Sizes of kitchen tiles

An apron in the kitchen is usually called the wall space covered with ceramic tiles, between the kitchen table and wall cabinets. A kitchen apron simultaneously performs an aesthetic function and protects walls from dirt and moisture.

Tile is a type of ceramic tile. The word "ceramics" in translation from Greek means "from fired clay". Tile is a mixture of clay, sand and minerals, which is fired and covered with glaze. It is very often used for wall or floor cladding due to its unique properties.

• Durability and water resistance. Differs in particular strength and resistance to moisture.
• Stable color. The tile never changes its color when exposed to sunlight.
• Resistance to temperature extremes. This material can withstand both cold and high temperatures.
• Hygiene. If the tile is properly laid and has an antibacterial layer applied to it, then it will be a completely hygienic material. The smooth glossy surface prevents the growth of microorganisms.
• Decorativeness. You can choose from a variety of colors and patterns.
• Easy to clean. To maintain the cleanliness of the tile, it is enough to wipe it with a damp sponge and any cleaning agent.

But this type of ceramic tile also has its drawbacks, which should be paid attention to.

• Tiled masonry requires a perfectly flat wall surface.
• The tile is difficult to install. Smooth laying of the material requires professional skills.
• Wall cladding with this material is an expensive job. In addition, this process requires a large amount of related consumables.
• Removing the old cladding is a very time consuming task.

Before you go to the store to buy tiles, you should prepare.

• Think carefully about the size and shape of the ceramic tiles, comparing them with the size and interior of the kitchen. Remember that large tiles will not look good in a small kitchen.
• Think about which installation method suits you best: classic - under each other, with displacement tiles, staggered, and so on.
• Measure the wall accurately. The apron should go under the cabinets by a few centimeters.
• choosing between monochrome and decor, proceed from your budget. Plain tiles will be cheaper.

When buying a tile, you should pay attention to the following points.

1. The optimum thickness of kitchen wall tiles is from 4 to 7 millimeters.
2. Tile packaging must be labeled A or AA (chemical resistance class).
3. All tiles must be from the same batch, otherwise there may be a difference in color tone.
4. The best tiles are produced in Italy, Poland and Spain.
5. There are three types of ceramic tiles. The first grade (red marking) - 5% of the defect is allowed, the second (blue marking) - about 20% of the scrap, the third (green marking) - over 25% of the defective tiles.
6. Be sure to purchase ceramic tiles with a small margin.
7. If you are buying a tile for repairs that you do not plan to carry out immediately, then be sure to store it in a dry place.

In our country, since Soviet times, a "classic" for a kitchen apron with a size of 10x10 centimeters has been popular. Such dimensions make it possible to do without cutting when laying (especially if the apron height is 60 centimeters). This size is well suited for a small kitchen, as it visually expands the space.

Often this size is the so-called hog tile (named after the holes in the mortar mold). It has a rectangular shape with beveled edges. Such a kitchen apron will look good in both classic and modern styles. This tile visually expands the space (especially if it is white). But you can choose the most different colors that best suit your interior.

Also a variant of the hog tile. Better to use it in spacious kitchens. Such large-format tiles are perfect for modern kitchen interiors. It often imitates stone, wood or brick.

Large tiles for large kitchens. In a modern interior, it can look very impressive. For an apron, you only need a few of this size. But remember that large tiles are not resistant to mechanical damage. And if you increase the thickness, then the mass will also increase, which is undesirable.

Tiling a backsplash with ceramic tiles is the best option to make any kitchen cozy, practical and stylish. As practice shows, the tile remains one of the most durable and safe materials for health today.

For a master class on laying tiles on a kitchen apron, see the next video.