48 2019 | TRENDS TILE TRENDS Here we are, about to embark on another Coverings, the only United States trade show exclusive to ceram- ic tile and the showcase for the trends in our industry. We are all looking for the next new trend that will carry our industry into the future and continue to see ceramic gain share over other floor and wall coverings. We see other categories attempting to steal our thunder with terms like “water- proof” and “scratchproof,” where we want to say, “Hey – that’s not new! These have been characteristics of ceramic tile since its creation.” So, let’s talk about tile as we all converge on Orlando, Fla. to show who truly is the king of floor and wall coverings. When looking at the industry, we immediately focus on the appear- ance of the product to announce what’s new, but in my quest to iden- tify the next trend, I found we must look at a couple of key elements. Raj Shah, President of MSI Surfaces, commented, “We have to ask what it is the consumer wants from a perfor- mance standpoint. If you look at why other ‘trends’ have been created, it’s not always the decorative aspect. For instance, observe the transition from marble to quartz or laminate to luxu- ry vinyl tile. These trends were driven by easy care and maintenance, or ease of installation.” We all are seeking the answer to an easy installation, so it makes you wonder who will be the first to bring “click ceramic tile” that solves our installation costs compared to other floor coverings. Then again, tile is a different animal than carpet or plas- tic floors – less forgiving and with a much longer life. Though speed is often a factor in our modern world, retaining craftsmanship and perfor- mance that result from installation by qualified installers is also a key consideration. Keep this in mind as you’re searching vendor booths at the show to ensure you are address- ing your customers’ true require- ments. With the performance trend addressed, let’s turn our attention to the visual aspect, which ceramic tile leads the floor and wall coverings category hands down. Technology While we have seen other catego- ries strive to mimic ceramic tile to gain share, we continue to develop new technologies to enhance the visual appeal, and also widen the application scope of ceramic tile. Ink jet continues to evolve to allow manufacturers to create visuals that are more realistic than ever. We have truly started to understand the opportunities that gauged por- celain tiles, panels and slabs offer for increased applications on counter tops, walls, showers and other instal- lations with this new technology. In addition, we will see additional 2cm pavers targeted at exterior applica- tions, which will continue to grow with a new focus on exteriors from tile distributors. The visuals It is critical that we continue to showcase the most desired visuals for our markets while ensuring we keep our clients engaged with what is new and trending. Wood Wood is obviously here to stay and is estimated to be about 30% of our industry’s sales; manufacturers con- tinue to replicate new wood looks whether they be a new species or a weathered look from antiquated buildings. Gauged porcelain tiles, panels and slabs This has been a game changer Tile Trends for 2019 By Joe Lundgren, Joseph Lundgren Consulting