Ceramic tile is a great addition to almost any home, and is very versatile, as it can be used both as a wallcovering and on the floor. Ceramic tile also comes in an incredible array of sizes, styles, and colors to fit the needs of almost anyone.

The first thing to note about ceramic tiles is that they come in two varieties, glazed or unglazed. Glazed tiles are easy to recognize because they have a gloss finish which makes them nonporous. On the other hand, unglazed tiles look more natural, but they are susceptible to water and also harder to clean.

Both glazed and unglazed tiles are well represented in most home improvement stores. In fact, you should have no trouble finding a compatible style and color to match your home decor very easily. Of course, the single colors and more basic color designs will be the least expensive, and the more elaborate designs will command higher prices.

Ceramic tiles also come in all manner of sizes and shapes, but perhaps the most popular size is 4 1/4 inches square. This kind of tile is most often used on bathroom and kitchen walls for backsplashes. However, there are plenty of other sizes available including the larger 12 in. and 18 in. square tiles that often find their way to the floor of a beautiful entryway.

There are also specialty tiles that can be used, including bullnose tiles that have one edge finished in a curve, cap tiles that are used as edging along a tiled wall, and cove tiles for along the base of a tiled wall. As a general rule, smaller tile sizes lend themselves to be used in smaller areas and are easier to fit around corners, while larger tiles tend to present a less cluttered look.

If you need to estimate the number of tiles that you're going to need for a particular project, simply measure the total square footage of the area to be covered by multiplying length times width. Once you have that figure you should be able to figure out how many boxes of tiles will be needed by just looking on each box at the store. Usually the manufacturer lists how much square footage will be covered by a particular box of tile right on the outside.

It's not a bad idea to get some extra tile boxes for several reasons. One is that if you have not worked with installing ceramic tile very much in the past, you can plan on a certain amount of learning curve that has to take place. And that will mean that some tiles will be wasted, perhaps even quite a few. Don't let that discourage you, but adding on an extra 15% to 20% of tile coverage can be a smart move. Also, if any tiles get damaged or need repair in the future, you have them on hand to be able to accomplish the job right away.

Ceramic tile makes a very impressive and beautiful appearance when used properly, and it is also well within the reach of most homeowners to be able to install on their own. To get started, why not look for a small space in your home where you would like to put some ceramic tile and give it a try?

Thad Pickering writes on many consumer related topics including home improvement. You can find out more about bathroom remodeling ideas and basement remodeling ideas by visiting our Home Improvement website.