How to Buy Merola Tile for 2010

The fabric-like appearance of Merola tile remains a big hit in the new decade. No matter what the color, people are crazy about Merola tile, myself included. One quick bit of advice: Always align the longer side of the tiles with the longer wall because it creates an illusion of more space. It's the same principle that applies to short guys in pinstripes- they look like they have longer legs.

Do your math calculations before you buy any Merola tile, as that will help you save time by cutting as little as possible. For example, if you have a 96" wall, buying 24" Merola tiles will keep you from having to cut anything along the wall. Most of the amateur appearance that you see in tile flooring jobs is due to not thinking through the tile measurements or not making them at all. The end result is an uneven, unappealing floor job.

Try something like pebbles in your Merola tiles, which seem to be very in this year. Solid stone pebble mosaics are popular for both the interior and exterior of the house, in all types of colors and sizes. Things like stand up shower floors and exterior walkways will benefit from pebble Merola tiles. Some have very interesting designs, such as pebbles suspended in a clear resin.

Another crowd pleaser for 2010 is concrete Merola tile. Just as a side not, quartz countertops are no longer in, evidenced by the fact that Ikea is offering them. Concrete Merola tiles for vanities and counter tops are not as plain as they might sound. They can be a mix of different colors, and then carved into the most elaborate designs. Concrete needs to have a proper seal, look for one with a ten year warranty, applied before it dries to prevent staining. They're a good alternative to wood, which scratches very easily.

Don't let the question of whether to purchase glossy or matte Merola tiles distract you. Both are popular this year, so if you're trying to keep up with the trends then you can just go for what you like. Some companies even stick both options into one tile, hoping you'll like the new twist. Again, just go with what you like.

Merola tiles have been dazzling the world for a little while, and I guess they'll keep shining for a little bit yet. There are so many types of Merola tile out there that you can get what you want for any space quite easily.