Different types of tiles have different uses. Here’s how to determine which tile will serve your remodeling project the best.
Tile is a material that has been used in homes for centuries. It comes in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, and can be used to create unique designs on floors and walls. There are many different types of tile available on the market today, but what are they all? Which one is right for your home? Let’s explore the 12 different types of tiles, explained by experts.
Types of Tiles
The most popular types of tiles are ceramic and porcelain, but there are also glass, cement, metal, and stone tiles, to name a few. It’s further complicated by the fact that not all tile types are appropriate for all projects, and of course, you have to take your budget into account.
Ceramic Tile
Because ceramic tile may be used in a variety of settings, it is one of the most popular types of tile in homes. They come in hundreds of styles that can fit any design and are simple to install and clean. A perk is that ceramic has a terrific price point if you’re trying to remodel on a tight budget.
Porcelain Tile
Porcelain is the second most popular type of tile. The capacity of porcelain to resemble genuine stone, brick, or wood without requiring any maintenance is what makes it so appealing. It’s an all-purpose tile that gives designers flexibility because it is available in a range of designs, colors, and styles. Since porcelain won’t break, fade, or freeze, it can even be used outside. It’s often used for backsplashes in kitchens, high-traffic areas, and bathrooms. The installation of porcelain tile can be challenging, which is its worst flaw.
Glass Tile
Any project can benefit from the clear, simple style that glass tile gives. Glass is an excellent substitute for natural stone because of its stain resistance. Red wine and other acidic foods like lemon and vinegar can be easily cleaned up without leaving any lasting stains. Glass has the potential disadvantage of chipping relatively quickly around the edges, which makes it a poor choice for high-traffic areas like kitchen and bathroom floors. They perform well as a backsplash, around a fireplace, or on seldom-used desks or tabletops.
Mosaic Tile
Because mosaic tiles are available in such a wide variety of sizes, colors, patterns, and even materials, you have the opportunity to exercise your creative decorating muscles. These popular tiles work best on wall applications when an accent is needed. Mosaic tiles can easily look out-of-date depending on the kind of tile you use.
Metal Tile
Superior durability and a stylish, contemporary kitchen aesthetic are provided by metal surfaces. Although the price of this sort of tile is typically comparable to that of natural stone, it will undoubtedly last the test of time in terms of appearance and functionality. The tendency of metal tile to scratch (practically as soon as it is put in) can soften the overall impression and is a major factor to take into account. Any work surface made of metal, such as those in a kitchen, bar, or utility room, looks amazing. It is not recommended for bathrooms or outdoor use.
Resin Tile
To combine the styles you want, resin tiles are a great option. Resin is especially well-liked for its 3D patterns which makes it a fun tile to decorate with. One disadvantage of resin tile is its propensity to chip and fade over time, especially when exposed to sunlight. They are ideal for mudrooms and bathrooms since they are water-resistant. They work well as accent pieces and backsplashes as well.
Cement Tile
Since the 19th century, cement tiles have been used, and they are currently enjoying a slight trend in contemporary interior design. With their stunning patterns and hues, cement tiles are incredibly adaptable. The tiles are very porous and may also be sanded and resealed, just like wood floors. Cement tiles’ major flaw is that they are difficult to install and need to be resealed once a month to keep their aesthetic appeal. It is advisable to use these tiles sparingly and in low-traffic areas.
Marble Tile
Marble tiles, although expensive, instantly give a room a touch of refinement and elegance. Because each tile is patterned or veined, it adds depth and texture, and each tile piece is unique. Marble needs a lot of maintenance to keep it looking perfect. This tile is also difficult to clean and, like any stone, is prone to scratches and stains. Unless a sealant is utilized, it is best used in low-traffic areas. Instead of utilizing marble for worktops, many homeowners choose to use it for aesthetic elements like shower floors, columns, and backsplashes.
Granite Tile
Because of its natural flecks, granite, a natural stone, resembles marble in appearance and feel and is a more affordable option. It is advised to use granite tiles in a laundry room or other auxiliary space where functionality and affordability are your main priorities.
Limestone Tile
Another sort of natural stone tile is limestone. Install limestone tile to create a look that is genuinely rustic and full of the tones, colors, and variations found in nature. It provides a rustic look that is almost reminiscent of antique buildings and design. Limestone is resilient but soft, and it’s simple to cut and shape for particular designs and places. It’s important to remember that limestone is a porous rock and must be well-sealed to prevent cracking and etching. This tile can be difficult to clean but is a fantastic alternative for pretty much any place, especially outdoors like on the patio, thanks to the rich appearance and range of colors or sizes.
Travertine Tile
Travertine tile gives a unique, organic look similar to that of limestone. Its muted color scheme offers lovely neutral tones. The surface’s swirling pattern creates an attractive and distinctive statement in shades of gray, tan, and beige. Like other varieties of natural stone tile, it is easily damaged by moisture, stains, and traction and requires additional maintenance and resealing. These tiles work best in rooms with less traffic in a house. Many designers and do-it-yourselfers may put these tiles on walls rather than floors to prevent scratches, etching, or stains.
Quarry Tile
Quarry tile is created in a method that is quite similar to brick (though technically stronger) using ground resources. Quarry tile is created by combining crushed minerals such as feldspar, clay, and shale, which are then baked at temperatures above 2000 degrees. These tiles are inherently dense, nonporous, and water-resistant with a very low water absorption rate since they are fired at exceptionally high temperatures. They can either have a glaze applied or be left unfinished. They don’t need to be sealed, which is an additional advantage. Quarry tiles create a sense of intentional design and are naturally slip-resistant so they could be utilized in high-traffic areas, but they should not be used in kitchens due to their susceptibility to staining.
Picking Your Tile for Your Remodeling Project
Deciding on the right type of tile for your home renovation project might seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. And if you’re still not sure, that’s okay too. Talk to one of our interior design experts at Southern Home Remodeling to select the perfect tiles for your vision.