6337 Backsplash

Reply to: @duffwny - if you really want to see what Cloe tile looks like, I suggest ordering a box from Lowe’s or Amazon (Walmart might also have it - I bought a different color of Cloe tile through Walmart last year because the return policy allowed me to take it back to a brick and mortar Walmart store - even though it was shipped to me directly from Bedrosian). Both have free shipping and free returns. Also, when I purchased it - and placed a bunch of tiles out on my kitchen island, it looked like it had less color variation - but when I took a photo of it with my phone, the variation looked the same as in other photos I’d seen posted on Houzz and on Bedrosian’s IG page. The price of Cloe tile has dramatically increased since I purchased it for my kitchen + bathroom two years ago - I think it was about $6.99 sf! Lowe’s has a 90 day return policy (can return to actual store and save shipping cost): Amazon has free shipping and free returns for 30 days (fyi - I have seen the price fluctuate quite a bit on Amazon): This says ”Free 30 day returns” - but then has 90 days when clicked. When I purcjased, I called and was told I could return to a Walmart store within 90 days.

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Reply to: I think it's a nice default choice, but it is definitely today's white subway tile. That said, most people aren't actively renovating their kitchens and thus aren't constantly looking at photos of kitchens and therefore probably won't clock that this tile has become ubiquitous in new kitchens. Those of us in the process see the same things over and over again which magnifies the degree to which they seem played out.

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Reply to: Here is my cloe tile. I chose SW alabaster for the cabinets. It does look a little too yellow in the late afternoon with the cloe tile if I’m being picky. I probably should of did pure white. However, it was tricky with our shelves by the fireplace in the open floor plan. The stone is very warm so I needed a warmer white. I love the subtle variation in color on the tile. I appreciate everyone’s help on this thread.

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Reply to: Hi @jbaker694 It is the matching Cloe jolly trim, sold with tile. They are about 7.75" or the height of 3 tiles, (but you want to do them offset and not matched up with grout line, if that makes sense..) The Bedrosians warehouse let me handpick the trim pieces as they vary in shade, just like the 8 shades found in tile, so I could have a mix that worked for my application. I eliminated some tiles for less contrast so it was important in my case that the trim not be in a color I didn't have in the tile. I would suggest you hand select if you have that option and are not installing as is, out of the box. Otherwise, they are pricey, so you don't want too much waste and you may end up with shades that pull focus next to the tiles you have on edges.

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Reply to: @Cooking in the Kitchen Ugh. Sorry! Nothing about the tile is to blame for that issue. Bedrosians is correct. The backsides are perfectly flat, machine made. The edges are a bit wavy which means grout lines won't be perfect. Only a wall that is not plumb or a bad install with uneven thinset application would cause that. If your wall is plumb it should be perfectly flat. If you have a new or newish house unless the framing or drywall was off, your walls should be fairly straight to be able to handle this tile with a better finished look. This sounds like a contractor passing the blame, unfortunately and not taking responsibility. Your contractor is right that is not the easiest tile install because of the color variation and edges and may simply be above installers skill level. I still think that in time it won't irritate you every time you pass by. If contractor is refusing to fix it, you need to decide if worth it to you to hire someone else to reinstall if that is within budget.

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Reply to: I specifically indicated that the semi-gloss of INSL-X Cabinet Coat by Benjamin Moore has a low sheen to it relative to whatever one's alternate experiences with other semi-gloss coatings might be. No other paint but INSL-X Cabinet Coat was included in that description nor meant to be. I have used this paint for trim work, chosen after much research, and have been very happy with it, as the semi-gloss dries down to a moderate sheen. Other reviewers have stated that the matte version of INSL-X Cabinet Coat is not as durable for cabinetry and trim and other high-traffic applications. INSL-X is only usually stocked by distributors in those 2 sheens. At the further risk of being redundant, I will say again that the traditional oil-based paints used for cabinetry and trim work including Banjamin Moore's Advance have a history of yellowing in time, usually beginning within 3 years (and your painter may try to convince you otherwise, but look up reviews for yourself). For long-term wear of white and light paints, the newer formulations of durable waterbornes from top brands will maintain their colors longer with little to no yellowing. Well formulated waterbornes, particularly two-part, post catalyzed conversion varnishes are the future of cabinetry and trim coatings in regard to long-term color longevity and low VOC health concerns related to offgassing into interior residences. Sorry to get so off topic on this tile thread. I'm always looking to offer someone the option to avoid heartache down the road from a cabinetry refresh that leads to premature finish failure. One more comment on another poster's claims above, the satin sheen of Benjamin Moore's Aura is fairly reflective for walls. Many people may find it a bit too reflective for their tastes for wall applications. However, Aura is much more moisture resistant than the cheaper Regal, so it is worth investing in the Aura for kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas prone to moisture in the atmosphere. If the kitchen walls are located where they may be subject to splatters and need regular cleaning, the satin sheen will be easier to maintain over time. A gallon of Aura will go a very long way. Two coats is all you should need at most, and most kitchen walls wouldn't require near a gallon even with two coats.

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