Swirling colors that move and change under your feet like a living work of art? Yes, you read that correctly, and that’s exactly what liquid tiles provide. With every step you take this flooring option will be forever changing in appearance. Fun for kids and adults alike here’s what you’ll need to know about them.
Sometimes also called liquid lava tiles or liquid gel tiles there is no other flooring choice that provides such a dramatic and interactive experience. These tiles are made from a leak-proof polymer plastic that encases a brightly colored liquid that flows and changes shape and color each time that pressure is applied to them.
Not For The Wall
This is one option that is made for use on the floor and not the wall. Because they are literally liquid-filled tiles if they were to be placed on the wall gravity would cause the liquid to settle. And this wouldn’t allow you would to get the color-changing or moving effect.
Safe And Sturdy
Many people assume that because they contain liquid these tiles are soft or even mushy. This is not the case they are in fact a solid and sturdy surface that can handle daily foot traffic, pets, dancing, and abuse from kids quite easily. They are firm but not hard like stone or ceramic, and typically are slip-proof to help prevent accidents.
If you are wondering about the actual liquid inside it is a non-toxic and environmentally safe cosmetic formula. In fact, liquid tile is fire-resistant and considered a “green,” product which can be recycled.
Purchasing Options
Different from other tile types, liquid options are generally only large in size. Most are at least 12” x 12” if not bigger. For example, “20 x 20” is a common size. When shopping you’ll notice that they are sold as individual tiles so that you can purchase just one or a few if that’s what you need. You can also buy packs that have a larger number of tiles.
Another choice are mats which are made up of multiple tiles that are attached together. You may want a liquid tile mat that has tiles of a single color or many different colors, it’s up to you. Before you run out to your local home store though, you’ll need to know that these tiles are not usually available in most shops. Presently the majority of consumers buy liquid tile online since that is where the widest variety and most competitive prices can be found.
Place Them Down Wherever You Please
You don’t need any skills to install these tiles. Whether you choose to add individual tiles or a mat, all you need to do is place them down. You can do this right over your current flooring (even on top of carpeting) without any preparation whatsoever. And they can be picked up, moved, or re-arranged whenever you feel like it.
They have a non-slip backing that will keep them in place so you don’t need to use any adhesive. When adding them to surfaces like concrete however some people do like to use an adhesive such as liquid nails or carpet tape for but you don’t need to.
Best Uses
Liquid floor tiles can be used in any area that you would like to make more colorful and fun so be sure to consider the following ideas on how and where to use them.
Spaces Kids Love: Because they are so popular with kids they are often used for creating spaces they can enjoy. At home, they are an ideal choice for both children’s playrooms and bedrooms. In fact, the changing colors of the tiles can also be used to help encourage babies to crawl. They can be particularly helpful for babies who are hesitant to crawl on their own or that have special needs.
And when used as dance floor tiles they are sure to create a dazzling display that will keep children moving. Liquid tiles are also tough enough they can function as a surface for tap dancing. Outside the home, they are used in classrooms, businesses which have a designated area for kids to play, and are always a hit in children’s museums.
Sensory Rooms: A sensory room is a safe space created for those with developmental disabilities, sensory impairments, and learning difficulties. It allows them to not only use their senses but build them up through exposure to special objects, sounds, and lighting. Each room is tailored to the specific need of the individual and they are often a big help for autistic children.
These tiles are often used in sensory rooms because they are visually stimulating, touchable, and encourage movement by providing a colorful display as a reward. Because they are used for this purpose they are often also advertised specifically as sensory liquid tiles.
Grab Attention With A Burst Of Color: The bright and bold colors of liquid tile are perfect for transforming the look of plain spaces both at home and in businesses of all types. They can do wonders to visually break up large areas of single-colored tiles or flooring. A simple way to do this is to add a group of them to the center of a room or to one specific section or feature that you would like to bring attention to.
For example, many businesses like to install them directly in front of their reception desk. Using them to create a colorful tile border that pops is another way to go that will naturally draw your guests or clients in. But of course, they can be used for covering your entire floor space as well.
Change Narrow Spaces Forever: Liquid-filled floor tiles are an easy way to create interest in narrow spaces too, such as hallways. And when added to stairs they change the monotony of going up and down into an interactive visual experience.
Bars, Restaurants, And Nightclubs: Unlike just about all other tile types liquid tiles show up very well when used with a black light. This is effect is helped by their bright white backing. And as you could guess it makes them very popular for bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. They are most often used as flooring or to create a dance floor. Some more creative business owners sometimes use tiles as a surface for table tops, bars, or even on chairs, benches, and stools.
Modern Style Rooms And Materials
Regardless of where you use them one of the best styles to use these tiles with is modern. That’s because they pair very well with sleek-looking spaces and materials. Blue liquid tiles in particular are a very popular choice for modern bathrooms. The blue of course is a natural choice since it echoes the look of the water.
Because they are usually large themselves, liquid tiles are often used with bigger size tiles. They will look very cohesive with surfaces that have modern glossy finishes and are many times installed with concrete tiles or concrete flooring.
Play With Patterns, Colors, And Spacing
You may want to add tiles of a single color or mix things up by using two, three, or as many as possible for an explosion of color. By using different colors you can create tile patterns and even unique-looking designs.
The spacing is also something you can play with. Many people actually install them just like a colorful stepping stone path that leads guests or customers from one area to another. These could be uniformly spaces or you could place them further apart and at random.
With what you’ve just learned you’re ready to start enjoying this interactive and totally unique flooring choice. Whether for children or adults, liquid tiles will provide a sensory experience that’s full of color and fun!
What Are Ceramic Tiles Made From?
Buy on Wayfair Ceramic tiles are the most commonly used tile option around the world. Despite them being so popular, however, most people actually don’t know too much about them. So just what are ceramic tiles made from? Clay But Usually More Ceramic tiles are made...
What Is Mosaic Tile?
Buy on Wayfair Despite its size, mosaic tile offers an enormous range of options. It’s a favorite choice for bathrooms that’s also simple to install. So what is mosaic tile? Here’s what you’ll need to know. Size And Format Mosaic tiles are basically small, miniature...
What Are Floor Tiles Made Of?
Buy on Wayfair Unlike tiles used on the wall, floor tiles need to be tough. They have to be durable enough to deal with foot traffic, support heavy amounts of weight, and resist breaking when things fall on them. So what are floor tiles made of? Here are the most...
What Does Tile Do?
Buy on Wayfair Tile is one of the most common building materials around the world. For this reason, you’re likely to see it just about everywhere. But exactly what does tile do? Here are some of the most popular uses. Add Beauty When you’d like to upgrade a room or...
Marble Floor Tile Pros And Cons
Buy on Wayfair Marble has been used for as flooring for thousands of years and is well-known for its stunning good looks. However, before deciding to use this favorite you’ll want to know all the marble floor tile pros and cons. Marble Floor Tile Pros: Durable Because...
The Advantages And Disadvantages Of Carpet Tiles
Buy on Wayfair Carpet tiles are an alternative to standard carpeting. Each square tile is installed individually to create a carpeted flooring surface. However like with all flooring options you’ll need to know both the advantages and disadvantages of carpet tiles...
What Are Carpet Tiles?
Buy on Wayfair Standard carpeting has many advantages, but it’s not always what works best in every situation. For many consumers, carpet tiles are actually a much better fit. So just what are carpet tiles? Carpet Meets Tile Unlike carpeting which comes in rolls,...
The Benefits Of Carpet Tiles
Buy on Wayfair Traditional carpet flooring isn’t for everyone. Fortunately for those who want a carpeted surface but don’t want to deal with the typical drawbacks carpet tiles offer an alternative. The many benefits of carpet tiles could make them just what you need...
The Advantages Of Linoleum Flooring
Linoleum has been used to cover floors since the late nineteenth century. Not only has is it still in use today, but it has become more and more popular in recent years. And once you read the following advantages of linoleum flooring you’ll quickly see why. A Green...
An Intro To The Top Flooring Options
Buy on Wayfair For today’s consumers, there is a wide range of flooring options. Each one offers something different. And in order to choose the right type for your needs, you’ll want to know the basics of each. So here’s an overview of the top varieties you will need...
A Crash Course In Leather Tiles
Buy on Wayfair Using natural materials to upgrade a space can make a big impression. And no other choice provides an experience quite like leather. Here’s a crash course including everything you’ll want to know about them before getting started. Leather Tile Basics...
Graffiti Tiles: Bring Street Art Indoors
Buy on Wayfair Have you ever wished you could have the urban look and striking colors of graffiti in your home or business? You definitely can! Graffiti tiles allow you to use this form of street art in a way that looks fantastic, is easy to maintain, and works as a...
The Best Ways To Enjoy Heart Tile
Buy on Wayfair Just like in life, with tile it can often pay to think outside the box, or should we say square. There are many other shapes to choose from rather than the square and rectangular options you normally see, such as hearts. That being said here are the...
Quarry Tiles: Rustic Beauty And Strength
Buy on Wayfair Tough, stain-resistant, and economical, quarry tiles are a winning choice for anyone who wants a rustic style space. Here’s everything you’ll need to know in order to get started with them properly. The Basics In the past quarry tiles were cut from...
Linear Tiles: Create Visual Interest And Space
Buy on Wayfair The classic look of subway tile is always impressive. And their ever-constant popularity has made it very clear that the rectangular shape is extremely appealing to the eye. So it’s no wonder manufacturers have taken this trend to a new level with...
Dance Floor Tiles – An Alternative Made For Convenience
Buy on Amazon Dancing can be a ton of fun. However, installing an actual dance floor is extremely expensive and is simply not an option for most people or locations. A much more convenient alternative for fitting your space and needs are dance floor tiles. There are a...
Tile Murals: The Easy Way To Liven Up Your Walls
Buy on Wayfair How do you liven up plain-looking walls with as few tiles as possible? The answer is by choosing an option that always makes a big impact. And tile murals are guaranteed to do just that. And here are the basics along with some helpful tips to help you...
Transform Your Space With Vintage Tiles
Buy on Wayfair There’s no reason to purchase expensive antique tiles when you can use brand-new ones that give you the same appearance and more. Vintage tiles offer the consumer a chance to add that classic look they have been craving but with all the strength and...
Beach Themed Tiles And Options For Creating A Seaside Feel
Buy on Amazon When decorating a beach home or just looking to add some coastal style, you'll want the right tiles for the job. There are a handful beach themed tile choices to help you get the seaside look and feel you need. The following options will be sure to pique...
The Top Non-Slip Tiles For Adding Grip
Buy on Wayfair Hard surfaces can be quite dangerous especially when they’re wet. To help prevent injuries you will want to add a tile that has grip. There are quite a few choices to pick from but the following are considered to be the best of the best. Plastic That’s...