wall tile Archives

Tile Flooring & Backsplash Tile Options Compared

When looking for tile flooring or backsplash tile, it can get a little confusing. There are many patterns, styles, sizes, and materials to choose from. What are the pros and cons you might ask? Well, we’re here to lay it out for your straight. Below we’ll compare all the top tile choices for tile flooring or backsplash tile.

Backsplash Tile and Tile Flooring Materials:

Ceramic Tile:

Ceramic tile is one of the most popular options for backsplash tile or tile flooring. Ceramic usually reflects the terra cotta color of it’s clay, or can also be white. Ceramic tile is sometimes glazed and occasionally has different patterns on it as a result. Chips can be much more noticeable in ceramic tile than they are in porcelain. If a ceramic tile has been glazed, the chip will reveal a different color internally. Ceramic tile is not as strong as porcelain tile due to the manufacturing process. This means that it cannot be expected to hold up nearly as well.
You typically don’t want to put ceramic tile anywhere that is a high traffic area or that will be exposed to a lot of wear and tear. Ceramic flooring in an entryway, for example, would be a bad idea. Not only will it much more easily chip or crack if you drop something on it, but those imperfections are going to be pretty noticeable. Backsplash tile works well with ceramic tile and you can also use it on countertops if you choose. The consensus is that ceramic tile is easier to install than porcelain tile. If you are a DIY tile installer or a novice tile worker, I would say choose ceramic tile.

Porcelain Tile:

The other top choice for backsplash tile is porcelain. Porcelain backsplash tile or tile flooring is almost always going to be white, grey or cream/tan. Porcelain tile is almost always left unglazed. Chips are not very noticeable. This is because porcelain tile is the same color all the way through. This is a big benefit for many people when choosing porcelain over ceramic.
Porcelain tile is denser and less porous than ceramic tile and doesn’t show its imperfections easily and it’s also more waterproof. However, you still don’t want them exposed to that level of damage from the elements. Because of the water resistance issue, porcelain is a better choice for flooring in bathrooms or on shower walls. Porcelain would be a better flooring choice for most areas that get a high amount of traffic due to their increased durability. Porcelain tile is harder to cut, especially when the cuts are not a straight line. Porcelain can also require special tools to install, so you may want to get professional installation.

Stone Tile:

There are many forms of stone tile, so we won’t go into detail about all of them, but will give you a gist of each. Most stone tiles will need to be sealed before and/or after installing and be kept up with sealing thought out the years. This makes it a little more high maintenance than the rest.

Travertine Left, Marble Right

Marble:
Pros: Beautiful colors and patterns, because its natural, no two tiles are ever the same.
Cons: Prone to staining, will show wear quickly from acid based products.
Travertine:
Travertine needs to be sealed before grouting and after installation. If it’s not sealed, it will stain easily. Travertine tile is a softer stone, which means it can be scratched much more easily.
Pros: Beautiful, unique tile. Can feel soft when used as a flooring. Looks great as a backsplash.
Cons: It can scratch and stain fairly easily.

Slate Left, Granite Right

Granite:
Granite is very heavy. The subfloor must be completely level and have the strength to support such a heavy material. If the floor has bumps or even tiny valleys, granite will crack easily if used as a flooring. It can be used as a backsplash but needs to be installed properly.
Pros: Beautiful color, hard surface that takes wear and tear from normal family life.
Cons: One of the heaviest flooring choices, must have support in place.
Slate:
Slate It is more stain resistant that most other stone, is water resistant and very durable. Slate can be cracked if laid on an uneven subfloor, or if a heavy object is dropped on it. It has been known to flake or peel because it’s formed in layers. This tile needs to be sealed.
Pros: Dark, earthy color works well with a natural, rustic look. Very durable.
Cons: Tiles can be uneven due to the layering quality of the tile.

Backsplash Tile and Tile Flooring Styles:

Subway Tile: Subway tile is a classic style. If you’re looking for something that will stand the test of time, this is it. However, just because it’s classic doesn’t make it boring. There are a lot of variations of subway tile. You have handcrafted that has a beautiful crafted finish, glass, which is more modern, colored for a pop of personality, large format to make the room look bigger, or a smaller format for a dramatic look. The options are endless. Subway tile installation can be very time consuming, so if you don’t have patience and tile skill, get a pro to install. This is more costly of an installation than some because of the time it takes.
Mesh Back Tile: Mesh back tile is great for several reasons. It comes in foot by foot sheets, so it can go up pretty quickly. Cuts can often be done without a tile saw and you can use tile nippers (depending on the project). It comes in some really amazing shapes and patterns that would usually be a pain to install as individual tiles. Very popular these days.

Ledge Stone: I wouldn’t recommend ledge stone as a tile flooring, but it does work great as a backsplash tile. It has an uneven surface that juts out in some area and is recessed in some areas. It is heavy, so it does require a special installation. It can be difficult to clean because of the texture and surface, so areas that won’t get very dirty would be ideal places to use this tile.
Patterned Tile: Patterned tile is becoming very popular. They are typically porcelain so they can be used in any area and are water resistant. You can use them for backsplash tile or flooring tile. They will definitly make a statement! They are typically perfect square tiles with the pattern printed on top. I love this look and hope it remains popular for years to come.

Large Format Tile:
Large format tile is a great choice for backsplash tile or tile flooring. Because it’s large, you can cover more space quickly, however, it’s still very important to take your time during installation because it can easily have lippage (edges sticking up) because of it’s size. Using a tile leveling system is always recommended with large format tile, which is classified as anything larger than 15″ on any side. Large format can make a space look larger, so it works well for small spaces! When using it on walls, you need to be sure that you’re using an adhesive designed for large tile, otherwise it could come down and take some of your drywall with it!
I hope we’ve been able to help answer any questions that you might have about backsplash tile or tile flooring choices. There are a lot of options out there so it’s good to have all the information before buying. Replacing tile is a large undertaking most of the time, so make sure you choose something that you will be happy with and that will stand up to the area you’ll be using it in for the next 20 years!

Builders Surplus is a full service renovation company with locations in Louisville, Kentucky, and Newport, Kentucky, which also serves Cincinnati, Ohio. We are the leading provider of Ledge Stone, wall tile and backsplash tile in Louisville, Newport, and Cincinnati. We specialize in interior design, kitchen design, bathroom remodel, building materials, and home improvement. Interior Design and measurements come as a free service to our clients. We sell building materials ranging in every price point, from unfinished kitchen cabinets to top of the line Wellborn cabinets. In addition to interior design, we also offer installation services. If you have any questions or would like to set up a free design consultation with one of our interior designers, we would encourage you to do so. We love sharing our knowledge with clients & potential home renovators. We write about interior design, home decor, decorating ideas, and home improvement. We hope you’ll check back in for our next article! Happy Renovation!
Written by: Allie Bloyd

Subway Tile Styles Ultimate Guide

Subway tile is a classic and versatile option for any home design. It’s been around for over a century, but its popularity has surged in recent years. Subway tile is a trendy yet timeless option for any space, and with so many styles to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your home. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the most popular subway tile styles available today.

Colored Subway Tile

While white subway tile is the classic choice, colored subway tiles are becoming more popular. You can find subway tiles in almost any color you can imagine, from muted pastels to bright and bold hues. Colored subway tiles can add a playful and fun element to any space

Glass Subway Tile

Looking to add a modern touch to your space? Consider glass subway tile! This style of subway tile is clean, fresh, and gives off a contemporary vibe that sets it apart from other subway tile styles. It’s available in a variety of cool colors like green and charcoal, as well as classic white.

While glass subway tile may be a bit more expensive than other options, the added cost is definitely worth it for the sleek and stylish look it provides. Plus, glass tile is easy to clean and maintain, making it a practical choice for high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms.

Handmade Subway Tile

Handmade subway tiles are unique and one-of-a-kind. They are made by skilled artisans who shape and glaze each tile by hand. The irregularities and variations in the tiles create a beautiful and organic look. Handmade subway tiles are available in a range of colors, textures, and finishes.

Large Format Subway Tile

Large format subway tiles are a modern twist on the classic subway tile. They come in a variety of sizes, including 4×8, 4×12, and even 6×12. Large format subway tiles can create a bold and dramatic effect in a space.

Mini Subway Tile Styles

Mini subway tile is taking the design world by storm! This miniature 2×4 tile format comes in a wide variety of colors and styles, making it the perfect choice for any home. While it may not be teeny-tiny, the smaller format still packs a big design punch and adds a dramatic touch to any space.

However, it’s worth noting that installing mini subway tile is a bit more time-consuming than installing regular 3×6 tile. But the end result is well worth the extra effort. Mini subway tile is a versatile option that can be used for a variety of applications, from kitchen backsplashes to bathroom walls.

Marble Subway Tile

If you’re looking to add a touch of class to your home, consider a marble subway tile backsplash. The elegant beauty of marble combined with the classic look of subway tile creates a timeless aesthetic that is sure to impress.

This particular Greecian marble subway tile is a steal at only $5.99 per square foot. The affordable price point makes it an attractive option for anyone looking to upgrade their kitchen or bathroom without breaking the bank.

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Looking for renovation services in Louisville, Florence, or Cincinnati? Look no further than Builders Surplus! We’re a full-service renovation company that specializes in interior design, kitchen and bathroom remodels, building materials, and home improvement. We’re proud to be the leading provider of Ledge Stone, wall tile, and backsplash tile in the area.

At Builders Surplus, we offer a free interior design and measurement service to our clients, and we sell building materials to fit every budget, from unfinished kitchen cabinets to top-of-the-line Wellborn cabinets. Plus, we don’t just sell building materials – we also offer installation services.

If you’re ready to start your renovation project or just have some questions, we encourage you to set up a free design consultation with one of our interior designers. We’re always happy to share our knowledge with clients and potential home renovators.

And if you’re looking for inspiration or advice, be sure to check out our blog! We cover a wide range of topics, including interior design, home decor, decorating ideas, and home improvement. Thanks for considering Builders Surplus for your renovation needs – we can’t wait to work with you!

Updated 2023 : Todd Bauer

August 29, 2017

Most Affordable and Stylish Bathroom Tile

What’s going on, pros? I hope business is well and thriving underneath the warm weather we’ve been having. It’s about time, right? So, if you have a bathroom remodel coming up then you’ll really appreciate this blog post. We’re going to go over a few of the most affordable and stylish bathroom tiles that we have to offer at Builders Surplus. You can legitimately get everything, without spending everything!

Golden Honey Ledger Stone Bathroom Tile

bathroom tile Louisville Cincinnati Builders Surplus

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Ledger Stone has made a major impact in the tile industry, in my opinion. If you’ve noticed, “look-alike” products continue to gain popularity, and Ledger Stone gained its varsity letters before any of them. The one featured below is a fan-favorite, for sure. It’s gorgeous in any setting, but especially bathrooms and, oddly enough, fireplaces, too. Simply stunning. While it does LOOK amazing in the shower, do let your customers know that it is difficult to clean. It needs to be completely waterproof behind the tile or you will get mold.

So, you can get this stylish, trendy bathroom tile for only $5.99/piece, right here at Builders Surplus. Now, this is one of the priciest product to make this list, but for good reason. If you’re a fan of texture in aesthetics, then this product is for you.

Black Penny Round Mosaic Bathroom Tile

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I’m a huge fan of contract in a bathroom, and the Black Penny Round Mosaic bathroom tile is perfect for setting up that kind of style. I’ve always imagined a white floor tile with this product used as a backsplash. It’s timeless. It’s classic. And so eye-appealing. Plus, I’m a huge fan of curvature during any kind of design, so this pattern hits me right in the feels.

Right now, you can get this contrast-maker for only $4.99/sq. ft. One more thing about this, though, is its versatility. Where I’m more inclined to install this bathroom tile as a backsplash, it’s fine for a shower floor, too!

Legend Blanco Large Format Tile

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I enjoy the movement in this tile. And it’s a subtle gray, too, ya know? Not too deep, not too light. Just right. Now, this is a Large Format Tile, so the possibilities are pretty much endless, in terms of install. Personally, I think this color belongs on the floor, maybe with a dark vanity top or something of that nature.

As we proceed, you’ll see that these prices really are unmatched, y’all, starting with this one. You can get this Legend Blanco bathroom tile for ONLY $1.99/sq. ft. Heckuva deal, right? Stylish, moderately-neutral, and all for a good price. Come in and seriously get everything without spending everything.

Portland Beige 18×18 Bathroom Tile

Another large format tile, Portland Beige is another one of my favorites due to its tone and color. But, what’s really attractive about this piece is its price. Right now, you can get this tile for only $0.69/sq. ft! That’s less than three quarters, everyone.

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Whisper White 3×6 Subway Bathroom Tile

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This classic, tried-and-true still does wonders in establishing that a traditional look. Honestly, folks, what’s not to like about it. Remember me talking about contrast earlier with the Black Penny — well — this is its counterpart.

But once again, the most attractive trait here is the price, everyone. Only $0.22/piece. Yeah, you read that right. LESS THAN A QUARTER. That’s exceptional. Come scoop this up.

These are just a few choices from our vast collection of bathroom tile, everyone. If I’ve piqued your interest, and you’d like to poke around a little bit more, please feel free to head right here! It’ll break our selection down by category, and you can see for yourselves how great these deals are. Hope to see you in one of our stores sometime soon! Until then, stay safe and be blessed!

Builders Surplus is a full service renovation company with locations in Louisville, Kentucky, and Newport, Kentucky, which also serves Cincinnati, Ohio. We are the leading provider of Ledge Stone, wall tile and backsplash tile in Louisville, Newport, and Cincinnati. We specialize in interior design, kitchen design, bathroom remodel, building materials, and home improvement. Interior Design and measurements come as a free service to our clients. We sell building materials ranging in every price point, from unfinished kitchen cabinets to top of the line Wellborn cabinets.
In addition to interior design, we also offer installation services. If you have any questions or would like to set up a free design consultation with one of our interior designers, we would encourage you to do so. We love sharing our knowledge with clients & potential home renovators. We write about interior design, home decor, decorating ideas, and home improvement. We hope you’ll check back in for our next article! Happy Renovation!
Written By: Chris Chamberlain

May 5, 2017

Trendiest Tile Flooring Options For Your Home

Tile flooring has and always will be an excellent flooring option for a number of reasons. You’ve got like Wood Look, Ledge Stone, Polished Porcelain and Decorative. And those are just to name a few. Today, I’d like to discuss some of the hottest trends out there right now, explain their uniqueness, and dive into some really cool designs that up-and-coming in the industry. Let’s get it!

Wood-Look Tile Flooring

Wood-Look tile has seriously been all the rage for the past couple of years, and I’ll be honest, folks, it’s not going anywhere. It’s incredibly durable, easy to clean, much cheaper than regular hardwood flooring, and it’s extremely versatile. When you use this material with an interesting, unique pattern, such as the herringbone (pictures above), it just sets it off. Also, wood-look tile can go just about anywhere in the household, a feature that regular hardwood flooring merely wishes it had.

Also, it’s pretty environmental. According to our friends at Daltile, nearly 20 million trees are cut down each year. Wood-look tile certainly doesn’t contribute to that number, and in its usage, as a whole we can decrease that number drastically. Just a little food for thought in that regard.

Cement-Look Tile Flooring

Now, I know what you’re thinking. Cement? Seriously? Isn’t that used in, like, garages and industrial factories, stuff like that? The answer is…yes, sure….and sort of. But you’d be surprised by how incredibly nice this material looks when there’s a unique design attached to it. Also, large format tiles works best for this material, specifically 32×32.

They also come in a variety of colors, like you’ll see above. I just think it’s insane how what was once purely used for industrial/commercial reasons is now an extremely hot commodity in the residential area, as well. Excellent stuff.

Brick-Look Tile Flooring

Easily my favorite of three hottest trends rights now, hands down. It has the look and feel of actually brick. Plus, we know that porcelain is an excellent tile flooring option, so this is almost a tried and true material of sorts.

I guess what really wows me about this particular material as a flooring option is the historical vibes I get from it. It’s like I’m in 18th century England, and quite honestly, it makes me want to write for days. It’s unique, it’s durable, and pretty quirky. Also, it’s to be noted that there’s a particular material, aged brick, that has seemed to rise in popularity.

So, there you have it! Three extremely popular, extra unique tile flooring options that have continued to drop jaws across the nation. Another side note, one of the main reasons for the fame is because you’re getting the look and feel of the material it mimics without the high price of labor difficulty. It’s a win/win all around.

Builders Surplus is a full service renovation company with locations in Louisville, Kentucky, and Newport, Kentucky, which also serves Cincinnati, Ohio. We are the leading provider of granite countertops, quartz countertops and laminate countertops in Louisville, Newport, and Cincinnati. We specialize in interior design, kitchen design, bathroom remodel, building materials, and home improvement. Interior Design and measurements come as a free service to our clients. We sell building materials ranging in every price point, from unfinished kitchen cabinets to top of the line Wellborn cabinets. In addition to interior design, we also offer installation services. If you have any questions or would like to set up a free design consultation with one of our interior designers, we would encourage you to do so. We love sharing our knowledge with clients & potential home renovators. We write about interior design, home decor, decorating ideas, and home improvement. We hope you’ll check back in for our next article! Happy Renovation!
Written By: Chris Chamberlain

December 12, 2016

Pre-mixed Mastic vs. Powder Based Mortar

I’d like to dig into a construction element known as “mastic” today, and more specifically, the two forms it’s available in. If you’ve never heard of mastic, then you’re in for a little treat because it’s actually pretty neat stuff and has a variety of uses. Before I give too much away, let’s first discuss exactly what it is.

Mastic is an extremely strong adhesive most commonly used in a construction setting. It’s what builders use to seal windows, doors, cracks, but it’s most common usage is hidden beneath your feet. The substance is perfect for setting and bonding tile to concrete or underlayment board due to its properties. Once dried, it is nearly impossible to come off.

Trust me, I’ve had the honor of having to bust out a tiled floor that had been installed in a heavy traffic area for 20 years. Two words: Chisel and hammer. It’s 100% not how you want to spend a Saturday afternoon. Sounds pretty neat though, right? It’s origin is just as interesting. Mastic, coincidentally enough, derives from the resin of the “mastic” tree. Scientifically, this tree is named Pistacia lentiscus, and can be commonly found in the Mediterranean region, specifically Greece and Turkey. Now that you know a little bit more about it, let’s dig into the two forms.

Want to Learn Our Top Tips for Installing Floor Tiles? Click here!

Pre-mixed Mastic

Advantage:

In pre-mixed form, the adhesive tends to be a bit more solid, a little more consistent, making it easier to work with in most instances.

For example, if you’re installing tile for a standup shower, it would be more prudent to use the pre-mixed, so your material isn’t slopping around everywhere, creating waste.

Gravity can be a nuisance when doing projects like tiled showers or backsplashes in your kitchen and bathroom. If you’re not too careful, your workspace can resemble a typhoon rather quickly. And the cleanup is horrendous.

There’s also the convenience factor. When you purchase this kind of mastic, it’s literally ready to go. Take the lid off, grab your trowel, and get to work. It’s as simple as that, BUT like everything else, the convenience of it being pre-mixed comes at a cost.

Disadvantage:

Depending on where you go, the price comparison is going to be different, but generally speaking, pre-mixed is ALWAYS going to be more expensive. Covering the same amount of square feet, you can typically purchase a bucket of pre-mix for $35 and a bag of powder based mortar for around $16.

It also doesn’t dry as quickly as powder-based mortar, especially if you’re using large tiles. In my experience, we always let shower tiles dry for up to three days before we let the customers use it. Just to be safe. Another thing, if you have to “double float” an area on a wall or the floor because it’s not level, pre-mixed can be a bit of a pain.

Looking for the Trendiest Tiles for Your Home? See it here!

Powder-based Mortar

Advantage:

When working with floor tile, powder-based mortar is MUCH easier to work with, especially when working with an uneven floor.

Since you have to mix before applying, you are in complete control over the consistency, allowing you to manipulate if you need a more solid foundation in a certain area, or something a bit “runnier” and easier to work with.

If you’ve ever worked with floor tile then you know exactly how difficult it can be to ensure that every piece is consistently level. No one wants a rocky road in their hallway. I’ve always found the mortar much easier to spread across larger surfaces.

Mastic is a gummy substance, and it can seem like you’re putting much more effort than you need to across a wider surface. With mortar, simply mix it so the consistency isn’t so dry, and it spreads like butter.

Obviously, there are a lot of factors that come into play here like room temperature, how level the surface is, what size or kind of tile you’re using. But for the most part, mortar is the way to go in larger areas. Also, it’s way cheaper than premixed mastic. There’s a reason why, though.

Disadvantage:

The process of making it can be crazily monotonous, not to mention messy. Plus, there’s the inconvenience of having to keep mixing when you’ve finished your last batch.

Maintaining the same consistency takes a bit of practice, as well. I can’t tell you how many head shakes or sighs of disapproval my father has given me because one batch it perfect in consistency and the next is terribly dry or way too runny. It does take practice, and I’ll go ahead and tell you, if you can’t stand the feeling of dry hands for hours on end, powder-based mortar is not for you. Just throwing that out there.

Using this form of tile adhesive takes some extreme precision, too. Not just in the aspect of consistency, but of neatness, as well. Long story short, things can get horrifyingly messy if you’re not used to it.

My dad and I have a very simple approach when it comes to using these two forms of tile adhesives. Simply stated, we use the premixed when we’re working vertically (shower tiles and backsplashes) and powder-based on horizontal surfaces (floor tile). We’ve done enough tile projects to know gravity can be your worse enemy.

They’re both outstanding products, really. It just depends on the type of work you’re doing and your personal preference. Much like Android vs. iPhone in that regard. Take your pick. Good luck on your tile project!

Click Here to See the Top 10 Backsplash Tile Options for Your Home!

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July 22, 2016

Choosing Wall Tile to Match Bathroom Vanities

Hola! Alright, so you have your brand new, fresh-out-of-the-wrapping bathroom vanity. It’s placed properly, fastened tight to the interior wall, and maybe you’ve even hooked up the plumbing to the sink along with the countertop. In essence, you’ve never been more excited to wash your hands before in your life. After doing so, that next thought springs into your head, the next step to really put that finishing touch on your vanity – what wall tile will look best? Well, luckily, I’m here to tell you of a couple of options to choose from. And it can be as simple (or as complex) as you’d like it to be!

Contrasting Light Tile to Dark Vanity

If you really want to accentuate your vanity, I’d suggest going with a light-colored tile. The pictures above demonstrate how a lighter tile can make your vanity pop, giving it the proper attention it needs. Contrast in any design platform plays with a viewer’s eyes a bit and is perfect for redirecting or emphasizing a particular piece. Notice how the wall tile from the picture on the left contains smaller dark tiles, as well. We’ll get to this a bit later, but it brings out the darker tone of the vanity, giving a nice blend to the whole bathroom. The picture in the middle sports a classy white tile, and the vanity’s contrast sets it apart, but it works! Never be afraid in the effects of contrast. It adds visual interest and appeals to the eye. Uniformity and blending definitely has its perks, but this design element is simply too attractive to dismiss. Literally.

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A Blending of Colors

Sometimes going with the grain just makes sense. As you can see, the pictures above exemplify that statement perfectly. Matching wall tile with the color of your vanity gives your bathroom design a sense of unity and can make for a stunning visual effect. The first picture displays a marvelous, antique-style vanity. The soft brown hue of the wall tile allows the entire display to streamline the eye’s focus in unison. In essence, it’s a beautiful blend of style and color. The picture in the middle is my personal favorite, though. But I’m a sucker for the natural pine stain color, so there’s no surprise there. Notice how the wall tile really hones that color in and makes it shine. Now, earlier I told you how a wall tile can bring out a color in a vanity. The picture on the right is a prime example of how a subtle blend between the vanity and wall color can make your primary color jump out at you! Like an exclamation point. At Builder’s Surplus, we offer a cast of tile brands that will help you pull of this look. We’ll help you in the design process and make sure your vision becomes a reality.

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The Products to Choose

Daltile is one of the best products in the business, in my opinion, but you don’t have to take my word for it. You’ve just glanced at their product, and I’m willing to bet you liked what you saw. But, see, that’s the thing about Daltile – there’s so much to choose from. I think we can all agree that when it comes to home restoration/renovation, variety is essential, right? Daltile’s selection is bar none, yes, but it’s the quality that really sets this product from the rest. Established since 1947, the company has acquired a tremendous reputation for their innovative ideas, and it’s directly reflected in their designs. And you know what the best part is? This awesomely legit product is available through special order at Builders Surplus. Come talk to us in person or set something up so we can get things rolling on your bathroom remodel! You can do so here.

Builders Surplus is a full service renovation company with locations in Louisville, Kentucky, and Newport, Kentucky, which also serves Cincinnati, Ohio. We specialize in interior design, kitchen design, bathroom remodel, building materials, and home improvement. Interior Design and measurements come as a free service to our clients. We sell building materials ranging in every price point, from unfinished kitchen cabinets to top of the line Wellborn cabinets. In addition to interior design, we also offer installation services. If you have any questions or would like to set up a free design consultation with one of our interior designers, we would encourage you to do so. We love sharing our knowledge with clients & potential home renovators. We write about interior design, home decor, decorating ideas, and home improvement. We hope you’ll check back in for our next article! Happy Renovation!
Written by: Chris Chamberlain

June 10, 2016

Highland Park Tile: Classic Beauty

Highland Park backsplash tile is one of my absolute favorite tile lines. This line embodies classic style and cutting edge trends all in one beautifully tiled package. When you are deciding on backsplash tile for your kitchen or bathroom, you should definitely look into highland park backsplash tile before making any final decisions. Highland Park backsplash tile is GREENGUARD indoor air quality certified and is designed to last.

Highland park offers five color collections, including whisper white, antique white, artisan taupe, dove grey and morning fog. These colors are in style at the moment but will definitely stand the test of time, as they are all appealing neutrals with a little something extra to make them stand out. No matter what your cabinet color, wall color, or floor color, you can choose one of these five classic colors and can be sure that it will coordinate perfectly.
Within each color family you’ll find up to 8 styles: The classic 3×6 subway tile, the up-in-coming 4×12 subway tile, a trendy hexagon tile or elongated hexagon, the ultra desirable arabesque pattern tile, the stunning mini-brick tile, the new classic diamond pattern, the stylish arched herringbone, and your additional quarter round, pencil or crown molding tile for your edges.
Below are just a few of our favorites from the Highland Park Collection! Let us know your favorite in the comments!

Highland Park Dove Grey

Pictured above is the highland park dove grey handcrafted 3×6 subway tile. As you can see, it is lighter on the edges to give it a more dramatic look. It also features a beautiful crackle finish that definitely separates it from the rest. You won’t see this in most homes and it will be a conversation starter and focal piece in your home.

Above are three of the of the Highland Park Dove Grey Tile styles, the diamond to the left, subway tile center, and brick to the right. The 4×12 subway tile is also offered in Dove Grey.

The Highland Park Dove Grey Arabesque tile is one of my favorites. This look is stunning and so unique. The arabesque pattern is so important in design right now and will continue to be for some time. It can go with virtually every cabinet style and always creates an ultra-elegant look.

Highland Park Whisper White

The Highland Park whisper white collection features a lot of classic styles. Above you’ll see the arabesque and below the hexagon. Hexagon is on the rise in terms of trendiness and can be seen everywhere right now, from the largest tile, remodeling and flooring conventions in the world, to the homes of many. It is another style that can transcend any time period and gives a clean, fresh look to you space.

Highland Park Antique White

The antique white elongated hexagon is truly a unique backsplash tile option. This transitional look can coordinate with a lot of color options and styles. This honeycomb style is growing in popularity and gives it a very cottage feel.

The handcrafted 3×6 subway tile backsplash is one of our top sellers. The wavy appearance sets it apart from your traditional subway tile and the artisan look really comes through.
There you have it, some of our favorite highland park looks. However, there are many more, so don’t forget to check them out! We offer most of the above styles in stock every day, but can custom order anything not shown with a short lead time, and only freight as an additional cost. What is your favorite highland park backsplash tile? Would you every put one in your home? Let us know in the comments below!

Written By: Allie Bloyd

May 3, 2016

How To Use Ledge Stone In Any Space

Ledge stone is an incredible building material. Ledge stone is an all natural stacked stone used for siding, veneer and cladding, among many other things in home improvement. It is used in homes as well as businesses for both exterior and interior applications. The thin veneer is cut from real, all natural stone. Typical big box stores only offer 1 color of this amazing product, but we carry 8 different colors at all times, and can easily order 26 more that can be picked up in about 2 weeks. Below we’ve put together a compilation of ways that ledge stone can be used in your home to really make your space unique!

1. Ledge Stone Fireplace

Ledge stone can be used as a fireplace surround or above the fireplace to make a striking statement. It can look modern, craftsman, or rustic depending on the color you choose and the surrounding accents and building materials.

2. Ledge Stone Column

Columns can be tricky. In some instances, they can look great with crown molding alone, but other times, you just want to cover them up to make a bolder statement. Reclaimed wood and brick are two options you could use, but ledge stone is another great way to go! You can easily coordinate it with any decor or color palette.

3. Ledge Stone Accent Wall

A ledge stone accent wall can look quite dramatic, especially in an area with high ceilings. Behind a staircase is one great option, but there really is no ‘bad’ place for ledge stone.

4. Ledge Stone Grill Cover

This is one idea that I haven’t seen before and it’s most likely one I’ll be doing in my own home. This is an easy way to elevate the look of a basic appliance. This blends in so well with the outdoor elements that it makes it feel as though the grill was born to live on your patio!

5. Ledge Stone Bathroom Shower Walls

The raw look that the ledge stone gives on these bathroom shower walls is breathtaking! While you would opt for a much smoother stone on the shower floor, this texture definitely takes this bathroom design to another level.

6. Ledge Stone Backsplash

Ledge stone backsplash is not only classic, but it’s edgy. It is interesting without being overpowering. There is a color of ledge stone to match any cabinet color, as demonstrated by the ‘California Gold’ color paired with the rustic green Wellborn cabinets below. This craftsman look is spot on!

7. Ledge Stone Island Cover

What a great idea to add an extra textural element to your kitchen. Typically you’ll find solid wood, wainscoting, or bead board around an island, but this is definitely a trend I hope to see more of! It gives a very natural feel to this fresh kitchen.

8. Ledge Stone Exteriors

Ledge stone on a homes exterior is something that most people have seen at least once before. It is durable, beautiful, and can add an element of class to the outside of any building. I love this look and it can be added to one or two surfaces or the entire front of your home.

As you can see, ledge stone is an incredibly versatile building material that can be used in any space in your home or business. What is you favorite use for ledge stone? Share in the comments below! Want to learn more? Stop by and see us at our Lousiville or Newport/Cincinnati locations!

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Written By: Allie Bloyd

April 12, 2016

Subway Tile: Turning Basic Backsplash Bold!

Subway tile is considered a classic in terms of interior design and renovation. This simple tile can come in a variety of materials such as glass subway tile, marble subway tile, ceramic subway tile and porcelain subway tile. No mater the material, the shape is always the same recognizable rectangle. While it is a minimalistic design element, it is by no means boring. However, there are multiple ways to spice up your subway tile to make it an even more interesting feature in your bathroom or kitchen. Below are 8 ways to turn this basic backsplash BOLD!

1. Covered in Color

This arctic ice glass subway tile is a stunner. This color can coordinate with so many different color schemes and design styles, working with masculine elements as well as feminine. There is no limit in terms of color options for subway tile, so let your imagination roam!

2. Dark Grout Delight

This is one of my favorite ways to put your own spin on subway tile. There are actually numerous grout colors to choose from, but most stay with a standard white or cream. My favorite is grey or black when using a white subway tile. It definitely makes a statement and will separate your space from the rest!

3. The next grey-te thing in subway tile

Grey has been on trend in the last year, and the subway tile department is no different! This gorgeous Highland Park Dove Grey Subway Tile has an incredible crackle finish that is completely unique! This backsplash tile is handcrafted, making every piece unique. Grey is a neutral that can easily replace the typical white tile you may have been considering before, and will work very well with many colors and styles!

DoveGreySubwayTile Highland Park Builders Surplus Newport Cincinnati Louisville

Click to Shop Our Dove Grey Highland Park Backsplash Tile

4. Peculiar Patterns

Instead of going with the same old subway pattern, try mixing it up! There are many ways that you can make it your own, like the windmill pattern shown to the right, or the perpendicular. You can even go vertical and side by side for a simple, clean look.

5. Happy In Herringbone

The herringbone pattern is a favorite of mine, and it works perfectly with any size or color of subway tile. While the installation may be slightly more difficult than the standard, the look you achieve is well worth it.

6. Big Things Come In Small Packages

This Highland Park Dove Grey Brick mesh back tile is one of many in the ‘small subway’ family. It gives you the same feel as the old fashioned subway tile, with a much more modern, updated look.

7. Bigger & Bolder

The new trend in subway tile comes in a larger format. These 4 x 12 pieces featured below can make a space feel larger. I can’t wait to see how many people start to embrace this new size!

8. Handcrafted Creations

Handcrafted goods are not only in style, they are unique and beautiful. The variations in each piece make it something to admire. This antique white subway tile has a wavy finish that makes it look markedly different than its smoother subway counterpart. It’s just another way to turn an old favorite into something a little bit more fun!

Which variation of subway tile is your favorite, or do you prefer the more classic look? We’d love to know! Make sure to stop in at one of our stores in Louisville or Newport, which also serves Cincinnati, and check them out! All styles shown above are in stock daily.

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Builders Surplus is a full service renovation company with locations in Louisville, Kentucky, and Newport, Kentucky, which also serves Cincinnati, Ohio. We are the leading provider of Bathroom Vanities and Double Vanities in Louisville, Newport, and Cincinnati. We specialize in interior design, kitchen design, bathroom remodel, building materials, and home improvement. Interior Design and measurements come as a free service to our clients. We sell building materials ranging in every price point, from unfinished kitchen cabinets to top of the line Wellborn cabinets. In addition to interior design, we also offer installation services. If you have any questions or would like to set up a free design consultation with one of our interior designers, we would encourage you to do so. We love sharing our knowledge with clients & potential home renovators. We write about interior design, home decor, decorating ideas, and home improvement. We hope you’ll check back in for our next article! Happy Renovation!

Written By: Allie Bloyd

April 5, 2016

DIY Stone Tile Fireplace Makeover

The halls are decked with boughs of holly and the stockings have been hung by the chimney with care – but maybe the room doesn’t look quite as comfy-cozy as can be. An easy and simple way to improve your space could be to update your outdated fireplace.
Wall tile is easily becoming one of the biggest and most popular trends on the market. With it you can give any space a rustic, old-world feel that is both natural feeling and inviting! Not to mention that it’s super versatile! A fun home improvement and interior design project that you can find everywhere one the web is a DIY Stone Tile Fireplace Makeover that will turn any fireplace into the centerpiece for the room!

What is Stone Tile?

Wall tile, sometimes also called ledger stone, is an easy alternative to laying stone or brick piece by piece. It’s an easy to install large-format, mesh-back or individual lay tile and is generally interlocking to give you a more natural look, instead of an even grid. Wall tile can mimic wood, stone, and even brick. Alternatively wall tile can also be used as a backsplash instead of an entire wall covering – which is good for doing small portions instead of covering your entire fireplace or other space.
There are tons of looks to choose from when selecting wall tile and ledger stone – and the same can be said for price ranges. So, the decision making will have to come on your part based on your budget and the style that you’re going for.
Here at Builders Surplus we carry 8 different in-stock ledger stone colors and can order 28 more for you as a custom order that generally arrives in less than 2 weeks!

Keep in Mind…

If you’re going to create a stone tile fireplace with any kind of wall tile keep in mind that you are putting this around, well, fire. While no tile is going to be completely fire proof or flame retardant you should still do your research. Also, do not cover the inside of your fireplace – that portion must be constructed from a fire-safe material.

Creating a Stone Tile Fireplace

There are many ways that you can install your own wall tile and that will mostly depend on the kind of tile that you get and the kind of job that you’re doing.
With most wall tile, it’s going to be heavy, and you’ll need to do some pre-work before you can install it, like taking off the existing tile and even the drywall to install a product called backer-board. Backer-board is a stiff product that keeps the tile and the base of the tile structurally sound. There are several different types of backer-board and each brand also carries it’s own specifications. Some are lighter than others and some are waterproof (in case you might be interested in doing the same with your bathtub).
Once all that is done and your backer board is secured you can start laying down your tile of choice. A stone tile fireplace makeover is really trendy right now because stone is so versatile and the decorating ideas so imaginative! Some styles will look extremely modern, and others will look more natural and old-world.

Stone Tile Fireplace Style

There’s really no limit to how you can style your new stone tile fireplace! You can use a mix of individual lay tiles to jumble up the colors and make your own patterns and textures, or you can go for a very solid look. As well there is the option to cover every inch of the space like a stone accent wall or to just tile a small portion of the fireplace itself and have a smaller focal point that adds interest to the space. We even did a blog on how to use wall tile elsewhere in your home!
Installing your ledger stone tile can be a little tedious, but the looks is well worth the work in the end!

Stone tile and faux stone give that beautiful stone tile fireplace look without the hassle or the price! Let your imagination run wild with the home design ideas you get, then when all the work is done cozy up next to your new stone tile fireplace with a hot mug of hot coco!

December 18, 2015

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Contrasting Light Tile to Dark Vanity

A Blending of Colors

The Products to Choose

Highland Park Dove Grey

Highland Park Whisper White

Highland Park Antique White

1. Ledge Stone Fireplace

2. Ledge Stone Column

3. Ledge Stone Accent Wall

4. Ledge Stone Grill Cover

5. Ledge Stone Bathroom Shower Walls

6. Ledge Stone Backsplash

7. Ledge Stone Island Cover

8. Ledge Stone Exteriors

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1. Covered in Color

2. Dark Grout Delight

3. The next grey-te thing in subway tile

4. Peculiar Patterns

5. Happy In Herringbone

6. Big Things Come In Small Packages

7. Bigger & Bolder

8. Handcrafted Creations

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DIY Stone Tile Fireplace Makeover

What is Stone Tile?

Keep in Mind…

Creating a Stone Tile Fireplace

Stone Tile Fireplace Style

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