Tiles are a versatile décor element that can be used in both indoor and outdoor spaces. They come in a wide range of colors, shapes, styles, and materials, which can make choosing the right tile for your project a bit overwhelming. In this blog post, we’ll break down the six most common types of tiles so you can choose the best option for your needs.
Porcelain Tile
Porcelain tile is a type of ceramic tile that is made from porcelain clay. It is fired at a higher temperature than other types of ceramic tile, which makes it more durable and resistant to wear and tear. Porcelain tile is an excellent choice for high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms because it is easy to clean and maintain. It comes in a variety of colors, sizes, and finishes, so you can find an option to suit any aesthetic.
Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tile is made from natural clay that has been kiln-fired at high temperatures. It is a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor use because it is durable and easy to maintain. There are many different styles of ceramic tile, from glazed to unglazed, so you can find an option to suit any look. The advantages of ceramic tile are that it is affordable and easy to install, but the downside is that it can be somewhat brittle and is susceptible to chipping and cracking.
Glass Tile
Glass tile is made from glass that has been kiln-fired at high temperatures. It is now most commonly used in decorative applications, such as pools, spas, and kitchens. The main advantage of glass tile is that it is very easy to clean and maintain. There are two main types of glass tile: transparent and opaque. Transparent glass tile is made from clear or translucent glass and is used to create light, airy designs. Opaque glass tile is made from colored glass and is used to create bold, vibrant designs. So just bear that in mind when you’re making your decision.
Natural Stone Tile
Natural stone tile is made from 100% natural stone, such as granite, marble, slate, and travertine. It is typically used in high-end residential and commercial projects because of its luxurious appearance and durability. Natural stone tiles are unquestionably beautiful, but they are also one of the most expensive tile options and require more maintenance than other types of tile, some types of natural stones are porous, which means they can absorb spills and stains if not sealed properly.
Mirror Tile
Mirror tile is made from glass that has been kiln-fired and then coated with a reflective metal oxide. It is a popular choice for backsplashes and accent walls because it adds visual interest to any space. The mirror tiles also help to reflect light and make the space appear brighter. One downside of mirror tile is that it can be more expensive than other types of tiles.
Mosaic Tile
Mosaic tile is a type of tile that is made up of small pieces of glass, stone, or ceramic. It served as a popular flooring and wall covering material in Ancient Rome and Greece. Today, mosaic tile is most commonly used in accent walls, and pool surrounds. While mosaic tile can be made from a variety of materials, glass mosaic tile is the most popular type. Glass mosaic tile is available in a wide range of colors, so you can find an option to suit any aesthetic. One of the advantages of mosaic tile is that it is very easy to clean and maintain.
Now that you know the six most common types of tiles, you can choose the best option for your project. Keep in mind your budget, the intended use of the space, and the overall aesthetic you’re trying to achieve when making your decision. Thanks for reading!