Articles

The tile category is putting its best foot forward to guarantee products that consumers can rely on in the new year. Even amid unpredictability in the overall economy, tile’s wide array of stylish, high-performing options are set to keep the category afloat this year. Read More

Tile is known for its design versatility as it can add a hint of artistry to any space. This is especially true when tile is installed in the form of a mosaic, which can deliver performance benefits as well as intricate style. Mosaics can be installed on feature walls and on backsplashes, and today’s mosaic products help provide a continuous design that covers more square footage of the home and can follow one overarching design aesthetic throughout. Read More

The Dodge Momentum Index (DMI), issued by Dodge Construction Network, improved 6.6% (2000=100) in December to 222.2 from the revised November reading of 208.3. In December, the commercial component of the DMI rose 8.4%, and the institutional component ticked up 2.7%. Read More

2022 is a wrap. And once again, we have the pleasure of looking back on the tile tips and trends we’ve covered over the last year. As in years past, we’ve shared ideas on using tile in every room of the house. But one room stands out this year for being of particular interest to designers and homeowners alike: the bathroom. Whether you’re designing a new home or remodeling your existing space, our 2022 tips can help you create the bathroom you’ve been dreaming of in the new year. Read More

A kitchen backsplash isn't exactly a design element you want to go through the hassle of changing often. It's time-intensive and expensive. That being said, if you're ready for a new look, you might as well take a new year as an opportunity to go for it! Luckily, designers and industry experts are predicting a few kitchen backsplash trends will take off in 2023. Whether you're ready to display a dramatic marble slab or build a creative wall made of mixed materials, there's sure to be a kitchen backsplash trend ahead that offers inspiration and unlocks motivation for your next kitchen makeover. (And while you're at it, make sure to consider the other kitchen trends and kitchen cabinetry trends experts expect to gain popularity in 2023, too.) Read More

Regardless of whether you have a small or large space, a ceramic tile backsplash can make a huge design impact. Particularly in the bathroom, backsplash tile can set the tone for the whole space while also protecting your walls from water damage and creating a low-maintenance, easy-to-clean surface. Of course, the impact of bathroom backsplash tile makes it even more important that you choose the right design for your space. Thankfully, there are numerous (dare we say limitless?) designs for you to choose from, with options for different tile colors, shapes, sizes, textures, natural looks and patterns. Read More

U.S. floor coverings manufacturer sales (shipments minus exports plus imports) growth continued to slow in the fourth quarter of 2022 as mortgage interest rates topped 7.0%. In the fourth quarter, dollar sales could have increased by 2.4%, while square foot sales could have dropped by 5.5%. Square foot sales dropped as housing demand decreased. Read More

Construction contractors are less optimistic about many private-sector segments than they were a year ago, but their expectations for the public sector market have remained relatively bullish, according to survey results released by the Associated General Contractors of America and Sage. The findings are detailed in High Hopes for Public Sector Funding Amid Workforce and Supply Chain Challenges: The 2023 Construction Hiring & Business Outlook. Read More

The global natural stone market is expected to grow from $28.25 billion in 2021 to $30.49 billion in 2022 at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.9%. Read More

The Ceramic Tile Education Foundation (CTEF) has newly expanded training and education for professionals in the ceramic tile and stone industry for 2023. The new programs address the foundations of tile installation and practical training to prepare installers for the Certified Tile Installer program, as well as an enhanced inspection course and additional sessions of a historically popular program. Read More