I'm buying a new construction condo, and can't decide whether I should upgrade the default flooring in kitchen and baths (vinyl, that is) to tile. I don't want to spoil the nice and new impression by installing "cheap-looking" vinyl, but I've never really seen modern vinyl sheet installed, so I don't really know whether it'd look cheap. I know it's warmer on the feet, which would be a plus ;) The upgrades are kinda pricey ($3200 for kitchen/eating area, 2500 sq ft, and $575 / $225 for bath / half bath). So I'm pondering to just go with the default (vinyl) for now, and if I don't like it, I could still put in tile later and come out ahead (of course there's also the work and dirt factor...) The kitchen cabinets are already in, so one has to tile around them either way. Currently, there's what look likes plywood (though kinda white-ish) installed on the subfloor on those areas, leaving about 1/4" to the neighboring hardwood, so it looks like the tiles would go directly on top of that layer. That confuses me, since I thought one should set tile on cement board, not something wood based, but having a usable underlayment already in should reduce the work needed to put in tile afterwards. However, if I go with vinyl, I think an additional layer needs to be added between this layer and the vinyl sheet, what would typically be used for that, and how difficult would it be to remove it again and still end up with a usable surface for tiles? What should I do? Any input would be much appreciated.

I was wondering if anybody has any info on using slate tile for the wall and floor of a shower stall. I really like the look of it but am unsure if this is a proper application for slate?? Any wisdom??