Combination of boar tiles in the kitchen. "Boar" - the most fashionable tile for a backsplash? What sizes of tiles can be found

Kabanchik is a rectangular ceramic tile that resembles a brick. Initially, it was used for cladding buildings, then it migrated to the walls of the subway, which is why in the USA and Great Britain it is called “subway”.

The boar has three main sizes:

• small 7.5x10 cm;
• large 10x20 (10x30) cm;
• large 28.5x8.5 cm.

Because the large tile visually reduces small-sized kitchens; it is used for them standard size 10x20 cm. Any product is suitable for spacious rooms.

Types of hog tiles

A distinctive feature of the hog is the chamfers - beveled edges running along the perimeter.

With chamfer

Chamfers (or facets) add volume to the product. The glazed surface looks especially impressive with them.

Color

Color gives a kitchen its own character. A multi-colored apron will allow you to create unique interior. And red will attract attention and create an atmosphere of hospitality.

Orange

If the kitchen lacks light and comfort, using an orange apron would be a great solution.

Yellow

Solar yellow an apron adds cheerfulness to the interior or serves as a bright accent.

Green

Olive, pistachio, mint, light green – shades of green in the kitchen interior give a feeling of calm and natural harmony, and improve your mood.

The photo shows a kitchen with natural motifs. An olive splashback with a border harmonizes with the natural textures of the countertops and cabinets: marble and wood.

Lilac

This shade is rarely used for hog tiles. Purple colour gives the kitchen not only tenderness, but also uniqueness.

Apron design

Which grout should I choose for backsplash tiles?

First of all, it is worth considering its composition: it is best for the kitchen grout is suitable based on epoxy resins, resistant to stains. If we talk about the palette, then for a plain neutral backsplash it is recommended to choose grout that is similar in color to the tile itself. White and gray grout are considered universal.

The photo shows a burgundy-colored apron with matching grout, which “dissolves” the seams without focusing attention on them.

If you need to make an accent apron, you can use contrasting combinations. For example, black grout on white tiles will add a graphic touch to the interior. If the tiles are dark, white joints will highlight the texture or interesting shade.

The photo shows an example of contrasting grout. Without her the wall is over work area would look empty and unfinished.

Boar tile layout options

If you use plastic panels, imitating a wild boar, there will be only two cladding options: vertical and horizontal. But the rectangular shape of the individual tile elements allows you to lay it in several ways:

• Vertical with offset. A method by which you can visually lengthen a tiled wall.
• Horizontal staggering. The most common option is when the tiles are laid offset, like a brick.
• Horizontal stackable. A neat seam-to-seam method with an emphasis on geometric accuracy.

• Vertical stackable. A method designed to emphasize the severity of lines in the interior.
• Diagonally. The elements are placed at an angle of 45°. This option is suitable for small kitchens, as it visually expands the apron area.
• Herringbone. The tiles are laid in a zigzag pattern to create a beautiful pattern.

The photo shows a black vertical hog, adding respectability to the interior.

How does a boar apron look in different interior styles?

Hog tiles are so multifunctional that they will fit into any interior.

Provence (" French country") combines rustic simplicity and sophistication. The apron can have a pattern or, conversely, act as a backdrop for cozy little things and an antique set.

White tiles will fit into a spacious loft with rough textures, which will serve as a contrast to industrial furniture. An interesting option is when the smooth glossy coating of the apron echoes the textured brickwork.

Due to its laconic shape, the boar will harmoniously fit into both modern and Scandinavian kitchen styles.

The photo shows a kitchen in a modern direction with herringbone tiles.

In the classic style, a beige hog will find its application, highlighting the splendor of a luxurious set and rich decorative elements.

Photo gallery

The boar tile has not lost its relevance for many years. This is modern practical material, which protects the kitchen while simultaneously serving as its decoration.

The beauty of the interior of any room lies in successful combination many details that should harmoniously complement each other. The kitchen apron is a functional and important part general design.


It depends on its design appearance and ease of use of the work area.

What are boar tiles?

“Boar” tile is one of the types of ceramic facing materials that imitates brickwork. Initially, lamellas were produced for exterior finishing facades, but nowadays manufacturing companies offer a wide range of tiles designed for decorating the interiors of buildings: bathrooms, kitchens, toilets and others.

The product got its name due to the similarity of the mold for casting the tile with a pig's snout. “Boar” has an oblong rectangular shape and bevels (beveled edges) that add volume, but products are also available without bevels.

The surface of this type of tile can be glossy, matte, semi-matte or textured (artificially aged, crackled), the color scheme is varied, but monochromatic (without applied drawings or patterns).

Material advantages

The advantages of brick-like tiles include:

• Width of assortment.

It is possible to choose the material according to color and texture to suit every taste and for various interiors.

• Resistance to temperature fluctuations. When decorating a kitchen backsplash with tiles, you don’t have to worry about the integrity of the lamellas during intense heat load.
• High moisture resistance.
• Durability, resistance to chemicals.
• Easy to maintain: a wall lined with this facing material can be easily cleaned of soot or grease even with a damp cloth;
• Long service life of the product.
• Versatility of use (laying possible in any room).

The material is indispensable for those who value environmental friendliness!

What style does a hog tile backsplash fit?

Decorated with a “hog” kitchen apron goes harmoniously with many design styles:

• In a classic interior.

The tile attracts the eye, while simultaneously focusing attention on other interior details;

• Nordic, Scandinavian style.

It is a combination of glossy and rough textures (this tandem can be achieved by decorating the backsplash with textured tiles, and the walls with elegant wallpaper, or vice versa).

• Simple, deliberately uncomplicated country (or Provence) style.

The design of the room can be emphasized and refreshed by laying the walls with “brick” tiles. The slats complement the “rustic” image of the room;

• The interior is in an urban, industrial style.

(with a large number of details, furniture made of metal and glass) will look more complete if you make a “hog” installation of not only the apron in the kitchen, but also small area walls;

• Art Deco

The restraint and monumentalism of the Art Deco style goes well with the geometricity and strict lines of tile laying; good result can be achieved by combining white slats with bright interior items, a black apron with furniture light shades or using tiles and decorative plaster for finishing;

• The colors of the lamellas are relevant for high-tech design: in this case, the seams are treated using grout in dark shades, emphasizing the deliberate roughness of the style.

ATTENTION! When choosing lamellas, think about the materials of what texture will prevail in the room and how the tiles will be combined with them. Beige or white products are universal for kitchen decoration - they will complement any style and will be combined with the color of other interior items. Also take into account the size of the room: dark tiles will visually reduce the space, while light ones will increase it.

Design options

The tiles are available in two types:

• with a chamfer - the presence of beveled edges on the lamellas, which gives convexity and relief to the wall on which the installation is made;

• without chamfer – tiles with a flat surface, without beveled ends. To emphasize the severity of the brickwork, in this case it is advisable to use a grouting compound of a contrasting color.

IMPORTANT! Caring for an apron made with beveled facing materials requires more attention. Cleaning tiles with a pronounced texture will be a little more difficult than flat slats.

The dimensions and proportions of the facing material are close to the proportions used in the production of bricks. The most common and popular tiles are 20x10 cm and 30x10 cm formats.

Manufacturing companies produce slats various dimensions, ranging from the smallest 10x7.5 cm to the largest 30x15 cm. Standard length products vary from 10 to 30 cm, width from 7.5 to 15 cm, tile thickness can be 2 cm (at the central point of the front plane).

How to choose grout?

To grout the seams of a kitchen apron tiled to look like brick, it is advisable to use two-component mixtures (latex or epoxy-based) that are water-resistant: the composition can be easily cleaned from the accumulation of soot, grease and other types of contaminants.

Mixtures of this type have good resistance to chemicals, do not darken and are designed to withstand temperature fluctuations and frequent washing.

Choosing the color of the grout mixture:

• white:

The most common option allows you to make the cladding more expressive (if the color of the tile contrasts), the grout can act as a connecting element for tiles of different shades or neutralize complex color scheme slats. For interior Scandinavian style a harmonious combination of white composition with facing materials of the same color;

• black:

Composition suitable for tiles light colors, will emphasize the simplicity and elegance of dark-colored materials. Tiling the apron different colors – original solution, but choosing the tone of the grout in this case can be difficult, so the most suitable option the color will be black;

• neutral grout (beige, gray, dark and light shades).

Practical to use and favorably emphasizing the slats of classic colors. Also suitable for finishing seams on brightly colored items;

• color composition.

Choosing a tone lighter than the tile will make the surface of the cladding visually more prominent.

You can choose a grout that completely matches the color of the lamellas, or you can use a material of a completely opposite shade, getting an unexpected and original combination of colors.

IMPORTANT! By maintaining the width of the space between the tiles at 1.5-2 mm, they achieve emphasis on the facing material. With a width of 4-5 mm, the seam is visualized as decorative element and requires very careful and accurate design.

Styling tools

To install and trim the lamellas, you will need the following tools and accessories:

• adhesive mixture for ceramic products;
• grinding float;
• composition for rubbing joints;
• rubber and metal (toothed) spatulas;
• building level;
• roulette;
• metal square;
• marker or chemical pencil;
• tapping cord for marking lines;
• drill (with a nozzle for mixing the solution);
• rubber mallet;
• a small angle grinder with a diamond wheel for cutting (grinder);
• metal profile or wooden slats(for fixing the first row of facing elements);
• rags, sponges (removing excess adhesive or mixture for rubbing joints).

ATTENTION! If you don’t have a construction float, process the cuts of the lamellas with a special “Turtle” grinding disc for ceramics, which is mounted on an angle grinder. Use electric tile cutter for processing beveled products - this will reduce the likelihood of damage to the product and reduce the amount of dust during the work process. If you are laying lamellas without a chamfer, it is permissible to use a manual one.

Preparatory work

Before installing the kitchen apron, you must complete the following preliminary work:

• clear the wall old paint and plaster;
• use a level to check the evenness of the surface for hog cladding;
• degrease the wall and apply a primer, wait until it dries completely;
• measure the distance from the floor to the place where the first row of slats will be laid out;
• Taking into account the result obtained and the type of installation, apply markings to the base;
• drill holes below the line of the first row, drive in plastic dowels;
• install a metal profile or wooden plank using screws. The top of the fixing strip must coincide with the mark of the lower level of the cladding;
• make a preliminary layout of the tiles on the floor, selecting elements by color and format, check each lamella for chips and cracks;
• Prepare the adhesive immediately before starting installation. It is advisable to use a mixture that is intended for use in rooms with high humidity and temperature fluctuations. You should not dilute the entire contents of the container at once - mix the glue in the amount that you will use per hour of work. The adhesive properties of the solution decrease over time.

IMPORTANT! Always purchase facing material with a small margin (add to required quantity another 10%) - in case of careless cutting or falling of the lamella, you can always replace the damaged element.

Apron installation

• spread the adhesive using a spatula on the back of the tile. The surface of the applied composition should have small depressions and grooves;
• place the solution on the surface of the base - the “hog” is thick and heavy, so to improve the adhesion of the surfaces, a layer of glue is necessary both on the wall and on the slats;
• Apply at one time the amount of mortar required to lay 2-3 tiles;
• press the brick firmly against the wall or with the help of the lung tapping with a mallet;
• the lower part of the tile should rest against the fixing profile or rail, which will prevent possible slipping of the cladding;

• to maintain the same distance between the lamellas, insert plastic crosses into the space between the tiles;
• lay out all subsequent tiles, checking the evenness of laying each row with a level or vertical plumb line (you can use a level bar);
• an hour after completion of installation, remove the dividing crosses and clean the tile joints from excess mixture with a rag or sponge;
• After the glue has dried (average time - 24 hours), remove the fixing metal profile or rail.

IMPORTANT! Lay out the first row, starting to install the slats from the part of the wall away from the entrance.

For cladding kitchen wall types of installation are used:

• traditional - the lamellas are arranged horizontally or vertically, repeating the pattern of the brickwork. This is the simplest method, suitable for a beginner. There is another option for classic installation - with the elements of each subsequent row shifted by 1/3 in relation to the tiles of the lower level;

• stacked (horizontal and vertical) - tiles are placed one above the other, matching them in width or length. Vertical installation suitable for rooms with low ceiling, horizontal visually expands the area of ​​the room;

• diagonal - laying the “hog” at an angle of 45˚;

• “herringbone” - installation of elements at an angle of 90˚ relative to each other, beautiful and original way, but requiring skill and experience;

• in a checkerboard pattern - alternating tiles laid vertically and horizontally can be made from single or double elements.

IMPORTANT! For the stacking method, the choice of color of the grout mixture plays a big role, since attention is focused specifically on the seams.

Grouting joints

• Proceed to decorate the seams with the mixture only after the adhesive solution has dried;
• dilute the composition with water, scoop a small amount onto a soft rubber spatula;
• with little effort, rub the mixture into the entire depth of the space between the tiles;
• after finishing the process, use the corner of a spatula to fill out the seams - this will give them a uniform and even appearance;
• 40 minutes after grouting, carefully remove excess mixture;
• When the solution is completely dry, wash and polish the kitchen apron.

If necessary, fix the baseboard.

IMPORTANT! Do not use a spatula made of rubber or black plastic - marks may remain on the ends of the tiles that will be difficult to remove.

Difficulties in laying material

Careful wall preparation

Assessing the evenness of the base plane before installing the facing elements can be done using a construction, water or laser level. If there are no such devices, use in the following way: drive a nail into top corner walls and tie a long (to the floor) nylon thread or fishing line with a weight to it.

When the plumb line takes a stable position, fix its lower part by driving a second nail into the lower part of the wall and tying a thread on it. This way you can control styling deviations from vertical plane. Horizontal deviation can be determined using a transparent flexible tube filled with water (at least a meter long). Well, or using a level.

Depending on the degree of damage to the base surface, choose how to fix the problem:

• using putty (suitable for correcting unevenness up to 1 centimeter) or plaster (from 3 to 5 centimeters);
• installation of plasterboard sheets on a pre-constructed frame (with height differences of more than 5 centimeters).

Accurate trimming of cladding

When decorating the outer corners of the room with a “hog”, it is necessary to make the slats at 45˚ (sawdust reverse side tiles) using corner grinding machine and diamond discs.

ATTENTION! Set the minimum number of revolutions on the grinder - this way the cutting will be precise and the risk of chipping the tiles will be minimal. After this, carefully sand the edges of the lamellas with sandpaper.

Finishing internal corners:

• when laying tiles without a chamfer, cut out the joining elements at an angle of 45˚ and align the edges, check the resulting angle for evenness;
• When installing beveled tiles, make a bevel of the product at an angle of 45˚ and, using a grinder, make a trapezoidal cutout that follows the profile of the lamella.

After cutting the tiles, be sure to clean its surface from dust and crumbs.

ATTENTION! In a simple way The design of external and internal corners when installing a “hog” is the use of ready-made ceramic corners. You can also purchase small square elements for this purpose.

Maintaining strict horizontal laying

To install rectangular tiles, the “staggered” method is often used - in a checkerboard pattern with offset options of 20%, 30%, 50%. To maintain the evenness of the horizontal masonry, strict control of the distance between the floor and the beginning of the first row of facing elements is necessary.

A “sliding” installation line can ruin the appearance of the kitchen.

You can often hear advice that it is necessary to leave a gap between ceramic products during installation of at least 5 millimeters. Thick seams require very careful execution and do not always look aesthetically pleasing and beautiful.

Beveled tiles require special care in finishing the seams, since the relief of the elements involuntarily attracts close attention.

The color of the grout is not of primary importance, the most important thing is that all intertile spaces must be narrow and perfectly even. When making a wide seam, it will be difficult to fulfill this condition, so a gap of 2 millimeters is considered optimal (it is especially important to adhere to this rule when traditional way installation of beveled tiles).

When laying a “hog” without a chamfer, the permissible size of the tile joints is 5 millimeters.

Installation of overhead accessories

In some cases, it becomes necessary to mount additional accessories on the surface of the apron: sockets, shelves, holders. Choose a place to attach parts only on a horizontal line (seam).

Be sure to make sure that the outermost part of the accessory does not coincide with the facet of the tile, otherwise the product will look as if it is “hanging” in the air.

Marking vertical seams

When installing slats, it is necessary to accurately calculate the number of vertical rows of the apron: the edge of a wall or floor cabinet, the connecting plinth (installed to create a smooth transition between the cladding and the surface of the slab or furniture) can align with central part tiles, as a result of which the fit will be loose.

• It is more convenient to install the slats before installing the furniture in the kitchen, but in this case it is necessary to make precise markings of where the interior items will be located. It is permissible to make an apron after placing the elements of the kitchen set;
• when calculating required quantity adhesive composition when laying hog tiles, remember that the product is heavier than standard material of the same size, so fixing it on the wall will require a larger amount of mortar;
• when dismantling the rack or metal profile After the glue has completely dried, do not pull the support towards you under any circumstances: you may accidentally tear off the tiles of the first row. To avoid this situation, remove the rack in a downward direction.

With the help of ceramic tiles “hog” you can realize the most daring design solutions in any kitchen, regardless of its size, wall color and interior style.

The only drawback of the material can be considered the cost, which is significantly higher than the price of ordinary tiles.

Examples in the interior

The “hog” tile allows you to beautifully decorate a kitchen backsplash or bathroom walls. Due to the large seams and rectangular shape with a chamfer, it resembles brickwork. In this material, we collected photos of interiors using a hog, and told us what pitfalls can be encountered during installation.

Quick navigation through the article

A little history

Example of façade cladding

Previously, façade tiles were called boar tiles. The finish imitated brickwork and was most often used on the facades of Art Nouveau buildings at the beginning of the twentieth century.

The informal funny name “boar” was strengthened due to the fact that the blank, covered with glaze, had two through holes, which made it look like a pig's penny. After being hit with a hammer, the blank split into two equal halves, smooth surface on the front side and rough on the back. Thanks to this shape, the tiles were convenient to stack and transport.

"Boar" in our time

A modern “hog” is an elongated tile, reminiscent of a brick, with beveled chamfers (facets), giving it an interesting, convex appearance. Its dimensions vary from 120x65 mm to 250x100 mm and even 300x100 mm.

Now this type of tile is used for finishing kitchen aprons, bathrooms, and loggias. In addition, it can be found in some interiors of public spaces: cafes, restaurants, beauty salons.

Decorating a cosmetology room with a large glossy hog An example of installation with a small seam Kitchen apron The walls in the toilet are half lined with beige hog Collection Tula CeramicAlcora 10x20 cm

Kitchen apron

Ceramic “hog” tiles are usually laid on the backsplash with an offset. You can diversify general form inclusion in the layout of individual tiles with a pattern and framing with borders.

Apron with added decor and contrasting elements

For practicality, it is better not to make tile joints in the kitchen too thick. To make them easier to clean, it is better to use epoxy grout, but it will be more difficult to work with.

When laying on an apron, there is a peculiarity: the plinth will not lie flat against the hog if its edge falls on the center of the tile. There will be gaps at the vertical seams. Therefore, for a snug fit of the plinth, its edge must fall on the bottom or top part bevel to minimize gaps on vertical seams.

When marking a boar apron, you need to consider:

• The height of the washing machine;
• Tabletop thickness (usually 28 or 38 mm);
• The height of the plastic plinth;
• Dimensions of bevels on tiles;
• Sizes of tiles and decor. For example, if the background has dimensions of 10x30 cm, and the decor is 30x30 cm, your seams may not meet with thick crosses.

Bathroom decoration

Hog tiles make your bathroom look clean, fresh and modern. If you look at the options for tiling bathrooms with these tiles, most of them are made in light colors(white, beige) without unnecessary decorative elements.

White boar tiles in the bathroom interior

But you can also find interesting options, for example, a combination of a chocolate-colored boar and dark turquoise paint on the wall.

Chocolate-turquoise interior Covering only the shower stall with tiles of a contrasting color White hog goes well with wooden surfaces Wooden table top under the washbasin Bathroom in turquoise-brown tones

Another example: the walls in the bathroom are half tiled.

The level of the cladding is just above the bathtub and washbasin

Laying features

Internal corner

The main difficulty when laying the hog is the joining of the internal and external corners. Since this is a beveled tile, it is difficult to cut it at 45 degrees for external corner no chips. Therefore, for precise burring, several flexible diamond grinding wheels (turtle No. 100 and 300) are used at low speeds (about 3000).

For internal corners, you have to make a notch using a stone grinding wheel. After filing the corners, you need to check their perpendicularity. Typically, laying the hog starts from the corners to the edges, so the inner corners do not need to be filed.

How this is done is shown in the video:

Make a trim using manual tile cutter it won't work either. This can only be done with a grinder or an electric tile cutter.
It will be more difficult to install sockets, installation buttons, and faucets on a convex surface. You need to try to install them along a horizontal seam and choose the position so that the edges do not fall on the chamfer, otherwise they will hang in the air. Gaps on the horizontal seam can be left or sealed with sealant. It’s even better to try to fit them centrally on one tile, but this rarely works due to the small size of the hog.

Retro-style sockets

Incorrect installation of sockets

To maintain an even distance between the tiles, plastic crosses are used. This type of cladding is characterized by wide seams. Can be found.

Conclusion

The hog looks beautiful on the wall, but for high-quality styling You can’t do without a grinder for cutting corners. The presence of a chamfer makes it difficult for beginners to install, as problems arise with the junction points.

The interior of any room consists of many details that should harmoniously complement each other. Including in the kitchen one of important elements is an apron. It is not only designed to decorate beautifully workplace, but also protects the wall from dirt and other influences.

Boar tiles are increasingly being used for backsplashes. What it is and what interior it fits into, we will find out further.

What is a hog tile

This tile is a type of small-format ceramic rectangular tiles. It is laid like a brick. It was originally intended as building facades and was called clinker.

Further, her path went through underground passages, mainly in the subway. That is why in the USA and Great Britain, where they first began to use it in for this purpose began to be called “subway” tiles. But information about when and who began to use it at home has not been preserved.

The hog tile quickly gained popularity thanks to good quality and amazing similarity to the original - brick. However, it remains a mystery why in Russia it received such a name? All because of the resemblance to a pig's snout. The end, although rectangular in shape, has two holes. At the construction site, they informally began to call her the pig. So the new name for clinker took root among the people and continues to exist.

The advantages of such material

Boar tiles are perfect for a kitchen backsplash. This is due to many advantages of the material:

• Excellent sanitary and hygienic qualities. There is no accumulation or development of microorganisms, and thanks to the solid structure without pores, the tiles do not accumulate dirt, which makes them easy to clean.
• A varied selection of colors and pattern textures. In addition, it can be produced to order, decorated with an individual drawing or photograph. Therefore, the hog fits most interior styles.
• High temperature resistance. When making it, firing is used at about 1000 °C, so the tile is definitely not afraid of elevated temperatures from the stove.
• Simple installation technology, which does not require expensive tools.
• The material is harmless and environmentally friendly, does not emit gases and does not cause allergies.

Boar tiles have almost no disadvantages. The only thing that can be noted is the relatively high price and low impact resistance.

What style does a hog tile apron go with?

These tiles are perfect for most styles, especially if they are white or beige color. It will be ideal for country, Provence and classics. The first two styles are rustic, characterized by simplicity and naturalness. A small brick will only add originality to the design and complement it with the spectacular appearance of the apron.

The classic is the presence of massive wooden furniture. The entire interior is filled with nobility, with clear, simple lines and images. The boar will only add even more aristocracy, especially when choosing light colors.

The tile will become ideal solution and for Scandinavian style or loft. It is also often used in art deco. An unusual layout is relevant here, contrast is allowed. Including bricks can be black and white and placed in a checkerboard pattern.

It is worth taking into account all the features of the chosen style. A glossy surface is not always suitable. Most often they use matte, which will fit even more into the interior of the above design directions.

Advice! If you want to make your apron bright, then you should take a closer look at Spanish manufacturers who present a wide variety of rich shades to the market.

Layout options

1. Horizontally in a running start. This is a traditional brick-like layout. It is the most versatile and easiest to implement. The main task here is to position it in a perfectly even horizontal line.
2. Horizontal stackable. The main thing here are the vertical seams, which must coincide with each other. This is an ideal proposal for the Scandinavian style. Moreover, you can choose a grout of a different color from the tile.
3. Herringbone. This arrangement is at an angle of 45 or 90 degrees. It looks original and will not taste trivial.
4. Diagonally. This option It’s also quite unusual and fits well in small kitchens. Here it is important to choose a grout that matches the tone of the tile.
5. Vertical with offset. This option will do for spacious rooms. The tiles should be chosen in a small size.
6. Vertical stackable. In this case, the installation must be done as perfectly as possible, then the look will be very stylish and original.

Popular tile sizes

The boar comes not only in a variety of colors, but also in sizes. The length of the product can be from 12 to 30 cm, and the width varies from 6 to 15 cm. It is worth noting that the most universal and popular size is 7.5 × 15 cm. Also often used are 10 × 20 cm, 7 ,5×30 cm, 15×30. You can see that the length is equal to two widths of the tile.

How to choose grout

Just like tiles, the variety of grout colors gives you something to think about. You can choose white, black, gray, beige, or you can match it to the tone of the tile itself. In any case, the most important thing is that it is of high quality, otherwise it will quickly darken.

The water resistance of the material is important, since the apron often gets dirty and needs to be washed, and resistance to temperature changes is also necessary.

Advice! To avoid darkening of the seams, it is recommended to purchase a mixture based on epoxy resin. It does not absorb water and dirt, but hardens very quickly. Therefore, in this case, the laying should be done by a professional who will do it as quickly as possible.

Styling tools

The hog finishing tiles are installed according to the principle of conventional ceramic tiles. To do this you will need the following tools and materials:

• Drill with kneading attachment and container;
• Rubber or plastic spatula, preferably flexible;
• Rubber mallet;
• Small construction float;
• Spatulas with teeth;
• Soft sponges and rags;
• Sharpening machine, tile cutter;
• Marking tool;
• Screws for fastening the profile;
• Metal or wooden profile;
• Tile adhesive, grout, water.

Preparatory work

Before you begin installing the tiles, you must carefully prepare the surface so that it is smooth and free of flaws. First of all, you need to get rid of the old surface, such as wallpaper, paint, and remove all dirt. Next you should apply putty and level the walls with it. It must dry, after which a primer is used.

The next step is marking. Here a marker, upholstery cord, plumb line, and building level will come to the rescue. First, the lower horizontal line is applied, the height of which depends on the height of the furniture. Depending on the installation method, the remaining lines are applied horizontally, vertically or at an angle. Finally, the profiles are attached to the wall.

Apron installation

Installation work begins with mixing tile adhesive. This is done immediately before laying. The volume of glue should be such that it can be used for no more than 40-50 minutes. It is applied both to the wall and to the tiles themselves using a spatula.

Immediately after application, work moves on to laying the first row. It's worth starting from far corner in relation to the entrance to the kitchen. The bottom edge of the tile should rest against the profile. It must be pressed against the wall. Crosses are placed between the elements, which serve as a separator and ensure an equal distance between each hog. Remaining glue is removed no earlier than an hour later. This also applies to crosses.

Grouting joints

The glue must dry completely and only then, approximately the next day, the seams are sealed. Apply it with a soft plastic spatula. Black rubber is not suitable in this situation, as it leaves marks on the ends.

Excess material can be removed after 30-40 minutes. A sponge is used for this. After complete drying, the apron is completely washed and polished, and the profile that was intended for supports is removed.

Tiles must be purchased with a reserve. It is about 10%. It always requires pruning, as a result of which part of it gets damaged. Before laying it is very important to level the wall, otherwise due to unevenness it will be difficult to lay out the tiles without flaws.

In addition, the service life of the hog directly depends on this preparation. The seams must be perfect, so it is better to trust a professional, especially if the layout is unusual.

It must be remembered that convex tile thicker and therefore heavier. Therefore, it is necessary to attach it more carefully, applying a larger layer of glue, for standard material. The seams should be between 2 and 5 mm thick. Of course, the thicker it is, the better the look, but in this situation the complexity of the work increases.

Thus, boar tiles have won their rightful place in the kitchen interior. An apron made of this material has an attractive appearance, the originality of which depends on the laying of these bricks.

In addition, the material is very easy to wash. It's interesting that it would seem easily soiled White color in this case, the opposite will be advantageous. This is because stains, possible drips and drops of water are invisible on such tiles. They are very easy to wipe with a regular damp cloth.

Regarding design, it is important that for any style it is possible to choose suitable hogs that will complement it and give the desired atmosphere. Manufacturers provide a wide selection of colors and patterns that are sure to suit any kitchen.

What are boar tiles? In what interiors does it look good, how practical and convenient is it? Will the design become outdated in a couple of years? What should I do to ensure that when joining tiles the corners are smooth and beautiful?

What is a boar tile, and why was it called that?

A rectangular tile with an aspect ratio of 1x3 or 1x2 is popularly called “hog” due to the fact that the molds in which it is cast have two technological holes on the side, similar to a pig’s snout.

In Western catalogs it is called “metro”. This is due to the fact that underground metro stations are often decorated with rectangular fragments imitating brickwork.

Classic tiles have a chamfer around the perimeter, i.e. beveled edge. Due to this, the seam becomes more prominent and pronounced. Therefore, when choosing a boar, you need to pay attention to the quality of each unit. To do this, ask the consultant to post square meter tiles If the seam looks beautiful, then you can take this batch. If there are any irregularities, it is better to look for a higher quality collection.

Some manufacturers, taking into account new trends in design, have begun producing tiles without chamfers. This makes installation easier, especially in the inner and outer corners of the walls. Such fragments are easier to work with.

Sizes vary depending on the collection. The length of the “metro” ranges from 12 to 30 cm, and the width ranges from 6 to 10 cm.

Most common length:

• with a width of 7.5 cm - 15 and 30 cm;
• with a width of 10 cm - 20 and 30 cm;
• with a width of 15 cm – 30 cm.

The size of the tiles is selected taking into account the area of ​​the kitchen. For a spacious room, you can use any fragments. And for a compact room of 6 m2 or less, it is better to choose a hog 6x12 or 7.5x15 cm.

What design styles is it suitable for?

Technological design trends, where deliberate roughness is welcomed and the natural texture of the walls is valued, successfully use the hog to imitate brickwork in the kitchen and bathrooms.

The loft, with its traditionally careful attitude to history, allows us to fit the “metro” into a single concept of the project.

It’s hard to imagine Scandinavian style without a boar. It serves as a kind of business card Swedish interiors.

Provence, with its simple elegance, will also accept the “metro” as a kitchen apron.

Convex tiles will fit perfectly into imitation interiors of the early twentieth century. Especially if you support it with rounded shapes household appliances in the spirit of the 20s and paneled facades.

Urban can use the "subway" without the chamfer. Here the task of the tiles is to imitate smooth brickwork. Place sconces on it in the form street lamps, and the pig will receive new meaning in your project.

Color - which one is better to choose?

Initially, the “metro” was produced in black and white and beige versions. Now the same boar tiles in Leroy Merlin are presented in the most various colors and shades, with and without print, with glaze and matte finish. In a word, for every taste.

Therefore, when choosing a color and shade, be guided by the overall color scheme of your project. It is desirable that the kitchen apron matches the color of either the curtains, or the dining room group, or the floor covering.

Grout

If the tiles are not perfectly smooth, you should not use grout in a contrasting color. It will only highlight existing shortcomings. In this case, choose a shade close to the color of the glaze.

If you purchased a high-quality boar, you can emphasize the beauty of the seams with a contrasting color. Just keep in mind that it is advisable to repeat this shade in some element of the interior.

How to style

White hog tiles traditionally imitate brickwork. However, a brick in a wall can lie in different ways. Hence various options location of fragments on the kitchen apron.

• Herringbone.
• Diagonal offset in rows.
• At a run.
• Module.

How to overcome installation difficulties

The difficulty is that when joining the hog at an angle, the chamfer prevents you from making beautiful seam. At the same time, the technology for processing internal and external corners is different.

Internal corners

When cutting tiles, it is necessary to fit each fragment. For this, a paper template is made. Keep in mind that the boar is thick. Therefore, you need to make cuts with a grinder or a special machine with a water knife so that the front side is free of chips.

You need to cut so that the bottom side of the tile is longer than the front side. The cutting angle is matched to the wall. Walls do not always form a 90 degree angle. Internal partitions can converge at 120. Therefore, the cut is calculated based on the geometry of a particular room.

External corners

Since the cut at the outer corners will look unsightly, when laying out, square fragments available in the collection are used. If there are no such ones, then the entire edges of the inflow are joined. The cut is directed inside the row.

What to do if the length of the wall is literally 3 cm more or less than necessary?

Before starting work, be sure to mark the location of each tile. The glue allows you to slightly adjust the length of the apron. Start from the outside corner, if there is one. The internal corner will allow you to hide existing defects.

If the length of the row is slightly shorter, literally 1-2 cm, than required, you can bring the line of the side wall to the right place so that the rows are joined with whole tiles or beautiful fragments.

Since the boar has a decent weight, it is advisable to secure it under the first row metal corner. It will prevent the ceramic carpet from floating under its own weight while the glue hardens.

To avoid thick seams, purchase quality products from trusted manufacturers. For example, the Keramma Marazzi boar tile does not crumble under the cutter and provides a high-quality seam with a gap of 2 mm between the tiles.

In any case, it is advisable to entrust work with the “metro” to professionals, because For a beginner, this task may seem too difficult.

Will the hog be fashionable in the next 5 years, or will the kitchen design have to be changed in 3 years?

“Metro” has successfully reached our days through the entire twentieth century, having managed to make friends with modern styles interior With proper design, the hog will remain relevant for many more decades.

If you get bored with the existing kitchen design, brick-like tiles will fit perfectly into your next project, even if you decide to radically change the decor, say, from a loft to Provence. When replacing the headset, the apron will remain unchanged, continuing its service.