The Appeal of Wood-Look Tiles
Realistic and Authentic Appearance
Wood-look tiles have revolutionized the flooring industry with their ability to faithfully replicate the natural look and texture of wood. Thanks to advancements in digital printing and manufacturing techniques, these tiles capture the intricate grain patterns, knots, and texture variations that are characteristic of real timber. Whether you prefer the rich tones of oak, the rustic appeal of reclaimed wood, or the sophisticated grain of walnut, wood-look tiles offer a wide range of options to suit every aesthetic preference.
Durability and Practicality
Unlike timber, which is susceptible to scratches, dents, and moisture damage, wood-look tiles are highly durable and resilient. Made from glazed porcelain tiles (remembering glazed doesn’t always mean glossy), these tiles are resistant to wear and tear (including those stiletto heels and fur baby claws), making them suitable for high-traffic areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and even outdoor spaces such as alfresco and pool areas. They do not warp or fade over time, maintaining their original appearance with minimal maintenance.
Low Maintenance
Wood-look tiles are inherently easier to care for compared to real timber. They do not require regular sealing or polishing and can be cleaned with simple sweeping and mopping. This ease of maintenance is particularly advantageous for busy households or commercial settings where time and upkeep are valuable considerations.
Design Versatility
One of the standout features of wood-look tiles is their versatility in design and installation. These tiles are available in a variety of sizes, colours, and finishes, allowing for creative freedom in creating unique floor patterns and designs. From classic plank layouts to intricate parquet and herringbone patterns, wood-look tiles can provide many looks.
TESTIMONIAL FROM KRISTY, A WOOD-LOOK TILE HOMEOWNER
"Choosing wood-look tiles for our home was one of the best decisions we made during our build back in 2018.
When we discovered wood-look tiles at Myaree Ceramics, we were amazed by how realistic they looked, I thought they were real wood. The tiles we chose perfectly mimic the grain and texture of natural wood, and even our guests are surprised when they find out it's not real timber. We added underfloor heating to our main living area, which surprisingly warms our whole home without the need to use our central heating, saving on electricity costs.
One of the things I love most about our wood-look tiles is how easy they are to maintain and clean. With three teenage kids and two dogs, our home is well used, but a quick sweep and mop keep our floors looking pristine. Unlike real wood, we don't have to worry about scratches, dents, staining or water damage, which gives us peace of mind.
Overall, I couldn't be happier with our decision to go with wood-look tiles”.
Exploring Wood Floor Patterns
When it comes to achieving a sophisticated and distinctive look with wood-look tiles, floor patterns play a crucial role. Here are some popular patterns that can be easily created with wood-look tiles:
![At. Viggo Fresno Rect.](https://myareeceramics.com.au/media/products/Pamesa/AT-Viggo/AT-Viggo-Rect/_contentHalf/At.%20Viggo%20Fresno%20200x1200mm-IMG_1080.jpg)
1. Plank Layout: The most common and straightforward pattern, where tiles are laid in a traditional horizontal or vertical offset pattern, mimicking the appearance of real wood planks.
![At. Viggo Nogal Non-Rect.](https://myareeceramics.com.au/media/pages/herringbone.jpg)
2. Herringbone Effect: This classic pattern involves laying tiles in a zigzag pattern to create a V-shaped design. Herringbone patterns add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any room, making them a popular choice for formal living spaces, dining rooms, and entryways.
![Image via Pinterest](https://myareeceramics.com.au/media/pages/chevron.jpg)
Image via Pinterest
3. Chevron Pattern: Similar to herringbone but with a more continuous zigzag, chevron patterns create a dynamic and visually striking effect. This pattern is ideal for creating a sense of movement and depth in larger rooms or open-plan spaces.
![Shizen Miele Cassettone Rect.](https://myareeceramics.com.au/media/pages/edimax.jpg)
4. Parquet Patterns: Inspired by traditional hardwood parquet flooring, these patterns feature geometric designs made up of smaller tiles arranged in intricate motifs such as squares, triangles, or diamonds, which we can supply ready made from our European factories. Parquet patterns add a sense of luxury and craftsmanship to any interior, making them a favourite for high-end residential and commercial settings.
Cons of Real Timber
While the allure of real timber is undeniable, it does come with its share of challenges that wood-look tiles successfully address:
Maintenance Demands: Timber requires regular sealing and refinishing to preserve its appearance and protect against wear and tear, including problems with water absorption.
Susceptibility to Damage: Wood is prone to scratches, dents, and stains, particularly in high-traffic areas or humid environments.
Environmental Impact: The sourcing of timber can raise concerns about deforestation and sustainability, whereas wood-look tiles can be made from recycled materials and are generally more eco-friendly.
![Shizen Decor by Edimax](https://myareeceramics.com.au/media/products/Edimax/Shizen/Edimax-Shizen-Decor-2.jpg)
Making an Informed Choice
Choosing between wood-look tiles and real timber flooring depends on your lifestyle, design preferences, and practical considerations. While real timber offers a natural appeal, wood-look tiles provide a durable, low-maintenance alternative that combines aesthetic versatility with modern technology. Whether you opt for the timeless charm of herringbone or the classic appeal of plank layouts, wood-look tiles allow you to achieve the look and feel of wood flooring with added durability and ease of care.
As always, our dedicated showroom staff are here to help. Pop in to the showroom, email [email protected] or visit our wood look tile page to learn more.