Tile

Tile flooring is a durable and versatile option for various spaces. Available in many materials and colors, it complements any design. Its moisture resistance and easy maintenance make it practical for kitchens and bathrooms. Tile flooring also offers excellent durability, ensuring it withstands daily wear for years.

Tile Options

Ceramic Tile

Material: Made from clay, fired at high temperatures, and coated with a glaze.
Durability: Resistant to stains, scratches, and moisture; can crack under heavy impact.
Installation: Requires mortar and grout.
Best for: Kitchens, bathrooms, and high-traffic areas.
Limitations: Can be slippery when wet unless textured; cold underfoot.

Glass Tile

Material: Made from pieces of glass, often used in mosaics.
Durability: Stain-resistant but can crack under impact.
Installation: Requires specialized adhesives and grout.
Best for: Backsplashes, accent walls, and decorative flooring.
Limitations: Slippery when wet, not ideal for high-traffic floors.

Terracotta Tile

Material: A type of ceramic tile made from natural clay, usually in earthy tones.
Durability: Moderate; needs regular sealing to prevent moisture absorption.
Installation: Mortar and grout; sealing is necessary.
Best for: Rustic and Mediterranean-style interiors.
Limitations: Porous and requires regular maintenance.

Porcelain Tile

Material: A denser and more refined type of ceramic tile, fired at higher temperatures.
Durability: More durable and water-resistant than standard ceramic tiles.
Installation: Similar to ceramic tile but requires stronger adhesives.
Best for: Indoor and outdoor spaces, including patios and kitchens.
Limitations: Heavier and more expensive than ceramic tiles.

Cement Tile (Encaustic Tile)

Material: Handmade from cement and mineral pigments.
Durability: Highly durable but requires sealing.
Installation: Mortar and grout; needs sealing before and after installation.
Best for: Unique, colorful designs in kitchens, entryways, and bathrooms.
Limitations: More porous than ceramic or porcelain, can develop a color or texture changes over time.

Quarry Tile

Material: Made from natural clay and minerals, similar to brick.
Durability: Extremely durable and slip-resistant.
Installation: Mortar and grout; does not require sealing like other natural tiles.
Best for: Commercial kitchens, patios, and entryways.
Limitations: Limited color options (typically red, brown, or gray).

Natural Stone Tile

Material: Cut from real stone, such as marble, granite, slate, limestone, or travertine.
Durability: Varies by stone type; generally long-lasting but requires sealing.
Installation: Mortar and grout; sealing may be required.
Best for: Luxury homes, bathrooms, and kitchens.
Limitations: Can be expensive, porous (requires sealing), and prone to scratches or stains.
Types of Natural Stone Tile:
Marble: Elegant with veining patterns, but susceptible to staining and scratching.
Granite: Extremely durable and scratch-resistant, great for high-traffic areas.
Slate: Naturally textured and slip-resistant, ideal for outdoor and wet areas.
Limestone: Softer, warm-toned stone, but requires more maintenance.
Travertine: Classic and textured, but porous and needs sealing.

Mosaic Tile

Material: Small tiles made from ceramic, porcelain, glass, or stone.
Durability: Highly durable depending on the material.
Installation: Comes in sheets for easier installation; uses grout.
Best for: Decorative accents, backsplashes, and shower floors.
Limitations: Grout lines require frequent cleaning.