5 Ways to Use Wood Plank Tile in Your Home

The look of wood is timeless. But in hot, humid states like Florida, it takes extra care to keep your hardwood floor looking as great as the day it was installed. If you’re looking for an easier to maintain option, but still want the classic look of hardwood, wood plank porcelain tile is a great long-lasting alternative that looks more realistic and stylish than laminate flooring.
Porcelain tile is incredibly versatile. Because it’s more durable than hardwood, you can install it in areas where wood generally isn’t recommended. It looks great not only on floors, but on accent walls and counter surfaces, allowing you to think beyond wood’s conventional uses.
Here are our favorite ways to incorporate wood plank porcelain tile into your next build or remodeling project:

2. In the Shower

Pinterest and Houzz are filled with gorgeous pictures of reclaimed barn wood showers, but how practical are they? It takes a special type of wood to withstand that amount of moisture, which needs to be heavily treated and regularly cleaned to prevent bacteria and mold from growing. So why are so many people jumping on this hard-to-maintain trend?
Take a closer look at the pictures and you’ll be surprised to learn that many are lined with wood plank porcelain tile—not actual wood.
Love the reclaimed/industrial look in your bathroom? Complement your wood plank tile with dark or black hardware, white subway tile accents, and slate flooring.

3. Outside Living Spaces

Fully furnished outdoor living spaces are the perfect way to enjoy the beautiful Florida weather—they let you breathe in the natural beauty of your surroundings, but still provide the luxury and comfort of an indoor space. While wood flooring is a great way to add another natural feature to your indoor-outdoor design, sands, storms, sun exposure and chlorine damage can take their toll on natural wood.
Porcelain tile is the perfect option for these outdoor spaces that can stand up to the elements. It’s easily cleaned with a hose and can even be power-sprayed.
Because porcelain also comes in non-slip textures, it’s a great option for your pool or deck. It looks natural and is much less rigid than the bulky wood planks needed to withstand the outdoor elements. Plus, it won’t require regular treatments like wood or composite wood decking.

4. As a Wall Accent

Tiled accent walls aren’t just for bathrooms and kitchens. Add rustic charm, or a modern flare by adding wood plank porcelain tile to your bedroom, living room, or even your basement. Not sure where to start, but love the look? Compliment your fireplace with a gorgeous wall-to-wall surround in wood plank porcelain tile.

5. Statement Flooring

The versatility of porcelain allows you to choose exotic wood grain patterns and colors that are otherwise rare, costly, or environmentally unsustainable, making it a green and cost-effective alternative.
You don’t need a bold color to make a statement, however. Porcelain tile can be laid in unexpected patterns, mixed with other tiles, or cut into interesting shapes. It’s an easy way to inject a bit of personality into your foyer, great room or any other open space.

Want to learn more about porcelain tile? Talk to one of our design experts or visit one of our showrooms.