11 Types of Tile Flooring
Jun 11, 2020
Tile flooring is a practical and typically affordable alternative to carpet. Carpet flooring can be tough to clean and maintain, while tile floors can be cleaned quickly and easily. If you are gearing up for a floor remodel, here are 11 different types of tile flooring to consider:
Ceramic
Ceramic tile has a wide selection to choose from. There are many different colors, sizes, finishes and shapes that come in ceramic tile. The variety of textures makes it easy to spruce up any space. Glazed ceramic doesn’t absorb water, making it ideal for bathrooms and kitchens.
Terracotta
Terracotta is old-fashioned, but classic. The earthy hues provide a warm ambiance in the home and it is a strong material. It needs a sealing agent every 2 years to be protected from damaging and stains.
Vinyl
This is the most common type of tile for bathrooms. It is easier to install and is less prone to cracks and breaks. It is also one of the more affordable types of tile flooring.
Linoleum
Linoleum is great at repelling dust and dirt while maintaining its color and texture. It is versatile and easily complements any decorating style, from classic to modern. It can also be soft and easier on joints.
Cork
Cork tile provides protection, against falls, reducing injuries as opposed to a harder surface such as ceramic. It is durable, antimicrobial and antifungal.
Glass/Mosaic
Glass tile is increasing in popularity due to its wide, customizable selection to meet any style preference. It is shiny and durable, but needs great care with installation and can be costly.
Cement-Bodied
Any area that is prone to wear and tear such as the kitchen or bathroom could benefit from a tough cement tile. When properly installed and regularly maintained, it will last for years.
Slate
Slate is one of the toughest natural floor finishes. The rigidity makes it resistant to cracks and chips, but does need to be sealed regularly to maintain the color.
Porcelain
Porcelain is tougher than ceramic and absorbs less water. It’s easy to find porcelain options that mimic natural materials such as stone or wood. However, it can be up to 60% more expensive than ceramic.
Pebble
Pebble tile is a collection of small pebbles that bring a nature-inspired look to flooring. The unique look is a huge advantage, but it can definitely be tough to clean due to the cracks and crevices.
Limestone
Limestone is an ideal flooring material because of its solid and strong surface. It typically comes in muted color options, giving it flexibility and warmth. It is also soft and easy to shape when installing. Just be sure to seal it well and use the proper cleaning solutions on it.
When choosing the right tile for your home, consider the wear and tear of the area it will be in as well as the overall theme and design. The possibilities are endless!