Tile Materials Guide
Learn about the specific characteristics of different varieties of tile.
Design: Frances Herrera Interior Design
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Because tile is functional, durable, and water-resistant, it's a popular choice for everything from kitchen floors and backsplashes to entryways and bathrooms.Tile colors, sizes, and shapes vary greatly, giving you lots of flexibility to achieve the look you desire. Although they are very versatile, each type of tile has specific characteristics that make them a good fit for certain projects. Read below to learn more about each material.
Most Common Tile Materials
Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tile is made of clay, minerals, and water that are pressed together, and then fired at a high heat.
- Available either glazed or unglazed
- Less expensive than natural stone
- Easy to maintain
- Resistant to stains, odors, and water
Glass Tile
Wherever it's used, glass tile gives a dazzling, luminous look. However, the beauty comes with a price, as installation can be a little tricky.
- Easy to clean
- Stain-resistant
- Waterproof
- Susceptible to scratches
Marble Tile
Marble tile is known for its veining patterns that give a beautiful, elegant, timeless look. Another quality of marble is that every tile is unique!
- Good on floors that get moderate traffic or walls
- Can be vulnerable to scratches and etching
- Needs to be regularly sealed
Porcelain Tile
Porcelain tile is not very absorbent , so it's a fantastic choice for bathrooms or kitchens.
- Looks like stone, but lower maintenance
- Dense, hard, and scratch-resistant
- A good choice for heavy traffic areas
See Porcelain Tile You'll Love
Travertine Tile
Like marble and granite, travertine is a type of natural stone. This variety of limestone comes in many finishes that can give it a range of looks, from glossy to rugged.
- Very heavy
- Relatively porous, vulnerable to chipping, scratching, and stains
- Not the best choice for kitchens or households with kids or pets
See Travertine Tile You'll Love
Natural Stone Tile
Natural stone tile includes popular choices, such as granite, marble, and slate. It's a smart choice for a traditional, classic look.
- Durable
- Upscale look
- Requires a little extra care and maintenance to protect against stains
See Natural Stone Tile You'll Love
Tip!
Love a tile that's a bit out of your price range? Get the look for less by using it as an inlaid border or pattern in your floor, backsplash, or shower.
Less Common Tile Materials
- Aluminum
- Granite
- Limestone
- Metal
- Onyx
- Shell
- Slate
- Stone Composite
