Explore stylish and durable tile flooring

What is the difference between ceramic and porcelain tile?

Ceramic and porcelain are two of the most common tile materials. Both are made from clay and fired at high temperatures, but porcelain tile is typically denser and has a lower water absorption rate.

Ceramic tile is available in a huge variety of colors, patterns, and styles. It works well for many residential floors, backsplashes, and walls. Porcelain tile is often selected for areas where moisture resistance and durability are priorities. Depending on its rating, porcelain tile can be used on floors, walls, showers, and some outdoor surfaces.

Neither choice is automatically better. The right tile depends on your room, budget, and performance needs.

What tile shapes can you choose?

Tile shape can completely change the personality of a room. Traditional square and rectangular tiles remain popular, but today's choices extend far beyond the basics.

You can find hexagons, mosaics, subway tiles, planks, and geometric designs. Long rectangular tiles create clean lines, while hexagons and mosaics add detail. Plank-shaped tiles can deliver the appearance of hardwood with the durability of tile.

Mixing shapes can also create borders, accent areas, and custom patterns.

What tile size works best?

Tile size influences how large, open, or detailed a room appears. Large-format tiles create a streamlined look with fewer grout lines, making them popular for modern kitchens, bathrooms, and open living areas.

Smaller tiles work well when you want more pattern and detail. Mosaics are especially popular for backsplashes, shower floors, borders, and decorative accents.

Don't assume a small room requires small tiles. Large-format tile can make compact spaces feel more open when the layout is planned carefully.

What tile colors are available?

Tile comes in almost every color imaginable. Popular choices include white, cream, beige, gray, brown, charcoal, and black. You can also explore blues, greens, terracotta tones, and multicolored patterns.

Lighter colors can make rooms feel open and bright, while darker tile adds contrast and depth. Neutral shades create a flexible foundation that coordinates with many design styles.

When choosing a color, think beyond the floor. Consider your cabinets, countertops, walls, furniture, and lighting to create a cohesive finished space.

Which tile finish should you choose?

Tile finish affects both appearance and performance. Glossy finishes reflect light and create a polished surface, making them especially popular for backsplashes and wall applications.

Matte finishes provide a softer, more understated appearance. Textured tiles add dimension and can recreate the character of stone, concrete, and other natural materials.

Different finishes can have different slip-resistance and maintenance requirements. Always select a tile rated for your intended application.

Where can you install tile?

Tile isn't limited to flooring. Depending on the product, you can use it throughout your home to create coordinated surfaces and decorative features.

Popular applications include:

• Kitchen and bathroom flooring
• Entryways and mudrooms
• Kitchen backsplashes
• Bathroom and shower walls
• Shower floors
• Fireplace surrounds
• Decorative wall accents
• Borders and feature areas

You can even coordinate floor and wall tiles to give a bathroom or kitchen a more complete look. Check the manufacturer's recommendations before installation to ensure your tile is approved for its intended location.

How do you maintain tile flooring?

Tile flooring is relatively simple to maintain. Sweep, vacuum, or dust mop regularly to remove dirt and debris. Clean as needed using a manufacturer-approved product.

Wipe up spills promptly and avoid cleaners that could damage the tile, finish, or grout. Grout lines may need occasional deeper cleaning. Certain tile and grout products may also require periodic sealing, so always follow the manufacturer's care guidelines.

Tile flooring FAQs