Smooth Tile Floor Transitions

When installing a new tile floor in your home, you have a lot to think about: which tile to choose and where to buy it are all important things to consider. Don’t forget to decide how you will manage the transition between your new tile floor and your existing wood floor or carpet. It is important to have a smooth transition between flooring types in order to avoid creating a trip hazard. The transition can also be used to add visual appeal to your rooms.

Tile to Carpet With Threshold

Tile to Carpet With Threshold

Choosing a Transition Point

Entryways are very popular places to install tile; after all, this is where we bring in dirt and sand from the outside, and tile is very easy to clean. Entryways also have clear transition points, making it easy to decide where you need to have your tile stop and your wood or carpet begin.

Carpet to Tile

Carpet to Tile

Installing tile in the kitchen is extremely popular. If you have an open floor plan in your kitchen, you may need to pick a transition point that is not as obvious as those in the entryway or bathroom. For example, the transition may line up with a doorway, but not the kitchen island.

Transitioning from Tile to Carpet

One way to ensure a smooth transition from the tile to your carpet is to install a tack strip. This strip is placed near the edge of the tile, allowing you to cut the carpet right at the tile’s edge. Another option is to use a transition piece called a Z-bar. This metal bar is nailed to the floor, and then the tack strip is glued on top of it, giving your transition a little bit more security.  This is the best method to use if you are installing your tile after your carpet. Or, you could try using a reducer strip, which is designed to be mounted on the edge of both flooring types. These come in a wide variety of colours and materials.

Tile to Carpet Curved

Tile to Carpet Curved

Transitioning from Tile to Hardwood Floors

Looking to transition from tile to a hardwood floor? The easiest way to connect floors with slightly different heights is with a transition strip. This strip can match the floor or be painted a different colour to add an accent to the room.  A good rule of thumb is to match the strip to the colour of your wood floor, especially if the strip is in a doorway. Interested in a flush transition? This is more difficult to achieve, especially for a DIYer, but flush transition strips are available as well. They only work if both surfaces have straight edges. Keep in mind that traditional transition strips can help cover up any irregular edges you may have on your tile floor.

Tile to Wood

Tile to Wood

No matter what transition type you choose, you can get a great deal at Fowles. Still not sure what tile is right for you? See the tile we currently have available in person before you buy tile at our Timber & Building Materials Auction. Our staff is here to help you with all of your flooring projects.