You brought several tile samples home and you’re still undecided? The first appeals to you for its soft tone, another adds character, and the last one feels warmer in the evening light.

When several tile samples appeal to you equally, don’t rely solely on your first impression. The room’s lighting, the materials already in place, the finish and even your lifestyle can quickly tip the balance.

1. Make sure the tile samples are suitable for your project

Before comparing their appearance, make sure the tiles are suitable for where they will be installed.

Check the following:

• whether the tile is suitable for walls, floors or both;
• the level of slip resistance;
• the finish;
• the format;
• availability within your desired timeframe.

If one of the options does not meet an important requirement, your choice already becomes easier.

Still at the beginning of your decision-making process? Read our guide on Choosing your Ceramic Tiles in 7 Steps.

2. Look at your tile samples in your actual lighting

Place your samples in the room where the tile will be installed.

Look at them:

• in the morning and at the end of the day;
• under natural light;
• with your lights turned on;
• near a window and in a darker area.

A tile can look very different depending on the lighting. A beige may appear greyer in the morning. A white may look warmer in the evening. Some undertones only become visible under artificial light.

Key takeaway: Ideally, keep your tile samples in the room for at least 24 hours. Don’t choose only the one that looks best in its most flattering light: go with the one you still like

3. Compare the colour with the other materials

Tile is never seen in isolation within a space. Compare your tile samples with the other elements that will be present in the room:

• cabinets or vanity;
• countertop;
• paint;
• adjacent flooring;
• wood;
• faucets and hardware.

This is often when the differences become obvious. Two whites may look almost identical on their own. Placed next to a countertop, one may suddenly appear creamier while the other looks greyer.

Also ask yourself what kind of effect you want to create.

Do you want the tile to blend into the space? Or would you rather have it stand out?

Expert tip: The best option is not always the most beautiful sample. It is often the one that creates the most cohesive look with your cabinets, countertop and paint.

4. Imagine the tile across the entire surface

A small sample does not always show the final result.

Some collections are very uniform. Others feature more colour variation, veining or texture. You should also look at the number of different faces in the collection. A face refers to a variation in the pattern or graphic printed on the tile.

The higher the number of faces, the less frequent the pattern repetition upon installation, resulting in a more natural, lifelike appearance.

By contrast, fewer faces often lead to a more repetitive look, particularly over large surfaces.

An expressive tile can look stunning on an accent wall, but on a large floor, its visual impact will be much stronger.

Fusion Wildflower Collection – How Surface Size Changes the Pattern’s Impact

Kitkat Collection – The Power of Repetition

To better visualize the final result:

• look at several tiles from the collection;
• observe the in-store displays;
• look at photos of completed projects;
• consider the actual size of your project.

Don’t choose just a beautiful tile. Imagine the entire surface.

Good to know: The more unique faces a collection offers, the less the pattern repeats after installation. The result generally feels more natural, fluid, and dynamic across a large space.

5. Compare the finish and everyday maintenance

A glossy surface reflects more light and creates a brighter effect. A matte finish generally creates a softer look. A more pronounced texture can add depth and character.

But also consider your everyday life.

Will the surface often be exposed to water? Will there be a lot of foot traffic? Are marks likely to be visible?

Your tile should appeal to you, but it should also suit your lifestyle.

A tone-on-tone grout generally creates a more uniform surface. A contrasting grout makes the joints and shape of the tiles stand out more.

6. Compare the total project cost, not just the price per square foot

Tiles can have similar prices and still lead to different overall budgets.

Before making your final choice, also consider:

• the quantity required;
• waste and cuts;
• installation materials;
• grout;
• delivery;
• the complexity of the installation.

Keep the overall budget in mind: A tile that is slightly less expensive to purchase may ultimately cost more if its format requires a more complex installation, more cuts or results in more waste.

If your timeline is tight, this detail alone may be enough to tip the balance.

Also check the availability of the quantity you need.

Made your choice? Take the next step

Have you compared your tile samples and found the option that works best for your space?

Before placing your order, remember to confirm the quantity required, product availability, grout colour and the final installation details.

Still deciding between your options? Bring your samples to one of our stores, along with photos of the room and, if possible, a few elements from your project: a paint sample, cabinet door, piece of countertop or another material.

Our advisors can help you compare your options and visualize the overall result.