well as stone tile, slate, travertine, granite and even glass tile.
While many homeowners reserve tile for floors and backsplashes, tile countertops can be an excellent—and affordable—option. Ceramic tile is impervious to heat and water, and when properly glazed, it won't stain.
Kitchen tile countertops may be considered outdated by many homeowners. But they are making a comeback. Kitchen tile countertops were popular in the 70s and 80s. Even though people prefer a modern, minimalist style, tile countertops are making their way into the spotlight again.
So the first thing to establish is whether tiled kitchen countertops can be a practical addition. Are they safe, are they hygienic, will they stand up to the everyday wear and tear a kitchen can face? 'Popular in the 1970s and '80s, tile countertops are making a comeback,' says Ben Burbidge of Kitchen Makers.
Cover It With Concrete
If your tile countertop is seriously dated, paint or decals may not be enough to help it. But you still don't have to rip it out and replace it. Instead, use self-leveling concrete to cover the entire surface and create a smooth, modern look for your countertop.
Hexagons, dark, dramatic colours like navy blue, dark green, and black, brick effects, patterned tiles, and variegated metallics are all gaining popularity in 2023. Subway tiles in classic white are still popular, but other colours are taking the centre stage, keeping the design fresh and exciting.
The countertop trends for 2023 include a continued demand for quartz countertops, the rise of quartzite, and the decline of concrete and solid surface countertops.
Expected Lifespan
If properly maintained, marble or concrete should last around 20 years. Laminate can survive anywhere from 20 to 30 years. While tile may be able to endure for 100 years or more, that doesn't take into account the gunk and grime that can accumulate between the tiles.
In fact, according to a survey conducted by Home Made Easy in February 2020 that asked respondents about what they consider to be the worst home décor crazes of the past 50 years, almost 30% of voters felt that — when it came to the kitchen — tile countertops topped the list.
Tile countertops
Tile countertops were hugely popular in the '70s and '80s. Now they're making a comeback, albeit in more modern, minimally styled installations. Even if you have tile that's been there since before you were born, you can make it look good.
Tile is heat resistant, which makes it a good choice next to a stove or oven. You can set hot pans right on the tile surface without fear of damage.
Tiling is a trade that has been around for hundred of years and tiled surfaces show no sign of ever going out of fashion. It is probably safe to say that there will always be a high demand for skilled tilers, meaning that prices will remain high and there's unlikely to ever be a shortage of work available.
Everything from white granite and black granite countertops to granite slabs has fallen out of style. The second reason granite countertops have lost their appeal is that the preference for light, simple kitchens has replaced the trend of dark, warm kitchens. Designers quit wanting “movement” and instead wanted peace.
Porcelain withstands heat well and is unaffected by direct sunlight, while quartz surfaces can warp or become discolored over time. Both materials are slip-resistant, which makes them good options for flooring. Quartz, however, is best used indoors while many porcelain tiles can be used inside or outdoors.
Granite slabs are among the most expensive options for granite countertops, running close to $200 per square foot on the high end. On the other hand, granite tiles run far cheaper usually maxing out below $50 per square foot.
Quartz takes first place in terms of durability. Made of crushed quartz stone mixed with polymers and resin, this artificially engineered stone countertop is an extremely durable surface that resembles natural stone.
Yes, sealing grout increases the longevity of your tile floors and countertops. It makes them highly resistant to dirt and stains. The sealant also secures the tiles in place so they don't come loose over time. After installation, wait two to three days before applying grout sealant.
Quartz. Currently the most popular choice in kitchen countertops, homeowners choose quartz surfacing because of its many advantages. Quartz doesn't need to be sealed, and its seams blend very well.
Quartz has been the most popular kitchen countertop material for several years, and this trend is expected to continue in 2023. This popularity is largely due to its durability, which ensures quartz will withstand everyday wear and last a long time.
Gray. Gray is a classic and timeless choice for a quartz or granite counter. Due to its splashed and unpolished nature, this can be a great choice for a rustic style, but it can also suit any modern style.
In a modern kitchen, your options are vast – from stone, cork and linoleum to bamboo, glass and of course, ceramic and porcelain. Your application will largely dictate which tile you can use. Glass, for example, is ill suited as a floor tile, but great for backsplashes.
According to Vastu, the best colour for kitchen wall tiles is white because it spreads good vibes and makes for the perfect kitchen wall.
Tiles are an amazingly practical surface for kitchens, so consider covering entire walls with your favorite tile, not just around the sink and cooking area. Wall tiles are easy to maintain, hygienic and can create a serious style statement when used in statement block colors.