Find the perfect tile flooring for your space

Should you choose ceramic or porcelain tile?

Ceramic and porcelain are two of the most popular tile options.

Ceramic tile is made from clay fired at high temperatures. Available in many colors, patterns, and designs, it can be used for a range of indoor floors, walls, and backsplashes.

Porcelain tile is generally denser and has a lower water absorption rate than standard ceramic tile. Many porcelain tiles are suitable for high-traffic areas, kitchens, bathrooms, and showers.

Which should you choose? Think about the tile installation area, expected traffic, moisture exposure, style, and budget. We can help you compare products based on your specific room rather than choosing based on appearance alone.

What tile size should you choose?

Tile size influences the overall appearance of a room. Large-format tiles create fewer grout lines for a clean, streamlined look. They are especially popular in contemporary spaces and can make surfaces appear more continuous.

Smaller tiles create more visual detail. Mosaics work particularly well for backsplashes, shower floors, borders, and decorative accents.

Consider the dimensions and layout of your room. Choosing proportions that complement the space can create a more balanced finished design.

What tile shapes are available?

Square and rectangular tiles are classics, but today's selection goes much further. You can find subway, hexagon, mosaic, plank, and geometric shapes.

Installation patterns provide even more possibilities. Rectangular tiles can be arranged in stacked, offset, herringbone, and other layouts. The pattern alone can dramatically change the finished appearance.

Keep the layout simple for a timeless style, or experiment with shapes and patterns when you want your tile to become a focal point.

What tile colors can you choose?

Tile is available in almost every color. White, cream, beige, and light gray can brighten a room.

Brown and taupe add warmth, while charcoal, black, navy, and other dark shades create contrast and drama.

Wood-look and stone-look tiles add natural-looking color variation. These products can capture the character of hardwood, marble, slate, and other materials without creating a completely uniform surface.

Look at the entire room when selecting a color. Cabinets, countertops, walls, furniture, and neighboring flooring should work together with your new tile.

Which tile finish is best?

Finish influences both the look and texture of tile. Glossy tile reflects light and creates a polished appearance, making it popular for backsplashes and walls.

Matte finishes have a softer appearance and complement many contemporary, traditional, and natural-inspired spaces. Textured finishes add visual depth and may provide additional traction, depending on the product.

Always confirm that your chosen tile and finish are rated for the intended application. A tile designed for a wall may not be appropriate for a floor.

Where can you install tile?

Tile can cover far more than floors. Depending on the product, popular applications include:

• Kitchen and bathroom floors
• Entryways and mudrooms
• Laundry rooms
• Kitchen backsplash tiles
• Shower floors and walls
• Bathroom walls
• Fireplace surrounds
• Decorative accent walls

You can coordinate tiles across several surfaces to tie a design together. For example, pair kitchen flooring with a complementary backsplash or use decorative tile to create a shower accent.

For wet areas and floors, make sure the tile is approved for that specific application.

How do you clean and maintain tile flooring?

Tile flooring is relatively easy to maintain. Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and grit. Mop when needed using a cleaner recommended for your specific tile.

Clean spills promptly and pay attention to grout lines, where dirt can accumulate. Avoid abrasive or harsh products unless approved by the manufacturer. Some grout may also require periodic sealing.

Place mats at entrances to reduce tracked-in debris. Furniture protectors can also help prevent scratches and other surface damage.

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