Despite the current climate, the tile industry continues to grow and evolve which is reflected in the countless numbers of styles, finishes and colours available. What doesn’t appear to be changing is the popularity of grey.
Colour and texture
Although shades of grey remain popular for Architects and Specifiers, flamboyant colours are seeing a resurgence as customers seek to break up the monotony: a splash of red, green, blue or purple depending on the desired mood. These final touches of colour can complete an effect the designer is trying to create.
Along with colour we also look at texture. Grouts can be developed to tie in with the texture of the tile you are using to create an overall desired effect. If you are installing a stone material with heavy texture, this theme can also be carried on through the grouted joint as it can appear strange to feature a heavily textured tile alongside a perfectly smooth grout finish. On the other hand, a highly textured grout finish may look disjointed next to highly polished tiles.
The environment and use of the area you are grouting must also be considered; using an overly textured tile and grout finish for an area with heavy traffic would be impractical and hard to maintain as the textures would grab and hold onto any passing dirt.
The grouting environment
With the increase in investment and popularity for installing outside living areas, Mapei are recognizing an increase in porcelain patio areas.
Careful consideration must be given to the installation of these materials; hardwearing porcelain is durable but suitability of the tile adhesive and grout, as well as the longevity of the product is paramount. Grout must be considered as an integral part of the process as it is vital for a successful installation.
Mapei’s range of “Set the Mood” grouts
Mapei’s ‘Set the Mood’ colour collection is segmented into five collections – Serene, Traditional, Natural, Romance and Glamour. These five collections make choosing the correct colour easier according to the requirements of each tiling project.
Innovation through research and development is always at the forefront of Mapei’s philosophy, with the some of its latest additions to the coloured grouts range developed using a sophisticated 3D imaging programme with the latest tile design trends in mind.
For a flamboyant edge to tile installation, Mapei Kerapoxy Design should be considered. Available in a palette of 32 different colours, Kerapoxy Design is a highly decorative, two-component acid and stain resistant grout which delivers a smooth and consistent finish to the grout joint. The grout can be mixed with MapeGlitter to create various unique effects.
With over 80 years’ experience, you can be sure that as you progress through the decades that fashions, tile styles and requirements will evolve, but Mapei will be at the forefront of technology, adapting to change in trends in colour and installation.
For information on the full Set the Mood grout ranges, visit:
www.mapei.co.uk
