Floor tiling is an invaluable option for those desiring a durable and easy-to-clean surface. Many types of floor tile are available for any room in your home or building, ranging from ceramic to porcelain and marble to granite.
But like anything in life, when faced with too many options, deciding on the best tile flooring for your home or commercial space can be time consuming and dare we say…stressful.
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Best Types of Tile Flooring
In the meantime, this guide provides a closer look at the many types of floor tiling available, along with their pros and cons.
1) Ceramic Tile
One of the most sought-after flooring options, ceramic tiles offer outstanding durability, affordability, and versatility. They’re available in an extensive range of colors, patterns, and textures, which means you can choose the perfect look and feel for any room in your home.
Top Pros
Ceramic is remarkably resistant to water and stains, making them easy to clean and maintain.
Cons
It’s worth noting that matte ceramic tiles are acceptable for light traffic areas, so they may crack or chip if heavy objects are placed on top of them.
2) Porcelain Tile
Porcelain tiles are denser and more durable than standard ceramic tiles. They’re also less porous, increasing their resistance to moisture, stains, and scratches.
Top Pros
Similar to ceramic tiles, porcelain tiles come in various colors, patterns, and textures, including those that mimic natural stone or wood.
Due to their durability, they make an excellent choice for high-traffic areas of your home or building, such as entryways, kitchens, and bathrooms.
Cons
Although porcelain tiles offer many benefits, they also have a few drawbacks. One being that they’re more expensive than ceramic tiles, but keep in mind that porcelain offers a cost-effective option when compared to other types of tile flooring, including marble or granite.
They’re also prone to cracking if not installed correctly.
3) Marble Tile
Marble tiles are a luxurious and timeless type of tile flooring. They typically come in white or black, and often feature distinctive veining patterns.
Top Pros
Aside from their timeless beauty, marble tile is also durable and can last for years with proper care and maintenance
Cons
Marble tiles are prone to scratches and staining, especially if not properly sealed. They also require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best, including occasional resealing to ensure longevity.
As you may have guessed, they’re also quite expensive compared to other types of tile flooring. Factors that can affect the price of marble tiles include:
- The quality of the stone
- The source of the marble
- The size and thickness of the tiles
Therefore, it’s always best to research and compare prices before making a purchase to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.
4) Granite Tile
Like marble, granite tile is a type of natural stone tile. It’s known for its strength, durability, and unique natural beauty. Granite tile is commonly used for flooring, walls, countertops, and backsplashes in residential and commercial spaces.
Top Pros
Due to its versatility, granite tile is available in various colors and patterns, from dark black to light pink. It can also be polished or honed, depending on your preference.
Cons
Granite tile does require regular sealing to prevent stains and keep them looking their best. It’s also more expensive than ceramic or porcelain.
5) Slate Tile
Slate tiles have a unique, natural texture and come in colors that range from dark black to light gray.
Top Pros
They ‘re durable and resistant to water, making them an excellent choice for bathrooms, kitchens, and entryways.
Cons
Slate tiles are prone to chipping and scratching, so it’s essential to handle them with care.
6) Travertine Tile
Travertine tiles are a type of limestone that are available in more earthy colors, including beige, tan, and brown.
Top Pros
They have a unique, natural texture and are often used for outdoor flooring due to their durability and resistance to temperature changes.
Cons
They are more porous than other types of tiles and require regular sealing to prevent stains.
7) Cement Tile
Also known as encaustic tile, cement tile is a type of handmade tile that is composed of cement, sand, and pigments. It has a unique appearance and is often used for decorative purposes such as flooring, walls, or backsplashes.
Top Pros
Cement tile is extremely durable and can withstand heavy foot traffic. It also offers a distinctive appearance that can add character and charm to any space.
Cons
As mentioned, cement tile is porous, which means that it can absorb moisture and stains easily. It also requires a special installation process, which can be more time-consuming and expensive than other types of tile.
Finally, cement tile is not ideal for cold climates, as it can crack and become damaged.
Which Types of Floor Tile Is Right for You?
The choice typically comes down to your preferences, budget, building code requirements, and the room you’re tiling.
Have questions? We’d love to help. You can either contact us directly or stop by our showroom to browse our extensive collection of floor tile options.
For a one-on-one consultation with a tile expert, please schedule an appointment. Remember to follow us on Instagram.