Tile salvage is exactly what it sounds like. It's saving good tiles from buildings that are being torn down or renovated. The building industry generates over 600 million tons of waste annually, which is nearly twice the amount produced by regular households. Imagine the number of perfectly good tiles that head to landfills. 

The numbers tell an interesting story. People spent nearly $286 billion on sustainable or green building materials in 2024, and that number keeps growing fast. Why? The building and construction sector causes nearly 37% of the world's carbon emissions. When you reuse old tiles instead of making new ones, you cut those emissions. 

With over 70 years of experience in the tile industry, our experts at Wayne Tile have seen the transition from old tiles to luxury vinyl tiles. We know that producing new ceramic tiles or porcelain slabs requires a significant amount of energy for the firing process. That's why salvaged tile makes sense from an environmental standpoint. 

Finding good reclaimed tiles takes some detective work. Our warehouse has an outlet store filled with treasures and great deals, plus our seven showrooms can help match salvaged pieces with new tiles when you need more. When you want reclaimed tile that's authentic and reliable, it pays to work with companies that know the market. 

Vintage Brick Salvage has nearly two decades of experience sourcing antique bricks and turning them into thin brick tiles that are easier to install but keep their original character. Another good option is Olde Good Things, which operates large salvage sites in New York, Los Angeles, and Scranton, giving them access to a steady supply of rare finds. Established suppliers like these not only know how to identify quality pieces but also have the networks to track down what you need for your project. 

Online marketplaces open up more options, but you need to be careful about condition and shipping costs. Tiles are heavy, so those shipping bills add up fast. Local demolition companies sometimes uncover hidden treasures when they carefully dismantle old buildings. The Wayne Tile team works with homeowners and contractors to track down specific materials. 

When inspecting salvaged tiles, look for cracks that may worsen, examine the edges for chips, and ensure that pieces from the same batch are roughly the same size. Don't forget to keep an eye on cool features, like old mortar or patina, that add to the charm. 

We've won the North American Tile Distributor of the Year award twice, demonstrating our in-depth knowledge of our tiles. This knowledge is extremely helpful when working with reclaimed tiles. 

Most reclaimed ceramic tile you'll find comes from old buildings. These tiles are lightweight and easy to cut, making them an excellent choice for indoor projects. You can expect them to last about 20 to 30 years. Porcelain tiles are tougher due to the high heat they're fired at during production. Expect them to last about 50 years and handle outdoor conditions better. 

Natural stone, like marble and slate, becomes better with age. These materials can last for generations if you take care of them. Glass tiles add bright color and shine and don't absorb water. They might only last 10-20 years, but the right salvaged glass tiles can make a big impact. 

Getting salvaged tiles ready for your new home takes different approaches depending on what material you're working with. Wayne Tile's care guides give you the basics. 

Ceramic and Porcelain Restoration 

Start by cleaning off old mortar and buildup. Porcelain doesn't absorb water, making it relatively easy to clean. For cracked or chipped pieces, sand the rough edges with 120-grit sandpaper. Tape around the area, then apply touch-up glaze, which dries in approximately 30 minutes. Deeper damage requires spot epoxy to be applied in thin layers using a putty knife. Each layer takes 45 minutes to dry. 

Let repairs cure for 24 hours, then wait an additional five days before using regular cleaners. Clear nail polish usually takes care of minor scratches. 

Natural Stone Care 

Stone requires special care since it's porous and can be harmed by harsh, acidic cleaners. Professional stone restoration often costs less than replacement and might even increase the stone's value. Historic stonework needs experts who understand old materials and have the right repair compounds and protective coatings. 

Glass Tile Cleanup 

Glass tiles resist stains and mold because water cannot penetrate them, but they scratch easily. Only use gentle cleaners and soft cloths. Mix equal parts water and vinegar, let it sit for 10 minutes, then wipe gently. For light scratches, try rubbing with regular toothpaste on a soft cloth. 

PH-neutral cleaners are important for stone. Acidic or harsh cleaners can permanently damage natural stone. For deep stains, go with liquid poultice cleaners; they penetrate stone pores and lift out stubborn marks without damaging the stone. 

Styling Reclaimed Tiles in Modern Spaces 

Reclaimed tiles can be beautifully combined with new tiles to create unique designs in your home. New tiles have consistency and create a clean, aesthetic look. You can use them together on floors to create eye-catching patterns or accent pieces on walls, backsplashes, or around fireplaces. Reclaimed tiles have a worn look that brings warmth; new tiles offer a balance with their neat finish and long life. This mix works well in kitchens, bathrooms, or entrances and opens up many design choices. 

Porcelain tiles are basically built for the chaos of family life. Fired at crazy-high temperatures —over 2,000°F — they become super dense and tough, shrugging off scratches, chips, and cracks like it's no big deal. Their bending strength ranges from 5,075 to 7,250 PSI, putting them right up there with solid wood. Spills are also not a problem, as Porcelain tiles, along with big porcelain slabs, barely soak up water. 

These tiles are also low maintenance, don't hold onto smells, and are a blessing if you've got pets or anyone with allergies. When properly installed, these tiles can easily outlast wood or laminate by 10 to 15 years. A little texture keeps little feet from slipping and, thanks to modern inkjet technology, you can get tiles that look like real wood, stone, or other natural surfaces. The end result is safe flooring for children that actually looks stylish, too. 

With kids running around, safety has to come first, especially on hard floors. Every year, millions of people end up in the ER from slips and falls, and a lot of those accidents happen on wet or uneven surfaces. That's why non-slip tiles are such a smart choice. Textured tiles give extra grip, while shiny, high-gloss floors can get tricky when they're wet. 

Tiles rated R10 work well for kitchens or bathrooms where floors might get damp, and R11 is better for areas that see water all the time. Wayne Tile has plenty of child-safe, slip-resistant options, so your kids can run, play, and explore without turning every spill or splash into a worry. With the right tiles, your home stays safe, practical, and still looks great. 

Easy-to-Clean Solutions for Busy Parents 

Being a parent means dealing with the mess all the time. Spills, muddy footprints, and dropped snacks are everyday stories. Tiles make cleanup way easier. A quick sweep or vacuum once a week and mopping up spills with a damp cloth keeps things under control. Porcelain tiles are great because they don't stain or smell, so there are no worries about the kids or pets ruining anything. 

Big tiles are good too, because you don't have as many grout lines to clean. Power Grout is a product that protects grout from stains and cracks. It dries fast, so you can walk on it soon after. Tiles are waterproof and tough, so they're perfect for kitchens and bathrooms. Just sweep, wipe, and mop now and then, and your floors will look good. Glass tiles don't soak up moisture either and they won't hold onto stains, so you can effortlessly keep them clean. 

Bathrooms and high-traffic spots ask a lot from your floors. In bathrooms, porcelain tile is one of the best child safe tiles. It's denser than ceramic, shrugs off water, and with matte or textured finishes, you get the grip you need to keep things safe. Look for tiles with a COF above 0.4 or European R10/R11 ratings. Ceramic tiles, like Zellige, work beautifully around tubs, and smaller-scale tiles can balance the height and add lightness. 

For kitchens, entryways, and halls, porcelain again comes out on top. It's built for heavy traffic, resists stains and scratches, and large-format options cut down on grout headaches. 

Picking tiles for a family home doesn't mean you've got to sacrifice style. The trick is to think long-term. Neutral tones and classic designs keep your space looking fresh as your kids grow, no matter how many times you swap out the paint, furniture, or rugs. You won't wake up one day and feel like the floors look outdated. If you love the warmth of wood but don't want to deal with scratches or water damage, wood-look porcelain or luxury vinyl is a smart alternative. They give you the cozy feel without the high-maintenance headaches. 

Thanks to modern inkjet technology, tiles can mimic natural wood, stone, or even high-end finishes without the high-end price tag. Textured and matte choices also help reduce slips, which is great when kids are running about. Plus, classic options, such as subway tiles, are always stylish. Add in a few patterned accents, and you've got style and durability in one. 

Installing tiles when you've got kids running around isn't the easiest project to take on. You can go the DIY route, but here's the truth: if the surface isn't prepped right or you use the wrong adhesive, those tiles might start shifting or cracking before long. Skipping steps like sealing grout or leveling the subfloor will just come back to bite you. Porcelain, especially, needs a careful hand. 

That's where a pro makes all the difference. They know how to prep, space, and secure everything so the floor holds up for years. In the long run, it saves time, money, and a lot of stress. Wayne Tile can point you in the right direction and hook you up with installers who actually know what they're doing. The floors stay safe, strong, and look good, even when life gets messy. 

It's important to calculate tile quantities required before commencing any project. Use the following formula to do so: 

Length × Width + Waste = Total Tile Needed 

You can use this simple formula for any tile project, whether you're redoing the bathroom floor, putting up a kitchen backsplash, or creating a custom shower. 

Once you've determined the number of tiles needed, consider adding an extra 10–20% to account for cuts or future repairs. 

Follow the simple steps below to make sure your calculation is accurate: 

Step 1: Measure Wall or Floor Areas 

Start by preparing a tape measure, pencil, paper, and calculator because you'll need them to measure your wall or floor areas. You'll want to write down both the length and width of each wall or floor you're planning to tile, but don't forget to factor in any windows or doors that might get in the way. Measuring square and rectangular spaces is pretty simple, but if you're working with a complicated space, just break it into smaller rectangles and measure the width and length of each piece separately. 

Step 2: Multiply the Measurements To Get the Total Area 

Once you have the measurements of each area, multiply them to determine the total area you need to tile. So, if your floor is 6.6 feet wide and 9.8 feet long, you're looking at a total area of 64.7 square feet (6.6 ft × 9.8 ft = 64.7 sq. ft.). For a trickier shape, break it down into simple squares or rectangles, calculate each one, and then add them up for the total. 

The calculations above will help you find the exact area to tile, but keep in mind that measurements don't account for potential breakages and offcuts. Usually, adding about 10-20% extra is a good idea — it can help cover any unexpected accidents and give you some spare tiles for future breakages. 

To find the overage, simply multiply the total area from Step 2 by 10%. For instance, in this case, you would do 64.7 sq. ft x 1.1, which equals 71.2 sq. ft. 

Step 4: Calculate How Many Tiles Are Needed 

Check the size of the tiles you've picked and see how many are packed in a box. The number can really differ—a box of smaller subway tiles usually has way more tiles than a box of those big, fancy tiles. Once you've got that sorted, figure out how much area one tile covers. For example, a tile that's 4 in × 8 in covers 32 sq. in, or 0.22 sq. ft. 

After that, divide the total room area, including any extra for mistakes, by the area one tile covers. So, if you have 71.2 sq. ft. of space, you'd do 71.2 sq. ft. divided by 0.22 sq. ft., which gives you 324 tiles needed. Then, see how many tiles come in each box and divide the total tiles needed by the number in a box. Say you've got 20 tiles per box, so you'd calculate 324 divided by 20, ending up with 16.2 boxes. You can then round that up to 17 boxes. 

When you're out shopping, you'll find that many tile boxes will tell you how much area they cover or how many you'll need to cover 1 sq. ft. 

The fundamental difference between these flooring options lies in their construction methods and raw materials. Ceramic and porcelain tiles are made from clay and sand. This mixture is formed into the desired shape of tile and then fired in a kiln until the time it hardens. On the other hand, porcelain uses a finer mix with extra feldspar and a higher temperature, which makes the finished tile denser. This combination makes it stronger and less absorbent than ceramic. 

Luxury vinyl plank is basically built with layers of PVC, plus a felt or fiberglass backing. A printed layer gives it the look of wood or stone, and a clear, tough top coat handles wear. Since it's thicker than standard vinyl, many planks snap together with click-lock edges instead of needing glue. 

Vinyl's tough, but it can be scratched by furniture, pets, or drops. The good thing is, you can remove the damaged tiles pretty easily. Ceramics are harder and resist damage better, but if you crack them, you'll likely need a professional to fix them. 

Durability and Lifespan Comparison 

When comparing luxury vinyl plank vs. tile longevity, the numbers tell a compelling story. Vinyl plank flooring can usually last between 10 and 20 years. Tile flooring often lasts 20 to 50 years due to being more durable as well as resisting scratches and impacts better than luxury vinyl plank. 

Both types of flooring are comparable when it comes to resisting water, as they are both waterproof by nature. However, if the joints between the tiles aren't sealed and cared for, water can still get through. 

Heat Resistance Capabilities 

Extreme temperatures affect these materials differently. Luxury vinyl planks heat up fast but have limits with higher temperatures. Tile handles heat more efficiently and resists it better, making it the stronger choice for heat resistance. 

LVP is a favorite for DIY projects because the click-lock system is simple and the installation doesn't require much prep. In most cases, it can go right over the existing floor. Installing ceramic tile is a bit trickier because it requires precise leveling, cutting, and grouting. It's usually a good idea to have a professional do the install, especially for glass tiles, natural stone, or fancy porcelain tiles. 

Material and Labor Costs 

LVP usually costs less than high-quality tile flooring. Luxury vinyl planks range from about $3 to $10 per square foot, while tile can go up to $20 per square foot. Professional installation adds another $3 to $10 per square foot in labor. Tile prices are pretty steady everywhere, but labor costs depend on the installer's experience, the project difficulty, and demand in your area. 

Luxury vinyl planks come in plenty of wood-look styles and colors, making them a great fit for modern, farmhouse, or rustic spaces. Stone-look designs exist, but they're not as common. Tile gives you even more options. Tile comes in a wide variety of appearances, from natural stone and wood looks to different patterns, textures, and finishes, and is easy to match with almost any design style. 

LVP vs Ceramic Tile: Maintenance 

Vinyl planks are easy to clean because with a smooth surface and very few seams, dirt has nowhere to settle. Just sweep regularly and mop with gentle soap to keep them looking nice. Ceramic tile needs extra attention due to the grout lines, which can get dirty if the seal wears down over time. Sometimes it may be necessary to clean grout with bleach-containing products but not necessarily on a regular basis. 

Picking between luxury vinyl planks and ceramic tile really comes down to the space and what you need. Some homeowners prefer to use LVP becuase it is especially nice in bedrooms, living rooms, and basements due to being completely waterproof, soft to walk on, and simple to clean. It also handles temperature changes, so kitchens and bathrooms are no problem. Ceramic tile is tougher and better for heavy-traffic or damp spots like bathrooms, laundry rooms, and busy kitchens. Though it can feel harder to walk on, it lasts a long time and offers a classic, neat style. 

Environmental Impact and Health Considerations 

When it comes to the health and environmental effects of flooring, both tile and luxury vinyl plank have their benefits and downsides. Tile is made from natural elements such as clay. Make sure the mortar and grout that is used during installation do not contain too many harsh chemicals. 

Luxury vinyl plank has improved a lot more in recent years. Old vinyl floors sometimes had phthalates that could release fumes, but most reputable brands now keep VOC levels very low. Choosing a trusted manufacturer and looking for low-VOC certification helps ensure cleaner indoor air. 

The tile or vinyl plank flooring decision ultimately depends on your priorities and circumstances. Vinyl tile's main advantages include lower initial costs and DIY-friendly installation. On the other hand, ceramic tile surpasses vinyl in most other categories through superior appearance, extended durability, and potentially higher resale value. Consider these key factors when making your choice. 

Return on Investment Analysis 

Both luxury vinyl plank (LVP) and ceramic tile, can be a considered a smart investment depending on your needs. LVP is cheaper, simple to install, and easy to maintain. Tile usually costs more, but it's tough and can add value in kitchens and bathrooms. 

Tile stands out as the best flooring option for pet owners for several reasons. The most obvious is that tile offers superior scratch resistance over wood and laminate flooring, given the amount of paw traffic you can expect from your pets. 

Other advantages include: 

Softer flooring materials are susceptible to scratches, liquid absorption, warping, and mold growth. Unlike carpet, tile will not allow pet fur, dander, and oils to accumulate. 

Consumer Reports described porcelain tile as "the holy grail of flooring" in its evaluation of 40 different flooring options, citing durability, resistance to wear, and versatility. 

When you're selecting tiles for small bathrooms, it's important to choose tiles that seem to expand the compact space. Reflective tiles add light to the room, which can help it feel spacious and welcoming. 

Within a shower stall, toilet alcove, or tub inset, color can make the back wall seem to advance or recede. Warm colors feel like they're moving toward you, while cool ones seem to pull away. Use these psychological tricks to your advantage in a small area. 

The Best Tile Colors for Small Spaces 

Light, airy colors create a feeling of expansiveness, even in small spaces. Bright white ceramic tiles or polished natural stone can make a tiny bathroom seem spacious. If you want the warmth of wood with added durability, light-hued wood-look LVT tiles can offer a cozy, welcoming ambiance without making the area feel too compact. 

Use dark, bold colors sparingly in a small space. Focus on strategic placement to help key walls recede visually. The deep black of our porcelain Versace marble tile in Nero would overwhelm an entire room. Used as an inset or accent at the back of a shower, however, it can pull the wall away and make the alcove seem deeper. 

Different tile finishes reflect or absorb light uniquely. Even tile patterns shift — bright light can wash them out, while dimmer lighting enhances depth. Here's a breakdown of how light interacts with each tile's surfaces. 

1. Lighting Techniques for Porcelain Tiles 

Warm LEDs add coziness and enhance the natural tones of porcelain tiles, while cool lights flatten the tile's look. Use aluminum LED channels for safe, seamless installation so porcelain stays polished and brilliant. 

2. Optimal Lighting for Ceramic Tiles 

When you use cool white LEDs, ceramic tiles shine more. When you use warm lights, they shine less. Use COB LED strips to make the patterns and shiny finishes on the ceramic tile pop out and to make sure the glow is even. 

3. Showcasing Natural Stone With the Right Lighting 

Marble stone tiles look best in soft, dimmable lights, whereas granite tiles look best in brighter lights. Slate stone tiles look best in lights that work outside. It is best to always spread out light to reduce glare and show depth. 

Tile insets are distinct tiles of a different shape, color, or material that are embedded in a larger tile design. Decorative tile insets can incorporate intricate designs, bright hues, or bold directional changes. This is a great way to make a statement in your home. 

Stylish Tile Inset Ideas 

Let your creativity loose as you explore tile inset designs. These are little works of art built into your home. The options are unlimited. 

Consider a large medallion if you want a single focal point. This can draw the eye to a key area above your fireplace or over the kitchen sink. You may want to order a custom tile design for this central piece. 

Tile borders turn any installation into a decorative inset. Try chic ceramic rectangles around a busier inset, like our decorative porcelain pieces. 

Mosaics are intricate tiles that instantly capture the attention. They can look busy in abundance. Use them in a smaller inset to add the proper touch of intrigue. 

Rooms with sinks are ideal choices for tile niches, so adding a tile niche (or two) to a bathroom will help you to make that room a spa-like sanctuary. A shower stall tile niche can hold scented soap from France, a votive candle, or a waterproof Bluetooth speaker. It can be anything you want it to be. The only limitation is your own imagination. 

Another option is a niche surrounding the tub, where you can stash shampoo, conditioner, razors, and more. Kitchens are also great places for tile niches, and some are large enough to become, as they say in the interior design business, "appliance garages." An appliance garage holds a cluster of small appliances that might otherwise take up precious counter space. 

Large, midsized, or compact tile niches offer so many benefits to homeowners. They look great, as they can be seamlessly integrated into tiled walls or other design elements. They'll look like they've always been there. LED strip lighting can even be added. 

One popular retail outlet, Sephora, is known for its black and white branding. The makeup emporium's shopping bags and store walls feature black and white stripes that are graphic and striking. At home, DIY'ers and contractors can get the same bold result with high-contrast black and white tiles. 

One fun project is a home bar. To create it, add a black-and-white checkerboard tile floor. The standalone bar should feature dark brown wood and a black marble countertop. Behind the bar, add gold and cream marble-look ceramic tiles to the wall. A brass faucet, turquoise bar chairs, and a vintage-inspired vase in burgundy will be perfect finishing touches. 

Another fun palette is blue and gold. To create a living room that's rich and vibrant, add geometric navy blue porcelain "stick tiles" to a wall, with a border of "pennyround" gold glass tiles at the bottom. To accent the porcelain and glass tiles, choose a sapphire velvet sofa, an antique gold coffee table with a white marble top, and an area rug with a sky blue and white print.