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What is a Lappato Tile?

What Makes a Tile Lappato?

In Italian, Lappato means semi-polished, and it is a finish that is put on tiles, near the end of the production process. This technique, applied to porcelain tiles, results in a very unique design and texture. Usually, the Lappato Tile has two layers, one is matt, and another is glossy. Because of this the Lappato Tiles aren’t as slippy as a gloss tile would be, but it will still reflect light around the room.

A lot of consumers look for the high gloss finish you get with a lot of tiles. It is a great finish, as it brings light and colour to the space. But they are put off by the practicality of having a high gloss tile on the floor. So Lappato is the perfect option. It gives the consumer that gloss look they are looking for, but also brings practicality, as the matt textured finish supplies grip. Further, they require no sealing, which means the tile needs very little maintenance.

Lappato from us:

The tiles we stock that have a Lappato finish are: our milan range. We have them in 600×600 and they are either white, grey or black. For us these tiles are great people pleasers. They are very versatile and have great applications. For us the lappato is perfect for a bathroom floor, or as a wall feature. It’s unique finish allows it to be a lot less slippery as a gloss finish porcelain tile would be. Furthermore, it’s texture and slight shine makes it an eye-catching wall feature, which will add to any industrial, natural theme.

For More Infomation:

For more information on Lappato Tiles feel free to call us (0113 390 8800), email at info@tilesforever.co.uk or come into our showroom and see the tiles for yourself.

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Bathroom Trends of 2021/2022

Bathrooms

Bathrooms have changed their function throughout their history, but recently they have shifted once more into spaces for pure relaxation and serenity.  Bathrooms are less about the function and more about the ambiance. This is translated in the interior of the space.

Nature

The biggest trends we are seeing is a move to nature. As mentioned before, bathrooms are meant for relaxation and what better way to do this than being back to nature. this is released not just by putting plant in your bathroom, but by really bringing the outside, inside. This is achieved by colours, texture and materials. Materials like, wood and stone paired with neutral tones can  transform a space into a place of mindfulness. When al these tools are applied it can turn a space into a true place of serenity and calm; a spa.

Bold Features

What better way to show your personality than strong statements in the home. Tiles are following this trend closely and we are seeing more mosaics and linear tiles with quirky textures and colours coming onto the market. When it comes to bathroom accessories; if you have gone bold and out there with the tile option, we are seeing a lot more matt black and stainless steel of glass simple faucet designs. It seems, if you want to show your personality in your bathroom, then the tile option is the route. And porcelain tiles especially have such a wide variety of choice waiting for you.

Terracotta

Terracotta is coming back in a big way! with that comes Mediterranean colour palettes as well. Ranging from the light shades of apricot and clay all the way to the deep burnt oranges, we are seeing  massive rise in these tones being used in bathrooms. If you don’t want to dive head first into this trend, it’s easy to bring it slowly into the space, by adding accents of terracotta. Start with a bathmat or towels, or even change the colour of your grout.

For any more information on porcelain feel free to call us (0113 390 8800), email at info@tilesforever.co.uk or come into our showroom and see for yourself.

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What Grout Should I Use?

What is Grout?

Grout is generally a mixture of cement, sand and water. Water is added to the powder to create a dense fluid which is used to bond and seal joints between tiles. It is used to attach the tile to the surface, and then to seal the spaces in between the tiles. 

 

When it comes to grout choice, there are two grout types you need to consider for any porcelain tile project. To our customers we will always recommend flexible grout. This is because it is easy to apply and mix. Is available in a wide range of colours. It is also cost effective. 

 

Epoxy grout has its place in the market. It is strong and durable. But it is hard to apply and requires a specialist. This makes it good for high-traffic areas, like receptions and restaurants. But this means it isn’t suitable for residential projects.

Choosing the Right Grout Colour

It’s easy to get carried away with which tile to use for your project but what can easily be overlooked is grout colour. The colour of your grout can really make or break the look of your tile. There is no right or wrong when it comes to grout colour choice, it is personal preference and depends on what you want from your grout.

Classic Colour Combinations

  • White grout and white tile. This creates flow and a seamless looking surface. But can show up any stain or discolour, so can require upkeep. 
  • Grey grout and white tile: This helps to show the shape of your tile and add contrast. It can help the tile sing louder in the space. 
  • Black grout and white tile: the grout is the attention and the pattern that the grout makes weaving through the tiles is the focal point.
  • Colourful grout: if you are going for a colour scheme throughout the space, then pick that hue up with the grout as well. Adds personality and a unique look. 
  • Grey grout and colourful tile: allows the grout to fade into the background. 
  • Colourful grout and colourful tile: picking matching colours for both can create a vibrant look! Bringing a bit of an international hotel appeal. 

Why Does Grout Get Dirty?

Grout is a lot more porous than the tiles themselves, and so does absorb water over time. Dirt in the water and air can be absorbed into the grout and will ruin the appearance over time. Furthermore, the actual cleaning equipment you use can damage the grout. These same holes can expand and rupture when strong acid or alkaline is applied to them. This leads to the large holes growing mold and mildew. We recommend high water content cleaners from companies like LTP,  who do an amazing grout cleaner that needs to be applied once every 6 months to protect the grout from any cleaning product you put on the tile.  We don’t recommend home remedy grout cleaners as it is hard to control the ratios of acid and alkaline, which could result in damage to the grout.

For any more information on porcelain feel free to call us (0113 390 8800), email at info@tilesforever.co.uk or come into our showroom and see for yourself.