The Best Types of Tiles for Every Space: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction to Different Types of Tiles

When it comes to designing or renovating a space, tiles play a vital role in defining both style and function. From kitchens and bathrooms to outdoor patios and high-traffic hallways, the right types of tiles can elevate any environment with their natural appearance and practical benefits.

The world of tiles is vast and varied, featuring an array of tile materials such as ceramic tiles, porcelain tiles, natural stone tiles, and more. Each type has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, making it essential to understand their characteristics before making a decision. Tiles are available in a wide range of styles, designs, and types to suit different preferences and spaces. Many homeowners have found an extremely versatile selection of tile types when exploring options for their home renovation.

Whether you’re after a budget-friendly option or a luxurious and expensive tile like marble tile or travertine tiles, there’s a perfect tile out there for every space and need. Picking the right type of tile depends on understanding the function, style, and characteristics needed for each space, including considerations such as underfloor heating compatibility and the importance of properly sealed surfaces.

Let’s explore the most popular types of tiles, their benefits, drawbacks, and the best ways to use them in your home for both decorative purposes and practical applications.

Ceramic and Porcelain Tiles

What Are Ceramic Tiles?

Ceramic tiles are one of the most popular choices among homeowners and interior designers. Made from clay and other natural materials, they’re fired at high temperatures to produce a durable, water-resistant surface.

These tiles have been used for centuries and continue to be a staple in both residential and commercial spaces due to their versatility and aesthetic appeal. Ceramic tiles can vary in finish, from glossy to matte, and can be glazed or unglazed, each offering different textures and levels of durability. Their relatively lightweight nature makes them easier to handle and install compared to denser tile types.

Advantages of Ceramic Tiles

• Ceramic tiles offer an excellent choice for budget-conscious renovations, providing a stylish and practical finish without the high price tag associated with some other tile types.
• Versatile: These tiles can be installed on walls, floors, and backsplashes, making them suitable for a wide variety of applications throughout your home.
• Design Variety: They come in countless colours, patterns, and finishes, allowing you to find the perfect style to complement any interior design scheme.
• Low Maintenance: To keep ceramic tiles looking brand new, all that is needed is routine sweeping and mopping.
• Good Slip Resistance: Many ceramic tiles feature textured surfaces or matte finishes that provide slip resistance, making them a safe choice for bathrooms and kitchens.

Disadvantages of Ceramic Tiles

• Less Durable: Compared to porcelain or natural stone, ceramic tiles are more susceptible to wear and tear, especially in high-traffic areas.
• Prone to Chipping: The surface of ceramic tiles can chip or crack if subjected to heavy impacts, so they may not be the best choice for floors in busy spaces.
• Limited Outdoor Use: Ceramic tiles generally do not perform well in freeze-thaw environments, limiting their suitability for outdoor applications in colder climates.
• Requires Proper Installation: To ensure longevity and prevent cracking, ceramic tiles need to be installed on a stable, even surface with appropriate adhesive and grout.
• Grout Lines Maintenance: Like most tile installations, the grout lines between ceramic tiles can accumulate dirt and require periodic cleaning and sealing to maintain their appearance and prevent moisture penetration.

Porcelain Tiles

What Are Porcelain Tiles?

One kind of ceramic tile is porcelain, which is produced by firing clay at higher temperatures and using finer, denser clay. They become stronger, more resilient, and extremely water-resistant as a result.

Advantages of Porcelain Tiles

• Highly Durable: Porcelain’s dense composition makes it perfect for floors and high-traffic areas, withstanding heavy use without significant damage.
• Water Resistant: Ideal for wet environments such as bathrooms and kitchens, porcelain tiles resist moisture penetration, helping prevent damage and mold growth.
• Versatile Aesthetic: Porcelain tiles can be manufactured to mimic the look of natural stone, wood, or concrete, offering a wide range of design possibilities.
• Low Maintenance: These tiles resist stains and are easy to clean, making them a practical choice for busy households.

Disadvantages of Porcelain Tiles

• Heavier and Denser: Their weight and density often require professional installation to ensure proper handling and adhesion.
• Costlier Than Ceramic: Porcelain tiles generally come at a higher price point, but their longevity often justifies the investment.
• Can Be Brittle: If not installed correctly, porcelain tiles can crack or chip, so careful handling and installation are essential.

Additional Considerations for Porcelain Tiles

Porcelain tiles are available in a variety of finishes that can affect both their appearance and functionality. For instance, a honed finish provides a smooth, matt surface that reduces slipperiness, making it an excellent choice for indoor use in areas prone to moisture. Polished porcelain tiles, on the other hand, offer a glossy, reflective surface that adds elegance but may be more slippery when wet, so they are often recommended for walls or low-traffic areas.

Moreover, porcelain tiles are known for being hard wearing, which makes them suitable for both residential and commercial applications. Their durability extends to resistance against scratches, stains, and fading, ensuring that they maintain their natural finish and aesthetic appeal over time. This makes porcelain a versatile tile option that balances beauty with practicality.

When selecting porcelain tiles, it’s important to consider the specific requirements of the space, such as slip resistance, maintenance level, and the desired look. Certain tiles may be better suited for outdoor use, provided they are rated frost-resistant and have appropriate surface textures to prevent slipping. Additionally, porcelain tiles can be used effectively with underfloor heating systems due to their excellent thermal conductivity.

In summary, porcelain tiles offer a comprehensive solution for those seeking a durable, water resistant, and aesthetically versatile tile type. Their combination of practical benefits and design flexibility makes them a top choice for a wide range of indoor and outdoor applications.

Natural Stone Tiles

Types of Natural Stone Tiles

• Marble: Known for its elegant and timeless beauty, marble tiles bring a luxurious touch to any space.
• Granite: Extremely durable and scratch-resistant, granite is ideal for high-traffic areas requiring strength.
• Limestone: Softer than other stones, limestone offers a natural, earthy tone that adds warmth to interiors.

Advantages of Natural Stone Tiles

• Luxurious Look: Each tile is unique in pattern and color, providing a one-of-a-kind aesthetic that enhances any room.
• Highly Durable: Suitable for high-traffic areas, natural stone tiles can withstand daily wear while maintaining their beauty.
• Increases Property Value: Installing premium natural stone materials can boost your home's resale appeal due to their perceived quality.

Disadvantages of Natural Stone Tiles

• High Cost - Expensive Tiles: Natural stone tiles are generally more expensive than ceramic or porcelain options, both in material and installation costs.
• Maintenance Required: They need regular sealing to protect against stains and moisture, which adds to upkeep efforts.
• Porous: If left unsealed, natural stone can absorb stains and water, leading to potential damage over time.

Additional Types of Natural Stone Tiles

Beyond marble, granite, and limestone, there are several other popular natural stone options that homeowners often consider:

• Travertine Tiles: These tiles feature a distinctive porous texture and come in warm, earthy tones such as beige, cream, and rust. Travertine tiles add a soft, natural appearance to floors and walls but require sealing to prevent staining and water damage.
• Slate Tiles: Known for their rich, dark hues ranging from deep gray to black, slate tiles offer a rustic and textured finish. They are highly durable and slip-resistant, making them a great choice for bathrooms and kitchens.
• Sandstone Tiles: With their grainy texture and range of colors from tan to red, sandstone tiles provide a natural, rugged look. They are best suited for outdoor applications or low-traffic indoor areas due to their softer composition.

Considerations When Choosing Natural Stone Tiles

• Sealing and Maintenance: Natural stone tiles must be properly sealed upon installation and resealed periodically to maintain their appearance and durability. Failure to do so can result in staining, etching, and water damage.
• Installation Complexity: Due to their weight and natural variation, natural stone tiles often require professional installation to ensure even placement and prevent cracking.
• Cost Implications: Besides the higher material cost, installation and maintenance expenses should be factored into your budget when choosing natural stone.

Best Uses for Natural Stone Tiles

Natural stone tiles are versatile and can be used in various areas of the home, including:

• Flooring: Ideal for entryways, kitchens, and bathrooms where durability and style are essential.
• Wall Cladding: Adds texture and luxury to feature walls, fireplaces, and backsplashes.
• Outdoor Spaces: When properly sealed, natural stone tiles can enhance patios, walkways, and garden areas with their timeless appeal.

By understanding the unique qualities and care requirements of natural stone tiles, you can select the perfect stone to complement your interior design while ensuring long-lasting beauty and performance.

When renovating older homes, matching original tiles can be a challenge. Many homeowners seek to find original tiles or close replicas to maintain the authenticity and charm of their property. Natural stone tiles often provide that timeless beauty that blends well with original tile aesthetics.

Cement and Encaustic Tiles

What Are Cement and Encaustic Tiles?

Made from a mixture of cement, sand, and pigments, cement and encaustic tiles are known for their vibrant, hand-crafted patterns and old-world charm.

Advantages

• Stunning Visual Appeal: With intricate and colourful patterns, these tiles can serve as eye-catching statement floors or feature walls, adding personality to any space.
• Eco-Friendly: Often crafted from natural and sustainable materials, cement tiles offer an environmentally responsible choice.
• Customisable Designs: Their hand-made nature allows for unique, bespoke patterns that can be tailored to your specific interior design vision.

Disadvantages

• Porous Material: Cement tiles are extremely porous, requiring sealing to prevent staining and moisture damage.
• Maintenance: They are more prone to chips and wear, meaning they require careful upkeep and occasional resealing.
• Installation: Due to their nature, professional installation is strongly recommended to ensure longevity and proper sealing.

Glass Tiles

Glass tiles are a stunning way to add a crisp, modern touch to your home. Known for their luminous appearance and versatility, glass tiles are often used to create decorative designs that stand out in any space. Whether you’re looking to enhance a kitchen backsplash, bathroom wall, or even a patio feature, glass tiles offer both durability and a unique visual appeal.

What Are Glass Tiles?

Glass tiles are crafted from high-quality glass materials and come in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and finishes. You’ll find options ranging from transparent to frosted, allowing for endless design possibilities. These tiles are resistant to stains, making them a smart choice for homes with kids or busy family life. Their smooth surface means they’re easy to wipe clean, and their vibrant colors and reflective qualities can brighten up any room.

Best Uses for Glass Tiles

Glass tiles are best suited for walls, backsplashes, and decorative accents in both kitchens and bathrooms. They’re also perfect for patios where you want to add a touch of luxury and style. Many homeowners love using glass tiles to create intricate mosaic designs, adding a piece of artistry to their space. While glass tiles can elevate the look of any wall or accent area, it’s worth noting that they’re not typically recommended for floors or high-traffic zones, as they can be prone to scratching and cracking.

Pros and Cons of Glass Tiles

Pros:

• Unique, elegant appearance that adds instant visual interest.
• Highly resistant to stains and easy to clean, making them practical for busy households.
• Durable when used on walls and in low-impact areas, maintaining their beauty over time.
• Available in hundreds of colors, sizes, and designs for maximum creativity and customization.

Cons:

• Can be high maintenance if scratched or cracked, requiring careful care to preserve their look.
• Not suitable for floors or areas with heavy wear due to their susceptibility to scratching.
• Materials and installation costs can be higher compared to other tile categories, potentially impacting your budget.

If you’re looking to add a decorative, luxury element to your home, glass tiles are a beautiful and practical option for walls, backsplashes, and mosaic features.

Floor Tiles

Choosing the Right Floor Tiles

Selecting the right tile for your floors depends on several factors, including traffic, style, budget, and maintenance requirements.

Recommended Types for Floors

• Porcelain: Porcelain tiles are highly recommended due to their exceptional durability and flexibility. Suitable as both floor tiles and wall tiles, they offer a versatile solution that can enhance various spaces such as kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways. Their water resistance and wide variety of styles make porcelain an ideal choice for a range of interior design needs, combining practicality with aesthetic appeal.
• Natural Stone: These tiles provide a luxurious look and are perfect for both indoor and outdoor areas, but require regular sealing and maintenance.

Factors to Consider

• Slip Resistance: Especially important for wet areas such as bathrooms and kitchens to prevent accidents.
• Durability: Choose tiles that can withstand the expected foot traffic and wear in the area.
• Cleaning Requirements: Consider how much maintenance you’re willing to perform and select tiles accordingly.

Measuring and Ordering Floor Tiles

Getting the right amount of floor tiles for your home renovation project is essential to ensure a smooth installation and a flawless finish. With a little planning and the right approach, you can confidently order the perfect quantity for your space.

How to Measure Your Space

Start by measuring the length and width of the room or area where you plan to lay your tiles. Multiply these numbers to find the total square footage. For example, a room that’s 10 feet by 12 feet will need coverage for 120 square feet.

It’s important to consider the design and pattern you’ve picked, as more intricate layouts or diagonal installations may require extra tiles. To account for cuts, waste, and any future repairs, always add an extra 10-15% to your total square footage. This ensures you have enough tiles on hand and helps avoid delays if you need to replace a piece later.

When placing your order, check the availability and lead time for your chosen tiles—some materials or designs may take weeks or even months to arrive. Planning ahead and confirming shipping times will help keep your project on schedule and stress-free.

By following these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to order the right amount of tiles for your home, ensuring a seamless installation and a beautiful finished result.

Buying Tiles: What to Know

Tips for Tile Shopping

• Set a Budget: Establish your spending limit early, including the cost of installation and any necessary accessories like grout and underlayment.
• Define Your Needs: Determine whether you need tiles for indoor or outdoor use, and consider moisture levels in the area.
• Consider Longevity: Opt for durable tiles in high-use zones to avoid frequent replacements.
• Ask for Samples: Test colours and textures in your space to see how they look under different lighting conditions.
• Seek Expert Advice: Consult professionals for layout, pattern, and design ideas to ensure your vision is achievable.

Bathroom and Kitchen Tiles

Best Tiles for Moisture-Prone Areas

Bathrooms

• Porcelain: Slip-resistant and waterproof, porcelain tiles are perfect for wet areas.
• Ceramic: Great for walls and splash zones due to their water resistance and ease of cleaning.
• Glass: Adds a decorative touch with stain-resistant properties.

Kitchens

• Porcelain: Ideal for high-traffic and spill-prone zones.
• Glass: Perfect for backsplashes, offering a stylish and easy-to-clean surface.
• Natural Stone: Adds luxury but requires sealing to protect against stains.

When tiling in moisture-rich areas, always opt for water-resistant and easy-to-clean options.

Indoor and Outdoor Tile Usage

Choosing Tiles by Location

Indoor Tiles

• Porcelain: Versatile and long-lasting, suitable for floors and walls.
• Glass: Best for walls and decorative features.
• Natural Stone: Adds high-end appeal to living spaces.

Outdoor Tiles

• Porcelain: 20mm tiles are frost-resistant and durable, making them ideal for patios and walkways.
• Natural Stone: Weather-tolerant with proper sealing.
• Textured Finishes: Provide slip resistance on outdoor surfaces.

Outdoor tiles must withstand the elements—ensure they're frost-proof and non-slip rated.

Specialty Tiles

Mosaic and Patterned Tiles

Mosaic Tiles

• Small pieces assembled into artistic layouts, perfect for shower floors, splashbacks, and feature walls.

Patterned Tiles

Patterned tiles are a popular choice for adding character and style to any space. These tiles feature decorative designs that can range from geometric shapes to intricate floral motifs, allowing you to create a unique and personalized look. Patterned tiles work well as accent pieces on walls, floors, or backsplashes, and can be used to create striking focal points or to complement other tile types.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Unique look, high design impact, ability to customize space with artistic flair.
• Cons: Higher cost, more complex installation, patterns may date over time if not chosen carefully.

Use specialty tiles like mosaic and patterned tiles to introduce visual interest and showcase your design flair. They offer an excellent way to break up monotony and bring a touch of personality to your interiors.

Final Thoughts

Tiles are more than just a surface—they're a statement. Whether you choose a budget-friendly option like ceramic tiles or a luxurious and expensive choice such as natural stone, understanding your options is the key to a successful tile project.

By considering the function of your space, your personal style, and your long-term maintenance preferences, you'll be well on your way to selecting the perfect tile. Why not explore our range of tiles below to find the ideal match for your project?