BELK Tile - Tile Talk with Mike Belk: Recent Episodes
Mike Belk
We are going to discuss different tiles, designs and questions that we get asked on a regular basis. Offering our point of view about certain ideas of everything related to tile. For more information please visit: https://www.belktile.com
You can’t scroll design feeds without seeing herringbone, but the real question is how to make it feel fresh in your space. We take you from big-picture design thinking to hands-on setup, sharing the layout tricks, grout choices, and smart budget moves that turn a zigzag into a polished feature. Along the way, we swap stories from the shop floor and walk through what goes wrong when the pattern drifts and how to fix it before you burn a weekend redoing rows.
We start with why this 90-degree pattern refuses to fade: it’s versatile, working in modern kitchens, historic homes, and everything in between. Then we dig into the practical steps that matter most—dry laying, anchoring from a center line, and choosing tile sizes that fit your room’s scale. Worried about cost or commitment? Try a focused accent behind a range, a niche, or a half-wall splash to get the look without tiling every inch. We also explore vertical herringbone to add height, oversized planks for bold graphics, and mixed materials like stone and glass to bring depth without visual clutter.
Grout and maintenance get their due, because the finish is where projects succeed. High-contrast grout can frame each chevron beautifully, but it also highlights mistakes, so we share forgiving options that still show the pattern. For floors and wet areas, we cover slip resistance, movement joints, sealing grout, and protecting natural stone to keep surfaces clean and resilient. A simple, pH-neutral routine is the quiet hero that preserves color and keeps lines crisp for years.
If you’re mapping your first herringbone or choosing between DIY and calling a pro, you’ll leave with a clear plan, design ideas that fit your budget, and care tips that protect your work. Love a subtle farmhouse vibe, a spa-like marble floor, or a metallic pop over the bar—there’s a path here for each. Enjoyed the conversation? Follow the show, leave a review, and tell us where you’d try herringbone next.
🎧 Thanks for Listening to the BELK Tile Podcast!
We appreciate you tuning in to The BELK Tile Podcast, where we talk all things tile — design inspiration, installation tips, and the latest in tile style and innovation.
👉 Stay Connected:
Follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more tile inspiration:
- YouTube
💬 Enjoyed this episode?
Leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform — your feedback helps us grow and helps others discover the BELK Tile Podcast!
🌐 Visit us online at BELKTile.com
for premium backsplash, wall, and floor tiles, or explore more episodes right here on Podcast.BELKTile.com
Send us a text
A dull, echoing thud under your tile can feel like a gut punch—does it mean cracks are coming, or worse, a full floor redo? We dig into what that hollow sound really means, why it happens, and how to tell if you’re dealing with one loose tile or a wider coverage and substrate problem. Along the way, we share a clear plan to diagnose, repair, and prevent future issues so your floors stay quiet, solid, and beautiful.
We start by translating the “floor is talking” moment: voids form when mortar doesn’t fully bond tile to the substrate, often from skipped back-buttering, the wrong trowel size, dusty or uneven surfaces, or using the wrong adhesive for porcelain and moisture-heavy spaces. Buildings also move and settle; without proper movement joints, stresses can pop tiles or tent whole sections. You’ll learn the simple tap test, what the sound tells you, and the visual red flags—cracked grout, lifting edges, springy corners—that help map the problem. Then we weigh repair choices: discreet grout-line injection for small, stable voids versus pulling tiles to fix coverage, flatten the substrate, address moisture, and reset with the right mortar.
Prevention takes center stage: clean, flat substrates; back-buttering large-format tiles; polymer-modified and large-and-heavy-tile mortars; waterproof membranes in wet areas; and uncoupling layers where movement is expected. We explain why perimeter and field movement joints are non-negotiable and how routine maintenance—pH-neutral cleaning, periodic inspections, and a quick ear to the floor—catches problems early. If more than a few tiles sound hollow or you see spreading cracks, it’s time to bring in a pro who can spot structural deflection, humidity issues, or installation shortcuts that keep symptoms coming back.
If your tiles are “talking back,” take it as a friendly nudge, not a disaster. Listen, test, and act with a plan. If you found this helpful, follow the show, share it with a friend who’s renovating, and leave a quick review to help others find practical tile advice.
Send us a text
Grout is where tile projects win or lose. We’ve all seen perfect floors turn into crumbly, stained headaches, so we pulled back the curtain on what really causes failure and how to stop it before it starts. From subfloor movement to water-heavy mixes, we unpack the hidden factors that crack lines, and then map the smarter path: match grout chemistry to your space, install with intention, and maintain without turning your weekend into a cleaning shift.
We walk through cement-based, epoxy, and urethane grouts—how they handle moisture, stains, and traffic—and why joint size and color choice change the game. If you love white grout, you’ll hear when epoxy is worth it, why a half shade darker can save your sanity, and how to keep brightness without constant scrubbing. We get practical about sealing schedules, pH-neutral cleaners, ventilation that keeps showers from breeding mildew, and the simple tools that clean without stripping protection.
For those already battling cracks or stains, we outline clear repair steps: cut and remove damaged sections safely, test color dry, use epoxy patch kits for seamless blends, and log your work so you know when to reseal or revisit. Along the way, we share quick wins—entry mats, shoe-off habits, shower filters in hard-water areas—that add up to years of sharper lines and cleaner tile. Subscribe, share this with a friend planning a remodel, and leave a review with your toughest grout question so we can help you solve it on a future show.
Send us a text
Ever stepped into a freshly tiled bathroom only to notice uneven edges, cracked grout, or that hollow sound when you walk across the floor? These telltale signs of DIY gone wrong aren't just aesthetic problems—they're warnings of bigger issues lurking beneath the surface.
The difference between stunning, long-lasting tile work and a costly redo often comes down to knowing what professionals never skip. Surface preparation stands as the foundation of every successful tile project, yet it's the step most homeowners rush through. We break down exactly how to create that perfect clean slate, from addressing uneven subfloors to selecting the right underlayment for wet areas. Those mysterious hollow sounds and cracks that appear months later? Almost always traced back to these crucial first steps.
Material selection creates another minefield for DIYers. We demystify the confusion between mastic and thinset, explain why your trowel size actually matters, and reveal the proper techniques for large-format tiles that professionals use but rarely share. The layout planning secrets we discuss transform amateur installations into showpieces—working from focal points rather than corners, using proper spacing, and avoiding those telltale skinny tile strips that scream "DIY job." And don't miss our breakdown of grout selection, proper curing times, and those all-important expansion joints that prevent the dreaded tile "tenting" phenomenon.
Ready to tackle your next tile project with professional-grade knowledge? Download our tile prep checklist from the website and subscribe to catch next week's deep dive into how grout color choices can completely transform your space. Share your before-and-after photos with us—we'd love to see how these pro tips elevate your next tile installation!
Send us a text
Slips and falls aren't just embarrassing—they can be dangerous and costly. Yet so many homeowners choose gorgeous tile based purely on looks, only to discover the hard way that beauty doesn't equal safety when water hits the floor.
In this deep dive on slip resistance, Mike and Abby break down everything you need to know about keeping your footing while maintaining stunning style. We decode those mysterious ratings like DCOF and R-values that actually tell you how safe a tile will be when wet. Forget the marketing hype—we give you the straight talk on what these numbers mean for your bathroom, kitchen, or pool deck.
The age-old design rule of "matte for floors, gloss for walls" exists for good reason, but we go beyond simple finishes to explore how texture creates both visual interest and crucial traction. From the practical benefits of mosaic tiles (more grout lines = more grip) to the maintenance considerations of textured surfaces, we cover the real-world implications of every choice.
Best of all, we share designer-approved combinations that prove safety doesn't mean sacrificing style. Learn how to create visually striking spaces that perform beautifully in daily life—whether that means handling kitchen spills, bathroom splashes, or poolside puddles. With our practical tips for testing and selecting tile, you'll approach your next renovation with confidence.
Have questions about tile for your project? Visit belktile.com for resources, inspiration, and expert advice, or call us at 614-543-8334. Subscribe and leave a review to join our community of savvy homeowners who know that the smartest designs look great and keep everyone safe.
Send us a text
Goodbye stark white kitchens, hello to a warmer, more textured future. The 2025 tile landscape is shifting dramatically toward spaces that feel lived-in, sustainable, and deeply personal—and we couldn't be more excited about where design is headed.
The earthy palette revolution is in full swing, with clay, sand, sage, terracotta, and olive creating environments that feel grounded and inviting. What makes these colors special isn't just their visual warmth but their staying power. As we discuss in this episode, these nature-inspired tones "wear in instead of out," developing character over time rather than looking dated. Paired with subtle textures—those handmade, slightly wavy terracotta squares or imperfect-edge tiles that catch light throughout the day—these materials create spaces that truly feel like home.
The floor beneath your feet is becoming the canvas for personal expression, with statement patterns transforming entryways and high-traffic areas. The revival of classic layouts like herringbone and basket weave proves that what's old becomes new again when installed with creativity and precision. We share real client stories of tone-on-tone herringbone mudrooms and basket weave patterns that wrap from floors onto walls, demonstrating how installation technique can transform even simple tiles into custom masterpieces.
Looking toward tomorrow, we explore how technology and sustainability are reshaping tile's future. From heated floors to embedded lighting and recycled materials, homeowners are demanding more from their surfaces—both in performance and environmental responsibility. Our favorite approach? Future-proofing designs by layering innovation on timeless foundations, creating spaces that evolve rather than require replacement.
Ready to bring these 2025 trends into your home? Subscribe to the Belk Tile Podcast for more insights, and share which of these emerging styles you're most excited to incorporate into your next project!
Send us a text
Terracotta tiles captivate with their timeless allure, and we're diving deep into why this ancient material is experiencing such a powerful renaissance in modern design. The earthy warmth and authentic character of these "baked earth" tiles transform ordinary spaces into inviting, soulful environments that connect us to centuries of architectural tradition.
We explore how terracotta has evolved beyond country kitchens to become a designer favorite in contemporary settings. From rustic farmhouses to sleek urban lofts, these tiles bring warmth and texture to every application. The natural color variations and subtle imperfections create dynamic surfaces that change throughout the day as light shifts across them, offering a living, breathing quality that manufactured alternatives simply cannot match.
Practical considerations take center stage as we share essential maintenance wisdom for keeping terracotta beautiful for decades. Proper sealing techniques, cleaning protocols, and preventative measures ensure these investments continue to improve with age. We share real client stories—from design triumphs to happy accidents that became cherished features—demonstrating how terracotta develops that coveted Mediterranean patina over time. Creative applications abound as designers experiment with sizes, patterns, and complementary materials. Pairing terracotta with crisp whites, bold accent colors, or mixed metals creates striking juxtapositions that balance earthy tradition with modern sophistication. Whether installed as hexagons, classic rectangles, or custom mosaics, these versatile tiles adapt to any aesthetic vision.
Ready to bring this timeless material into your home? Visit belktile.com or call 614-543-8334 to explore our terracotta collections. Share your terracotta dreams or installations with us on social media—we'd love to see how you're incorporating this enduring material into your spaces!
Send us a text
Transforming your kitchen with the perfect backsplash starts with understanding its role as the "jewelry" that completes your space. Should you choose your backsplash first, or follow the more traditional sequence of cabinets, countertops, flooring, and then backsplash? While there's no absolute rule, Mike and Abby share their professional approach to creating kitchens that feel intentional rather than haphazard.
The conversation delves into an essential design question: what element should be your kitchen's star? If you've invested in showstopping cabinets or a dramatic countertop, your backsplash might play a supporting role. Alternatively, in a kitchen with simpler elements, a bold backsplash can instantly elevate the entire space from ordinary to extraordinary. One client example featured plain shaker cabinets and a white countertop completely transformed by metallic glass tile that added unexpected glamour.
From material selection (with a myth-busting discussion about glass tile's enduring appeal) to practical maintenance considerations, Mike and Abby cover everything homeowners need to know about backsplash design. They explore how newer grout options like urethane and epoxy have revolutionized maintenance, offer installation tips like using caulk at transition points, and emphasize how proper lighting makes even simple tile selections look high-end. Their practical advice on budget considerations, from affordable ceramic options to splurge-worthy custom mosaics, ensures listeners at every price point can create backsplashes that truly belong in their kitchens.
Ready to transform your kitchen with a backsplash that perfectly complements your space? Visit belktile.com, call 614-543-8334, or connect with us on social media to turn the insights from this episode into your own beautiful kitchen reality.
Send us a text
Ready to transform your space with the boldest tile trends of 2025? This episode dives deep into the exciting world of statement tiles that are revolutionizing home design right now.
Gone are the days when tiles merely blended into the background. Today's homeowners are embracing maximalism with open arms – from geometric patterns and Moroccan-inspired motifs to vibrant mosaics that command attention. As Mike notes, "Tiles aren't just a background anymore, they're the main event." We explore how hexagons, trellises, and abstract designs are taking center stage in kitchens, bathrooms, and beyond, creating conversation-starting focal points that express your unique personality.
Texture is having a major moment too. Those flat, glossy surfaces? They're making way for three-dimensional tiles that play with light and shadow. We discuss the rising popularity of fluted porcelain, contoured surfaces, and matte finishes in warm, earthy tones like terracotta and muted green. Sustainability enters the conversation as we highlight eco-friendly options including recycled glass tiles and cork-infused ceramics that prove you don't need to sacrifice style for environmental consciousness.
Even classic patterns are getting refreshed for 2025. Herringbone with oversized planks, chevron in unexpected colors, and subway tiles installed vertically – these traditional layouts are finding new life through creative applications. We share practical installation advice, color combination strategies, and tips for balancing bold choices with more neutral elements to create spaces that feel both timeless and thoroughly modern. Whether you're planning a complete renovation or just wanting to update a backsplash, this episode offers inspiration and guidance for making your tile selections truly spectacular. Subscribe now and join the conversation – what tile trend will you try first?
Send us a text
Ready to transform your kitchen? The landscape of kitchen tile is undergoing a dramatic shift in 2025, moving away from safe, all-white designs toward bold personal statements that combine texture, color, and innovative materials.
Designers are embracing fluted ceramics, geometric reliefs, and vintage-inspired patterns like classic Delft tiles that turn backsplashes into genuine conversation pieces. The tactile experience has become just as important as visual appeal – people want kitchens they can feel, not just admire in photographs. This sensory approach pairs perfectly with the surge in earthy color palettes featuring terracottas, burgundies, and forest greens that create warmer, more inviting spaces.
Large format tiles continue gaining momentum, offering fewer grout lines and easier maintenance while mimicking luxurious materials like marble and wood. Meanwhile, technological innovation brings us color-changing smart tiles and temperature-responsive surfaces. Sustainability isn't just trending but becoming an expectation, with recycled glass, eco-friendly ceramics, and reclaimed materials allowing homeowners to create stunning spaces without environmental guilt.
The defining feature of 2025's kitchen tile landscape is fearless personalization. Homeowners are mixing different styles, eras, and global influences – from Moroccan patterns to metallic accents – creating spaces that tell their unique stories. As we discuss in this episode, the most successful kitchens balance boldness with longevity, creating spaces that feel current without becoming quickly dated. Remember, "trends come and go, but personality never goes out of style."
Curious about incorporating these trends into your own kitchen? Whether you're planning a complete renovation or just refreshing your backsplash, Belk Tile has the expertise to guide you through creating a space that's both on-trend and timeless. Connect with us on social media or visit our website to explore options that will make your kitchen the stunning heart of your home for years to come.
Send us a text
Ready to transform your shower into a stunning sanctuary? The latest episode of the Belk Tile Podcast takes you on a deep dive into what's trending for 2025 shower wall designs, with practical advice that balances beauty and functionality.
Subway tiles—the "little black dress of bathrooms"—continue their reign but with fresh twists. Vertical installations are making waves in smaller spaces, creating the illusion of height while maintaining that timeless appeal. Meanwhile, large-format marble tiles deliver luxury for those seeking a spa-like retreat, though marble-look porcelain offers the same aesthetic with far less maintenance headache (and fewer grout lines to scrub!).
For the design adventurous, geometric patterns are having a moment. Hexagons, Moroccan fish scales, and penny rounds add personality without overwhelming when used as accents in niches or feature walls. Textured and 3D tiles create stunning light play and dimension, though Mike and Abby don't shy away from the cleaning realities—keep that soft brush handy! The conversation gets practical with material comparisons (porcelain still reigns supreme), the epoxy versus cement grout debate, and why proper waterproofing behind those beautiful tiles is absolutely non-negotiable.
Whether you're planning a complete bathroom renovation or just dreaming of upgrading your shower space, this episode delivers the perfect blend of design inspiration and practical know-how. From material selection to maintenance tips, we've got you covered. Have a specific tile question? Reach out and we might feature your question on our next episode! Connect with us at belktile.com or find us on social media @BelkTile.
Send us a text
The mystery of "How much tile do I need?" frustrates even the most meticulous homeowners and designers. During this conversation with Abby, we unravel why that seemingly simple calculation consistently falls short in real-world applications.
Every tile installation includes hidden factors that increase material needs beyond basic measurements. Those awkward cuts around outlets, inevitable breakage during shipping or installation, and factory defects quickly consume your supply. One kitchen backsplash client learned this lesson the hard way, running short halfway through installation despite our warnings. The experience highlights why the professional standard of adding 10-15% overage exists—it's not excessive caution, but practical necessity.
Your specific project details significantly impact how much extra you'll need. Working with subway tile in a rectangular room? The standard 10% might suffice. Planning a herringbone pattern or tiling a room with multiple angles and alcoves? You'll want 15-20% additional material. Large format tiles create proportionally larger waste with each cut, while complex patterns generate unusable offcuts. We share real customer scenarios, including a sunroom with so many angles that required nearly 20% extra material to complete successfully.
Beyond preventing installation delays, ordering sufficient overage serves another critical purpose—future repairs. Tile production varies between batches, making perfect matches impossible years later if you damage a tile. Having spares from your original installation ensures seamless repairs without resorting to visible patches or complete replacements. Have you encountered tile shortages in your projects? Share your experiences and reach out with questions as you plan your next tile transformation. Your well-planned project starts with the right materials calculation.
Send us a text
Ever wondered if there's a grout that actually lives up to the hype? In our latest deep dive, we explore Starlike Evo epoxy grout, the product that's transforming how designers and homeowners approach tile projects.
Tired of dealing with stained, cracked, or moldy grout lines? You're not alone. We break down why Starlike Evo stands apart from traditional options, offering exceptional durability against stains, water damage, chemicals, and even UV rays. Whether you're designing a busy entryway that faces constant foot traffic, a family bathroom prone to moisture, or an outdoor kitchen exposed to the elements, this product delivers performance that conventional grouts simply can't match.
What really caught our attention is the versatility - Starlike Evo works with joint widths from 1/8" to 1/2", making it perfect for everything from delicate mosaics to large-format tiles. The color options are a designer's dream, with vibrant jewel tones that maintain their brilliance year after year. We share real-world examples from commercial pool installations to family kitchens where this grout has stood the test of time without yellowing, cracking, or harboring mold. For those concerned about installation, we provide step-by-step guidance on mixing, applying, and cleaning up this user-friendly product.
Want to learn more about transforming your tile projects with the right materials? Listen now, and don't forget to leave a rating and review! Have questions about your specific project? Reach out to us at www.belktile.com or call 614-543-8334 - we might feature your question on our next episode.
Send us a text
Ever stared at your bathroom walls wondering whether those shower tiles should go all the way up? You're not alone. This question plagues homeowners and designers alike, and today we're solving this common design dilemma once and for all.
When it comes to tile height in showers, the decision impacts far more than aesthetics. Full-height tiling creates a waterproof shield around your shower, dramatically reducing the risk of moisture penetration that leads to mold and structural damage. Beyond protection, ceiling-height tile delivers a striking visual effect that can transform your space. As we share from real client experiences, even the smallest bathrooms gain a sense of height and openness when tile draws the eye upward. The clean, seamless look eliminates that awkward transition between tile and drywall that often becomes a maintenance headache.
Of course, we wouldn't be doing our job if we didn't address the challenges. Higher material costs, skilled installation requirements, and maintenance considerations all factor into this decision. We break down exactly what to expect with different materials—from budget-friendly porcelain to luxurious natural stone—and share insider tips on grout selection that can save you countless hours of scrubbing. Whether you're planning a bathroom renovation or simply curious about design trends, our practical advice helps you balance beauty with functionality. The perfect bathroom isn't just about looking great in photos; it's about creating a space you'll love living with every day. Listen now to transform your bathroom from ordinary to extraordinary with confidence and know-how that only comes from decades in the tile industry.
Send us a text
Ever stood in the tile aisle wondering if your kitchen and bathroom should match? You're not alone. The age-old design debate continues to divide homeowners and professionals alike, with strong opinions on both sides of the argument.
We dive deep into this question, sharing real stories of homeowners who went the matchy-matchy route only to find their spaces feeling flat and repetitive. Instead of perfect coordination, we explore how your home can be in conversation with itself – creating connections between spaces without turning them into carbon copies. Think of your tile choices as family members who share resemblances without being identical twins.
The conversation extends beyond mere aesthetics into the psychology of color and space. Fascinating research from Zillow reveals how specific colors like olive green in kitchens and navy blue in bedrooms can actually add thousands to your home's value. We unpack why these earth tones and mineral-inspired hues create environments that feel both on-trend and timeless, working seamlessly across design styles from modern to coastal to traditional.
For those struggling with bathroom organization, we share practical decluttering strategies that transform even small spaces. The "one-minute tidy" method and smart storage solutions can make your morning routine smoother while showcasing your beautiful tile choices. Whether you're renovating for yourself or preparing to sell, these insights help create spaces that feel intentional, cohesive, and full of personality.
Ready to make more confident design decisions for your home? Listen now, and don't forget to share your own tile dilemmas with us on social media.
Think brown tiles are boring? Think again! We're diving deep into the surprisingly versatile world of brown tiles and discovering why these earthy-toned design elements deserve much more credit than they typically receive.
Brown tiles offer that perfect combination of practical durability and aesthetic warmth that's increasingly sought after in modern home design. Whether you're drawn to the light, airy feel of beige and taupe or the dramatic sophistication of chocolate and espresso tones, there's a brown tile that can transform your space. Our conversation reveals why these hardworking tiles conceal dirt masterfully in high-traffic areas while maintaining their charm year after year.
The styling possibilities with brown tiles are virtually endless. We explore how pairing them with neutrals creates minimalist elegance, while combining them with bold colors like navy or gold introduces dramatic contrast. Pattern selection takes center stage as we discuss the timeless appeal of subway layouts, the contemporary edge of hexagon arrangements, and the undeniable sophistication of herringbone designs. From kitchens and bathrooms to living rooms and outdoor spaces, brown tiles prove their versatility across every area of the home.
Should you choose porcelain for its weather resistance or natural stone for its unique character? We weigh the practical considerations against aesthetic desires to help you make informed decisions for your next renovation project. Join us as we celebrate these underrated design heroes and discover how brown tiles can elevate your home with their timeless appeal and remarkable versatility. Leave a rating and review, and reach out with your questions for our next episode!
We dive deep into the differences between porcelain and ceramic tiles to help you choose the right material for your home renovation projects. From composition and moisture resistance to durability and price points, we cover everything you need to know before making this critical design decision.
• Porcelain tiles use finer materials and are fired at higher temperatures (1,200-1,400°C) making them denser with less than 0.5% water absorption
• Ceramic tiles are fired at lower temperatures (700-1,000°C) with 3-7% water absorption, making them less suitable for wet areas unless properly glazed
• Porcelain offers superior durability, especially for high-traffic areas and can withstand freeze-thaw conditions outdoors
• Modern porcelain manufacturing techniques create realistic imitations of natural materials like stone and wood
• Ceramic tiles are more budget-friendly (starting at $0.50/sq ft vs. porcelain at $2/sq ft) and easier for DIY installation
• Kitchens and bathrooms generally benefit from porcelain's moisture resistance and durability
• Living rooms and bedrooms can use ceramic tiles effectively where moisture isn't a concern
• Commercial spaces with high traffic strongly benefit from porcelain's wear resistance
Call us at 614-543-8334 or visit www.belktile.com with any questions about your tile project. Find us on Facebook and Twitter at BelkTile and on Instagram at BelkTiles.
We dive deep into the world of shower niches, exploring how these recessed storage spaces can transform your bathroom's functionality while serving as stylish design elements. By eliminating clutter and creating dedicated storage, shower niches offer a simple solution that makes bathrooms feel more spacious and organized.
• Shower niches provide dedicated storage for bath products while eliminating clutter from shower floors and ledges
• Available in various designs including rectangular, arched, curved, wall-to-wall, and multi-tiered options
• Optimal placement is typically at eye level (42-60 inches high), with corner niches ideal for smaller spaces
• Materials range from classic tile to natural stone, with opportunities for contrasting finishes and accent pieces
• Built-in LED lighting can transform a niche into a striking design feature while adding practicality
• Custom designs allow homeowners to match niches to their personal style and bathroom aesthetic
Reach out with your questions or comments at www.belktile.com or call us at 614-543-8334. Find us on Facebook and Twitter at BelkTile, and on Instagram at @BelkTiles. Make sure to leave a rating and review and we'll address your questions on the next show.
Safety is the most crucial factor when selecting shower floor tiles, with slip resistance being non-negotiable for this constantly wet surface. We explore how smaller tiles like mosaics provide natural traction through increased grout lines while still delivering stunning aesthetics.
• Porcelain tiles offer exceptional durability and water resistance with endless design options
• Ceramic provides budget-friendly alternatives with good performance characteristics
• Natural stone delivers luxury appeal but requires regular sealing and maintenance
• Textured tiles and mosaics blend safety with style, preventing accidents
• Current trends favor bold geometric patterns, especially hexagons, and vibrant colors
• Proper installation requires clean, level surfaces and waterproof adhesives
• Regular maintenance with gentle cleaners extends tile lifespan significantly
• Material costs range widely: porcelain ($3-20/sq.ft), ceramic ($1-12/sq.ft), natural stone ($5-45/sq.ft)
Visit us at www.belktile.com or call 614-543-8334. Find us on Facebook and Twitter at Belk Tile, and on Instagram at Belk Tiles.
Dramatic, sophisticated, transformative—black tiles are having more than just a moment in modern home design. Once avoided, especially in smaller spaces, these bold statement pieces now feature in 50% of modern powder rooms across the country. But why this sudden shift in perception?
Through our exploration of this design revolution, we discover how black tiles have evolved from merely trendy to genuinely transformative. The regional differences are striking: Los Angeles embraces glossy finishes for ultra-modern aesthetics, San Francisco leans toward industrial elements, while Chicago pairs black tiles with brushed brass for dramatic luxury. It's not just about color—it's about creating experiences through thoughtful design choices.
We dive deep into what makes black tiles work in any space: hexagon patterns that add structure while feeling organic, herringbone arrangements that bring classic-yet-fresh energy to kitchens, and chevron designs that visually expand rooms. The finish you choose dramatically impacts the final look—glossy for drama and light reflection, matte for understated elegance and practicality, or slate for natural texture that bridges earthy and chic. Paired with the right elements—metallics like brass or gold, strategic pops of color, or classic white for high contrast—black tiles can transform any room from ordinary to extraordinary.
For those considering this bold design choice, we break down material options at every price point: affordable ceramic starting at just a few dollars per square foot, versatile porcelain at $5-15, luxurious marble at $20-30, and practical yet stunning slate at $10-20. Each material brings its own character and practical benefits, ensuring there's a perfect black tile solution for every budget and lifestyle need. Whether you're renovating a powder room, upgrading your kitchen backsplash, or reimagining your outdoor patio, black tiles offer timeless sophistication with remarkable versatility. Ready to transform your space? Visit belktile.com or give us a call—we'd love to help bring your black tile vision to life.
Regardless of your design style, there's a glass tile to fit. Whether searching for a smooth, current look or something more customary, backsplash glass tiles can give your kitchen or master shower walls a novel and slick touch. Additionally, they're not difficult to clean and keep up with. So why not add a little charm to your home with delightful backsplash glass tiles?
In the event that you're an originator who loves to integrate exceptional and energizing materials into your work, you'll need to look at glass tiles for backsplash. In addition to the fact that they are lovely and eye-popping, yet they likewise offer different advantages that different materials can't beat. The following episode offers a couple of reasons inside creators love utilizing backsplash glass tiles in their ventures.
Is buying tiles online in 2022 a good thing? Most definitely, YES! Buying tiles online can save you a lot of time and effort. Especially in today's world where we are all as busy as ever. Plus as of today, June 12, 2022, gas is currently over $5 a gallon! A couple of highlights to take into consideration when buying tiles online:
1: Make sure that there is a flat or free delivery option.
2: Make sure that you can order an actual sample to see the colors.
3: What is the lead time? Is it in stock? (this has been the bigger issue today)
4: Are you buying from a reputable company?
For more information on this podcast, visit our blog post about online tile stores:
Herringbone Tile pattern has been a popular choice for homeowners. Subway tiles as always is a timeless tile size. Wether it is the 3 x 6, 3 x 12 or even the 4 x 16 tile size, the offering has become vast. However, some are tired of the classic look and would like something different. This is where the herringbone pattern comes in, offering a subway tile, but in a different and unique design.
You can layout the herringbone in either a horizontal or vertical design. Just some different ways to dress up the area you are wanting to tile.
For More information on Herringbone tile patterns and ideas, please visit:
https://www.belktile.com/blog/17-incredible-herringbone-tile-ideas/
Welcome back, sorry it has been awhile since our last podcast. Things have been crazy around here and wanted to get our first episode out here in 2021. Today's podcast is about 5 Important things to look for in a tile store. It is a simple concept, but one that is overlooked too many times.
1: Selection - selection is a no brainer, you want to have a vast selection to choose from.
2: Price - Price is always a factor in making a tile purchase.
3: Availability - This one is tough in today's market, but making sure it is available.
4: Online Presence - Having the ability to shop from home first makes it easier.
5: Knowledgeable Sales Staff - Feeling comfortable that who you are talking to knows what they are talking about!
For more information, please visit our blog post: https://www.belktile.com/blog/making-tile-store-shopping-fun/
Today's topic: Is it time to upgrade your bathroom tiles after Covid-19. This podcast goes along with our latest blog post as to wether it is time to update that master bath? We have been getting a lot of customers coming into the showroom and wanting to or thinking about upgrading their master bath tiles. Now is the perfect time to take a look at all the different tiles that are available and see what you want to do.
For more information, please visit:
https://www.belktile.com/blog/14-tips-on-upgrading-bathroom-tiles/
One of our more popular questions, where to end kitchen backsplash tiles when designing around outlets and counter tops. Wanted to discuss a few options today on some ideas on where to stop a kitchen backsplash when coming to an open end of a kitchen design.
We did write a blog post about this back in January of 2019. To see the blog post and some pictures of what we are describing please visit:
https://www.belktile.com/blog/where-to-end-kitchen-backsplash-tile/
Today's episode is about waterjet tiles for bathrooms and backsplashes. Over the last several weeks, we have been getting quite a few questions on waterjet marble tiles. These guys are on the expensive side, but can create some of the most beautiful looks and designs for bathrooms. Although, we do not recommend for a backsplash, only due to the fact that you will not get the full effect from such a small space with a backpslash. Master bath shower walls and even masterbath floors can utilize the waterjet mosaics the best.
For more detailed information, please check out our blog post:
https://www.belktile.com/blog/choosing-waterjet-marble-tile-for-bathroom-wall-tiles/
Today's podcast focuses on bullnose tile and why do I need it? A common question we get in the showroom and as a phone call is bullnose tile. Why is it so expensive, why is it not available for every tile? We answer all of those questions right here in today's podcast. We go into how it is made, how to measure and decide how much is needed. We even discuss some alternate ideas on what to use to save money or add some different design ideas into the mix.
For More information about bullnose tile, please visit our blog post at:
https://www.belktile.com/blog/all-you-need-to-know-about-bullnose-tile/
Episode 2 is about Antique Copper Mosaic Tiles. We start off by going into a bit of History of the metal and when it come to fruition and go into some of the uses for material. Backsplashes, wet bars and more drier places are ideal. Try and avoid wet areas at all costs. The one thing we want to emphasize about Antique copper tiles is that it is real copper, a thin layer that is capped over a porcelain base for durability. Like real copper, it can tarnish over time, but as anything else, can be brought back to its original luster.
For more information, check out a few of these blog posts as well:
Why do antique copper tiles age so beautifully?
Neat things to do in your home with antique copper mosaic tiles.
Copper Mosaic Tile Designs Ideas
Welcome to BELK Tile's first ever podcast. We have been trying to figure out ways to communicate with our customers through this stay at home order we are currently under. I thought to myself, what better way than to communicate by Podcast. I will introduce common questions that we are asked on a day to day basis. Update you with the latest design trends we are seeing in the marketplace and just talk tile in general from backsplashes to patterns, to design ideas and products.
For more information, please visit: https://www.belktile.com