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It’s finally here -- time to update your outdated guest bathroom! The avocado green wallpaper, tufted bathroom carpet, and varnished wood paneling have been out of style for decades, and now they’re finally getting the boot from your bath as well. Congratulations: it’s happy dance time!
While searching for style ideas you’ve probably come across hundreds of examples of glamorously tiled powder rooms, lavatories, or master baths, and wondered why there are so many different tile looks and options, and which tile is the best fit for your bath. Let’s dig deep into how tile for bathrooms is truly the best choice, along with the different materials out of which tile can be made.
Benefits of Tile Flooring
When it comes to quick home improvement projects, redoing your flooring is one aspect that can have the most dramatic impact. And no other material delivers a better rate of return on your investment than the enhanced value offered by installing tile. Whether you are considering adding river rock tile to your walk-in shower, or a new subway tile backsplash in your kitchen, the natural beauty of tile will enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home, as well as prevent moisture and other substances from causing damage to your subfloor or walls.
Design Versatility
Tile is available in many varieties of colors, textures, sizes, and materials. From pristine glossy whites to linen-textured sage green, geometric and modern to old world and rustic, tile is one of the more diverse decorative elements available. Perfect for high-traffic areas, like the kitchen or living room, or humidity-plagued areas like the bathroom, tile for flooring and walls are here to stay. Installing backsplash tile over the sink or stove in the kitchen can protect the drywall from splashes and spills while keeping your overall design in check. But do not think your options are limited for using tiles on floors or in the bathroom or kitchen alone: you can install tile in any room of your home, from creating an artistic subway tile backdrop in the front hallway to surrounding an ornate mirror with metallic-sheen ceramic backsplash tiles. The number of options you have for using the different types of tiles is limited only by your creative imagination.
Easy Cleaning
While tile made from natural stone does require regular resealing, for the most part, tile is one of the easier to maintain flooring options as well! You could never wet-mop your hardwood floor, or sanitize your carpet with bleach, but with tile clean up is a breeze! Even if your dining room floor has been attacked by a team of toddlers eating (and wearing) spaghetti, cleaning tile floors involves simply sweeping up the muck, and wiping clean with warm, soapy water. If times get really tough, and your new puppy just can’t make it to the backyard in time, your tile floors can be cleaned and sanitized without getting ruined. Yep - tile is a great floor for dogs too!
Simple to Repair and Maintain
By using a high-quality grout and sealant (when necessary), maintaining most types of tile requires little, if any effort. High-quality grout prevents water from leaching beneath the tile and causing extensive damage. In addition, tile can be easy to repair. Whether you find a cracked shower tile or a warped backsplash tile, all you have to do is replace the tile in just a few minutes. Just be sure to keep an extra carton of the same type of tile on hand to make the replacement process fast. New Homeowner Hint: sometimes home builders or remodelers will keep those extra cartons in the attic for just this kind of emergency!
Rugged Durability
Why spend money on expensive hardwood, when selecting wood-look tile can keep on shining in a high traffic area of your home for years to come. Tile is not only built to resist the damage caused by extended exposure to moisture but can withstand most daily wear without breaking down. Think about the durability and longevity it takes to withstand the stomping of snow boots, kids in soccer cleats, and endless trips to bring in the groceries every week, and you have captured the rugged durability tile flooring.
Cool to the Touch
Did you know that floor tile possesses superior cooling properties? Tile is a natural room air conditioner in the summer, as the hard surface repels heat, and emits comfortably cool temps. The chill of a high-quality tile floor on a hot, steamy day will make every shower feel extra refreshing.
6 Main Types of Tiles
When you walk into The Good Guys’ showroom in Lewisville, Texas, your first glance will be of a myriad of flooring and tile displays. You are probably familiar with the more popular types of tiles, like ceramic tile and porcelain tile. But have you come across granite tile or glass tile lately?
Ceramic Tile
Because it’s a contender for a large number of different applications, ceramic tile represents a versatile and popular choice for tile in home improvement projects. Affordability and durability make ceramic the ideal choice for any room in your home, including the bathroom, kitchen, and front entrance. Glazed ceramic tile offers more protection against stains or damage compared to wood, carpet, or even vinyl plank flooring.
Porcelain Tile
Porcelain is a finer example of clay ceramic tile. Made of a higher ratio of silica and quartz, and baked or fired at a higher temperature, porcelain tiles are more durable (and oftentimes more expensive) than their red clay ceramic counterparts. A wide variety of colors and patterns make porcelain tile a chameleon of sorts. Glazed, etched, and texturized, porcelain tiles can resemble hardwood planks, expensive marble, or industrial bricks. Keep in mind that a do-it-yourself project involving the installation of porcelain tile can pose a few headaches as the tile is a stronger and more dense material than ceramic, and requires a specialty tool: a diamond blade wet saw.
Create a Subway Tile Backsplash
Whether you want to spice up the look of the kitchen or the bathroom, backsplash tiles will get the job done, even under a tight budget. Rectangular subway tiles, once relegated to the New York Subway system, have risen in popularity in recent years as the pinnacle tile shape for backsplashes. Subway tiles are easy to customize using differing lay patterns, lending dimensionality of design to any room. As they are more neutral in terms of shape and style, subway tiles pair well with both intricate and minimalist decorum.
Glass Tile
Sparkling glass tiles are a glamorous choice for backsplash or shower tile. Compared to other tile, glass tiles possess the highest level of stain resistance, even impermeable to red wine and acidic lemon juice. Falling prey to one disadvantage, glass tile has a relative ease to chip and crack if an item is dropped upon it, so this product works best on your wall.
DIY Idea: Glass Tile Mirror Frame
Imagine gleaming glass tiles surrounding the large mirror in your new bathroom. Reflecting and bouncing light throughout a naturally lit space is a great way to make a small bathroom look and feel bigger!
Marble Tile
Often considered one of the more expensive natural stone tile materials, marble is an elegant and bold choice, as it exudes a level of elegance and panache that is hard to replicate with other materials. Deeply veined with natural mineral lines, marble is created under immense heat and pressure -- and can take the heat and pressures of daily life extremely well. Perhaps no other type of tile can elevate a space to dramatically as marble tile. The natural stone delivers incredible depth and contrast, displaying a dazzling array color veining, and is naturally available in a multitude of colors, from green, gray, beige, white, black, and many more. When selecting marble tiles or slabs, be sure to inspect the material for any rough areas, as these may require extra sealing to protect against stains due to its porous nature.
All Along the Walkway
The walk leading up to your front door should represent an extended welcome mat, greeting guests who are visiting your home. Make that voyage to your door as welcoming as possible, with the added curb appeal of a natural stone tile walkway or a tile-inlaid porch. The Good Guys flooring and remodeling company in Dallas, TX recently tiled the porch of this beautiful home in McKinney, Texas. Using off white stone tile in a brick lay pattern, the finished look is a class act.
Granite Tile
With its naturally appearing specks and flecks of color engrained within, granite is another natural rock tile used both in countertops as well as in flooring. Granite is significantly harder than marble and therefore less prone to chips and cracks. Being relatively waterproof, granite is also a fantastic choice for wet areas or countertops, as it will not absorb moisture or stains. Typically found in larger format slabs, granite is not a material for the penny pincher or the cost-conscious.
Many natural stone and ceramic tile manufacturers have started making larger format tiles. These behemoth tiles are often heat-tolerant and may be used as an alternative to more costly natural stone slab countertops. If you want the look of custom granite or marble countertops, at a fraction of the cost, this option may be a good one for you!
It’s been said that first impressions make lasting impressions, and when your first view of an entryway is dazzling granite, that view stays with you! Take a peek at this expansive granite-laid home foyer, installed by The Good Guys in Dallas, Texas.
Other Natural Stone Tiles
Marble and granite are not the only natural stone options available for tile, however. Slate, limestone, travertine, and sandstone are porous materials, so if they are to be used for flooring inside your home, you will want to seal them regularly to protect against stains or discoloration. Nonetheless, these stones do make an optimal option for some of your other home projects!
Forget about engaging in a costly masonry project for a fireplace facelift; get the look of a stone fireplace without the pricepoint with stacked stone tiles! These rough-edged rocks add texture and interest to a fireplace, without being a distraction. Another great tile option for a tile fireplace surround would be porcelain tiles, so long as they have been certified by the Porcelain Tile Certification Agency (PTCA) as a tempered or heat-safe tile for fireplaces.
Tile Makes a Splash by the Pool
When selecting a tile to surround your pool, be sure to choose a tile with a slip-resistant, rough or textured top layer or sealant. With natural rock, creating contrasting designs is a breeze -- well-versed tile installers can add seal to the tiles in patterns and designs that are only visible when wet!
The Bottom Line
I know, I know -- after sharing all of these great tile ideas with you, what started as a simple bathroom remodel has now become a laundry list of home improvement projects you just can’t wait to start! The Good Guys team of professional flooring experts and installers can help check off that list quick as a wink (and with the newly added remodeling division, even larger changes to your home’s layout or design are no problem)! Whether you add a stylish ceramic backsplash tile or install rugged granite bathroom floor tile, having this knowledge in your back pocket about the types of tile and the best uses for tile will give you a hand up on creating your own ideal interior.
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The kitchen is often called the heart of the home, so choosing the perfect flooring is key. With heavy foot traffic and inevitable spills, kitchen floors require durable, easy-to-clean tile. From classic ceramic to trendy vinyl plank, choosing the best kitchen floor tile for your home depends on your budget, lifestyle, and design tastes.
In this guide, we’ll explore popular kitchen floor tile options, costs, key considerations, prep and maintenance tips, discuss when to hire a flooring contractor, and provide answers to some frequently asked questions.
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Although there are numerous kinds of tile on the market, this article will focus on the five types of tile that are the most suitable for kitchen flooring:
A timeless and popular choice, ceramic tile offers durability at an affordable price point. The kiln-fired clay material is extremely easy to shape and adapt, which is why ceramic tiles come in a myriad of colors, shapes, patterns, and textures. While ceramic floor tile is softer and less water-resistant than porcelain, it’s a reliable, easy-to-tailor option.
Durable and long-lasting
Easy to clean
Affordable option
Many colors and styles
Less durable than porcelain
Can crack or chip
Absorbs more moisture
Hard underfoot
Cost: $5–$20 per square foot installed
Glass mosaic and subway tile are gleaming, modern, and perfect for sleek contemporary kitchens. Glass tiles are available in unlimited colors, shapes, and transparencies. They resist moisture well. On the downside, glass floor tile can be slippery when wet. It also cracks more easily under heavy impacts. Proper installation is key to preventing cracks and chipping.
Sleek, modern look
Resists moisture
Unlimited design options
Easy to clean
Can be slippery
Cracks more easily
Not as durable as ceramic or porcelain
Challenging DIY installation
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Cost: $10–$50 per square foot installed
Porcelain tile tops the list as one of the best kitchen flooring options. Porcelain features refined clay that’s fired at high temperatures, making it dense, durable, and water-resistant. It comes in a vast array of sizes, colors, shapes, and realistic stone and wood looks. Porcelain tile stands up excellently to heavy foot traffic while resisting moisture, stains, and scratches. It’s easy to clean and relatively affordable.
Water, stain, and scratch-resistant
Affordable
Low-maintenance
Huge variety of styles
Can be noisy
Improper installation can lead to cracking
Hard underfoot
Cost: $3–$20 per square foot installed
For a natural, high-quality look, stone tiles like marble, travertine, limestone, and granite make beautiful kitchen floors. Each stone has its unique qualities, from marble’s soft veining to granite’s speckled colors. Stone tiles are naturally moisture-resistant but require sealing. They offer a sophisticated look that is also extremely versatile.
Versatile appearance
Ideal for high-traffic areas
Moisture resistant
Durable
Expensive
Can stain
Requires sealing
Hard underfoot
Cost: $15–$50 per square foot installed
Vinyl tile mimics the look of more expensive materials like stone and hardwood at a budget-friendly price point. Easy peel-and-stick installation makes vinyl a great DIY flooring choice. With proper sealing and care, vinyl stands up relatively well to kitchen conditions. However, sharp objects can scratch it, and the seams are prone to collect grime.
Budget-friendly
Mimics stone, wood, etc.
Easy DIY installation
Comfortable underfoot
Less durable than ceramic or porcelain
Scratches easily
Seams discolor over time
Not great for resale value
Cost: $2–$7 per square foot installed
Beyond traditional squares and subway tiles, there are endless possibilities for creating a customized kitchen floor. Get creative with shape, material, and layout with unique kitchen tile ideas like these:
Interlocking hexagons create visually interesting geometric designs perfect for modern kitchens. Play with varying solid colors or mosaic patterns.
Brushed metals like copper, bronze, and nickel add a laid-back industrial edge. Pair with concrete-look tile for an urban loft vibe.
Intricate interlocking tiles reminiscent of fish scales offer an eclectic, global style. Use blue and white for traditional contrast.
Make a design statement by mixing patterned, floral, animal print, or other decorative tiles into your kitchen floor.
Chips of stone or glass mixed into concrete create a fun retro-modern terrazzo effect. Pick vibrant colors like turquoise or pink.
There are several important factors to keep in mind as you evaluate kitchen tile options:
On average, expect to pay $5–$50 per square foot for kitchen tile installation. Material costs range widely according to type, format, and coverage area.
Generally speaking, here’s what you can expect to pay per square foot for various floor tiles. The following estimates do not include labor:
Unless you choose to lay the tile yourself, factor in hiring a professional installer at $3–$10 per square foot for labor costs. Large kitchens may require specialized equipment for faster, more precise work — a factor that can add up to $400 in rental rates daily.
To determine the total project budget, multiply the square footage by the cost of your materials per square foot and add the estimated labor charges. Our experts also recommend estimating costs for supplies and tools, grout, trim, and sealant.
Creating a custom tile floor depends on more than just the tiles themselves — the layout you choose plays a major role, as well. The tips below will help you achieve a layout that complements your kitchen design.
Experts recommend first determining the surface area you want to cover, then purchasing tiles and plotting the layout. This ensures you don’t end up with slivers of cut tile around the perimeter.
Lay floor tiles in the same direction that cabinets and countertops run to maintain visual flow. Avoid a gridlike appearance by laying tiles diagonally or in a herringbone pattern.
Switching tile direction is an easy way to define separate kitchen zones. For example, lay tiles horizontally under cabinets, then vertically in open floor areas.
Borders contain floor tile installations and offer the chance to mix patterns or textures. Enclose different tile materials or colors within borders to create eye-catching designs.
Inlay designs within floor tile add artistic flair. For example, dot porcelain field tile with mother of pearl mosaic inlay for an elegant accent.
Don’t overlook the power of grout color on the overall look of your kitchen tile. While white or gray are safe choices, consider one of these on-trend stains to complement your floor tile:
Installing a new kitchen floor is easiest when you have a smooth, flat subfloor and establish a tile underlayment. Concrete or wood subfloors may require more prep work.
According to our research, homeowners who follow these general prep work guidelines have the most success:
Allow any leveling compounds to fully cure before laying the tile. As always, follow adhesive manufacturer instructions closely during the installation process.
Simply wiping up spills right away prevents most kitchen floor tile stains. For deeper cleaning:
Today’s Homeowner Tips
Avoid using harsh cleaners, wax, or steam cleaners on floor tiles which can etch finishes, discolor grout, or penetrate under tiles causing damage. Take extra care with sealing and gentle cleaning for porous natural stone tiles.
With so many excellent options for kitchen floors, selecting the best tile comes down to your needs and preferences. Here are a few final tips:
No matter which type you select, expert installation always yields the best, longest-lasting results. And don’t forget the grout — contrasting or color-matching grout lines finish off your dream kitchen flooring with finesse.
Porcelain tile beats ceramic for kitchen use because it’s denser, harder, more water-resistant, and more durable. Porcelain rates higher on the Mohs mineral hardness scale, so it resists scratches better under heavy kitchen use.
Currently, porcelain, ceramic, and vinyl plank tile rank among the most popular kitchen flooring. Porcelain offers sophisticated durability at affordable prices. Classic ceramic never goes out of style. Vinyl plank provides appealing wood and stone looks cost-effectively.
Tile generally costs more up-front than vinyl plank flooring, with prices starting around $5 per square foot compared to $2 per square foot for vinyl. However, tile lasts longer, so the investment pays off over decades of use versus vinyl’s shorter life span of around 15-25 years.
We do not recommend laying new tile flooring directly over sheet vinyl or linoleum floors. These materials often do not offer a suitable substrate for tile bonding. As such, fully remove preexisting linoleum and old adhesive prior to laying new tile.
The best practice is to run tile in the same direction that the kitchen cabinets and countertops run to maintain visual flow. Many interior design experts recommend running tiles perpendicular to cabinet face frames, which avoids a “gridlike” effect.
Contact us to discuss your requirements of stainless steel floor tile. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.