Tile flooring for lasting beauty and durability

Choosing your tile material

Different tile materials provide different looks and performance characteristics.

• Ceramic tile: Ceramic is a versatile choice for many floors, walls, backsplashes, and other residential applications. It comes in a broad selection of colors, patterns, and designs.
• Porcelain tile: Porcelain tile is dense, durable, and well-suited for high-traffic areas. Certain porcelain products can also be used in moisture-prone and outdoor areas when rated for those applications.
• Glass tile: Glass tile adds color, shine, and visual depth. It is commonly used for backsplashes, shower walls, mosaics, borders, and decorative accents.
• Limestone tile: Limestone tile offers the natural variation and character of real stone. Because limestone is porous, proper sealing and maintenance are important.
• Metal tile: Metal tile creates a distinctive contemporary or industrial look. It is often used for backsplashes, accent walls, borders, and decorative details.

Our team can help you compare tile materials based on appearance, durability, maintenance, and installation location.

Tile sizes and shapes

Tile size can completely change the appearance of a room. Large-format tiles can make an area feel more open while reducing the number of visible grout lines. Smaller tiles are ideal for mosaics, shower floors, backsplashes, borders, and detailed designs.

You are not limited to squares and rectangles, either. Tile is available in hexagons, subway styles, mosaics, geometric designs, and other shapes.

The layout matters, too. Straight, staggered, diagonal, herringbone, and other patterns can give the same tile a dramatically different look.

Tile finishes

The finish affects both the look and feel of tile. Options may include matte, polished, glossy, honed, textured, and natural finishes.

Polished and glossy surfaces reflect more light and can create a sleek appearance. Matte finishes provide a softer, understated look. Textured finishes can add dimension and may provide additional traction, depending on the product.

Always consider the installation area when choosing a finish, especially for bathrooms, showers, entryways, and other areas where floors may become wet.

Where to install tile

Tile is one of the most versatile surfaces available. Depending on the product and manufacturer specifications, tile can be used throughout residential and commercial properties.

Popular applications include:

• Kitchen floor tiles and backsplashes
• Bathroom floor tiles
• Shower floors and walls
• Tub surrounds
• Entryways and hallways
• Laundry rooms and mudrooms
• Living and dining areas
• Accent walls
• Offices
• Retail and commercial spaces
• Patios and approved outdoor areas

Not every tile is appropriate for every location. A decorative wall tile, for example, may not be suitable for a busy floor. Our team can help you choose tile with the right performance characteristics for your project.

Tile cleaning and maintenance

Tile flooring is relatively easy to maintain. Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and grit. For deeper cleaning, use a product recommended for your specific tile and follow the manufacturer's care instructions.

Clean spills promptly and pay attention to grout lines, where dirt can accumulate. Avoid harsh or abrasive cleaners unless they are approved for the material.

Natural stone, such as limestone, may require periodic sealing to help protect it from moisture and stains. Proper care of both the tile and grout will help your surfaces maintain their appearance and performance.